Jane Sibley - Hilltops Honey

Jane and Tony Sibley started beekeeping just over 23 years ago, after falling in love with bees after helping Tony’s father John with his bees.

‘Hilltops Honey’ started as a commercial entity in July 2014, when they started selling pure raw honey at local markets. Over the years they built up the number of hives to approximately 500.Their business is online too, with a range of over 60 lovingly produced, handmade items.

Jane said they use their own raw honey and beeswax, as well as source organic and natural ingredients for their handmade beeswax products.

Their children grew up involved in the business too.

“It’s lovely to be able to watch them share the love of bees with their partners and families. And so it begins with the next generation,” she said.

Most recently they released a recipe book, A Love of Bees and Honey last December. It shares their beekeeping story, with hints and tips about honey as well as 71 reci-pes that were kindly shared by family and friends. More than 250 copies sold in the lead up to Christmas.

Jane said local support is one of her favourite things as well as the chance to collaborate with other businesses.

“Hilltops Honey has always had a lot of support locally. From local customers through to collaborating with other businesses,” Jane said.

“We live in a very supportive area.”

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