The Shave's Sweet Escape: From Corporate Cubicles to Country Honey Harvesting
In a serendipitous twist of fate, Joel and Natalie Shave swapped their corporate lives for a buzzing adventure in the countryside, all while discovering their passion for beekeeping. This is a story of how a chance encounter led to a sweet life of honey harvesting, and how a desire for a lifestyle change became a reality.
The Shaves' journey began with a longing for a different pace of life. Natalie, 39, and Joel, 37, had spent their 20s traveling the world, a stark contrast to their current lives as corporate workers in Brisbane. With a toddler and a baby on the way, they yearned for a change, and COVID-19 only emphasized their desire for a new beginning. As Natalie explains, "We wanted a break from the corporate world and the hustle of city life. We were drawn to the idea of a rural lifestyle, and Joel, being from Canada, is accustomed to moving around."
Their adventure began with a simple conversation at work. Natalie's client mentioned his bee pollination business, and it sparked an interest that would soon become a full-time endeavor. "It just clicked with me," she says. "I’d always been fascinated by nature, and Joel loves working with his hands. It was the perfect alignment of our interests and desires."
Natalie's passion for beekeeping grew rapidly. She joined a bee club, visited apiaries, and within a year, she purchased her first hive. Over the next couple of years, her hive collection expanded to 10. However, it was an unexpected eviction that pushed them towards a more permanent decision. As Natalie recalls, "We talked about giving beekeeping a serious try, and the next day, we got a call from the real estate agent. It was a stressful situation, but it felt like it was meant to be."
The Shaves' fate was sealed. They quickly found a new home in Coolamon, a small town near Wagga Wagga, and embraced their new life in the country. They established their honey business, Waggle & Round, and have been thriving ever since. Despite the challenges of the first three years, Natalie remains convinced that their decision was the right one. "We love the fresh air, the space, and the slower pace of life here. It's a stark contrast to our previous corporate existence. And from a beekeeping perspective, this region is a dream come true."
The Riverina's environment is ideal for beekeeping. The eucalyptus trees, nutrient-rich red soil, and the Murrumbidgee River create the perfect conditions for happy bees and abundant honey. Natalie proudly notes, "Our honey is all-natural eucalyptus honey. It varies in color depending on the trees and flowers. What sets our honey apart is that we don't filter it, preserving all the enzymes and beneficial properties."
What began as a search for a better lifestyle has transformed into a fulfilling business and a happy family. The Shaves' daughters, Lucy and Vivien, have adapted to country life, and the family is excited about the future of Waggle & Round. With plans to expand their hive numbers and pollination services, the Shaves are embracing the growth and success they've built together. As Natalie reflects, "We feel privileged to have created this life for ourselves. It's a real dream come true."
The Shaves' story is a testament to the power of following your passions and embracing change. It's a reminder that sometimes, a serendipitous encounter can lead to a sweet and fulfilling life.
