Beehives and Bottomturns - Intersection of Beekeeping and Surfing

 File this under 'random brand find' while driving through the Torquay beach car park one morning. 

I stumbled across the Coastal Nectar van and wondered "what do they do"? (apart from the obvious). Turns out both Beekeeping, education and surfing! They even have their own surf movie "Beehives and Bottomturns"

Coastal Nectar is a vibrant, eco-conscious beekeeping initiative founded in 2020 by Thomas Earls—affectionately known as “Beekeeper Tom.” Based along Victoria’s Surf Coast, this grassroots business blends environmental education, community engagement, and small-batch honey production to promote the vital role of bees in our ecosystem.

🐝 A Modern Take on Ancient Beekeeping

Inspired by the diverse wildflowers and native flora of the Surf Coast, Coastal Nectar practices sustainable beekeeping, harvesting raw honey only when there's surplus to ensure the wellbeing of their bees. Their offerings include seasonal raw honey and a unique chilli-infused variety, available at select local stockists such as Morta Deli and Dusty’s Whole Foods in Torquay, and Cafe Go in Geelong 

🎓 Buzzing Education Across Victoria

Education is at the heart of Coastal Nectar’s mission. Through their “World of Bees” school incursions, Beekeeper Tom delivers engaging, hands-on workshops to kinders and primary schools across Melbourne, Geelong, and regional Victoria. These sessions combine storytelling, interactive activities, and real beekeeping equipment to foster curiosity and respect for bees among young learners 

🌿 Workshops & Community Engagement

Beyond schools, Coastal Nectar hosts community workshops featuring honey tastings and beeswax candle-making. These events offer participants insights into beekeeping, the importance of pollinators, and practical ways to support bee populations, such as creating bee-friendly gardens 

🎬 Storytelling Through Film

In collaboration with Surfers For Climate, Coastal Nectar produced the short film “Beehives and Bottomturns,” which explores the connection between beekeeping, surfing, and climate awareness. The film highlights the synergy between bees and the environment, capturing the spirit of surfing and environmental stewardship .