08-05-2025
Laois beekeepers invite public to visit reconstructed apiary
The opening on Sunday, May, 25 follows two years of reconstruction and updates on what used to be the local wastewater plant for Abbeyleix.
The area was bought and landscaped by the beekeeping group in 2023, when they first turned the patch into a wildflower meadow ideal for pollinators.
Bees were brought to the location last year where beekeeping classes have been taking place since.
With around 50-60 members in the association, apiary manager Conor McGlade said that the members all 'had a hands on approach' in the reconstruction of the newly opened apiary.
There was much help with planting, guidance, building, and many people brought their own equipment.
'One of our members is a great gardener and he has been guiding us on weeding, when to weed, when to cut. The group planted trees such as apple trees, which are all pollinator friendly.
'With the amount of people that came out and helped, it was done very quick and it will be great to welcome people in,' McGlade said.
The association will also be unveiling a mural on the official opening by local artist Aileen Donovan. The mural is a painting of St. Gobnait, the Patron Saint of beekeepers or Irish female saint associated with bees in the Middle Ages.
The art was supported with the assistance of Laois county Council and creative Ireland Heritage Through Arts Grants.
The grand opening was previously set to take place in October 2024, however the date was adjusted due to stormy weather conditions. Tickets for the opening can be found online, through the Laois Beekeeping Association social media pages.
