>>Our packages from a U.S. source (will remain unnamed) has some varroa
problems  and needed treatment early on proving in our minds the value of mite free packages!

Would it be reasonable to expect varroa-free packages from any US source?  I would think not.

Australian packages may be mite-free initially but it remains to be seen how long they can tolerate varroa.  And are they good for northern climates?  Of course, this is a quation for any transplant.

Waldemar

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