Media release – Tasmanian Junior Beekeepers, 31 August 2023
Young Australian Beekeepers Shine at International Competition, Securing Top Rankings
An Australian team of young beekeepers, made up entirely of Tasmanian children, recently participated in the prestigious International Meeting of Young Beekeepers (IMYB) in Slovenia, showcasing their skills and knowledge on a global stage. The event, which spanned four days, provided an invaluable platform for beekeeping enthusiasts from around the world to come together, learn, and compete.
Among the standout achievements, Reuben, a member of the Australian team, emerged as a remarkable talent, achieving second place in the highly competitive event from a field of 77. The team as a whole also displayed their dedication and expertise, achieving an impressive fifth place overall in a field of 30 countries.
The IMYB featured an array of activities that allowed the young beekeepers to exchange ideas, collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, and engage in various beekeeping challenges. One of the highlights was an international team project that involved the creation of nucleus hives. The team shared their excitement about working alongside beekeepers from around the world, including Slovenia, Ukraine, Israel, and Romania, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the event.
The competition components were not only intellectually stimulating but also hands-on, providing participants with the opportunity to work closely with bees, open hives, and observe the unique traits of the distinctive Slovenian bees, the Carlionan honey bee. The learning experience extended beyond beekeeping techniques, offering insights into different hive designs influenced by varying climates and the quantity of honey collected per year.
The young beekeepers embraced diverse experiences, from visiting historical sites to engaging in thrilling activities such as ziplining. They took part in evening presentations from different countries, learning about global beekeeping practices and sharing their insights.
The journey also involved cultural enrichment, as the team spent time in Austria, Slovenia, Italy, and the Netherlands and visited a large-scale seed company for an in-depth tour of the operations.
The Australian team, supported by their mentors and sponsors, presented their knowledge and passion for beekeeping with pride. Their achievements not only underline their commitment to the craft but also the importance of nurturing young talent in sustaining beekeeping practices for the future.
Featured image above: Audrey Long, Reuben Wherrett, Lilith Fleming.
