Formed in 1948 for “Mutual assistance”
The inaugural meeting of the GBKA
The Star, July 7th 1948
The Guernsey Bee Keepers Association was established in the aftermath of WWII with Twenty Four founding members. Today the membership stands at around 100, but the aims of the association remain unchanged, namely to share knowledge and encourage the hobby of bee keeping in the island.
Threats to the native honey bee have increased dramatically since 1948, through the prevalence of disease, predation and parasites, as well as through the use of toxic herbicides and the dramatic loss of habitat. The role of the Bee Keeper has become ever more important to the survival of this vital pollinator.
Registered as a Guernsey Non Profit Organisation in 1948
Our Aims.
To raise awareness.
The Honey Bee’s importance in global food production is being realised just as studies show a huge decline in all pollinator species. The role of the Bee Keeper as guardian is just one aspect of ensuring the survival of this vital little insect, but we can all play a part in improving the environment for pollenating insects.
To promote best practices.
The domestication of the Honey Bee is ages old and a wealth of knowledge and understanding has been built up over time. This tradition, combined with new advances in equipment and science, brings a blended approach to husbandry which is beneficial and humane. By sharing our knowhow we all improve.
To encourage.
Not just for the old, but definitely for the patient. Bee Keeping is a gentle but fascinating hobby for people of all ages. The more experienced members are always happy to give advice and guidance on the phone, in person and at the various social events which are held regularly.
Meet the committee.
Damian Harris - President
Damian has been keeping bees for many years, both in the UK and in Guernsey. He was president of the GBKA several years ago, but after a break we are delighted to welcome him back. Damian also jointly heads up thew Guernsey Asian Hornet team.
Debbie Cox.
Debbie has been keeping bees for 6 years, but is learning all the time. “The GBKA, it’s committee and members, have been very encouraging and helpful. I love the interaction between the committee and the members, and I wish to continue in helping with this” she says. She’s a fabulous organiser and has been our committee secretary for 4 years.
James Orrick.
James is a long standing member of the committee and our financial whizz, keeping us all in check and the accounts in balance.
Gavin St Pierre.
HAving aspired to keep bees for years, or decades really, Gavin became a novice beekeeper during the first Covid lockdown. He recently joined the committee and is suffering imposter syndrome.
Michael Paine.
Mike is an experienced beekeeper, having kept bees both in the UK and here in Guernsey, and is happy to help with swarm collection and hive management.
Charlotte Ozanne - Vice President.
Charlotte has been keeping bees for 6 years, and her enthusiasm is infectious. Her bees have the advantage of her green fingers, living as they do amongst her beautifully tended garden.
Clive Weldon.
Clive joined the Committee recently. He is increasing his knowledge in leaps and bounds, splitting his hive successfully for the first time last year, and lately has become a swarm collector.
Becky Yabsley.
New to the Committee and to beekeeping, Becky is also a swarm collector. Her young son Harry is also a budding beekeeper and won a trophy at the honeyshow.