Built to Last: Why 3rd Generation Beekeeper Ewan Stephens Moved to the Plastic NexG Base
For Tasmanian commercial beekeeper Ewan Stephens, beekeeping isn’t just a job – it’s a legacy.
“We’ve been doing this since 1920, so we know what we’re talking about,” Ewan said.
As a third-generation beekeeper, Ewan has seen the industry evolve – from traditional timber hives to modern innovations designed to make beekeeping more efficient and sustainable. One of the biggest improvements in his operation came from switching to the Nuplas Plastic NexG Base.
A Long-Term Solution for Commercial Beekeepers
For many years, Ewan used the NexG base in timber and loved its design. But as a commercial beekeeper managing thousands of hives, he needed something that could stand up to years of use without the constant maintenance and replacement that timber requires.
“I’d been using the NexG base for years, but I wanted a long-term solution – something I didn’t have to keep changing over,” Ewan explained.
That’s when he approached Nuplas to develop a version of the NexG base that would deliver the same performance – but with the strength and longevity of plastic.
Made for Tough Australian Conditions
Operating in Tasmania, Ewan knows how harsh the environment can be – cold, wet, and demanding on equipment.
“Tasmanian beekeeping is very hard compared to the mainland,” he said.
That’s why drainage and durability were key design priorities.
“With these bases, water doesn’t lay in the bottom boards – that’s one of the biggest advantages. It’s just all good benefits. Fantastic.”
The NexG Base was designed to keep hives dry, reduce rot and warping, and maintain hive health – even through the wettest conditions.
Proven at Commercial Scale
Ewan produces around 300 tonnes of honey each year, representing 36% of Tasmania’s honey market – so every piece of equipment in his operation has to perform.
“Everything went really well,” Ewan said after transitioning to the new bases. “It should be great for Australian beekeepers.”
The Base That Works as Hard as You Do
For commercial beekeepers like Ewan, the switch to Nuplas Plastic NexG Bases means less downtime, less maintenance, and more focus on what really matters – healthy bees and productive hives.
No matter the size of your operation, the NexG Base is built to last and keep performing season after season.