Junior Beekeepers buzzing over lifesaving grant

VISITORS to Richmond’s Bee Hub are now safer thanks to a newly installed defibrillator, donated through St John Tasmania’s Community Safe Grants Program.
The life-saving equipment has been provided to the Tasmanian Junior Beekeepers, a volunteer-run group that inspires young people to care for bees and learn practical environmental skills.
The publicly accessible automated external defibrillator (AED) will be available not only to the group but also to the wider Coal Valley community, via Tasmania’s AED register and the GoodSAM app.
Tasmanian Junior Beekeepers founder Anita Long said the donation was a significant step in keeping their growing community safe.
“As more schools, families and community groups visit the Bee Hub, it’s vital we’re prepared for anything,” she said.
“This defibrillator helps ensure the Bee Hub remains not only a place of learning and connection, but also a safe and well-prepared space for everyone.”
To mark the installation, St John’s Community Engagement Team visited the site to teach young beekeepers how to use the device and share essential first aid tips.
St John Tasmania chief executive officer Andrew Paynter said the donation was about empowering grassroots groups with tools that can save lives.
“It’s incredible to see young people so passionate about caring for the environment and even more powerful when we can support them to care for each other too,” he said.
“Programs like Community Safe exist to make sure vital equipment is available where it’s needed most.”