By Rowan Forster
An apiarist from Officer is buzzing with excitement after harvesting State Government cash for a state-of-the-art beehive.
Rob Armstrong, who coordinates the G.W.S. Anderson Scout Park’s educational bee experience, was shocked to discover his proposal had ousted more than 30 others to secure $31,530.
The beekeeper will construct a brand new apiary, using the money to buy equipment, construction material and hives.
He believes the project’s success highlights the community’s awareness of the plight of bees.
“Once we saw the number of applicants, we thought it was going to be really tough – but we pulled it off,” Mr Armstrong said.
“I think people are becoming more environmentally conscious, especially in light of the imported honey being tampered with and diluted with sugar syrup.
“We want to help save the bees and encourage people to look after them.”
Mr Armstrong’s small team have reportedly been inundated recently, relocating five swarms in the past week.
Construction of the new hive will mostly be undertaken by Scouts, volunteer groups and the group’s committee – with the cash used to purchase building materials.
Approximately 15 new hives, classroom facilities, fencing, signage, lockable access gates, pedestrian pathways, a separate honey extraction room and an outdoor dining area are all proposed.
The facility will allow Scouts, school students and community members to learn about the exodus of bees, inspect the workings of a hive and indulge in honey tasting.
Since 2013, bee populations in some parts of the world have fallen by a third, with phenomena ranging from the spread of the varroa mite to climate change.
Many scientists believe if bees were to disappear from the face of the earth, humans would have just four years left to live.
Mr Armstrong maintains the venture will be undertaken as soon as the cash is delivered.
