Western Australia’s unique bees and world-renowned honey varieties will take centre stage in Perth’s Murray Street Mall on Wednesday 20 May as part of celebrations for World Bee Day.
Event Details
Hosted by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in partnership with the Bee Industry Council of WA and the Agricultural Produce Commission’s Beekeeper Producers Committee, the event highlights the vital role bees play in pollination, food production and environmental health.
The display will feature beekeeping demonstrations, information on creating bee-friendly gardens, and opportunities for visitors to speak with local beekeepers. Attendees will also be able to taste and buy premium West Australian honeys including jarrah, karri and marri varieties.
Expert Insights
DPIRD principal agribusiness development consultant Gerard Leddin said World Bee Day was an important opportunity to recognise the contribution bees made to agriculture and biodiversity. “Thanks to WA’s unique jarrah forests, our beekeepers and their hardworking bees produce the much-loved jarrah honey,” Mr Leddin said. “This premium honey is exclusive to our State, and its distinct flavour profile is gaining recognition in global markets.”
The event will also focus on biosecurity awareness, with information available on preventing the spread of exotic bee pests and diseases. Western Australia remains one of the few regions in the world free from the destructive varroa mite.
Mr Leddin encouraged beekeepers to inspect their hives regularly and report any concerns early to help protect the State’s agricultural and horticultural industries. Visitors will also be encouraged to download the free MyPestGuide app, which allows users to report biosecurity concerns directly to DPIRD.
Community Support
BICWA deputy chair Mikey Cernotta said people could still support the industry even if they were unable to attend the event. “Purchase some local honey from your local beekeeper, plant bee-friendly plants in your garden, try a recipe using premium WA honey or host a morning tea showcasing food made with local honey,” Mr Cernotta said.
He urged people to check labels carefully to make sure they were buying locally produced honey. “If it’s local honey, you know you are getting some of the best honey in the world, and more importantly, you are supporting our local beekeepers,” he said.
The World Bee Day display will run from 8am in the Murray Street Mall on Wednesday.
