AS billions of bees are moved throughout the state ahead of almond pollination, the issue of beehive theft is once again looming large.
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One beekeeper near Bendigo has fallen victim in the last three months, stung during a possible series of thefts.
Twenty beehives kept on state land at Sedgwick were stolen between May and August, valued at $7000.
The hives – which come with frames and had “H 314” written on them – were kept on the land during the quiet winter months for beekeepers, with police believing the theft would have required industry knowledge.
The Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources issues permits for beekeepers to keep their bees on the land.
A DEDJTR spokesperson said a number of large scale beehive thefts occurred in Victoria during last year’s pollination season.
This time last year, about 110 hives – with a total value of $40,000 – were reported stolen from the Robinvale area, near the Murray River.
About 150,000 beehives are expected to be moved to Robinvale again this month for almond pollination – a crucial aspect of the almond season.
Anyone with information about the theft is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.