The Tasmanian Junior Beekeepers are creating a buzz for all the right reasons, inspiring young people to care for one of nature’s most important creatures.
Bees are vital to pollination, biodiversity, and food production. By empowering young people to learn hands-on beekeeping skills, this volunteer-led charity is helping nurture both the next generation of beekeepers and environmentally conscious citizens.
Thanks to the St John Community Safe Grant Program, the group will now be equipped with a publicly accessible defibrillator, helping them keep their growing hive of visitors, supporters, and volunteers safer.
To mark the occasion, St John Community Engagement Team will be on hand to teach the young beekeepers how to use the defibrillator and share practical first aid tips.
“As more schools, families and community groups visit the Bee Hub, it’s vital we’re prepared for anything,” said Anita Long, founder of Tasmanian Junior Beekeepers.
“This defibrillator helps ensure the Bee Hub remains not only a place of learning and connection, but also a safe and well-prepared space for the whole community.”
The new AED will be installed outside the Bee Hub and registered with the GoodSAM App, Tasmania’s AED Register — meaning it’s not only available to the group, but also to the wider Coal Valley community.
St John Tasmania CEO Andrew Paynter said it’s a great example of the ripple effect of community support.
“It’s amazing to see young people so passionate about caring for the environment — and even better when we can support them with the tools to care for their community, too,” he said.
“Grants like this help make sure places like the Bee Hub are not only full of learning and inspiration, but also ready to save a life if the unthinkable happens.”
As a self-funded charity, St John launched the Community Safe Program to help grassroots organisations access lifesaving equipment and training — ensuring every Tasmanian, no matter where they are, has a better chance in an emergency.
