Robert,
 
Could you please explain a little bit more about this irradiation
technique? With what do you irradiate? Is it not dangerous for the
person who does it? Is it done "All over" Australia"? and please, just
out of curiosity, what part of Australia are you from?
 
Tere
 
> An alternative method to scorching or fumigation for AFB materials that is
> used in Australia is treatment with irradiation. The brood boxes, supers,
> extracted honey combs, lids, bottoms, excluders, etc can all be treated
> this way. There is no necessity to remove wax and propolis buildup. The
> method is quick and inexpensive and 100% effective against AFB and other
> disease organisms. The irradiation used is the same as that for medical and
> other sterile equipment treatments. Beekeepers buying second hand gear use
> this treatment before introducing it to the apiaries as a preventative
> measure. It also enables those beekeepers who are affected with AFB to
> clean up their apiary with minimal disruption to their business. Terramycin
> treatment is currently prohibited for AFB in all mainland states although
> it used via authorised prescription for EFB.
>