Expanding Options for NZ Beekeepers

MEDIA ADVISORY
27 August 2002
Expanding Options for NZ Beekeepers

Sharon Gibbons, a Missouri Beekeeper and member of the USA National Honey Board is in New Zealand to help beekeepers strengthen their businesses despite infection by Varroa.

"The MAF Sustainable Farming Fund and the Honey Trusts have funded a project to assist beekeepers deal with the pressure on their business from Varroa," said National Beekeepers Association President Don Bell.

"The overall goal of the project is for beekeepers to strengthen their businesses by using an expanded range of income streams so that they can survive and prosper after infection by Varroa.

"Healthy businesses will be able to offer better employment opportunities and continue to provide the pollination services that underpin the New Zealand agricultural economy.

"Ms Gibbons runs a family business of a similar size to the average New Zealand operation and has lived with Varroa since the mid 1980`s. She has pioneered a range of innovative management strategies for both hive management and the marketing of her product. Further her position on the USA National Honey Board provides her with a good insight into industry trends and possible responses."

Details of workshop are attached.

ENDS

Ms Gibbs is available for interview by contacting Ivan Dickinson, PH 025 281 5972.

For more information: Don Bell, PH 03 318 3869 John Manhire, Project Manager, PH 025 487 703.

Hastings The Angus Inn, Railway Road, Hastings Wednesday August 28 7:00pm
- 9:00 pm
Wanganui Avenue Hotel & Conference Centre, 379 Victoria
Avenue Thursday August 29 7:00pm - 9:00 pm
Nelson Seifrieds Winery,
Redwood Road, Appleby, Richmond Sunday September 1 7:00pm - 9:00 pm
Christchurch Sudima Hotel Grand Chancellor (Airport) Christchurch Monday
September 2 7:00pm - 9:00 pm
Timaru Benvenue Hotel Motor Inn, 16-22 Evans
Street Timaru Tuesday September 3 7:00pm - 9:00 pm
Balclutha Telford Ag
College, Balclutha Wednesday September 4 7:00pm - 9:00 pm

Jo McKenzie Public Affairs Manager Federated Farmers of NZ (Inc) PH 04 4949 181 FX 04 4731 081 MB 027 226 0306

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