Flow Hive Book of Bees and Beekeeping
by Jamie Martin
ABA Education Officer
Fiona Fernie and I were very fortunate to attend the launch of The Flow Hive Book of Bees & Beekeeping at The Book Room.
Cedar Anderson and Stuart Anderson presented the book and shared the story behind Flow Hive—from its early conception, simply thinking of ways to harvest honey without disturbing bees, through to its extraordinary crowdfunding campaign.
That campaign went on to break multiple records, even overwhelming the servers of Indiegogo, and reaching its funding target within minutes of launching—something that still stands as one of the most remarkable product launches in beekeeping history.
Now to the Book
The book itself is a beautiful read, filled with high-quality imagery that really brings the Flow Hive story to life. It is visually engaging without feeling overwhelming, making it approachable for both new and experienced beekeepers.
One standout feature is the use of QR codes throughout the book, linking directly to videos that expand on each chapter. This adds a modern, interactive layer that works particularly well for hands-on learners.
Content-wise, the book covers many of the core aspects of Flow Hive beekeeping, including:
- Harvesting and storing honey
- Pre-harvest checks
- General hive care and management
Importantly, it doesn’t shy away from the realities of beekeeping either. Topics such as pests and diseases—including Varroa—are addressed, with contributions from Frewoini Baume, who many will recognise from NSW DPI training days.
This inclusion really highlights Flow Hive’s commitment to stewardship—supporting beekeepers not just with equipment, but with education and guidance throughout their journey.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just a how-to manual—it’s a blend of storytelling, education, and inspiration.
For beginners, it offers an accessible entry into beekeeping. For more experienced beekeepers, it provides insight into the philosophy and evolution behind Flow Hive, along with a fresh way of presenting familiar concepts.