Great Lakes College (Forster campus) received third place in the National Honey Show at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Agriculture teacher Sunrae Baillie said the qualities of good honey include clarity, brightness and colour. 

“Last year we got second place,” Sunrae said.

“This year when we bottled the honey we weren’t as confident as there were more bubbles in the jars – which isn’t a good thing.” 

Nonetheless, Sunrae said the students were happy with the results.

Beekeeping is one of the many interesting and hands-on activities taking place at the college’s agricultural farm in Forster. 

There are five hives, with only a few producing honey. 

“Some students love working with the bees and others are naturally a bit scared,” Sunrae said.

“We don’t force anyone who isn’t comfortable.” 

The students also entered the Steggles Meat Bird Competition with 93 other NSW schools at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Students were sent chicks which they had to raise and monitor daily. 

Sunrae said if anyone in the community has full overalls or bucket hats they are willing to donate the school would happily take them. 

Contact the school on 6554 6062.