NSW Government Honey Bee Education Officer Kelly Lees has been recognised with a top industry honour, awarded the prestigious Churchill Fellowship for her dedication and groundbreaking work in education and training of Australian beekeepers managing Varroa mite.
Each year, after a competitive selection process over several months, Churchill Fellowships are awarded to talented Australians who are eager to push the boundaries of science and make a real difference in NSW communities.
Kelly will head overseas in 2025 to look at innovative new ways of managing parasitic mites of honeybees including Varroa and Tropilaelaps mites.
NSW DPIRD Acting Executive Director Agriculture Darren Bayley said this fellowship not only recognizes her talent but also underscores the importance of addressing the challenges posed by parasitic mites to our vital bee populations and industries.
"We are proud of Kelly for receiving the Churchill Fellowship, with this recognition highlighting her dedication and the impact her work will have on bee health and agricultural sustainability well into the future," Mr Bayley said.
"With Kelly's participation in the Churchill Fellowship, we anticipate significant advancements in the management of parasitic mites that threaten Australian honeybee populations and look forward to knowledge she will impart on our staff and beekeepers across NSW."
Kelly will be working with leading researchers in the field including Dr Samuel Ramsey and Dr Cooper Schouten.
Kelly's fellowship has been sponsored by Colin and Maggie Beer through the Saskia Beer Fellowship in memory of their late daughter.
Ms Lees said by sharing insights and techniques with other researchers, we can develop more effective management strategies that will not only benefit our honeybees but also ecosystems worldwide.
"I am incredibly honoured to receive the Churchill Fellowship, it not only represents a great personal achievement in my career but will also allow me to have a direct impact on our local beekeepers and agricultural practices," Ms Lees said.
"This opportunity will allow me to collaborate with some of the world's leading experts in honeybee health and explore innovative solutions for managing parasitic mites that threaten our bees."
The aim of the Churchill Fellowship is a part of the Winston Churchill Trust. The trust provides an opportunity to Australians to travel overseas to conduct research in their chosen field. It also aims to reward individuals who possess passion and a commitment to make a difference in Australian society. Since 1965 they have awarded over 4500 Fellowships.
