Shop Now

From Curious to Confident: Become a Backyard Beekeeper

A group of students in protective bee suits learning hive management during a sunset beekeeping workshop at Frogmouth Ponds.

Stop reading books and start handling bees. Join our hands-on Beekeeping Course Tasmania workshop in Port Sorell. Learn the art of apiculture inside a working Tasmanian apiary, where you’ll gain the confidence to manage your own hives. After the session, explore our range of Pure Tasmanian Honey to see the results of our sustainable practices.

1. Hands-On Experience “Theory only gets you so far. We put you in a full protective suit and get you into a live hive within the first hour. You will learn by doing.”

2. Confidence, Not Fear “Bees can be intimidating. We teach you the gentle, calm handling techniques that experienced apiarists use to manage their hives safely.”

3. Total Beginner Friendly “Zero experience? Perfect. This course is designed specifically for complete novices. We explain everything in plain English, not scientific jargon.”

What We Cover in 3 Hours:

  •  Inside the Hive: Identify the Queen, Workers, and Drones and understand their roles.

  •  Reading the Frames: Learn to spot honey, nectar, pollen, and brood (baby bees).

  •  The Gear: A no-nonsense guide to the equipment you actually need (and what you don’t).

  • Hive Health: How to check for pests, diseases, and keep your colony strong.

  •  The Seasonal Calendar: What a Tasmanian beekeeper needs to do in Spring, Summer, and Autumn.

Course Essentials

  • Location: Frogmouth Ponds, Port Sorell (Full address sent upon booking).

  • Duration: 3 Hours (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM).

  • Safety: Full protective bee suits and gloves are provided for all students.

  • What to Bring: Please wear thick socks and closed-toe shoes (boots are best).

  • Weather: We depend on the bees! If it rains heavily, we may reschedule for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any prior experience?

None at all. This course is designed specifically for complete beginners. If you’ve never seen the inside of a hive before, you’re in exactly the right place.

Where is the course held?

At the Frogmouth Ponds apiary in Port Sorell on Tasmania’s North West Coast. The full address is sent to you upon booking. Parking is available on site.

How many people are in each session?

Maximum 6 participants. Small groups are deliberate — it means more time with the bees, more questions answered, and a much better experience than a large class.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Yes — participants must be 14 years of age or older. Everyone attending must have their own booking.

What should I wear?

Long sleeves, long pants, thick socks and closed-toe shoes (boots are best). We provide all protective equipment including full bee suits, gloves and veils — no need to bring your own.

Will I actually get into a hive?

Yes. Getting hands-on with a live hive is the centrepiece of the course. You’ll open a hive, read frames, and handle bees within the first hour.

What if it rains?

We depend on the bees — heavy rain affects their behaviour and safety. If conditions require it, we’ll reschedule and contact you as early as possible.

What happens after the course?

You’ll leave with course notes and a solid foundation to start your own beekeeping journey. You can also progress to our Constructing Beehive Components workshop, or Stewart can advise on setting up your first hive in Tasmania.

Can I buy bees or equipment on the day?

Yes — eftpos is available on the day. Course participants also receive a 10% discount on beekeeping equipment purchased at the apiary.

How do I book?

Select your preferred date above and complete checkout online. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details within a few minutes of booking.