All good things must (sometimes) pause... and after an incredible journey of conversations, laughter, learning, and buzzing with brilliant guests, this is the final episode of Bees with Ben – at least for a while.

In today’s episode, I reflect on the wild ride this podcast has been – from talking bees and biosecurity to sharing stories from the paddock, the lab, and everywhere in between. I’ve had the honour of chatting with amazing beekeepers, scientists, enthusiasts, and friends from around the world – and you, the listeners, have been a huge part of that journey.

The truth is, life’s gotten very busy. Between the hives, the honey, the pest control, and being a dad (and sometimes a part-time tow-truck driver when I get bogged on avocado farms), something had to give. And for now, the podcast is taking a well-earned rest.

This isn’t goodbye forever – just a little smoke break. So keep the mic warm for me, and who knows – a surprise episode might pop up when you least expect it.

Thanks for every listen, share, message, and moment. Keep supporting your local bees, your local beekeepers, and stay curious.

With gratitude and a sticky handshake,
– Ben 🐝

Guest: Norm Collins – Seven Decades in Beekeeping

In this special episode, I chat with Norm Collins, a true pioneer in Australian beekeeping. Once the largest beekeeper in Victoria, Norm recently turned 80, and he joins me to reflect on a lifetime of working with bees.

We take a journey back to when Norm received his very first box of bees at just seven years old, and explore how much the world of beekeeping has changed over the past seventy years. From the way hives are managed, to shifting environmental pressures and evolving industry challenges, Norm shares his knowledge, experiences and a few great stories along the way.

This episode is a tribute to the past, a nod to the resilience of beekeepers, and a reminder of how much we can learn from those who have spent a lifetime in the field.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your beekeeping community.

https://collinshoney.com.au

🎙️ Episode 126 – I’m Back! (Yes, Really!)

Welcome back to Bees with Ben – and yes, you heard right… I’M BACK!

It’s been a buzzing 12 months since the last episode, and I want to start by saying a huge thank you to everyone who’s stayed subscribed, messaged, or asked, “Where’s the podcast, Ben?” Life got wild – as it often does when you’re juggling bees, business, family, and everything in between – but the mic is back on, and the hive mind is reactivating.

In this short but heartfelt solo episode, I check in, catch up, and share what’s been happening behind the scenes. Plus, I give you a sneak peek into what’s coming over the winter months: incredible guests, fascinating beekeeping stories, and some brand-new topics I can’t wait to explore with you.

Whether you’re a beekeeper, a bee-lover, or just someone who loves a good yarn – thanks for sticking around. Let’s get this hive humming again. 🐝

What’s Inside:

• Where I’ve been and what I’ve been up to

• The current state of bees and beekeeping in Australia

• Sneak peek at the interviews and topics coming this winter

• A personal thank you to all the listeners and supporters

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share the podcast – and as always, keep buzzing!

Join me on a unique episode of "Bees with Ben" as I take you on a journey to Shepparton!

Recorded on the road, this episode captures the spontaneous and unfiltered thoughts I navigate through my beekeeping job, whilst on the road!

Expect a delightful ramble covering a variety of topics, from the intricacies of beekeeping in different environments to amusing anecdotes from the road.

'"Ben's on-the-go recording brings an authentic and immersive experience, making you feel like you're right there with him". Tune in for a mix of beekeeping insights, personal stories, and a touch of road trip charm.

 In this episode, I chat with Sam and Nicholas, the dynamic father-son duo behind Meli Honey. Their journey is a testament to passion, family, and the pursuit of quality. We dive into their fascinating story of importing premium Greek honey to Australia, and how their love for this golden elixir has translated into a thriving business. Just after we wrapped up recording, Sam and Nicholas received the incredible news that Meli Honey had won gold at the London Honey Awards! This accolade is a significant milestone for them and a testament to the exceptional quality of their honey.  

https://www.melihoney.com.au

https://www.instagram.com/melihoney1/

The Story of Gavin's Apiaries with Liam Gavin In the lush, sub-tropical landscape of Northland, New Zealand, lies a testament to tradition, resilience, and a deep-rooted passion for beekeeping. Gavin's Apiaries, a fourth-generation family business, traces its origins back to 1912 when James John Gavin embarked on a journey that would shape the family's legacy for generations to come. In a recent episode of the Bees With Ben podcast, host Ben caught up with Liam Gavin, a member of the Gavin family and a torchbearer of their storied beekeeping tradition. Liam's connection to the land and the bees runs deep, as he shared insights into the rich history and enduring values that define Gavin's Apiaries today. The journey began over a century ago when James John Gavin rode his horse through the picturesque Mangakahia Valley, chasing a swarm of bees—a humble yet pivotal moment that marked the inception of Gavin's Apiaries. Fast forward to the present day, and the family's commitment to honey production and community engagement remains unwavering.

Beyond the buzzing hives and golden honey, Liam reflects on the pride and philosophy that underpin the family business. At Gavin's Apiaries, it's not just about honey production; it's about fostering a sense of community and stewardship for the environment. Through sustainable beekeeping practices and a genuine connection to the land, the Gavins strive to leave a positive impact on their surroundings.

Through their unwavering commitment to excellence and their deep-seated values, the Gavins continue to inspire beekeepers and enthusiasts alike, both locally and beyond. In a world that often moves at breakneck speed, the story of Gavin's Apiaries serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of tradition, resilience, and the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. As Liam Gavin aptly concludes, "In the end, it's not just about the honey—it's about the journey, the legacy, and the enduring passion that fuels our love for beekeeping." Tune in to the Bees With Ben podcast to hear more captivating stories from the world of beekeeping and beyond, as we continue to celebrate the remarkable individuals and traditions that make our world a sweeter place to be

https://www.instagram.com/gavinshoney_/

In Episode 122 of the Bees with Ben podcast, host Ben chats with the experienced commercial beekeeper Kevin Simons from Edgecomb Honey, nestled in the scenic North Island Bay of Plenty in Whakatane, New Zealand. Kevin has been a part of the beekeeping industry since 1984, witnessing firsthand the dramatic shifts in the landscape of apiculture, particularly with the advent of varroa mites. This episode delves into his enduring passion for beekeeping, the early days free from varroa, and his current relentless fight against this devastating pest.

Kevin's journey into the world of bees began in 1984, sparked by a fascination with the natural world and the intricate society bees form within their hives. He recalls the simpler times in beekeeping when the absence of varroa mites meant fewer threats to hive health and a stronger focus on honey production and natural hive growth. These were the days when beekeepers could rely more on the resilience of their bees and less on intervention to maintain healthy colonies. However, the tranquility of beekeeping shifted dramatically with the arrival of varroa mites in New Zealand. Kevin describes the initial shock and rapid adaptation needed as beekeepers nationwide faced significant losses and battled to understand and manage this new enemy. For Kevin, it was a pivot from natural beekeeping methods to developing a more aggressive and vigilant approach to hive management.

Today, with over a thousand hives under his care, Kevin's beekeeping routine involves an extensive and meticulously planned program to combat the varroa mite. He shares some of his strategies on the podcast, including regular monitoring, the use of chemical treatments, and natural control techniques that together form an integrated pest management system. His goal is not just to keep the mites at bay but to ensure his bees thrive despite their presence.

Looking toward the future, Kevin is cautiously optimistic. He acknowledges the ongoing challenges posed by varroa mites but also highlights the resilience of beekeepers and the innovations in the field that continue to evolve. His story is a testament to the dedication and resilience required in modern beekeeping, emphasizing that the battle against pests like varroa is ongoing but not insurmountable.

Revolutionizing Bee Hive Lifting: A Conversation with Jai Stafford of Ezy Loaders 

In this episode, we explore the innovative world of Ezy Loaders with none other than Jai Stafford, the driving force behind these game-changing material handling devices. Join us as we delve into how Ezy Loaders are making loading processes easier, safer, and more efficient across various industries but mostly the lifting of bee hives. 

https://ezyloader.com

The Genesis of Ezy Loaders: Jai shares the inspiration and the initial challenges in the development of Ezy Loaders. The discussion on the technology and design principles that make Ezy Loaders stand out. How Ezy Loaders are transforming material handling in sectors like agriculture, construction, and logistics. Real-life examples and testimonials from businesses that have benefited from adopting this technology.  Looking at the safety features integrated into Ezy Loaders and how they contribute to workplace safety.  The efficiency gains realized by companies using Ezy Loaders, supported by data and case studies. Jai discusses upcoming innovations and potential new markets for Ezy Loaders with a new product that is just about to be launched!

Welcome to another buzzing episode of the "Bees With Ben" podcast! In this instalment, Ben chats with Steve, an avid beekeeper from Western Australia whose journey into the world of bees began through a unique blend of friendship and curiosity.

Discover how Steve was introduced to beekeeping when his regular fishing buddy had too many beehives to manage, leading to less time for their fishing adventures. Hear Steve's initial impressions when he first inspected the bee colonies and how this experience sparked his interest in beekeeping. Learn about the creative ways Steve involved his two young sons, aged 8 and 6, in beekeeping. From painting an internal wall with whiteboard paint for brainstorming to conducting market and product research, find out how Steve made beekeeping a fun and educational family project. "Levi & Elek’s" Honey Label: Steve shares the story behind purchasing 20 x 5 frame nucs from a breeder who would later become a good friend and mentor.

Explore the steps taken to establish their own honey brand, “Levi & Elek’s,” and what it means to them.

Rottnest Island Bees: The episode also delves into the fascinating world of Rottnest Island bees. Steve discusses the unique characteristics and challenges of beekeeping in this location. Join Ben and Steve as they explore the personal and profound impacts of beekeeping, from fostering family bonds to embarking on new business ventures. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper or just curious about starting, this episode is packed with insights and inspiring stories that highlight the joys and challenges of beekeeping.

https://www.stevesqueens.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/steves.queensaus

With more than 10 years’ experience, developing, designing and delivering workplace mental health and wellbeing programs, Rae works with a broad range of organisations, industries and settings with a special skill in crisis and suicide response. A qualified counsellor trained in Rogerian theory – Rae draws on her authenticity, genuineness, and empathy to create environments of trust and safety. She has a focus on men and boy’s health, offering confidential in person and online sessions for individuals, couples and groups. For a decade, she’s been a volunteer Ambassador for Beyond Blue and also donates her time to community organisations and settings where the smallest acts of kindness and care can be lifechanging. She’s well known for her enthusiastic advocacy in the men’s health space, where she believes that a male friendly approach to support and resources could have a positive impact for everyone. The first female board member of the Australian Men’s Health Forum, she compliments this with a recent election to the board of Global Action on Men’s Health. You can also tune into Rae’s radio show on 94.1FM 3WBC, “What does it feel like, being you today”, where she interviews people from all over the world, asking that question.Rae Bonney's website at (https://www.raebonney.au), and join us in this ongoing conversation to bring about change and hope.

https://au.linkedin.com/in/raebonney