Bees on Keswick Island

Keswick Island has some very special locals—thriving hives of purebred Caucasian bees, buzzing happily in their island paradise.

Unlike their mainland cousins, these island bees live the good life: no diseases, no pests, just pure, healthy buzzing. Because of this, they’re often used as high-quality breeding stock for mainland colonies. Talk about bee-list celebrities.

These golden workers first arrived on the island in 1986 and have been lovingly supported ever since by dedicated apiarists John and Des Covey. Keswick Developments proudly backs the operation, recognising just how important these bees are to the island’s natural ecosystem.

If you’re up for an adventure, you can spot the Bee Hives along the scenic walking trails toward Langton Point and Connie Bay—just remember to admire from a respectful distance!

And yes you can absolutely take home a sweet souvenir. Keswick Island honey is available at the Keswick Island Kiosk and at select local-produce stores throughout the Mackay Region. It’s the perfect taste of island life—straight from the hive.