Carbery and South West Beekeepers Associations have joined forces to educate all aspiring beekeepers about this rewarding hobby that contributes to environmental health while providing opportunities for sustainable local honey production. Beginning on January 22, the five week ‘Beginners Beekeeping Course’ is led by Bob McCutcheon who has been a beekeeper for over 30 years.
Whilst beekeeping requires knowledge and attention – regular hive inspections, disease management, and seasonal maintenance are essential, with May, June and July being the busiest months – with proper education and dedication, many find it to be a very manageable and rewarding hobby or even a small-scale business.
On this beginner beekeeping course, participants will learn about hive management, bee biology, pest control, honey extraction, and safety practices. The course cover topics such as recognising and preventing diseases, understanding hive dynamics, and seasonal beekeeping tasks. Practical skills, like handling bees and using beekeeping equipment, are also part of the curriculum.
Carbery Beekeepers Association, which has just celebrated 40 years, is based in Skibbereen and serves beekeepers from Goleen to Rosscarbery. South West Beekeepers Association is based in Clonakilty. Both organisations offer support and education by organising workshops, conferences, and training sessions to enhance beekeepers’ knowledge and skills throughout the year.
For more information on the beekeeping course, which starts January 22 at the Celtic Ross Hotel see the advert on this page.
