As far as pollination is concerned I put more faith in a C.S.I.R.O. research report that eucalyptus species benefitted from pollination by honeybees, with greater number of seeds and more weight per seed being measurable when honey bees take the role of pollinator. This research was funded by the Conservation Council. I have not seen a final report on this but the initial conclusion was that no detrimental effect on native pollinating species could be established. There has also been research conducted on whether honeybees compete for nesting sites to the detriment of the Orange Bellied Parrot. This indicated that the size of hollows preferred by honeybees was not suitable for the bird.
Honey bees are extremely effective pollinators.
This cyclical flowering is reflected amongst feral honeybees in that hive numbers rise and fall over a period of years. Potential nesting sites that have been occupied by bees are then colonised by birds or possums who consume the larvae, honey and wax. There are moves for co-operation between conservationists and beekeepers to address real problems by consultation and assistance. Beekeepers are advising on artificial nest designs that are not attractive to honeybee swarms, are trapping feral swarms and educating National Park staff on the inter-action of honeybees and the flowering cycle. Graham Pyke is not a participant in this process.