New apiary officer joins the team

KARLA Williams is the new AgVic apiary officer.

Based in Wodonga, Ms Williams’ role includes supporting Victorian beekeeping and pollination industriesand working closelywith them to protect against diseases and pest such as Varroa mite.

astrong understanding of the rail industry. She also previously held various senior roles with Leighton Contractors and management positions with Thiess John Holland.

Dr Burkeisa non-executive director of Marinus Link PtyLtd and VicTrack.

The appointments follow the recent independent review of the Inland Rail project conducted by Dr Kerry Schott AO. Dr Schott’s report has been provided to the government. It reveals significant concerns aboutthe governance and delivery of Inland Rail. The Government intends to release Dr Schott’sreportand the Government’s response to its recommendations as soon as it has been fully considered.

Ms Williams was the Tasmanian bee biosecurity officer, assisting beekeepers with management of endemic pests and diseases. She also coordinated Tasmania’s exotic bee and bee pest surveillance and trained local beekeepers to test hives at ports for exotic pests.

The depth of knowledge and experience Ms Williams has gained from working at BiosecurityTasmania and the Murray Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) at La Trobe University, will be a valuable asset in the AgVic team.

For information about beekeeping, either commercial or hobbyist, visit the honey bee pages on the Agriculture Victoria website.