With the continuing decline in population of feral bees in the country, the role of the beekeeper in Australia, whether it be commercial operators or hobbyists takes on ever increasing importance, and whilst difficult to accurately quantify, some reports suggest that managed bees contribute as much as $10 billion annually, providing essential pollination for huge sectors of the agricultural industry.

Buzzbee, with more than 40 years’ experience behind them are a one stop outlet for all the essentials and accessories that beekeepers will ever require, whether you are an absolute newcomer to the world of apiculture or a seasoned apiarist looking to expand or grow your operation.

If you are taking your first steps as a beekeeper, the sheer volume of information available and products on the market can be overwhelming, but a quick browse through Buzzbee starter kits will indicate to you which items are essential to get you going. A good place to start is with a Paradise hive; these hives, originating from Finland are manufactured from EPS (high density polystyrene) and whilst initially may cost more than a traditionally crafted wooden beebox, offer exceptional functionality and durability which will undoubtedly save you money in the mid to long term.

For your safety, protective clothing is essential and Buzzbee supply a wide range of products from RhinoGuard, widely regarded as superior equipment within the beekeeping community, and with hats with veils, gloves and full suits to fit all sizes, including children, you are sure to find exactly what you require within the best selection of bee keeping suits in Australia.

As for bees to populate your colony, acquiring a bee nuc – a nucleus colony, effectively a ready-made bee community with a proven laying queen and hundreds of workers is the effective way to start off, but in due course as your bee colony develops and matures it may become necessary to replace your queen bee, especially if the hive is not producing as expected or the bees are unusually aggressive. If you wish to buy a new queen bee Buzzbee supply Italian and Caucasian queen bees, but it is essential to pre order.

Once your colony is established you will need to think about protecting your investment from one of the more devastating afflictions, the Varroa Mite; a relatively recent introduction to our shores this mite can ruin your hive but effective Varroa treatments are available, primarily through the means of an oxalic acid vaporizer, a substance that eradicates the mites while having no effect on your bees or hive. InstaVap are the leaders in producing such vaporizers and a mid-range model, the InstaVap Compact is highly popular with hobbyists and commercial aviarists, offering ease of use and great value for money. Also available from Buzzbee are effective solutions to combat another threat, that of the small hive beetle. With a commitment and passion to expand the world of beekeepers, and to encourage and inform, Buzzbee are the number one choice for all beekeeping requirements, from wooden beekeeping frames, beehive nucs, bees and more.