The annual diseaseathon will take place on Saturday 11th November this year. We are planning to do the Upper Hutt area again as disease was found in this part of the region when it was last inspected. As well as inspecting for AFB, we will be looking for mites, and collecting samples of bees for later analysis. Volunteers are required to assist with this exercise. It is a rewarding and enjoyable day. New members are especially encouraged to join in to observe and learn. Phone Frank (478 3367), James (565 0164), or John (232 7863) for more information.

The National Beekeepers Association is concerned that there are still a large number of unregistered apiaries and beehives around. The presence of these is hindering the efforts of the industry to manage diseases including the eradication of AFB and control of varroa when it eventually arrives in Wellington. If you believe that an apiary or beehive is unregistered (ie there is no beekeeper registration details displayed), then please advice AgriQuality NZ (as agents of the NBA), or the secretary of Federated Farmers.