Vicki’s talk showcased the beauty and unique genetic makeup of Rainbow budgerigars, a variety known for their stunning pastel hues and intricate colour combinations. The audience was intrigued as she delved into her 15 years of experience in breeding techniques and characteristics that give these birds their distinctive appearance. Paul Soul brought along a selection of Rainbow budgerigars, allowing attendees to admire and fall in love with the colours these birds come in. The combination of Vicki’s expert knowledge and the stunning live examples created a truly memorable experience for everyone present.

The AGM also marked a period of transition within the Club’s leadership, with several key committee positions changing hands. Long-time Club Secretary Susan Adams stepped into a new role as Publicity Officer, where she will continue to contribute her skills in a different capacity. Stepping up as the new Secretary is Steve Wharton. Kerry Murphy and Paul Soul stepped down from the committee. Kerry has served as the Club’s Trading Table Officer for over 30 years. His decades of dedication and service were acknowledged with heartfelt appreciation from members, who expressed gratitude for his unwavering commitment to the Society. Paul too has been a long-standing committee member, acting as the Publicity Officer. Paul has been pivotal in bringing new members to the Club, through his promotions on Facebook and Gumtree, as well as connection to many of the State’s colony breeders. Kerry and Paul’s presence on the committee will be greatly missed, but their contributions have left a legacy on the Club.

Looking further afield, budgerigar enthusiasts from across the country gathered for the much-anticipated Budgies in the Bool event, a celebration of these beloved birds that combined fun-filled community activities with serious competition. The event brought together fanciers, breeders, and bird lovers of all levels, creating an electric atmosphere in the heart of regional Victoria.

As the afternoon beckoned, the focus shifted towards more serious competition with the highly anticipated Diploma Young Bird Show. Judges Derrin Ray and Derek Poole presided over the proceedings, meticulously assessing the quality, condition, and standard of the young and adult birds on display. The competition was fierce, with breeders showcasing the best of their emerging talent in hopes of securing top honours.

In its second year, Budgies in the Bool once again proved to be a standout event on the Australian budgerigar calendar, blending community engagement with top-tier competition and an auction that punches above it’s weight. Whether it was the lively atmosphere of their Pet Bird section, the intensity of the Diploma Young Bird Show, or the excitement of the auction, the weekend had something for everyone. With such strong participation and growing online engagement, the event continues to cement its reputation as a must-attend for budgerigar lovers. Enthusiasts are already looking forward to next year’s edition, eager to build on the success of this remarkable weekend.

As we turn our attention to the week ahead, excitement is building for the much-anticipated “Once In A Blue Moon” event, hosted by the North East Budgerigar Club. This unique gathering promises to be an insightful and visually captivating occasion, focusing on the stunning spectrum of blue budgerigars—a colour variety that continues to fascinate breeders and enthusiasts alike.

While spirits are high, there is some concern about the forecasted 37-degree heat, which could pose challenges for bringing budgies to the event. Given the welfare of the birds is always the top priority, it’s likely that budgerigars may be absent from the gathering if the high temperatures persist. Nevertheless, the event will proceed as planned minus the show and bird displays, with organisers ensuring that attendees still have plenty to look forward to.

The programme for the event is set to be both educational and visually inspiring, featuring in-depth discussions on how to produce various shades of blue in budgerigars, as well as blue expressions in many of the varieties. Experienced breeders and colour specialists will share their knowledge on the genetics behind different blue mutations, covering everything from Sky Blue to Cobalt, Mauve, and Violet.

Attendees can expect a detailed exploration of breeding techniques, including how specific pairings influence the depth and vibrancy of blue shades. This will be particularly valuable for breeders looking to refine their breeding programs and improve their understanding of colour inheritance in budgerigars. While live birds may not be present due to the heat, breeders may share personal experiences and success stories, offering valuable insight into the challenges and triumphs of breeding high-quality blue budgerigars.

Despite the heat-related challenges, “Once In A Blue Moon” remains a must-attend event for anyone with an interest in budgerigar colour genetics and exhibition breeding. The opportunity to learn from experienced breeders, gain insight into blue colour production, and engage in discussions with fellow fanciers makes this event an invaluable experience.

🗓 Date: Wednesday February 12^th, 2025
📍 Location: Hectorville Community Centre, 47 Reid Avenue, Hectorville

Join the NEBS for an event focused on blue series budgies. The night will include a show of blue series birds (pending weather), as well as presentations on blue series birds, and how to breed a Rainbow.

🗓 Date: Tuesday, March 4^th 2025
📍 Location: Unley Community Centre, 18 Arthur St Unley

Join the BSSA for their workshop on how to prepare birds for Show, featuring Club members Wayne Weidenhofer and Kelwyn Kakoschke showing their tricks of the trade. The night will also feature a sale night of birds, weather permitting.

🗓 Date: Sunday, March 16^th 2025
📍 Location: Peter & Polly’s, Tiddy Widdy Beach

Join the Port Pirie Budgerigar Society for their quarterly catch up, including an aviary tour at the residence of Pete & Polly on Sunday, March 16th. The event will start at 11 AM at their residence in Tiddy Widdy Beach. If you’ve never attended a Port Pirie meeting before, you’re in for a delightful experience. This unique daytime gathering includes a shared lunch and an aviary tour, offering a different and enjoyable experience. The Port Pirie Club is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal Sunday outing and a perfect day trip to the Yorke Peninsula, near the Ardrossan area. Please be sure to let Peter know if you’re coming, so nobody goes home hungry. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for a wonderful social event and a chance to connect with fellow budgerigar enthusiasts, while experiencing a Yorke Peninsula food coma in the sands of Tiddy Widdy. For more information, contact Peter Glassenbury on 0409 288 710.

• Registration Fee: $30 per person (Free for children under 12 years)
• Sunday Night Options: Additional bookings are available for the highly anticipated Sunday evening events, which are known to sell out quickly—don’t miss your chance to attend!

Herberton Historic Village and Tablelands, Atherton, Fig Tree, Crater Lake, Platypus (includes pick-up and return to Cairns Colonial Club)

$95pp Adult
$70pp Child 4 to 14 years
Add $25pp for Lunch at Bakerville Teahouse (cold lunch)

Hartley Crocodile Adventures – (includes pick-up and return to Cairns Colonial Club)

No Lunch included (available at kiosk)
$95pp Adult
$60pp Child 4 to 14 years

Embark on a full day of adventure as you depart Cairns Colonial Club at 8:00 am. Firstly, at 9:00 am, you can kick off the excitement with the Cassowary Feeding or a fascinating Crocodile Farm Tour. Next, at 10:00 am, head over to the Snake Show, followed by Croc Feeding at 11:00 am.