Australian native bees play a vital role in pollination and biodiversity, but many people don’t realise just how important they are. With more than 1600 species found across the country, these small, stingless pollinators are essential to maintaining healthy ecosystems, and they can even be kept in your own backyard.
A free Keeping Australian Native Bees session at North Lakes Library (and other libraries across the region) this month will introduce you to the fascinating world of native stingless beekeeping. Presented by Brisbane-based meliponist (someone who keeps native bees) Sarah Hamilton from Bee Yourself, the workshop will explore how keeping native bees is a safe, simple and rewarding hobby that supports the environment and can boost your wellbeing.
“Stingless bees are completely safe, easy to keep and help us connect to ourselves, others and country,” Sarah said. “They are even safe around kids and pets.”
Bee-Keeping for Beginners: A Workshop for All Ages
Sarah began her working life as a horticulturist before shifting careers. In 2013, she made the decision to leave her corporate role behind and return to her environmental roots, which led her to begin keeping her own hives.
“Now I get to share my knowledge, experience and passion through education and advocacy across the east coast of Australia,” she said.
“Come along to one of the sessions and be inspired by these fascinating stingless bees. Maybe it will be the beginning of a new hobby.”
The one-hour session includes practical advice on how to start and care for a hive, what equipment you will need and how native bees can boost pollination in your garden. A live observation hive will also be on display, offering a rare chance to safely watch the bees at work.
Native bees face a range of growing threats. Habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use are all putting pressure on their populations. These workshops are designed to help participants understand the important role native bees play and how to best support them.
If you have ever been curious about keeping native, stingless bees, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more.
Bookings required. Get your slots here.
Keeping Australian Native Bees
- Tuesday, 19 August, 11am-12pm
- North Lakes Library
- 10 The Corso, North Lakes.
- Wednesday, 20 August, 11am-12pm
- Deception Bay Library
- 9 Bayview Terrace, Deception Bay
Read more stories from The North Lakes Guide print magazine here:
- Organic Gardening in August
- Rising from the Ashes
- Kurwongbah Mum Creates Rainy Day Solution
- What’s Next for Old Petrie Town?
- Poetry Slam Returns
- Ride Into Ekka Fun With Family Savings
- Podcast Review: The Buckleys
- Movie Review: This Is Spinal Tap
- Jewfish Argyrosomus Japonicus – The Mighty Mulloway of Moreton Bay
- Eco Eve: Living a More Environmentally Friendly Life!
- In the North Lakes Loop: Updates from the Community
- What’s Hot Around Town
- A Community for the Men in our Lives
- Dine Anytime at Beach House Bar & Grill
- Da Vinci’s Genius Comes to Life in Moreton Bay
- A Sprite to Lift Your Spirits
- Local Pez Podcaster Clicks with Candy Fans Worldwide
- Throw Together Pie
- Science Week Panel: Decoding the Universe
