Time: 6.00-9.00pm
Date: Tuesdays, 10 November to 15 December
Where: Castlemaine Community House
Instructor: Benedict
Practical lessons for backyard beekeepers. You could even turn this hobby into a career!
This course will give you a comprehensive introduction to keeping bees in your own backyard. Benedict Hughes (The Practical Beekeeper) will introduce you to the Queen, workers and drones and will take you through both hands-on opportunities, and all the knowledge you need to confidently and safely keep bees and harvest honey.
You’ll learn about :
~ the history of beekeeping
~ regulations and the code of practice
~ who’s who in the hive and the seasonal tasks you need to be aware of
~ tools, equipment and safety
~ hive structure and the needs of the bees
~ pests, diseases and how to care for your hive (including varroa mite and how to manage it)
This course is for anyone interested in back yard productivity and for those looking for work or wanting a career change. With these skills you’ll be a safe and happy beekeeper and you could even get work with one of our local apiarists.
After this course: you could tell employers you have these new skills, do another course at your local Neighbourhood House, study further at TAFE or University, or apply for a job.
Bookings close Thursday 5 November 2026
Date: Tuesdays, 10 November to 15 December 2026
Time: 6.00pm-9.00pm
Plus Hands-On Sessions: Saturday 21 November and Saturday 19 December 9.00am-12.00pm in Guildford.
Cost: $220.50 (Full) / $189.50 (Early Bird Discount – available until 13 October) / $189.50 (Concession)
Trainer: Benedict
About the trainer: Benedict Hughes is a professional Beekeeper with years of experience. He has taught at Melbourne Polytechnic, Ceres Environment Park and Bundoora Park Farm. Benedict was a member of the Victorian government Beekeeping State Quarantine Response Team and President of both the Ceres Bee Group and Australian Pollinator Alliance.
