There was a hive of activity at Tallowood School yesterday (Monday) as a film crew arrived to make a 'bee-grade' movie about the launch of Little Star Bee Sanctuary's 100 Hives in 100 Schools project.
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The entire school hovered around beekeeper Steven Hayes as he introduced them to their new 'playmates' - a hive of stingless native Tetragonula carbonaria bees, also known as sugarbag bees.
The project is close to the hearts of Steven and his wife Trudi, who own the Little Star Bee Sanctuary at Missabotti.
"The decline in bee populations worldwide is a real threat to food security," Trudi said.
"This project is our first step in raising awareness and increasing bee populations to ensure not only the regeneration of bush after these devastating fires, but also to inspire a new generation of bee keepers."
The unique project captured the imagination of superannuation company, Sunsuper, who awarded the couple a $5000 small business grant from their ''Dreams for a Better World' program ...
Hence the presence of cameraman Rich Wang and a small crew from Sunsuper, who were there capturing the moment this project took flight.
Sunsuper's Jason Sommer said the grant aimed to support local businesses like Little Star to create more sustainable and connected communities.
And connect to the kids it did - immediately, with Steven being buzzed with questions about the hive and the daily lives of bees:
"How long do the bees live for? What bees should you stay away from? Why do the females do all the work? How high do they fly?"
Asked on camera by Sunsuper's Michael Kennedy, why the bees were so important, seven-year-old Loui Miller said "if all the bees go, there is no honey and no food".
When asked what she liked about bees, Audrey Hayes (11) said she liked their purpose in life.
"I like how they have this sweet gift but can pack a punch while defending it and themselves," Audrey said.
The grant will enable Steve and Trudi to purchase the first 30 hives for local schools and community centres. The program will roll out in February next year.