Bitter Sweet Kangaroo Island

Originating from the picturesque Ligurian Alps during the days of the Roman Empire, these remarkable bees found their way to this pristine island in 1884, thanks to the South Australian Chamber of Manufactures. Today, Kangaroo Island stands as the sole sanctuary for this endangered bee species, protected by stringent biosecurity laws that prohibit the introduction of any other bees or bee products.

The year 2020 will forever be etched in the memories of Kangaroo Island's beekeeping community. The 'black summer' bushfires ravaged over 211,474 hectares of the island, leaving destruction in their wake. The devastating inferno spared little, including 70% of the productive beekeeping areas and over 1000 managed hives. The aftermath was a harsh blow to the beekeepers who relied on these hives for their livelihoods and to sustain the Ligurian Bee population.

Despite the challenges posed by the bushfires, the beekeepers and conservationists on Kangaroo Island refuse to let their spirits waver. They understand the critical role these bees play in the island's ecosystem and are committed to their preservation. Through ongoing restoration efforts and collaborations with local authorities, they aim to create a brighter future for the Ligurian Bees and the unique honey they produce.