Perth, Western Australia hosted the 17th Asia Apiculture Association Conference
12 – 14 June 2024

BICWA Hosts Successful 17th Asian Apiculture Association Conference

BICWA had the honour of hosting the 17th Asian Apiculture Association (AAA) Conference from 12 to 14 June 2024, followed by an exclusive post-conference tour on 15 June.

The event was an extraordinary success, bringing together over 700 delegates from seven countries—including attendees from multiple Australian states—to share invaluable insights on apiculture.

A Historic Opening with Apitherapy

The conference began with a historic moment as it opened with Australia’s first Apitherapy session, setting an innovative and vibrant tone for the event. Apitherapy, which involves using bee products for health and wellness, drew significant interest and provided a unique start to the proceedings. In the absence of Prof. Siriwat Wongsiri, the AAA Conference was officially opened by Prof. Chen Li-Hong, who welcomed delegates to Perth and celebrated the collaborative spirit of apiculture across Asia and Australia.

Day 2: Bee Biology and Environmental Focus

Day 2 shifted focus to bee biology and environmental impacts, offering delegates a deeper understanding of the science behind bee health and the ecosystems that sustain these vital pollinators. Presentations and discussions highlighted the latest research and methods for supporting bee populations amid changing environmental conditions.

Day 3: Pest and Disease Management

On Day 3, the conference tackled a critical topic for beekeepers worldwide: pest and disease management. Delegates were especially excited to welcome renowned international guest speaker Dr. Randy Oliver from the USA, whose presentation provided actionable insights and knowledge for addressing bee health challenges. His expertise added tremendous value to an already informative lineup of speakers.

Celebrating Excellence at the WA Honey Gala Dinner and Awards Night

The event concluded with an unforgettable WA Honey Gala Dinner and Awards Night (see results below). This exceptional evening celebrated the finest honey products from WA’s diverse regions, recognising excellence within the local honey industry. Attendees also received information on WA’s top tourist destinations, highlighting the stunning landscapes and rich culture that underpin the state’s thriving honey industry. This evening was a true showcase of WA’s beauty, leaving guests inspired and eager to explore more of the region.

Hands-On Learning and Networking Opportunities

Throughout the conference, attendees enjoyed a robust program of 59 presentations delivered by respected industry experts. Beyond traditional sessions, the event featured an interactive honey master class, where participants could experience honey tasting, quality assessment, and sensory analysis. Social events further encouraged networking, allowing delegates to form connections and exchange ideas in a warm, community-driven environment.

The Post-Conference Tour: A Unique Experience of WA’s Honey Industry

To round off the event, a post-conference tour was held on 15 June, taking delegates north to the picturesque Wheatbelt region. The tour included a visit to a fifth-generation honey business, where delegates learned about traditional practices blended with modern techniques in honey production. The group was then invited to a Manuka plantation, where they strolled through the orchard and received insights into the production of this highly active and renowned honey product. This immersive experience offered delegates a first-hand look at the dedication and innovation driving WA’s honey industry.

A Grateful Farewell

BICWA extends its heartfelt gratitude to all speakers, volunteers, and sponsors who made the 17th AAA Conference a success. We are incredibly grateful to each delegate who attended, shared knowledge, and helped make this event unforgettable. The conference not only reinforced the importance of collaboration and education within the apiculture industry but also strengthened our ties with the global beekeeping community.