TAFE Queensland is buzzing with purpose

This initiative is part of Operation Pollinator, a global project by Syngenta, which aims to combat the decline in pollinator diversity and foster habitats for pollinating insects.

With over 1,600 native bee species in Australia - potentially as many as 2,000 - these new “bee hotels” will provide essential safe havens for bees and other beneficial insects like spiders and lizards.

These habitats support the broader ecosystem by enhancing native plant pollination and contributing to the natural “food web,” strengthening Integrated Pest Management (IPM) efforts across the campus.

Built by Diploma of Sports Turf Management (AHC51019) apprentices as part of their "Apply environmentally sustainable work practices unit", each bee hotel is a creative and eco-friendly construction.

Built from recycled campus materials such as leftover timber, pallets, bricks, and bamboo, providing durable shelter and helping manage the clumps growing onsite.

“These bee hotels are more than functional for the apprentices - they’re unique works of art that encourage team-building and hands-on carpentry skills while demonstrating sustainability in action,” said Eddie Bennett, Horticulture Teacher, TAFE Queensland.

The bee hotels add to other Operation Pollinator efforts at the Grovely Campus, which includes a “pollinator corridor” modelled after buffer zones found on golf courses.

The corridor also includes specific native wildflowers and strategically placed hollow timber logs that, along with the bee hotels, create a safe habitat to attract pollinating insects to rest, lay eggs and breed.

With declining natural habitats for native bees, students are learning how to revive green spaces to attract these essential insects vital for preserving biodiversity and our survival.

“The world’s food supply and biodiversity rely on pollinating insects, and this project equips our students to create biodiverse green spaces.”

“They’re learning how to rewild habitats, incorporating native wildflowers, hollow timber logs, and bare ground to attract and support these crucial pollinators,” he said.

This project offers a unique skill set for TAFE Queensland students, preparing them to lead sustainability efforts across diverse landscapes, from public parks to golf courses.

“This habitat teaches students to build and maintain sustainable environments using native flora and carefully placed pollinator hotels, mirroring similar transformations at golf courses that are evolving into vital community and conservation spaces,” Eddie continued.

With “Room for Rent” signs up, the bee hotels are ready to welcome new residents, setting a solid foundation for sustainability education and offering critical support for local ecosystems.

The combination of the habitats and the bee hotels will serve as ongoing learning resources, inspiring future apprentices to champion environmental stewardship and participate in Australia’s green revolution.

“Our students will graduate equipped to reimagine and sustain green spaces, transforming them into essential habitats that support Australia’s biodiversity and contribute to environmental health,” concluded Eddie.