what’s THE BUZZ?

beekeeping in an urban environment can have such sweet rewards – you can harvest your own honey. And helping to boost the worldwide decline in the honeybee population is important, as we have bees to thank for our fruits, vegies and flowers as they go about their business of pollinating plants.

Interested in keeping bees? Contact your local beekeeping club for advice on courses that provide hands-on experience and info about how to set up your first hive. You can attend a ‘field day’ with your local beekeeping society or chat to a beekeeper about their hives to get the inside scoop.

Y0u’ll need to consider where to place your hive so you don’t cause trouble with the neighbours or the public, and where your bees can forage for a year-round, plentiful supply of suitable nectar. Remember, they’ll also need fresh water to drink!

As to the cost of set-up, allow about $600 for the bees and basic gear. Watch out for second-hand beekeeping equipment as it may be diseased. Also, ask the vendor for a health certificate for the bees.

Beeware! You must register with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) in your state or

territory and meet regular bee health and swarming requirements. Bees are not low maintenance and their needs change depending on the weather. It’s important not to neglect your hives, as this may lead to serious consequences for the environment.