Presented by Dr Tim Heard, an entomologist, stingless beekeeper and promoter of native bees for pollination, education and conservation.

Attend this workshop to learn all about native bees, the solitary and social ones and how to propagate them.

The slide presentation will cover the topics of bee nesting biology, bee foraging biology, diversity of wild bees, importance of bees in natural systems, traditional stingless beekeeping around the world, modern stingless beekeeping in Australia, using stingless bees for pollination of gardens and farms, sugarbag honey and its properties, rescuing bees threatened in the wild, and more.

In the practical session, we will open hives and observe the amazing structures within. We will demonstrate the various ways of propagating hives. You will pick up lots of tips on managing the native social bees, including how to extract honey from them.

Tim will be able to answer any questions you have regarding native bees. For a more detailed response send your questions in advance to Elaine (elaine.bean77@gmail.com) and Tim will include them in his presentation. Alternatively, questions are welcomed on the day.

Hive inspection - Open to anyone with a hive with a viewing panel and who isn't sure how it's going. Bring that hive and Tim will check it out and give you and the audience a report.

The workshop will commence 1:30pm (following the Coffs Harbour ANBA AGM) in the Display Room at the Botanic Gardens.

Price for members of the Australian Native Bee Association. $10, non-members $40. If you are not yet a member, join here, https://australiannativebee.org.au/join-us, wait until you are approved, then return to buy ticket. NB if you are not yet a member, it's a smart choice to join first.

Price includes a delicious afternoon tea.

Enquiries to Elaine Bean, 0421 041 269, or email elaine.bean77@gmail.com.