AgriFutures Australia has welcomed Luke Evans as the new Program Manager for the Honey Bee & Pollination Program, bringing a strong research background, global agricultural experience and a genuine passion for supporting beekeepers and the broader pollination sector. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the industry, with new science, emerging challenges and sector-wide opportunities shaping the next phase of growth.
Originally from England, Luke has always been drawn to the outdoors. A lifelong interest in insects and animal behaviour inspired him to study a Bachelor of Science and Masters of Biology from the University of Leeds, where his research explored learning, memory and social interactions in fruit flies. Much of that work was grounded in honey bee science, sparking an early curiosity about the complexity of hive behaviour and the essential role of bees in agriculture. That curiosity has now come full circle.
Luke's path into agriculture has been anything but ordinary. Before joining AgriFutures, he worked for ten years in the Thoroughbred racing industry, completing the prestigious Godolphin Flying Start program which took him to Ireland, Dubai, America and Australia. He later worked in racing operations for leading Sydney trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott.
While the honey bee and Thoroughbred horse industries may seem worlds apart, Luke says they face surprisingly similar challenges – from workforce pressures to the difficulty of running a profitable agricultural business. This cross-industry experience gives him a practical understanding of operational pressures that directly relate to the challenges commercial beekeepers face.
"Even though the industries are very different, they face similar problems. It helps me relate to beekeepers and understand the challenges they face," Luke said.
Luke also appreciates the importance of the small yet influential honey bee. He says one of the biggest misconceptions about honey bees is simply underestimating how vital they are for crop production and food security.
"People don't fully appreciate how important bees are for pollination, food security and the production of crops."
"These insects have a remarkable impact on our food and livelihoods, with about two-thirds of Australian agricultural production reliant from insect pollination – most of which is provided by honey bees - including some of our favourite foods like almonds, apples, avocados, blueberries and a range of seeds."
"And then there's the honey, with Australian apiraists producing an impressive 40,000 tonnes of honey per year."
What drew Luke to the Honey Bee & Pollination Program
Luke says the alignment between his research interests and AgriFutures values made the role an exciting next step.
"I really like the approach of using research and development to make evidence-informed decisions. A lot of industries do things because that is how they have always been done. As well as working closely with industry, AgriFutures takes a scientific and data driven approach, which I think is really important."
Luke is motivated by the opportunity to make a difference for commercial beekeepers at a time when the sector faces significant challenges. Access to floral resources, changing climate patterns, emerging pests and diseases and the impacts of Varroa mite continue to place pressure on operations across the country.
A major focus for Luke is ensuring the Program's investments deliver meaningful value to beekeepers who's levy funds the 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."
As part of this work, Luke is particularly looking forward to two research projects due for completion in mid-2026, both examining the transmission of deformed wing virus (DWV). One investigates whether DWV can be introduced through imported semen, helping industry balance genetics access with biosecurity. The second examines if DWV in imported commercial honey remains viable enough to infect bees, providing valuable evidence for future policy decisions.
A Program with national impact and strong connections
The AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program supports the long term sustainability, productivity and profitability of the Australian honey bee and pollination sector through targeted research, development and extension.
Luke's day-to-day work involves managing current research projects, assessing project progress, communicating findings to industry and guiding new research investment through annual funding calls. He is also working on development of a new five year research, development and extension plan that will set the Program's direction.
Maintaining strong relationships with beekeepers is a priority for Luke. The Program works closely with an Advisory Panel (that represents commercial operators, researchers and industry leaders), as well as with the Australian Honey Bee and Industry Council (AHBIC) as the peak body.
Luke plans to spend time on the ground meeting beekeepers across the country at state conferences.
"The best way is to really get out and meet people and put a face to the name."
How beekeepers can get involved
For anyone wanting to stay informed or get involved with the Program, Luke says the first step is simple.
"Subscribe to AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program news and updates."
With a strong scientific foundation, industry experience and genuine commitment to making a difference, Luke is ready to help guide the Honey Bee & Pollination Program into its next chapter.
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