A new chapter in the future of Australia’s honey bee industry begins with the appointment of Luke as the Program Manager for the AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program. With a background in biology and extensive experience in the Thoroughbred racing sector, Luke aims to address the pressing challenges faced by commercial beekeepers.
Background and Expertise
Originally from England, Luke has always had a passion for the outdoors. His fascination with insects and animal behaviour led him to complete a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Biology at the University of Leeds. His research focused on learning and social interactions in fruit flies, much of which intersected with honey bee science. This academic foundation ignited his interest in the complexities of hive behaviour and the critical role bees play in agriculture.
Before joining AgriFutures, Luke spent a decade in the Thoroughbred racing industry. He completed the prestigious Godolphin Flying Start program, which provided him with international exposure, including experiences in Ireland, Dubai, the United States, and Australia. His subsequent role in racing operations for notable trainers such as Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott further enriched his understanding of operational pressures within agricultural businesses.
Bridging Industries for Better Outcomes
Luke recognises that while the honey bee and Thoroughbred sectors may appear distinct, they share common challenges, including workforce pressures and the pursuit of profitability. His diverse background equips him with a practical understanding of the hurdles commercial beekeepers face. As he puts it, “Even though the industries are very different, they face similar problems. It helps me relate to beekeepers and understand the challenges they face.”
One significant misconception Luke aims to address is the underappreciation of honey bees’ role in food production. He highlights that approximately two-thirds of Australian agricultural output relies on insect pollination, predominantly facilitated by honey bees. “These insects have a remarkable impact on our food and livelihoods, with about 40,000 tonnes of honey produced annually in Australia,” he explains.
This deep-seated understanding of the agricultural landscape is what attracted Luke to the Honey Bee & Pollination Program. He appreciates AgriFutures’ commitment to evidence-informed decision-making. “I really like the approach of using research and development to make evidence-informed decisions,” he notes. “A lot of industries do things because that is how they have always been done.”
Addressing Challenges in the Beekeeping Sector
Luke is motivated by the opportunity to make a tangible difference for beekeepers, particularly as the sector grapples with challenges like access to floral resources, climate change, and the emergence of pests and diseases, including the infamous Varroa mite. His focus is on ensuring that the Program’s investments yield meaningful benefits for beekeepers who contribute levy funds for research.
“It’s great to manage research that generates outcomes with tangible and real benefits to beekeepers’ daily operations and their ability to run their businesses,”
Luke states.
Looking ahead, Luke is particularly enthusiastic about two significant research projects set to conclude in mid-2026. One project investigates the potential introduction of the deformed wing virus (DWV) through imported bee semen, an essential inquiry for balancing genetic diversity with biosecurity. The second project will assess whether DWV in imported honey remains viable enough to infect bees, providing crucial evidence for future policy and health regulations.
Strengthening Industry Connections
The AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program aims to ensure the long-term sustainability and profitability of the Australian honey bee sector through targeted research and development. Luke’s daily responsibilities include managing ongoing research projects, evaluating progress, communicating findings to industry stakeholders, and guiding new research investments through annual funding calls.
Maintaining strong relationships with beekeepers is a priority for Luke. The Program collaborates closely with an Advisory Panel representing commercial operators, researchers, and industry leaders, as well as the Australian Honey Bee and Industry Council (AHBIC), the peak body for the sector. Luke intends to engage directly with beekeepers across Australia by attending state conferences, stating, “The best way is to really get out and meet people and put a face to the name.”
For those interested in staying informed or getting involved with the Honey Bee & Pollination Program, Luke encourages subscribing to the program’s updates. With a strong foundation in science, industry experience, and a genuine commitment to making a difference, Luke is poised to guide the Honey Bee & Pollination Program into its next impactful chapter.
