The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) has added three new titles to their extensive catalogue of practical Tocal College publications, providing industry-backed information and resources for beekeepers, land managers, educators and environmental practitioners across the state.
These three new publications: Bee Agskills: Beginning in bees (2nd edition), Honey bee nutrition: fat bees not skinny bees, and Wetland plants of the NSW coastal region, have been developed to help readers build practical skills, improve decision-making and support sustainable management of natural and agricultural resources.
NSW DPIRD Program Leader Digital Delivery and Resources Michelle Smith, said the publications reflected the department’s commitment to delivering accessible, evidence-based resources that support industry capability and learning.
“These publications bring together the latest knowledge, practical experience and clear guidance to help people make informed decisions, whether they’re managing bee colonies, supporting pollination services, restoring wetlands or developing new skills,” Ms Smith said.
“Tocal College has a long history of producing trusted educational resources and these new guides continue that tradition by providing practical information that can be readily applied in the field.
“Importantly, these publications have been developed to support a diverse audience, from people taking their first steps into beekeeping through to experienced practitioners and organisations managing valuable environmental assets.”
The fully revised second edition of Bee Agskills: Beginning in bees updates a resource that has been used by the beekeeping industry for more than two decades.
The guide covers bee biology, apiary management, safety, hive inspections, pest and disease management, honey harvesting and legal obligations, making it an essential resource for new and developing beekeepers.
The publication includes practical photographs, diagrams and step-by-step advice designed to help users establish and manage healthy bee colonies and build confidence in beekeeping practices.
The next guide available is honey bee nutrition: fat bees not skinny bees, a new publication focused on one of the most important factors influencing colony health and productivity. The guide examines how bees use pollen, nectar and water, and provides practical advice on identifying nutritional deficiencies and managing supplementary feeding during periods of drought, flood and floral shortages.
Drawing on current research and industry expertise, the publication also explores the links between nutrition, colony performance, queen and drone quality, and resilience to pests and diseases including Varroa mite.
For land managers, environmental practitioners and native plant enthusiasts, Wetland plants of the NSW coastal region offers a comprehensive guide to more than 200 plant species found in coastal wetlands. The publication combines extensive photography with practical information on plant identification, restoration, management and weed control.
The guide highlights the critical role wetlands play in supporting biodiversity, protecting water quality, reducing erosion and providing habitat for wildlife, while also offering practical advice for establishing and managing wetland plantings in a range of settings.
Ms Smith said the publications demonstrate how practical information can support both productivity and environmental outcomes.
“Whether it’s helping beekeepers strengthen colony health and biosecurity preparedness, supporting training providers with up-to-date educational resources, or assisting land managers to restore and protect wetlands, these guides provide reliable information that can deliver real outcomes on the ground.
All three publications are available through Tocal College publications and resource channels, available as a hard copy or e-book. Purchase through NSW Tocal Publications website here.
