Essendon bee relocation sparks urban hive idea in Moonee Valley

THE removal of bees from a roundabout in Essendon has prompted a north-western council to look into sustainable urban hives across the region.

AN ESSENDON roundabout was a hive of activity last week when a local apiarist was called in to relocate a colony of honey bees.

Apiarist George Iwasiw set to work last Wednesday rehoming the bees by first removing honeycomb from a telephone pit then using smoke to coerce the bees away from the roundabout.

Moonee Valley Council decided to sustainably rehome the colony that had set up on council land.

Mayor Andrea Surace said the recent discovery of the bees prompted a review of bee management and the council would now look into potentially establishing urban beehives on rooftops, balconies and gardens.

“Bees are responsible for the pollination of one-third of our food supply and it is vital that we take steps to ensure their protection and create a more sustainable city for generations to come,” she said.

Urban honey bees have access to a wider variety of flowers than their rural counterparts, who mainly seek nectar from seasonal crops.

“Rooftop beehives will not only assist in pollination, but produce honey and other products that are unique to our city and drastically reduce the distance from production to plate,” Cr Surace said.

Planning and environment portfolio holder on the council, Cr Nicole Marshall, reminded people it was common for bees to be on the move in larger groups during Melbourne’s warmer months.

“Residents should not be afraid of the bees,” Cr Marshall said. “Keep a safe distance away and don’t try to poison or remove the bees.

“You should instead contact council or a local apiarist to rehome bee swarms and colonies ethically.”

Details: mvcc.vic.gov.au/bees