Beemaster's International Beekeeping Forum

BEEKEEPING LEARNING CENTER => DOWN UNDER BEEKEEPING => Topic started by: SlickMick on October 29, 2009, 09:59:45 pm

Title: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on October 29, 2009, 09:59:45 pm
Let's do a rollcall of Aussies on the forum so that we get to know who we are and where we live

SlickMick, real name: Mick, I live in Brisbane and I have 5 hives and 2 nucs operating at the moment. Been keeping bees for 17 years

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: sas_marine@hotmail.com on October 29, 2009, 10:49:47 pm
nic, 23 and live in maryborough qld, 2 10 frames double hives, wanting to learn more about tbh, looks really interesting :P
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Geoff on October 29, 2009, 10:53:02 pm
Geoff, 1935 baby. Live at Yinnar in Gippsland, Vic and have 14 hives at the moment and about to take off honey. Most time spent on Ventrilo.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on October 30, 2009, 09:22:18 am
(http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/7966/flag.jpg) (http://img688.imageshack.us/i/flag.jpg/)


G'day, Lone the banana bender here from Charlie's Trousers, with 3 hives and a nuc.  Now we can talk strine and no one else will understand. ( hehehe) What will the password be so we know folks here really are fair dinkum dead set dinky di true blue cockatoos?  How about they have to recite all the words of Waltzing Matilda from memory, including the AFL ones...waltzing matilda, boo for st kilda....and be able to play a lagerphone and digeridoo at the same time, as well as recognise the difference in the way each state does its pie and peas.

Hoo roo

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on October 30, 2009, 09:59:17 am
Ya right Lone

As proof of my Ozzieness I should label my honey Mick's Real Dinkum Honey made by True Blue Bees. Fair Dinkum who let the chooks in the veggie patch?

I was born in Sinny but I can't stand a bar of the blues in the state of orign

That should keep those beeks on the other side of the ocean wondering

Mick the trick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Geoff on October 30, 2009, 05:25:08 pm
    I'm OK Lone. Got 5 didgs and access to a lagerphone any day. Can also play the fool if required (without trying). If we ever have a meet like at Buds place it'll be dogs eyes and dead horse for sure.

Password. How about "Up there Cazaly"
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: beecanbee on October 30, 2009, 05:30:13 pm
Your own sandbox - awesome.  Have your fun - but please use a bit of English for the more important parts so those of us uneducated in the finer aspects of Ozzie speak don`t lose out completely.. :roll:
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Geoff on October 30, 2009, 06:11:50 pm
      Stick with us beecanbee. So long as when you are counting you've got enough nouse to take off your shoes when you run out of fingers you'll be right, unless you are like one beekeeper we know who very rarely wears shoes.
       SlickMick you will have to be more definitive about your honey label because if people thought it was the other aussie Micks label  Bud would say it will be agitated honey.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on October 31, 2009, 10:04:18 pm
We don't mind any nationality in Australia, Beecanbee.  The only thing is, you will have to have an Aussie nickname.  I think we shall call you Toyota.

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: annette on November 01, 2009, 12:23:39 am
OH you guys crack me up, I always enjoy reading your Aussie lingo. Can I join the group even if not from downunder.

By the way, The movie Australia was so enjoyable to me. How do you guys feel about that movie.  Just fun!!
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on November 01, 2009, 12:48:05 am
She's right, Nettie, put up your plates of meat and have a blow.

It wasn't my favourite movie, but I saw it at the drive-in which was nice.
There was a film made years ago about the country round here called The Irishman.  I thought that was a good story.

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 01, 2009, 01:43:38 am
OH you guys crack me up, I always enjoy reading your Aussie lingo. Can I join the group even if not from downunder.
/quote]

Hi Nette and Toyota. You fellas can come along for the ride but ya have to be able to say Sinny like a dinki di lifesaver from Manly and know where Brissy is on the map. If you can do that without practice then we might make you a synthetic and you can try out your version of Strine on us.

Lone, Isn't Toyota such a great name, much better than Ford or GMH .. almost as real as the bulldust along the Track

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on November 01, 2009, 01:54:50 am
Quote
Isn't Toyota such a great name

Yeah, she's a rippa, Slicko.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: annette on November 01, 2009, 01:14:20 pm
Have any of you guys read the book "Mutant Message down Under"?

About this women and a bunch of Aboriginals take her for a walkabout.

I really need to get over there someday as I find the whole culture so intriguing.  Of course, I know nothing except what I saw on Crocodile Dundee.

(OK you all can laugh at me now)
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 01, 2009, 04:48:02 pm
 :-D
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: sas_marine@hotmail.com on November 02, 2009, 04:40:34 am
love dundee, was in jabiru at the start of winter, sadly the barra where dopey as cuz the water wasnt hot enuf yet, not a bad spot a, when you cross the border into arnham land thats when things get interestn, abbo's didnt like seeing us whities there hah, but yer, love me country, john williamson sings the bomb aussie songs, true blue and waltzing etc etc, but hey, summers commin up and for those in qld its gonna be a scorcher, meterology reakons were gonna gets some epic storms this year, so for the north qld'ers, maybe another round like ingrid??? hopefully for your sake and the bees sake and the sake of our beloved bananas lets hope not :P was 15 buks a kilo after that, as if im gonna pay that
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Cindi on November 03, 2009, 11:10:28 am
Ah, beautiful topic, reading with great interest.  Have that incredibly wonderful and beautiful day, with that health.  Cindi
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: beemaster on November 03, 2009, 12:44:56 pm
Cindi:

Did you know that the Southern Hemisphere is actually right-side up (north) relative to the Milky Way Galaxy. So it is really us that magically stick to the bottom of the planet  :-D
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Cindi on November 04, 2009, 12:16:06 am
John, you always bring that smile to my face, Cindi
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 04, 2009, 01:30:50 am
All I can say is that everything is relative. :roll:

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: taztiger on November 06, 2009, 05:57:29 am
G'day from down under Down Under. "The big island Tasmania home of the devil" Pretty new at this game with two hives at the moment and a year of experience. Heaps to learn.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 06, 2009, 06:17:09 am
G'day Taztiger good to have you on board

Glad to know that you blokes still see yourselves as Aussies :-D You might have to move to the mainland if this global warming thingee takes off and floods the little place out.. wot! no Bass Straight and no Tassie to beat in the Sheffield Shield, strike me pink :-P

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: taztiger on November 06, 2009, 04:29:43 pm
G'day Mick
Actually own a bit of your state with a couple of properties in near you, so i'll have a place to move to. :)I don't think  i'll see the water reach where i live(not that far from Cradle Mountain). I seem to remember Tassie flogging you blokes to win the Shield a couple of years back but the forms been a bit rough of late without Hilfy and Tim Paine.  Any way you Queenslanders spend an hour the behind rest of us on the east coast for six months of the years Ay! :-D I think the beekeeping is pretty different down this way with our cool weather currently 10c aiming for a max of about 20 today!

Taz
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Koala John on November 08, 2009, 02:40:44 am
Afternoon fellow Aussies, I'm John, and despite religiously reading the general forum I've only just found this new section. There's an Aussie saying about that which I can't repeat here!
I'm in Melbourne with 14 hives (4 down here, 10 in Central Victoria), this is my third year. With this many hives and a very busy full time job, and no mentor, there's been plenty of times when I've been in way over my head. This forum has been an absolute lifesaver though.
Cheers,
John.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: taztiger on November 08, 2009, 05:52:13 am
G'Day Koala John
Yep it should be good to get a southern hemisphere perspective. Aussie bee forums are a bit thin on the ground.
cheers
taz
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 08, 2009, 06:09:56 am
G'day John, welcome to the Aussie bit of the forum. Of course all Aussies are welcome but we would be lost without comment from our stateside mates on the other side of the pacific. Their bank of knowledge continues to be shared by all us here.

I understand how hard it is to be an isolated beek and although I live in Brisbane and have been caring for the girls since my duaghter's 18th birthday (she is now 35) I have no mentor and have had to learn by touch and feel until I found these forums and they have been great.. top of the line in fact. We are getting a few Aussies here now and a few from the US posting so this part of the forum is now starting to hit its straps.

I have 5 full hives and 2 nucs all of which are producing honey like it is going out of fashion.

Welcome again

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Koala John on November 08, 2009, 06:17:14 am
G'Day TazTiger, nice to meet you. I've had some fantastic advice from America (as recently as today) but there's something very special about local knowledge isn't there?
How is the season looking for you down there? Do you have any Leatherwood around your area? Last time I was in Tassie I was very impressed with the marketing that goes into Tasmanian honey - the rest of us could learn a bit from that I think.

Mick thanks for the warm welcome, great to hear your girls are working so hard and doing so well.
I've been to a couple of clubs but found it hard to find any local people willing to listen to my vast volume of stupid questions the whole time! I have found the learning curve can be pretty steep sometimes, and the people on this forum.... well I don't want to go on too much about how helpful they are, it would sound over the top. I hope to be able to get to a point where I can confidently help others. I know a couple of other local beginners who ask me for help, but I'm pretty cautious about opening my mouth too much, as there is so much more I have to learn. They must be desperate to be phoning me, poor buggers!

Cheers,
John.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: sas_marine@hotmail.com on November 08, 2009, 07:55:28 am
welcome john and taz, good to see more aussies rising to the surface, im a qld'er up here with mick, its gettn nice and warm now, but for some weird reason, my bees just aint making that much honey :( i just seem to think that maybe nothing is in flower here, i see thousands of flowers but they bees are so sloooooow....... i have 2 hives both are really strong healthy hives, but just slow producers :( anywayz, a question for you mick, how would you go about starting maybe a nuc hive in a top bar hive???? because im saving one side of the hive for the natives and the other for the italians, i have enough brood with eggs and bees to do a split (hopefully its not too late) so how would i intise them into starting a clan in the tbh?? any ideas ?
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 08, 2009, 08:55:05 am
I'm only guessing here because I have never done a split with top bar hive. :?

So here goes :shock:

I would put starter strips into the top bars to give the split something to draw comb on.

I would put a division board limiting the extent of the tbh to maybe 4-5 bars and then shake nurse and field bees into the hive and make sure that the queen goes in also. If you could tie in a bar of brood I would certainly do that to try and keep queeny and the girls from absconding.

Just to be sure they dont go back to their old hive I would probably move it away until they had requeened

So how did I go.. does that sound like I dont know what I am doing :-D

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: mick on November 15, 2009, 12:29:40 am
Reporting in.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 15, 2009, 02:59:06 am
About time Mick. I have to admit wondering when you would report in

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Meadlover on November 16, 2009, 07:47:54 pm
Checking in as requested.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Meadlover on November 16, 2009, 09:09:43 pm
I reckon I should give ya all abit more info.

I'm in Brizvegas now but grew up a sandgroper, which as you know over there it can get as dry as a dead dingo's donger in summer, but the Fremantle Doctor gives a bit of a relief.
No ankle biters yet but got a beauty of a missus, her blood's worth bottlin.
Had a corker of a bike but come a gutser earlier this year. It got all busted up so I was mad as a cut snake, but I didn't lose any bark, so she'll be right.

Now to the bees - me and a mate were given 2 hives earlier this year from a top sheila, so I thought I'd give beekeeping a burl. Unfortunately after extracting our 1st batch of honey the SHB did their damage and I spit the dummy. 1 hive was completely destroyed, the other is still crook, and now only a nuc hive.
Fair suck of the sav mate these SHB are a Barry Crocker, if I found the guy that introduced these to Oz he'd have to do the Harry Holt or he'd end up in a hell of a blue.
I found a website from a bloke on the Goldy, he had the good oil on bottom boards with built in SHB traps, but since I'm flat out like a lizard drinking I haven't finished them yet. I have so many projects on the go at the moment that anyone would think I have a few kangaroos loose in the top paddock!

Looks like we have a good mix of bannana benders, mexicans, taswegians, crow eaters and sandgropers. Any sheepshaggers?
I think we'll all benefit from getting together on this rip snorter of a forum as everyone seems to be ridgy didge.

Strewth I've had a long enough smoko yabbering on so I better shoot through and do some work, otherwise I might as well have chucked a sickie!

ML
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on November 17, 2009, 10:09:21 am
Nice to see you haven't carked it, ML.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Meadlover on November 17, 2009, 06:08:48 pm
Yeah still here Lone, just too busy to drop in here much lately.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: mick on November 18, 2009, 03:38:34 am
Sandgroper ay?, never met a bad one.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: darren on November 18, 2009, 04:29:42 am
DARREN - PERTH , WESTERN AUSTRALIA. 2 HOURS AND TWENTY YEARS BEHIND THE REST OF THE COUNTRY AS THEY SAY. I'M A NEWBEE. 1 HIVE , 1 MONTH FROM NUC. LOTS OF JARRAH NEAR MY LAND, THEY SAY JARRAH HONEY IS THE BEST , RIGHT ???                     HEAVE HO FREO!!!
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on November 18, 2009, 05:59:23 am
G'day Dazza, another Aussie on board  :-D Onya

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: philinacoma on November 26, 2009, 09:54:19 am
Hi Guys,

Lone and Slicko I've met today. G'day to the rest of you.

I'm a newbee with 2 hives and a couple of swarms I've rescued waiting for their new home. Their new carer is away for a week, so they're staying over at my place.

Phil
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Yarra_Valley on December 16, 2009, 02:41:32 am
Hi everyone,

I live in innner Melbourne, but keep my bees out in Healesville. I grew up out there.
James.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on December 16, 2009, 07:56:38 am
Getting a few Aussies on here  now eh!

Mick
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: philinacoma on December 16, 2009, 08:56:02 am
Hi James,

Do you keep any bees where you live or do you have a space issue?

Phil
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Phil-J on December 27, 2009, 09:27:46 pm
 :) And another Phil from Melbourne is present.

Seems to be quite a few banana benders in this forum!
Phil J
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: bearpaw on December 28, 2009, 05:59:49 am
Hi All,

Haven't been round here for a while... Glad to see that there is now an Aussie forum set up on the board.

I'm 34, from Tasmania and now have three hives. I started the season with one but have managed to split a hive and also catch a swarm - so that makes three this year. I'd like to build up but slowly...

Looking forward to getting back into the swing of things here too... especially now that the season is getting going again.

Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on December 28, 2009, 08:58:21 am
Glad you found your way back here BP. We are a great crew here :roll: and have a bit of fun often at our own expense... just ask Mick

Keep in touch and enjoy

Slicko
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on December 28, 2009, 09:26:27 am
I thought Tasmanians were extinct.   :idunno:
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on December 28, 2009, 04:57:13 pm
I thought Tasmanians were extinct.   :idunno:

Endangered at least, Lone

Slicko
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Pete on December 30, 2009, 05:44:15 am
What will the password be so we know folks here really are fair dinkum dead set dinky di true blue cockatoos?  How about they have to recite all the words of Waltzing Matilda from memory, including the AFL ones...waltzing matilda, boo for st kilda....and be able to play a lagerphone and digeridoo at the same time, as well as recognise the difference in the way each state does its pie and peas.

Hoo roo

Lone

I think it would be difficult for non Aussies to decipher "May your chooks turn into emus and knock down your dunny"
 :-D
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on December 30, 2009, 10:34:26 am
G'day Pete,

Reckon you pass the test.  Hope it's not too blowy down there - wouldn't want your bees to blow out to sea. 

And happy new year to you and your 6-legged friends.

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on December 30, 2009, 04:01:36 pm
G'day Phil.... oops Pete

Another Mexican I presume  :-D That said, welcome aboard and enjoy  :)

Slicko
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: westmar on December 31, 2009, 04:28:28 am
yea westmar her
                       I'm at flinton qld got few hives,plus the native bees.last couple days we had 30ml rain cooled of for awhile.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: philinacoma on January 01, 2010, 05:36:14 pm
Hey Westmar

Natives huh? How do you find them? I heard that they don't produce much honey...

Phil
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: annette on January 02, 2010, 12:10:59 am
Hey I am becoming more of an Aussie every day. Just drank "Bundaberg Ginger Beer" yesterday and loved it.  (non alcoholic)


(can we just forget the vegemite incident?)
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: SlickMick on January 02, 2010, 02:49:46 am
You'll do me for a steady Nette

I had 3 bottles of it whilst I was shooting in an archery comp at my local club today.

I made quite a bit of alcholic GB late last year from ginger roots that I grew.. yum, hic

Hico... er chicko... er Slicko
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: westmar on January 03, 2010, 10:22:18 pm
hi all  [philina coma]
                                i normally find natives with in 150m from water.they are hard to spot most entry's i found out her are facing south west.no more than 15ft of ground.i like to have sun over my shoulder makes them easier to spot.i used make the mistake looking up all the time .i have found them nesting on the ground in water meters all so.i allway es get out after a storm check an branches or trees Thai come down.if you save any in a storm make shore cut 3 ,4ft each side the entry ,normally take something over both ends.make sh oar you stand it up the right way.look before you cut.so9 you no what the top of tree what the bottom .if you put them up side down you drown them.no they don't give much honey.some people tell me 1kg season.I'm yet to take that the most i taken is250gr.i made small boxes up for my natives transfer them over to rob them .you got do crush strain with them.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on January 04, 2010, 03:51:03 am
Quote
Hey I am becoming more of an Aussie every day. Just drank "Bundaberg Ginger Beer" yesterday and loved it.  (non alcoholic)


That's what we wash our vegemite sangers down with

Quote
(can we just forget the vegemite incident?)

no, we have long memories  :-D

Slicko, have you been on the straight vegemite again?

Westmar, thanks for the info about the natives.  There are zillions round here, but I've never seen their hidey holes.

Lone

Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: philinacoma on January 04, 2010, 07:47:09 am
Hey Westmar,

What do the native hives look like? Are they something hanging from a tree or are they a hole in a branch?

Phil
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: westmar on January 05, 2010, 08:50:20 pm
hi all
       the native bee bees have a small entry in hollows , they take bit finding.the native bee got he is the[australis]little black bee with white marking on his back.at night they close there entry up ,then take it down next day.some people say the honey bee is taken over there nest sites .i don't find that out her i seen them nest in the same tree.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: philinacoma on January 06, 2010, 09:04:11 am
Hi Westmar,

I have created a seperate thread for the native bees...

http://forum.beemaster.com/index.php/topic,26165.0.html (http://forum.beemaster.com/index.php/topic,26165.0.html)

Phil
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Burnsy on November 11, 2010, 09:33:06 am
Mike from WA newbee to beekeeping.  I have one topbar hive that is going really well and just made up an 8 frame WSP hive today in readiness for a colony that is in a compost bin that I am going to rehouse.  I like the topbar system so am going foundationless in my new hive as well.

Is Darren the the only other Western Australian here?
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Anybrew on November 11, 2010, 09:23:13 pm
Hi well my name is Steven I have four hives,four kids and four motorbikes. I am new to Bee keepin but love the little buggers. 

I also live on four acres on the edge of Dubbo NSW I love live family and beer.

Cheers
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: OzBuzz on November 12, 2010, 03:04:22 am
Hi well my name is Steven I have four hives,four kids and four motorbikes. I am new to Bee keepin but love the little buggers. 

I also live on four acres on the edge of Dubbo NSW I love live family and beer.

Cheers

That's a lot of fours hahahh...
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: philinacoma on November 12, 2010, 05:29:54 am
Obviously because Tiger is in town...
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Mardak on November 12, 2010, 10:48:56 pm
Howdy out there,

Mark from near Napoleons. Been busy out looking at whats coming into bud around here. Raining real heavy today. The bees are feral but the queens do their job. Plenty of brood so come on and flower you eucalypts I will be happier
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: PSEPete on November 14, 2010, 04:14:58 am
G'day Cobber. Pete here
I am from Armidale in northern NSW.
I have 1 Hive atm but looking to get up to 10 in the future. :)
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Col Collyer on November 22, 2010, 09:58:29 pm
Col Collyer here, from Glen Waverley in Melbourne.
 We had bee's 20 years ago, and last year a swarm came and made home in our garden, so we went and bought all the stuff again, and had a good year, Ideals about 7 high, broke them back to 5 over winter, then on to this season....
 Expecting a swarm, I built a top bar hive, but before it was finished..... Thursday about 5... lots off bee's in back yard, bugga... followed them, and informed neighbor that I would come Friday lunch time and get them.... got there, and they had absconded.... get home and the missus says... " good timing, just in time to see your bee's swarming! Great spectacle watching them poor out of the hive.  Follow this lot and get them settled in another hive, some frames, some frameless, and a honey frame. They settled well, and were gradually getting moved when... another swarm on the gutter..... made up another box from a kit, but had no top or bottom. so...... put newspaper on top of the hive on the move, added the box, some frameless bars, and a honey and put the lid back on. They are now working their way down the side of the house, and will get transferred into the TBH when they reach the back yard
  I'm guessing I'm not the only one with bee's in Glen Waverley !
 p/s... pissa of a site
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lek on December 03, 2010, 05:36:51 pm
G,day to all........ Lek the user name, some people like to call me Kel, along with a few other choice names at times. Live here in Mackay ,Qld. have 4 hives at the moment, most likely kick off a few more next year. that if it ever stops raining.  Keep smiling.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Daz the Drone on January 15, 2011, 07:58:09 am

.... sorry I'm a little hows your mate, but I got stuck over on the seppo side of the site.    Stone the flamin' crows, more dinky-di's here than ya can poke a bleedin stick at.    Who's shout is it??   And don't give me any of that Murray Mud, that bunch from the bight tried to poison me once before.
So, the rest of you flamin' mainland coves had better pick up the slack, coz I've counted on my six fingers with my two heads that Taswegians are 1/45 of the total Aussie populance and there's already three of us in this thread!    That be about 125 mainlanders that are a no show!!   And you thought we downunder downunderers were a bunch of illiterate gymps eh!

Well, thanks for the grog and I'll catch ya round like a rissole.


ps.   Where's the long drop?  :roll:


Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on January 15, 2011, 11:09:44 pm
Welcome, Daz..

Hang on ...  we have to decide whether to include Tassie as part of Australia...

You got wet feet?

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Mardak on January 16, 2011, 03:18:08 am
Leatherwood is a lovely taste and texture from down in Tasmania. Got a little jar sitting on a shelf that occasionally gets the finger dip treatment. Yum
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: FRAMEshift on January 16, 2011, 11:34:04 pm
Hi well my name is Steven I have four hives,four kids and four motorbikes. I am new to Bee keepin but love the little buggers.  

I also live on four acres on the edge of Dubbo NSW I love live family and beer.

Cheers
Hello Anybrew.  I just did a quick calculation to determine I have spent 1/1000th of my life in Australia.  (a 3 week trip in 2008)  I figure that makes me 1/1000th Australian at heart.   :-D  Is that enough to post here?  

I LOVE DUBBO!  I traveled around NSW during my stay in Oz.  a week in Sinny (yes, including visiting a friend in Manly), some hiking in the Blue Mountains, a week in Dubbo and a few days in Canberra.  My favorite part of the trip was Dubbo.  Went to the Western Plains Zoo and spent a night at Peter Neilson's observatory.  Made friends in a gun shop and stayed at the ADF hotel where I received a quick education on the meaning of Gallipoli.   I can understand why you like to live there.  

Cheers, gentlemen.  (Oh, excuse me Lone.  Didn't notice there was a sheila in the the room.  :-D)
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Daz the Drone on January 17, 2011, 08:49:12 pm
Hang on ...  we have to decide whether to include Tassie as part of Australia...

Lone

Isn't that why we have the moat?  (Bass Straight)   Keeps the mainlanders in their place.   :-D

Got wet feet, but nothing like anything that's happening on the mainland.   In our area, we only lost a few irrigation dams and about 5 local road bridges.   We are just soooo lucky.


Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Vance G on January 17, 2011, 10:21:23 pm
So, are you all multilingual?  Don't get me wrong I enjoy it.  I thought I would snoop on your forum to get news of the floods.  One spring snow melt, I can remember standing on a bridge roping hives as they came floating under down the crick.   We will have some high water here when the snow melts.  We have had about four feet of global warming so far this winter.  Most of it has melted in the chinooks though and just left the eight inches of ice on the street.   I best go eat my taties and neeps.  Maybe I can find a dialects for dummies book to read after me tucker.  Maybe my chickens will turn to large flightless birds and knock over my outhouse.  By the way I have outhouse experience at forty below Pete!  Vance
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: dING on January 18, 2011, 01:44:28 am
dING here from n/w coast of Tassie only just joined the forum

Been into Bees for a year or so currently have 16 hives

12 of em on Blackberry and 4 in urban areas

Soon as the blackberry ones quieten down Gunna shift em onto leatherwood

Extracted my first supa of blackberry this week couldnt wait till I had a few

Just did the first one full got 10.5 kg out of it so am happy
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Anybrew on January 18, 2011, 01:55:37 am
Well, Frameshift I think your comments on Dubbo are great.  Its a good place to live and your welcome here any time you like.  I'm always up for a Beer and a chat,especially about guns,Beer and bikes.
Cheers
Steve

Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: FRAMEshift on January 18, 2011, 07:59:47 am
I'm always up for a Beer and a chat,especially about guns,Beer and bikes.
Cheers
Steve
G'day Steve.  So I'm sensing a theme here.  Something about Beer?  :-D   I drink mostly Mexican beers, especially Negro Modelo.  When I was in Oz, I developed a taste for James Boag's, which is Tasmanian I think.  Have you ever noticed that SHB are attracted to Beer?  Just something I've heard but never seen for myself.

I'm a Glock guy but I haven't done much shooting lately.    I visited a gun shop in Dubbo, a couple of blocks from the train station.  Spent an hour trading stories with the owner.

Dubbo is not a huge place, so I'm wondering if you know Peter Neilson.  He used to be head of the Australian Skywatch program, tracking near-Earth asteroids.  He runs a public observatory just past the Zoo.  When I visited in 2008, he was building a house next to the observatory.  He is a world class astronomer and a very cool guy.
Cheers, Michael

Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Anybrew on January 18, 2011, 08:36:01 pm
Yo Michael, I know the gun shop in question and have frequently been there over the years as I am a keen hunter but these days I don't seem to get away much.  Beer, Bourbon,red wine you got me, James Boag yeah not a bad drop.  I do enjoy a Budweiser and Miller too, well not much beer I don't enjoy.
I definetly won't share it will SHB.  Glock ha, yeah well when I was a LEO I was issued a Model 22 in .40SW the plastic fantastic it was good, it replaced my Model 10 which shot more accurately.

My kids have been to Pete's observatory and had a great time but I haven't been there maybe I should.

Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: FRAMEshift on January 19, 2011, 06:37:51 am
  I do enjoy a Budweiser and Miller too, well not much beer I don't enjoy.
Miller has a factory about 10 miles from my house.  They make beer for a big part of the Eastern US.  Our little town, strangely enough, is also the international headquarters for Remington firearms. ( I have to say, I prefer Winchester.  :roll: )  We also have lots of tobacco farmers and cigarette factories.  We should have our own branch of the ATF.  (US bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms).   

Quote
  Glock ha, yeah well when I was a LEO I was issued a Model 22 in .40SW the plastic fantastic it was good, it replaced my Model 10 which shot more accurately.
Ah, a cop who drinks, shoots and rides a bike.  Is Australia a great country or what?  You are probably right about the accuracy of a Glock.  And I remember that the guy in the Dubbo gun shop said the same thing.  But if you're drunk and shooting from a moving motorcycle, accuracy might not be your most important concern.  :-D
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Anybrew on January 23, 2011, 02:23:50 am
Yo FRAMEshift, so Bro whats a carton/slap of Miller worth. As how much does it costs in the good ole USA.  I know you are going to make me cry.
As an example I was in Japan last year on a drinking holiday, and Jim Beam Bourbon in Tokyo was $21 buck at the time in good ole Auzzie Land its was $32.00 ishhhhhh.
Remember a bottle a day keeps the Doctor in pay.
Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: ericthebee on March 03, 2011, 07:38:14 pm
also from sinny, but got a spot as a blocky out near wombyean caves  3 hives, been beekeeping about 6 years and still learning. and after mre hives. 
and I'm a shelia to boot! had ross river so got a bum ticker if i run amuck too often and me plates of meat kill me most mornings. i am a class player on the lino, and as a wildlife carer and snake handler, always happy to tell our mates over the drink why drop bears are grey and why we have very few convertables in OZ   

'not long after they built the harbour bridge, the early morning beaters, would go up the into structure to beat off all the drop bear's, so only those that blended with the bridge survived, hidden by their colouring, a form of naural selection. So if you drive a convertable over the bridge beware of the drop bears. it's also why they have the pedestrian and cycle ways, out either side away from direct attack.

and i limit the number of venomous snakes i relocate from houses  to just 3 per primary school and 5 per to each local high school. Seems to work.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: jharri31 on March 30, 2011, 04:26:21 am
Justin - in Capel (Sth West Western Australia) although I was born in Adelaide and came to WA via 10 years in Alice Springs.
Very new to Bees, still building my first hives.

More Aussies on here than septics!  Great forum, look forward to learning bigmobs.

Cheers

Wanabee
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: lilyfrog on June 26, 2011, 06:54:14 am
G'day All,

I'm Mark, From West Brisbane.

No Hives atm, got washed away in the floods (I got trapped at work and couldn't get home to save em :(),

I have been making new boxes though, hoping to kick off again soon, (Very early spring), my honey supply is getting low.

Cheers
Mark
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: gregted on October 01, 2011, 02:25:08 am
G'day blokes n sheilas.

Strewth. On the dog n bone to the cheese and kisses told her I got stung in me fishin boat.

She says  Grouse. Laughed do much nearly stopped her raspberry tart.

I did me block. Told her she was silly as a two bob watch.

Stone the crows.

Greg from Gowrie junction near Toowoomba near Brisvegas.
Wifes a Mexican. Sits on the fence come state of origin. Bloody cockroaches. Gotta get around to fixing that hole in the border fence one day.

Spring coming up so hopefully girls will be goin at it like a couple of dingos. Fair dinkum.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Tasmaniablue on August 29, 2012, 07:34:29 am
Hello
Tasmania here. I kept bees many years ago in yhe UK. Returned to the fold last year and will be adding two more hives this year. I love my bees, always something more to learn.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Nico on August 29, 2012, 08:02:18 pm
Hi, Nico here,gota hive up the road from Lone,Queenslander thru n thru,league not the other.Hot sauce on pies not tomato.Gota tell ya bout Lone's lathe.
Help unload from truck
Offer consultancy $150/hr for assy.
bored watching,assist assy.(Tradies rate $70/hr)
payment offer 1 Banana (declined payment)
Lone did get a beer from fridge (my beer)

Lone offers advice on bees when asked,so OK.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on August 30, 2012, 03:50:05 am
You didn't mention lathe is shiny blue, Nico.  What are your concreting fees for slab for lathe?
I still have doubts about Beez Neez honey beer, but I like the orange lagerphone lid. I just ate your sugar banana, by the way.

Lone
Advice on bees $200/hr
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Nico on August 30, 2012, 08:34:22 am
Slab is under control.
We will paint lathe maroon.
Setting up fees on concrete $500
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Nico on August 30, 2012, 09:09:36 am
Lone
forgot to mention TA rates 2x $250 for setting up.2 Beers plus a cup of tee.
Dan said de-crystallise honey in frames before extracting.Looking for a suitable cabinet to set up warming system,
able to take one box of frames,plus heater assy.
Nico.
Folks dont worry about us,were nearly neighbours.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lord Viykor on September 01, 2012, 06:23:22 am
Real name is Tony and I hail from just north of Brisbane about 28km's from the CBD. I've had native bees for a couple of years and decided I wanted some honey bees as well.

I got my first hive in November last year, and got my first swarm a few weeks ago so I've two hives running now having a lot of fun learning my way around. Joined Northside Beekeepers which is conveniently close to home.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Mek on September 04, 2012, 03:06:58 am
Hi my real name is Melinda, and I am based on Tamborine Moutain (south east ueeensland).

I have flat packs and no bees at the moment. Still in the painting and learning stage.
When I have time I wanna bake a lamington on the bottom board.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Harpo on September 14, 2012, 09:21:52 am
Hi All - my real name is Daina and I'm a naughty 40 LOL

I was Mexican born, then became a cane toad and have now married and settled into life as a cockroach ;-) Have 3 future beeks aged 5,3 and 1 and a hubby who wants to become an pest exterminator  :lau: due to my girls "having the need to assault him on a regular basis"

I currently have 7 hives and am hoping to bag a few more swarms this season...

I think Anybrew ( Steve ) is my nearest beek neighbour - must head over for a chat about bees, BOURBON NOT BEERS and bikes... I may be from Venus but my Daddy taught me how to speak Martian LOL

Looking forward to reading what your up to this season and also hoping for some pics too...
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Quantum Leap on September 20, 2012, 07:21:51 am
Hello all new here real name Vicki  live in the ACT

quite new to bees and reading and learning as much as I can :)

Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Johnny253 on September 20, 2012, 10:53:38 am
G'day, Jono's the name, I'm a farmer, live about 2 hours north of Adelaide and have been keeping bees for about 18 months. I have bees in 9 hives and four of these have supers on. I'm looking forward to my first extraction sometime in the very near future! I lost two colonies over winter but did a split a couple of weeks ago and picked up a swarm today. There seems to be no shortage of bees around here, I know of numerous 'feral' colonies.

I'm basically running 10 frame full depths but have a few ideal supers (due to the purchase of some second hand gear and they were included). I'm planning to go for half depth supers so they're not so heavy but still get the most out of my extractor which will hold 8 of these frames. I'm also giving foundationless a go.

I've always been interested in bees, probably due to the interest my grandfather had in them (though he got out of bees before I was born) and the experience I had as a kid helping my neighbour build hive gear and inspect his bees. When bees made their home in some farm machinery, I figured I may as well put them in a box and my interest turned into, well, more like an obsession. The more I learn about them, the more I appreciate them. I take much more notice of what is in flower now and my ears have become 'tuned' to the hum of a honeybee.

I really enjoy this forum, there's always something to learn and it's great to interact with beeks from all over the world.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Wonga on October 15, 2012, 05:58:45 am
Hey,
 Wonga here, I was born on the banks of the muddy Brisbane River, but now I live in the Blue Mountains, west, and uphill, from Sydney. I love keeping bees, I' ve got two happy healthy hives at the moment, and we are having a great Spring so far (despite the snow! last Friday, and the cold snap that came with it), but it was only one day.

Turpentine (Syncarpia) flowering now, with lots of cbottlebrush and grevillia too.

Cheers
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: bernsad on October 15, 2012, 06:21:46 am
G'day Wonga,

How does the turpentine go in the hive? Smell/taste alright?
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Wonga on October 16, 2012, 06:43:00 am
  Its just kicking off into full flower, so far so good, I hope it wont get overwhelming, plenty of other stuff flowering so it won't be in too strong a proportion. Cant do much about it anyway
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Big Harold on October 17, 2012, 06:49:47 pm
Hi Mark from Muswellbrook NSW
My wife and I have just purchased 22 second hand hives. We have a steep learning curve to come and it has started already. The hives we bought all had swarms although they are all in various stages of decline. We are looking to re queen all the hives at some stage. They contain some honey new and old black stuff. Most of the frames are in various stages of disrepair.
First inspection most were getting on with collecting pollen from fireweed reasonable amounts of brood. Some hives were low on numbers due to old queens i think. Noticed that there were not a lot of drones in hives?
We have just purchased 200 frames from Penders. Wife will be busy assembling these. I bought her an air bradder to make it easier.
Was thinking of adding a super of new frames under top supers. What do you think?
Went and checked hives yesterday not a good day. Found one hive a triple super, 2 full supers of capped honey 2 weeks ago, sounds good doesn't it but it all went down hill. Went for a walk on Monday and noticed that there was not a lot of bee activity on this hive. Lots of ants around the hive but.
Opened yesterday and found both supers had been robbed of honey and dead bees on top of queen excluder. Looked in brood box and found only empty combs. There were some bees about but i think they may have been robbing what was left.
My thoughts are that the ants attacked the hive due to it being week, killed bees and robbed honey?
I am going to put the frames i the fridge to keep if needed i the future.

Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Big Harold on October 17, 2012, 06:54:40 pm
Hi
Now that you have read the above essay. I will pose some questions?
There is not a lot of pollen around the brood, Conditions are starting to dry out therefore there is not a lot of pollen around. Should i be adding supplementary pollen?
Due to these being weak hive should i start feeding syrup? Or will this attract the ants?
Thanks Mark
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: petert on October 24, 2012, 10:26:38 pm
Hi
Peter.I'm in Lithgow,over the blue mountains,near Sydney.
Got 8 hives,been at it for a year.
It's cold here,but didn't lose any hives over the winter.
Knocked them back to single story for the winter.

Bees near town now for the wattle and spring blossom.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on October 24, 2012, 11:53:50 pm
Hello Harold,

Sorry, we should be getting back to you with some info.  I'm not the best one for that though.  I don't have a great deal of experience, and I'm in a warmer climate. 

I don't think you should add empty supers to your hives.  For a start, you are new and it is better to learn how to manipulate smaller hives, and then get a feeling for when another super wouldn't hurt. I think you'd be better off taking out some capped honey and storing it in the freezer for when you extract, and replace those frames with empty foundation frames.  The hives that are low on numbers, reduce the space as needed to keep beetle and moths out, even if it means reducing space to a nuc box.  Look at the brood pattern and if it is getting patchy your queen/s might be getting old. Though if you are sure swarms emerged from the hives, maybe the queen/s were replaced with young queens? I would advise not requeening all the hives, because that has its own risks...say getting 22 bad queens all at once would really knock your hives.  If you are sure you need to replace particular queens you could also try killing the queen and making sure there are only eggs in the hive from your best hive.  This sometimes doesn't work either.

Anything could have happened to the triple decker.  If it had swarmed, the numbers might have been too low to fend off a pest.  Always protect against ants, especially if you have meat ants there.  Our stands have the legs in oil cans.

Adding pollen attracts small hive beetle, so I would only do this if it were a life or death situation (for me that is, not the bees!)  In spring/summer conditions, usually there is pollen around even if there is not much nectar.  Besides, there is not always pollen "around" the brood.  Often there is just some on one of the edge frames in the brood chamber.  Maybe with lower numbers of brood the pollen requirements are less so they are not bringing so much in.  I live in a very dry area but I never panic about pollen.  If you find a hive with nearly none and another with 2 frames, you can always brush the bees off and swap frames.

Feeding syrup is a desperate measure too.  You might really need another site or two because 22 hives might be too many for what is flowering.  What is the terrain like where you are?  I would reduce the space, swap honey frames into the weak hives (preferably uncapped so you get to eat some capped honey too) and then see if you need to feed.  Feeding might stimulate queen laying.  Don't worry about not many drones.  They will return when the hives are stronger and conditions better.  There will be drones somewhere at ths time of year.

All the best, keep us informed, and welcome to you and Peter in Lithgow.

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Big Harold on October 25, 2012, 06:54:44 am
Thanks Lone
I thought I might have offended someone when no one posted.
Went for a walk today and inspected from outside as we have a total fire ban. Saw lots of bees coming in to the hives with pollen so hopefully all will be good. Also saw a drone or a queen come inio the hive not sure whitch as I only got a quick look.
Just got a new fridge so the old one will be used for frames. It should hold 4 supers, this will do until I can get my coolroom.
Most of the frames are in poor condition so I will try and remove a couple of empty ones and replace with new.
Will the dry conditions affect the bees?
Thanks Mark
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: johnauck on October 25, 2012, 07:32:20 pm
Hi! John here from Heathmont, Melbourne.

We started with a single hive from a swarm we captured in Mount Dandenong 3 years ago. Last year I made a successful split and we moved one of the hives to our second property, a hobby farm in South Gippsland. The farm is zoned rural so we can have any number of hives there.

I hope to expand the apiary to about 12 hives. So far this season I have split our suburban hive, which didn't go quite to plan, I suspect we lost the old queen in the process, so both hives look like they have been queenless. There were queen cells, the bees have been foraging and don't seem anxious so I am hoping they have raised new queens. Will inspect early next week when the weather is warmer. Unfortunately I do not have a hive that is strong enough to donate brood if required. But I do know another local beekeeper who may help out if asked.

Also captured a nice swarm 2 weeks ago, 1 meter off the ground in a shrub in our front yard. Very quiet bees too. This colony was taken down to our farm and appears to be doing well.

So we now have four hives in two locations. I have setup a super as a swarm trap (with a commercial queen lure from Bobs) on our balcony not far from the previous swarm. I hope we catch some bees soon.



regards


john
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on October 26, 2012, 05:02:07 am
Quote
I thought I might have offended someone when no one posted.
It's ok, Harold/Mark, we try not to discriminate against the blues here.  I'm sure your beekeepers are just as good, even if you do have rugby issues.

Does a total fire ban include smokers?

You'd be lucky to spot a queen returning from a mating flight but it is possible.  A drone is more common, a big boof-headed male that lazes around and likes to be fed   :)

It is expensive running fridges for bee gear, but really is the best option.  Moths can ruin good frames in a very short period.  Yes, it is always good to circulate frames.  You might like to move two frames in the brood box towards the edge each year, then when they have no brood or only capped brood move them into the honey super and clean them of old comb or replace them when you've extracted.  This will recycle all your frames in 5 years.  But don't worry about that yet.

The dry certainly can affect flowering, although some things only seem to flower when it's dry.  It can help to reduce issues like beetles and mould, though.  Just make sure they have a close water supply.  Ours tend to drink from the rough concrete sides of a goldfish pond and ignore the waterlilies we planted for them.

Hello John,  I put our limit at 10 hives which we reached last weekend, but then the offsider went and bought gear for 3 more hives.  Geoff comes from Gippsland, our Yinnar Fellar.  He has lemon scented pink flowering gum but he won't let us steal any.
Congrats on the swarm.  I've never had a hive swarm.  Let us know how your split hives fare.


Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: johnauck on October 28, 2012, 06:31:36 am

Hi Lone,

with regards to my split, I examined both hives yesterday. The parent hive has two frames of sealed brood now, so that looks promising. May be I need to get my eyes checked, because I was sure I did not see any lava or eggs about 10 days ago. It does not add up :-)

The split box is not as good. I did see some patches of larva, I hope its not a laying worker. If it is, will a frame of brood with eggs help? I did spend a bit of time looking for a queen, but I am not very experienced and did not spot her (if she is there). I did not use smoke for examining the hives this time, and they were not too angry, except when I bumped frames etc. I was very careful to be slow and smooth when pulling frames but it happens.

My wife is more confident she says just let them go another week then worry about it. I think she understands bee math better or just more patient.

In any case I do have access to other beeks who can help if I need help. But advice here is welcome.


regards

john
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: WABEE on October 30, 2012, 10:21:33 am
WABEE here in Wanneroo 30 km north of Perth, Western Australia, (Been in AUS
I know nothing about beekeeping but have a wild hive in my garden I knew about it about 6 weeks ago but left it alone I have just returned from a 4 week trip to the UK and with the weather warming  up the activity has hugely increased to a level that worries me regarding the safety of my son
Today my neighbour told me he saw a swarm 6 weeks ago.approximately and that it was large and darkened the sky above his patio I need to know if A) the bees are of use to anyone B) is it legal to remove them? C) Who lives close enough if legal to take them as I really really don't want them being destroyed.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Jeanette on November 02, 2012, 09:58:25 pm
I'm a newbie from .... hmmm ... not sure which state to lay my allegiance against. Born in QLD, married a NSW man, spent a few years in WA and used to own a small farm in TAS. Now we're travelling Australia in a caravan. But despite all that I am here!

I'll have to wait until we buy another block before getting some hives. Does that make me a 'wannabee' instead of a 'newbee'?
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: ozebee on December 02, 2012, 05:28:20 am
My name is Andrew and I just joined the forum and looking forward to participating. Located in Sydney Lower North Shore, have been beekeeping for over 20 years. Had a break for last 4-5 years but starting to build up some 4-5 colonies.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: buzzbee on December 02, 2012, 09:13:18 am
We have a member named Mick that used to come on quite often and join us in ventrilo.Geoff and Mick were able to give me a great feel of the people of Australia.I am glad to have met Geoff and talked with Mick as much as we used to do.You Aussies are a good bunch! :)
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Honey Gold on December 03, 2012, 03:55:32 am
Well there is nothing more Aussie than being from a place called something like Wagga Wagga. My real name is Amanda, and I'm a newbie beekeeper with two hives which have only been in operation for just over 3 weeks. Good to see so many other Aussies here!
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: bernsad on December 03, 2012, 06:38:25 am
G'day Amanda and welcome to the forum.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: max2 on December 22, 2012, 01:37:00 am
G'day all!
I'm as new as can be on this forum. Left another bee forum as there seemed to be to many **** around. ( I think the moderator would slip them in if somebody said " bum" rather then bees bottom. Funny mob.
I'm near Maleny ( I will introduce myself on the forum page when my grandkids show me how). I'm a wog from way back and near retirement.
I keep around 15 to 20 hives and a few nuc's ( which I sell), run some cattle and chooks and we have a big garden.
I have kept bees for about 30 plus years and still learning.
Glad I found this rollcall!!
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: gail54 on January 13, 2013, 02:27:24 am
Hi All my name is Gail I live in Wallan Victoria, I am new to bee keeping with only a year under my belt, still sooo much to learn. Ihave to be a dinky di Ausie as I own a Blue Heeler lol

If any one knows some one in my area who could teach me I would be greatful
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on January 16, 2013, 12:38:54 am
G'day Wabee, Jeanette, Andrew, Amanda, Buzzbee (oops I think you've been here before), Max and Gail.

Gail, two red heelers, 2 aussie terrior mutts, a kelpie and a kelpie/heeler here so I guess I'm as aussie as you are. haha  Rawfind (Neil) on the forum comes from Wallan I believe.

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: kanga on January 26, 2013, 04:26:50 am
Hi to all forum members,

After reading the forum as a guest, and obtaining hints and ideas and some interesting reading re others experiences, I have now registered.
I am an Aussie and have lived in Queensland all my life. I have been interested in bees for a number of years (not giving my age away) and been keeping them for over 30 yrs. I have down sized and now only have 4 hives.

Kevin
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: prestonpaul on January 26, 2013, 05:15:25 am
Hi All my name is Gail I live in Wallan Victoria, I am new to bee keeping with only a year under my belt, still sooo much to learn. Ihave to be a dinky di Ausie as I own a Blue Heeler lol

If any one knows some one in my area who could teach me I would be greatful

Welcome Gail.
I meant to reply to this the other day but then forgot  :roll:
I am in Epping so not too far from you. There are a couple of us in the North now.
Maybe we should have a get together sometime?
Cheers.
Paul.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Lone on January 28, 2013, 08:25:53 am
Hello Kevin.  Always good to see another banana bender.  Now we just need to know how old you are seeing as you are keeping that concealed   :-D

Lone
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Old McMillans Farm on February 08, 2013, 09:26:15 pm
Hi Steve, Mac from Old McMillans farm, not sure if you're the correct Steve but here goes, I recieved a reply from my introduction to Beemaster.com from Steve in Dubbo linking me to a Gumtree ad that had 36 hives at $50 a stack.  I checked them out this morning and all that I checked looked healthy. THey want to sell the lot but I cannot afford that kind of $$$ . I only want 2, & i can move another 10 but thirty six is too many. If you want them, all bar 2 for myself,maybe we can come to an arrangement as far as transport out to Dub Vegas.
 So if this is the Steve that replied to my post give me a buzz on 0434 598 747 
 Cheers Mac
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Anybrew on February 08, 2013, 10:41:28 pm
Cheers Mac, it was good talking to you.
Good luck and enjoy the buzz its fun and frustrating all at the same time.

Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Chevy on March 02, 2013, 07:44:49 pm
Hi All,

I'm Jay from Brisbane... New to this and have had two hives for a massive 3 weeks... Learning curve is steep right now... But a great journey so far..
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Charles Sen on March 10, 2013, 07:53:49 am
Hi! Charles here and I am from Brisbane. I am only just getting started in bees and pick up my hive next weekend. I spent an enjoyable afternoon today inspecting my new hive at the beekeepers apairy and other hives and learning heaps. Can't wait to pick it up and get it home.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Chevy on March 10, 2013, 08:04:37 am
Hi Charles,

Which area are you from in Brisbane?

I just started out too and this is my fourth week and having my hives..

It sure is relaxing to sit and watch the bees.... That's if it stops raining for long enough..

Welcome...
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Charles Sen on March 10, 2013, 08:07:32 am
Hi Chevy. I'm on the northside at Bridgeman Downs
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Charles Sen on March 10, 2013, 08:10:05 am
I know what you mean about the rain. it was driving me nuts Jay. I had my hive built a year and then i injured myself and then waited for a hive once I was strong enough to do things so really looking forward to getting the hive.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Chevy on March 10, 2013, 02:05:38 pm
Fingers crossed this Saturday is looking like the first day without rain... Good luck
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Charles Sen on March 17, 2013, 12:52:48 am
All went well Jay. Got the hive Wendesday evening and I did an inspection on the weekend.
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Chevy on March 17, 2013, 08:32:17 am
AWSOME... I also did my first swarm collection... How did the hive inspection go?
Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: wannabeehobbit on March 17, 2013, 10:38:27 pm
Hi, was given some yummy hunny by a bee keeper from NE Victoria, just wondering if the bee keepers here sell their honey?

Title: Re: Let's do a Rollcall of Aussies on the Forum
Post by: Charles Sen on March 18, 2013, 07:41:45 am
Hive inspection went much better than I could of hoped. The bees were so gentle I really didn't need any protective clothing at all. I took it of except the veil and hat. I couldn't believe how they let me pick up frames etc and not try to sting me. I saw some brood and capped brood and honey and the pattern was good but darned if I could see the Queen. I saw at least one drone though! One thing I noticed though I was sitting right beside the hive for an hour watching the goings on at the entrance which I found really fascinating but I saw 2 SHB's fly up to the entrance and eventually land onthe landing board!!! These things must be everywhere. During the time I was watching every time the SHB tried to get in it was chased back out again but this must go on all day long. I found one dead SHB on the ground and I saw a bee in a fury with one between its mandibles actually come buzzing out of the entrance and carry the darn thing off. I have a SHB trap in there but am going to get a bottom board with oil trays as well as this scared the daylights out of me.