More than 800,000 bees stolen across far north Queensland in ‘sophisticated’ operation

Over 800,000 bees were stolen in a sophisticated operation across far north Queensland, according to apiarists. The stolen bees, valued at tens of thousands of dollars, belonged to 44 colonies across three properties in the Atherton Tablelands, west of Cairns. Apiarist Tom Bidner explained that the thieves were highly organized, using specialized equipment to remove the brood box without alarming the growers.

The thefts occurred during the peak of the avocado season, when hives are often deployed for pollination contracts. Bidner suspects the culprits may be insiders from the industry, as he noticed no honey was taken. The arrival of the varroa mite parasite in the region has further exacerbated the situation, as it reproduces in the brood.

Apiarists warn that the thefts and parasite infestation pose a "double whammy" to the industry. University of Queensland professor Megan O'Mara stated that over $100 million has been spent preventing the spread of the parasite since its arrival in Newcastle in 2022, but available treatments have limited effectiveness. The cost of uncontrolled spread is estimated at up to $1 billion over 30 years.

O'Mara is part of an international effort to develop a more effective treatment using MRNA technology.