by Nature for Nature
Welcome to Bee Keen, where a fourth-generation beekeeping family passionately embraces bees, nature, food, and coffee. Delve into the enchanting world of bees and understand the vital significance of safeguarding them from extinction. Explore our diverse programs and reach out for further details. Whether you aspire to be a beekeeper or are merely intrigued by the remarkable impact of bees on the environment, Bee Keen offers an array of educational opportunities to quench your curiosity and foster awareness.
Why Bees?
As tireless workers, bees diligently pollinate numerous plants each year, including millions of agricultural crops, making them critical for one third of the food we consume.
During their nectar-seeking journeys from one flower to another, bees leave behind grains of pollen on sticky surfaces, enabling plants to grow and produce food. This vital role isn't limited to farm-grown fruits and vegetables; many wild plant species also rely on insect pollinators like bees. The seeds, nuts, berries, and fruits produced by bees serve as essential food sources for various wild animals, contributing to the growth of tropical forests, savannah woodlands, and temperate deciduous forests. The existence of numerous tree species hinges on the efforts of pollinators like bees. Without bees, the animals that depend on these plants for survival would also vanish.
In the intricate web of ecosystems, bees act as pollinators, supporting the growth of trees, flowers, and other plants that serve as food and shelter for creatures of all sizes. Bees contribute to the harmonious coexistence of a diverse range of species.
Undeniably, bees play a crucial role in our food supply, ensuring our gardens flourish and our plates are filled. Yet, we must not overlook the other vital reasons why bees are indispensable for the environment.
Apiculture
Promote urban beekeeping as a positive and rewarding practice for sustainable communities and thriving urban environments.
Raise awareness about the pressing issues of adulterated honey to protect consumers and preserve the integrity of this precious natural product.
Plants
Promote planting bee-friendly trees in your garden to support these vital pollinators.
Biosecurity
Advocate for both biosecurity measures to protect Australia's unique ecosystems and global climate change actions to safeguard our planet's future.
Beekeeping
Authenticity
Bee-Friendly Plants
A Place Welcoming Bees
No matter the size of your space, whether it's a spacious yard or a tiny balcony, there are numerous plants that you can cultivate to support bees throughout the year. Here are our recommended seasonal choices to provide year-round interest and ample forage for honey bees:
Spring
alpine aster, cowslip, heather, hellebore, lavender, sage, sea pink, spring cinquefoil, wallflower, wood anemone.
Summer
alyssum, baby's breath, basil, bellflower, black-eyed susan, borage, chives, clover, cornflower, godetia, hypericum, lemon balm, michaelmas daisy, spearmint, speedwell, scabious, strawberry, thyme, savory.
Autumn
autumn crocus, cyclamen, nasturtium, oregano, pot marigold, rosemary.
Winter
persian cyclamen, rock cress, true snowdrop, winter crocus, pansy.
By incorporating these plants into your surroundings, you'll not only create a thriving habitat for bees but also enjoy the beauty and benefits of these blooms throughout the seasons.
Honey Bee Biosecurity
The protection of honey bees and their habitats from new pests and diseases is a top priority in Australia. Biosecurity plays a crucial role in safeguarding both beekeeping businesses and the industry as a whole. Fortunately, Australia's geographic isolation results in fewer pests that impact honey bees, fostering a growing community of hobby beekeepers in metropolitan areas. This ongoing effort ensures a thriving and resilient beekeeping landscape for the benefit of both bees and beekeepers alike.
Beekeeping
A great activity for all age groups.
If you are interested please feel free to
Authentic Australian Honey
LOOK
Honey is best when it possesses a relatively solid consistency, appearing less runny. It may exhibit clarity or semi-transparency, with its color varying from one variety to another, offering a delightful array of shades and flavors to savor.
SMELL
Honey, particularly raw honey, boasts a unique aroma derived from the distinct natural nectar of each species or a blend of sources. This scent remains relatively consistent for a specific variety, enhancing the sensory experience and delighting honey enthusiasts with its diverse and captivating fragrances.
TASTE
The taste of honey is intricately linked to its nectar source, resulting in a wide spectrum of flavors, ranging from robust and intense to delicate and distinctive. Beyond its natural sweetness, honey's pleasing taste offers a delightful journey for the palate, making it a true culinary treasure with a myriad of delectable experiences to savor.