At almost 96 years old, the oldest beekeeper in Pomur was moving visitors to Agre

A traditional honey tea gathering held in Preša has brought together beekeepers and mushroom enthusiasts this year, marking its 14th edition. Organized by the Beekeeping Society Majšperk, the event took place alongside an exhibition featuring various types of mushrooms, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore both the world of bees and fungi. The gathering attracted members of the local hiking club Preša, who joined in the celebration of nature's bounty. The event, which has been held annually since 2010, aims to promote apitherapy and educate visitors about the benefits of bee products. According to Tatjana Vedlin, president of the Beekeeping Society Majšperk, the gathering serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering connections among different communities. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with mushroom gatherers, highlighting how such partnerships enrich the experience for all participants. Three lecturers were invited to present their expertise on topics related to beekeeping, honey, and apitherapy. Their presentations offered attendees new insights into the significance of bee products and their applications in health and wellness. In addition to these educational sessions, the mushroom display allowed visitors to learn more about the diverse species found in the forest during autumn. The event was not just an occasion for socializing over tea and honey but also a space for exchanging ideas and experiences. Attendees had the chance to engage with experts in both beekeeping and mycology, gaining a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of nature and human activity. This year’s gathering once again demonstrated how bees, honey, forests, and mushrooms can create a compelling narrative that connects people with nature and each other. In Negova, 95-year-old Jožef Kramberger, recognized as the oldest beekeeper in the Pomur region, continues his lifelong dedication to beekeeping despite his age. Known for his exceptional energy and commitment, Kramberger has been actively involved in beekeeping for decades. He currently manages around 40 hives and recalls having up to 120 hives in the past. His passion for beekeeping began in 1976 when he co-founded the Beekeeping Society Videm-Negova, later establishing the Beekeeping Society Negova and leading it until 2007. Kramberger's contributions to beekeeping have earned him several accolades, including the Listina Občine Gornja Radgona. Recently, he received two gold medals at the 64th international agricultural fair Agra in Gornja Radgona for his flower and linden honey. Attendees honored him with standing applause, recognizing his status as the oldest beekeeper in the region. Despite his advancing age and health challenges, Kramberger visits his hives ten times a day, ensuring they receive water and food. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean environment and approaching bees calmly and joyfully. His wife, Dragica, plays a crucial role in supporting his efforts, and he often speaks highly of her contribution to their shared life. Kramberger notes that the current drought conditions pose significant challenges for bees, requiring careful feeding throughout the summer and autumn months. He recalls that this year's dry spell is one of the worst he has experienced, yet the bees have managed to survive relatively well due to the quality of linden honey production. He highlights the necessity of providing bees with adequate water, emphasizing that they require more than 30 liters of water annually. Reflecting on his long career, Kramberger shares anecdotes about his early days in beekeeping and the evolution of techniques over the years. He insists on using natural methods without adding anything artificial to his honey, believing in the purity of what bees produce. Visitors often come to his home to purchase honey, and he enjoys engaging in conversations with them, sharing stories and wisdom accumulated over decades. As he prepares for another season of beekeeping, Kramberger remains committed to his craft, driven by a deep respect for nature and the vital role bees play in ecosystems. His continued presence in the field serves as an inspiration to younger generations, demonstrating that passion and perseverance can thrive even in the face of adversity.