The interactions between hobbyist and commercial beekeepers can enhance ‘honey value add’, industry profits and knowledge around beekeeping in Western Australia.

“While hobbyists mostly engage in bartering or not-for-profit exchanges, commercial beekeepers cater to the consumer sales market.

Interviews with 30 hobbyist, semi-commercial, and commercial beekeepers were conducted in 2017 and 2020 for the study.

“The study highlighted the significance of informal ‘non-firm actors’ in the industry, with hobbyists found to play a vital role in the development and persistence of WA beekeeping culture and techniques through their entrepreneurial endeavours and various activities,” she said.

Associate Professor Martinus said the significant role of informal activities and hobbies in supporting industries were frequently overlooked in research.

“Passionate pursuits of hobbies have often played a pivotal role in shaping societies and industries throughout history,” she said.