Tasmanian Beekeepers Association
Media Release
26 March 2025
Firefighters save the day for Leatherwood Honey producers
Tasmanian and interstate firefighters saved the Leatherwood Honey industry from the worst of Tasmania’s recent West Coast bushfires.
During summer the northwest and west coast regions of Tasmania host around 20,000 beehives.
Tasmanian Beekeepers Association president, Lindsay Bourke, said “the 2024/25 summer has been very difficult for the producers, with low nectar production by the Leatherwood trees, leading to low honey volumes.
Thanking the Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan and Tasmania Fire Service District Officer, Mark Brownrigg in person, Mr Bourke said the firefighters literally saved the industry.
“The West Coast bushfires have compounded matters, with smoke affecting the bees and, in some cases, fires consuming the hives.
“The west coast fires are not only a direct danger to bees but can also be devastating to the leatherwood trees and the fragile rainforest environments in which they are found. Heavy smoke also affects the bees, as they can't navigate to find sources of nectar.
“Through the amazing efforts of firefighters, almost all hives have come through the fires relatively unscathed.
“At this point, only eight hives have been confirmed as lost. When you consider how many hives there are in the region, this is an amazing result and an absolutely stellar effort by firefighters.
‘Sadly, though, some stands of Leatherwood trees have been destroyed and reduced to ash.
“This is a long-term loss that will take generations to replace, which confirms how rare and fragile our unique Leatherwood resource really is.
“We can’t thank the Tasmanian and interstate firefighters enough, they put themselves in harm’s way to literally save our industry.
“I know all the members of the Tasmanian Beekeepers Association extend their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated people who saved the day for us and our industry.” Mr Bourke said.
Mr Bourke said all Tasmanians and the Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis can be truly proud of the firefighting efforts over the summer.
He added that Leatherwood honey producers are very resilient, and they will be working hard to rebuild where possible.
Honey lovers can be assured that supplies of Leatherwood honey will not be affected, as beekeepers have stock in reserve.
Ends…
For more information contact Richard Gerathy on 0419 203 075
Photos at the address below.
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/o39gtw48aywfgzjv4c6m0/Bees.zip?rlkey=faa6bo31fgew5dwng1ju0vson&dl=0
Group photo left to right: the Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan, Lindsay Bourke and Tasmania Fire Service District Officer, Mark Brownrigg