PRESENT: Frank Lindsay, (Pres.), Mary Ann Lindsay (Treas.), John Burnet (Sec.) and 32 members as listed in the attendance book.

APOLOGIES: Chris Christoffel, Stewart Smith, Andrew Yung

VISITORS: Jim Fraser (returning as a hobbyist beekeeper - currently in the pest control business)

MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING: Minutes of meeting held 14 April 2003 as detailed in the May newsletter were confirmed. (Moved: Amor Walter, Seconded: Andrew Beach - CARRIED)

Varroa Update: Frank advised that one of his hives at his railway site on Hutt Road at Kaiwharawhara and his apiary on Taupo Swamp, Plimmerton had been infected. Varroa had also been discovered at additional sites around the Wanganui, Rangitikei, and Manawatu area. Hawkes Bay and the Wairarapa were apparently still varroa free. There was no change to the Hive Movement Control line at this stage although this was currently under review. Club members were advised that they should now start monitoring and treating where necessary otherwise their hives would be dead by Christmas. Club would organise a bulk purchase of Bayvarol strips immediately as discussed and agreed at previous meetings.

Varroa Control: Ivan advised that both formic and oxalic acids were used extensively overseas. Formic acid should be applied to two high boxes only. As the zip-sealed plastic bags available in NZ were not leak-proof, soup bags from supermarkets were a better alternative. These should not be placed directly on the top bars. Ivan recommended use of oxalic acid i.e. heating oxalic crystals. Cost of this treatment was 5 cents per hive. Ivan was happy to supply oxalic acid crystals and further information to any club members interested in this treatment.

Frank advised Apistan strips should be placed in the middle of the brood not at the edge (as usually recommended) particularly at this time of the year.

It was suggested and agreed that club members be advised of all neighbouring beekeepers’ apiary sites so that in the event varroa was discovered, nearby beekeepers could be warned. James will provide the members’ list to any interested club member provided there was no objection to this information being shared.

Annual Disease Returns: these had been distributed by AgriQuality and had to be submitted by 1 June. The Club had a GPS (Global Positioning System) available for use by members which would provide the grid reference needed for each apiary site.

Exotic Pests: In addition to the ADR, AgriQuality had distributed a brochure about Cape bees and members briefly discussed these. A distinguishing feature of the Cape bee was the queen was easily able to invade new hives and workers were able to lay fertilised eggs. The hive beetle was now reported to be in eastern Australia although the drought was dramatically restricting its spread. Tasmania had reported an exceptional honey crop this year.

Pest Management Submission: The method of levying had changed from number of hives to number of apiaries which was a significant disadvantage to hobbyists. The cut-off date for submissions had been extended to 29 May and all complaints should be directed to the local MP.

Wintering Down: Mice were now becoming a problem as the weather deteriorated and temperatures reduced. To keep them out of hives, entrances should be closed right down. While eucalyptus was still flowering in some areas, hive weights should be checked to ensure sufficient food stocks over the winter. In need hives should be fed with syrup or raw sugar.

Border Patrol: The recent TV program on the importation of unwanted honey and exotic organisms and the resultant threat to the beekeeping industry was discussed at some length.