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Wellington Beekeepers Association Inc. Notices - August 2000 |
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DECA Training The AGM last month approved extension for another year of the club's programme to get as many of our members qualified as Approved Beekeepers by assisting them to prepare and submit an appropriate disease elimination conformity agreement (DECA) and then subsidising the competency exam under the PMS. The club will use some of its AFB funds to meet the cost of the exam ($25.00) for members who have belonged since 1st June 1999 (ie at least one full year of membership). This offer applies only to the first examination attempt. The club is expecting to run two courses this year for members to take the exam. Dates have not yet been set, but the first is expected in late spring, and the second will be in autumn. If any club beekeepers would like assistance in preparing their "agreement" for submission to AgriQuality, please contact a committee member. So far only about 40% of the club members have passed their competency test. The committee would like to se this figure doubled this year. Remember, that if you do not have a valid DECA, then you will need to get a certified beekeeper to inspect your hives and sign the required returns. Upper Hutt Science Fair The Wellington Beekeepers maintained an exhibition stand at this fair over the period 20th to 22nd July. The displays were very popular with the visiting school children and other members of the public. Thanks must go to Bill Allan, Vicky Alexander, Les Soloman, Bernie Cox, James Scott, and of course Frank and MayAnn Lindsay for their efforts in promoting beekeeping in this way. Mead Competition Winners of the mead competition held last month were:
Congratulations to these people, and a big thankyou to all who entered the competition. If anyone else is interested in making mead from their honey, please contact one of the above or a committee member and ask for assistance. Sustainable Lifestyle Weekend Pam McDowell is intending to host a weekend dedicated to discussion of topics related to sustainable lifestyles. These will include: water collection; grey water systems; solar power; passive solar energy; hydro power; composting toilets; energy efficient healthy houses; and perhaps solar ovens and mud stoves. If this appeals to you, please ring Pam on 04-569 7134 to register interest. Committee for 2000/2001 The following people were elected to the committee of the Wellington Beekeepers at the AGM last month. Note: the full minutes of the AGM will be printed next July.
Congratulations We can all congratulate Richard Hatfield on his election as President of the National Beekeepers Association at their recent conference in Gisborne. This is a critical time for the organisation with the varroa mite putting the beekeeping industry in turmoil, while at the same time the NBA is facing major funding and support crises. Richard will need all the support he can get for this demanding appointment, but I am sure that he is able to lead the NBA and can count on the encouragement of the Wellington Beekeepers. |
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