The beginners course includes both theory as well as a practical session opening and inspecting a beehive.

We cover the following topics:

History of beekeeping
Different types of bees – females, males and queens
Parts of a beehive
What clothing and equipment do I need?
Looking after bees in your hive
What to do during Spring and Summer
What to do during Autumn and Winter
Extracting Honey
Where to get your first bees
Pests and diseases of the honey bee
Legal requirements
Hive Inspection (subject to weather conditions on the day)
A practical booklet will be provided to course participants

The beginners course has been developed from and is based upon the basic core and elective units of VET Beekeeping Certificate III.

Participants who take part in opening and inspecting a hive will be provided with suitable protective clothing. This will include either a protective overall/jacket and suitable gloves. Participants should wear their own pair of thick long socks and closed footwear.

The course is held with a minimum number of participants. If this number is not reached within one week of the start of the course you will be invited to attend the next course.

In poor weather we may not be able to open and inspect a hive. If this occurs you will be given the opportunity to postpone this activity.

People attending the beginner beekeeping course can purchase The Australian Beekeeping Manual at the reduced price of $40.