From l-r: Sonia and Bryon Bluett with their son Isaac. Photo supplied.
From l-r: Sonia and Bryon Bluett with their son Isaac. Photo supplied.
They've changed the name, but not the quality at Eltham Honey, says owner Sonia Bluett.
Formerly called Eltham Apiaries, the name change is to appeal to a new generation, she says. That same new generation is now also on board at the business.
Sonia and her husband Bryon now ownthe business along with their son Isaac.
"He is actually the third generation in my family to be part of the business."
Sonia's parents, Trevor and Gay Rowe, began the business in April 1965.
In 1994 Sonia bought Eltham Apiaries with her husband, Bryon.
"I was proud to take over from my dad," Sonia says.
Bryon says it was the right time for the opportunity to take over the business.
"I already had been helping Trevor with the harvesting. I really enjoyed it. As a industrial electrician, I fix things so being able to produce something was very satisfying."
Sonia, Bryon and Isaac now run the company with 800 hives.
While the numbers are fewer, Sonia says the range is more.
When Sonia and Bryon took over the Eltham Apiaries, they added mānuka honey. Later down the track they added bush-blend honey. Sonia says this diversified the business.
Sonia Bluett packing honey from a honey vat.
"We pursued excellence and to keep my father's reputation for integrity and high-quality products alive. Dad and Mum's reputation preceded us - it is amazing."
As well as producing honey, the business now also helps support schools.
"In the last five years we've started to support schools in fundraisers by supplying honey for kids to sell as an alternative to chocolate."
