Day 3 of OBKA Beginners Course

Another very successful morning was held in Bury Quay where more than twenty beginners were brought through Summer work by experienced beekeeper Michael Hayes. Michael gave a well researched talk on swarming and how to do an artificial swarm. He spoke of the difference between swarm prevention and swarm control and the various reasons for each. There were many questions on this vital aspect of beekeeping and all were answered clearly and comprehensively. Our forecast of warm weather was a few days delayed so it was not possible to visit the apiary. However, plan B worked very well and Michael brought us through honey extraction including cut comb and run honey. We looked at some of the equipment needed and familiarised ourselves with the process of getting honey from our supers. Again, Michael shared his knowledge and experience in answering all questions asked. Our secretary Niall collected frames and wax from the apiary and there followed a very practical ,hands-on session where people learned how to put foundation into frames for brood box and super. These frames will be used in the Association apiary –so a good morning’s work completed. One of our members, Lorna Boland, gave a brief description of a project on varroa on which she is working. Lorna exhibited this project at the Young Scientist exhibition early in the year and recently won an award for her work at a Science Festival. We wish Lorna well with this important work as it is a subject of interest to all beekeepers. The entire morning raced by with plenty of discussion on all beekeeping topics. Much of this was to be heard at both coffee breaks where delicious sandwiches and scones were welcomed by everyone. Special thanks to Jerry Reilly, Peter McEvoy and Niall O Reilly for all their work in organising the morning.