Sweetwater Hives

Sweetwater Hives Maker of bespoke Topbar Hives.

When I set out to make this batch of hives, I was aware that the Varroa mite incursion into Australia could cause prospe...
15/05/2026

When I set out to make this batch of hives, I was aware that the Varroa mite incursion into Australia could cause prospective beekeepers to hesitate about getting involved. Since then, the global scene has become more unstable than at any time since I was boy. And unsurprisingly, there has been no rush at my gate.

So, I had a plan B in mind in case the hives didn't sell. If I still have these hives in a few weeks time, I will seek out prospective host sites in the area, and populate them with bees when swarming takes off in Spring. If this happens, it will provide me with an opportunity to test out different Varroa control methods, to establish which method works best for me.

Recently in a discussion the question was put: If you haven't got a physical disability, why would you choose a topbar h...
15/05/2026

Recently in a discussion the question was put: If you haven't got a physical disability, why would you choose a topbar hive? I gave my usual response, such as working at waist height, less disruptive to bees etc. I found it surprising that someone's main thought-association regarding topbar hives is that they are primarily for disabled people. But isn't it great that topbar hives do actually improve access for some with mobility issues.
Anyway, I think the question is framed incorrectly.
My question is " unless you are planning to move your hives around, why would you choose the Langstroth stacking system over a horizontal hive?"

Finished! Anyone want a Topbar hive?
08/05/2026

Finished!
Anyone want a Topbar hive?

This season's batch of Kenyan Topbar hives is nearly finished. I will be advertising them more widely in a week or two, ...
26/04/2026

This season's batch of Kenyan Topbar hives is nearly finished. I will be advertising them more widely in a week or two, but for now I am making them available locally.
The main timbers are recycled oregon. The bloke I got the planks from told me that his dad had stored them for more than 30 years. They vary between 40mm to 50mm in thickness.
The end boards, the gable ends, and the base are radiata pine. The end boards, the side planks and the gable ends have been treated, firstly with several coats of raw linseed oil, diluted with pure gum turpentine. This mixture soaks into the timber. Then 2 topcoats of raw linseed oil and melted beeswax. This dries to form a clear protective coating. An annual freshening up with linseed oil will help keep the hives looking good for many years.
The lids are primed baltic pine weatherboards, and are painted with 3 or 4 coats of quality external cream acrylic paint. When finished, the lids will have an insulation lining.
Each hive holds 30 bars, plus 2 follow boards.
Beekeeper registration numbers can be engraved onto the gable ends if required.
Available to collect from Dederang. Delivery can be arranged.

The first batch of Topbar hives is nearly ready. Soon to be. flat-packed for delivery.
13/02/2026

The first batch of Topbar hives is nearly ready. Soon to be. flat-packed for delivery.

The first of the new line of topbars from Sweetwater Hives, now installed and occupied at Kergunyah.
27/12/2025

The first of the new line of topbars from Sweetwater Hives, now installed and occupied at Kergunyah.

Address

Kiewa Valley Highway
Dederang, VIC

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