BCSA Budgie Bulletin: Weekly Wrap & Look Ahead

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Budgie Bulletin!

The Budgerigar Council of South Australia (BCSA) held its inaugural Pre-Auction Dinner at the Tower Hotel on Saturday night, bringing together members, interstate guests, and supporters for a relaxed and enjoyable night. Although attendance numbers were slightly lower than we’d booked for, the evening was by no means lacking in spirit or camaraderie. The smaller group allowed for a more intimate gathering, where stories could be shared, laughs were plentiful, and connections across club and state borders were strengthened. A highlight of the night was undoubtedly Sue’s stories, which had the room erupting with laughter. Our interstate visitors were left in fits of rapturous laughter, setting the tone for a light-hearted and memorable evening. Events like these play a vital role in building the community behind the birds, and we look forward to welcoming even more members and guests at future pre-auction gatherings.

The BCSA live auction was another fantastic event on the South Australian budgerigar calendar, and we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who helped make it a success. From organisers and vendors to bidders and volunteers, your support and participation are what bring these days to life. With 65 registered bidders and birds selling across a wide price range—from as little as $20 to premium purchases at the top end—there was truly something for everyone. Whether you were a newcomer looking to get started or an experienced breeder chasing a standout addition to your team, the auction catered to all levels of interest and investment.

The atmosphere was lively and friendly throughout the day. While George England might not have had a microphone, he certainly didn’t forget to bring the laughs, keeping the crowd entertained with his signature humour. Meanwhile, Cuppa Gino’s became an unexpected highlight when their hot dogs sold out, a clear sign of strong attendance and hungry fanciers! Overall, it was a wonderful day of birds, banter, and community spirit. Thank you again to all involved—we look forward to seeing you at future BCSA events!

The BCSA Annual General Meeting was held prior to the auction, where members gathered to review the year gone by and vote on important club matters. A key outcome was the adoption of a revised constitution, aimed at streamlining governance and aligning the Council with best practice. The highlight of the meeting, however, was the awarding of Life Membership to Ian Marshall—a truly deserving recognition of decades of service to Council. Ian has been a continuous member of the BCSA since its inception in 1996. Year after year, Ian could be relied upon to arrive early and assist with setting up staging for the Logan Shield State Show and BCSA Auction, ensuring everything was ready before the first birds arrived.

Ian has proudly represented South Australia at national level and served as a bird carer from 2005 to 2023—a near 20-year commitment. On several occasions, he even took on the responsibility of housing the SA team in his own bird room. In the judging arena, Ian’s credentials are equally impressive. He became a BCSA-accredited judge in 1998 and was promoted to Major Award Judge in 2008. We congratulate Ian on this fantastic achievement.

On Tuesday night, BSSA members gathered for their monthly meeting in Unley, where they were treated to a highly informative and engaging presentation from Wayne Weidenhofer and Kelwyn Kakoschke. The focus of the evening was on four colour varieties: Blackeyed Self, Greywing, Clearwing, and Dilute. Wayne and Kelwyn shared their expertise and experience with these challenging but rewarding varieties, shedding light on both the genetic similarities they share and the vastly different breeding strategies required to improve each one. Attendees gained valuable insight into how subtle differences in genetics and visual expression can lead to unique challenges in breeding programs.

The presentation sparked thoughtful discussion among members, particularly around balancing improvement in colour clarity and feather quality while maintaining the integrity of each variety. These types of sessions are a great reminder of the depth of knowledge within our clubs and the importance of sharing it. The BSSA thanks Wayne and Kelwyn for their time and for delivering such a detailed and practical talk. Meetings like this continue to be a cornerstone of our club’s purpose—fostering education, connection, and the ongoing improvement of our birds.

Looking ahead, several South Australian’s will be boarding planes today and heading to Newcastle in NSW for their annual auction. The event always attracts a great social atmosphere, with a dinner the night prior, and a smaller boutique auction of high quality budgerigars from some of Australia’s best. J & W Weidenhofer and Holmes Family will be representing South Australia in the line up of birds. The event will be live streamed, for those interested in watching it. You can use the link below from 9:30 am ACST on Saturday August 9th.

ZOOM LINK TO NEWCASTLE LIVE AUCTION, SAT AUGUST 9TH 2025

In the week ahead, the North East Budgerigar Society (NEBS) will host its Annual General Meeting, followed by a very special presentation from esteemed Victorian breeder Stephen Thompson, joining us in person. Stephen recently returned from an unforgettable trip to the 100th Anniversary Show in the United Kingdom, accompanied by a group of passionate Victorian fanciers. His journey spanned multiple countries and featured exclusive aviary tours to some of the most respected and influential breeders across the UK and Europe.

Highlights of the trip included visits to elite studs such as R & M Miller, the McGoverns, Daniel Luetolf, Ian Ainley, Tom & Andrew Luke, and Paul Stannard. From behind-the-scenes insights to footage of world-class birds and breeding facilities, Stephen’s presentation promises to be both inspiring and informative. Members will have the unique opportunity to hear Stephen’s reflections on standout birds, studs, and the emerging trends in breeding and quality standards abroad. For anyone interested in seeing how the world’s best do it, this is an event not to be missed.

The Australian National Budgerigar Council (ANBC) will hold its quarterly meeting on the 11th of August, with several key agenda items scheduled for discussion. One of the most significant motions received ahead of the meeting comes from Budgerigar NSW (BNSW) and concerns the ANBC Shield—the perpetual award presented to the winning Zone at the National Show each year. BNSW has proposed that the ANBC commission a brand-new, original trophy or shield to replace the existing one and that this new award be named in honour of Henry George.

Budgie Auctions & Sales

This week is buzzing with opportunity! The NEBS and BSSA online auctions are now live, and the Newcastle Live Auction kicks off interstate this weekend.

Whether you’re bidding from the comfort of home or attending in person, there’s something on offer for everyone—from seasoned exhibitors to newcomers keen to elevate their aviaries.

Don’t miss a moment. Stay connected, stay sharp—and happy bidding!

NEBS Mega Auction for August 2025🦜
Closing Date: Sunday August 10th
Lots Available: 64

The North East Budgerigar Society (NEBS) proudly presents the August 2025 Mega Auction. To that end, this showcases 64 outstanding birds from some of the most respected breeders in South Australia. This is your opportunity to secure top-quality stock bred for performance, type, and style. These are all available now via the trusted 32 Auctions platform. Featuring birds from Geoff Edwards, Holmes Family, Graham McCallum, Malcolm Loveridge, Bob Simpson, Beau Schutz, Longbottom Family, Shiralee Reardon and Ian & Gina Wise.

The NEBS Mega Auction has been designed to align with our monthly club meetings. Importantly, each auction will conclude on the Sunday prior to our meeting on the second Wednesday of the month. This timing allows buyers to finalise payments promptly and use the meeting night as a convenient hub for bird transfers between vendors and purchasers.

LINK TO NEBS AUGUST MEGA EVENT

BSSA Auction 20 for 2025🦜
Closing Date: August 10th
Lots Available: 9

This event showcases an impressive line-up of nine quality birds from respected breeders across Australia. Included are entries from South Australia’s own Marie & Kerry Murphy, interstate contributor Adrian Praegar from Victoria, and our resident budgie Auctioneer, George England.

The auction features a variety of sought-after varieties including Opaline Cinnamonwings, Normal Greys, Cobalts, Cinnamonwings, and Recessive Pieds.This event is perfect for fanciers looking to strengthen or diversify their breeding lines.

READ MORE ABOUT THE UNITED LIVE AUCTION

Club Calendar

🐦 NEBS Monthly Meeting
📅 Wednesday August 13th, 7:30 pm
📍 Hectorville Community Centre 47 Reid Avenue, HectorvilleThe North East Budgerigar Society (NEBS) will be holding their AGM, followed up by a very special event presented by Victorian breeder Stephen Thompson – A European Budgerigar Experience. Join NEBS for a special presentation by Stephen in person, fresh from his incredible trip across Europe with a group of fellow Victorian fanciers. Stephen’s journey included visits to some of the most respected and influential budgerigar studs across the UK and Europe. Highlights included the prestigious UK Centenary Show and exclusive access to leading aviaries such as R & M Miller, the McGoverns, Daniel Luetolf, Ian Ainley, Tom & Andrew Luke, and Paul Stannard.This presentation offers a rare chance to:

View exclusive footage of world-class birds and breeding facilities
Hear Stephen’s reflections on standout birds and studs
Gain insights into breeding trends and quality standards seen overseas

Whether you’re an exhibitor, breeder, or simply a budgerigar enthusiast, this is a night not to be missed. Come along, see Europe through the eyes of a fellow fancier, and leave inspired.

LINK TO FACEBOOK RSVP FOR EVENT

🐦 Port Pirie Quarterly Meeting & Aviary Tour
📅 Sunday August 24th
📍 Tony & Angela Van Den Brink, AuburnPort Pirie Budgerigar Society kindly asks members to confirm their attendance for the meeting on the 24th of August. Accurate numbers are crucial for catering purposes. Those who attended last year will fondly remember leaving with full tummies thanks to Angela’s wonderful spread of food.The day will incorporate a wonderful aviary tour of Angela & Tony’s property in Auburn, just outside of Claire.

LINK TO FACEBOOK RSVP FOR EVENT

ANBC Nationals Spotlight

Have you signed up to the ANBC Gazette? It is packed full of information, and spans the continent, with cutting edge news from Vets, nostalgic reflection on some of the older Clubs, fanciers in focus, and more. Its free, and it’s a great resource. We encourage anyone with a passion in budgerigars to sign up.

ANBC NEWSLETTER SIGN UP PAGE

In Closing

Across South Australia and beyond, the budgerigar fancy continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of individuals, clubs, and organisations committed to promoting the hobby. From the success of BCSA Auction and the honouring of Ian Marshall’s lifetime contribution, to engaging educational sessions and special guest presentations like Stephen Thompson’s UK tour, the passion within our community remains strong. With ongoing club events fostering learning and connection, the future of the hobby looks bright, built on shared knowledge and unwavering enthusiasm.

For those travelling to Newcastle, safe travels.

Until next week.

2025 Key Dates

August

Wednesday 13th August – NEBS AGM & European Presentation by Stephen Thompson (in person)
Sunday 24th August – Port Pirie Meeting & Aviary Tour (in Aubur) with Tony & Angela Van Den Brink

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Budgerigar Council of South Australia

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Kensington Gardens, SA 5068

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