Meet your trainers - Tasmania

A series of free varroa management workshops are being delivered across Australia by a team of NVMMP-accredited trainers. All our trainers are experienced beekeepers and specially trained in the current best practices for varroa management.

Tasmania Trainers

  • Ashby Newman

    I discovered the wonders of beekeeping almost a decade ago, and have since dedicated myself to continuously learning more and more about all aspects of this critical industry.

    Today, as the owner and operator of a small beekeeping business, I am acutely aware of the threat posed by the varroa mite and the damage it is already inflicting on the Australian beekeeping industry.

    My beekeeping career has spanned diverse beekeeping operations, from working hobbyists to operating large-scale commercial operations with several thousand hives. The summers I spent working in France gave me hands-on experience with Varroa, and I’ve travelled to New Zealand to gain even more insights.

    I am committed to safeguarding bees against the threat of the varroa mite, and am particularly keen to help the industry develop best practice management strategies. Together we can tackle this formidable challenge, and protect our precious pollinators and livelihoods.

  • Jenni McLeod

    I started my first hive in Tasmania’s Leatherwood forests in 2001 and have since become a passionate advocate for our industry. My specific focus on education across the industry and community has taken me around the world. You might even have a copy of my Little Book of Beekeeping on your shelf!

    As an Executive member of the Southern Tasmanian Beekeepers Association, I’m excited to assist beekeepers around our great state to broaden our collective varroa mite management knowledge, and proactively manage this newest challenge on our doorstep.

  • Peter Norris

    I have enjoyed a passionate relationship with bees for nearly 40 years. Starting as a hobby whilst living in the UK, it grew to a commercial operation when we returned to Australia in 1999.

    My time in the UK gave me first-hand experience seeing the devastating impact varroa had on my hives, and I’m committed to maximising the knowledge base of our sector so we can manage the challenge ahead.

    Having been selected to deliver varroa management courses, I’m looking forward to supporting beekeepers and answering their questions around detection and treatment.