The atmosphere was buzzing with enthusiasm as breeders showcased a diverse and vibrant range of budgies, each one reflecting the dedication and passion of their owners. Judged by respected Major Award Judge Kelwyn Kakoschke, the competition was fierce across all categories, delivering a day of high-calibre exhibiting and camaraderie within the bird fancy.

Taking out top honours, the Holmes Family secured both Grand Champion and Reserve Champion Cock. Chris Murphy’s Reserve Champion Hen and Peter Brumby’s Third Champion Hen added further prestige to the lineup, with outstanding birds also presented by Marie & Kerry Murphy, J & W Weidenhofer, and Sue Adams filled out the Top 10. Although no Intermediate or Junior awards were given this year, the Novice section saw a standout performance from Peter Brumby, who claimed Champion Novice and Reserve Novice Cock. Across the Best of Variety and BRASEA Awards, many familiar names featured again, highlighting consistent excellence in specialist classes such as Visual Violet, Clearwing, and Dominant Pied. The 76th Ron Norman Show was not only a tribute to the birds but also to the breeders and families who continue to raise the bar for quality and sportsmanship in South Australian aviculture.

The Ron Norman Annual Show 2025 wasn’t just a highlight for seasoned exhibitors—it also welcomed newcomers through a dedicated Come & Try Day, which ran alongside the main judging. Designed to give the general public a hands-on introduction to the world of budgerigars, the initiative was met with strong interest and enthusiastic participation. Families, curious visitors, and potential new members had the opportunity to walk through the benches, chat with experienced breeders, and learn more about what goes into showing and caring for exhibition budgies.

Interactive displays and informal Q&A sessions allowed guests to gain insights into colour varieties, genetics, and husbandry, while children enjoyed getting up close to some of the brightly coloured birds on show. Many attendees expressed their surprise at the diversity and beauty of the birds, and several registered interest in joining the BSSA or attending future club nights. The day was a valuable outreach effort that not only promoted the hobby but also encouraged the next generation of fanciers to get involved in a welcoming, knowledge-sharing environment.

Following the success of last year’s Christmas in July, the BSSA came together two days later, this time to celebrate the festive spirit at the Goodwood Hotel in a private function room. The evening provided a relaxed and sociable setting for members to connect outside the show bench. With laughter flowing and good cheer in abundance, it was a chance to enjoy a meal, share stories, and strengthen the friendships that make the BSSA community so special.

Adding a fun twist to the night, this year’s celebration included a surprise Kris Kringle, with each gift randomly rehomed to another member on the evening. There were plenty of smiles as presents were opened, adding a festive buzz to the room. A special guest appearance from Santa himself brought an extra touch of magic to the occasion—much to the delight of attendees. The evening captured the warmth and camaraderie of the club, rounding off the mid-year calendar with plenty of good humour and goodwill.

Hot on the heels of the BSSA’s festivities, the North East Budgerigar Society (NEBS) hosted its own Christmas in July celebration the very next evening. Held in a warm and welcoming setting, the event brought together NEBS members for an evening of festive fun, laughter, and club spirit. With midweek merriment in full swing, the gathering served as a perfect opportunity for breeders and friends to unwind and enjoy each other’s company away from the show bench.

The evening featured plenty of conversation, and a light-hearted atmosphere that reflected the close-knit nature of the NEBS community. Christmas crackers were pulled, stories exchanged, and there was no shortage of goodwill as members embraced the winter-themed celebration. The event not only capped off a busy few days of social events within the budgerigar community but also reinforced the strong bonds and camaraderie that continue to thrive within the North East club.

Reminders
In the lead-up to the BCSA auction, we’re hosting a relaxed and social dinner on Saturday evening, 2 August, at the Tower Hotel in Magill. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind, catch up with fellow fanciers—both local and interstate—and enjoy a night of great food and conversation before Sunday’s big event. The evening is casual, with meals and drinks at your own expense, and promises to be a warm and welcoming occasion to connect, share stories, and talk birds in good company. We’ve already RSVP’d for 20 guests, but there’s plenty of room for more! If you’re in town, we’d love for you to join us at the Tower Hotel, located on Magill Road in Magill. To help us confirm numbers with the venue, please let George England know if you’ll be attending by email or by calling him on 0418 819 705.

Don’t forget! The United Birds “Night on the Perch” Dinner is happening on Saturday, 26 July at 6:00 pm at Sferas on the Park—a perfect way to kick off the weekend ahead of the Seminar. Then, join the UBSSA the following day for the United Birds Seminar, running from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on Sunday, 27 July. It’s set to be a fantastic weekend of learning, networking, and celebrating our shared passion for birds.

And for those not attending the United Birds Seminar, just three seats remain available for the upcoming Melton Bus Trip, hosted by the BSSA. Departing Friday, 25 July and returning Monday, 28 July, join fellow enthusiasts for a weekend of budgerigar highlights. The itinerary includes attendance at the Melton Auction, along with three exclusive aviary tours in the region. If you’re interested in joining this exciting trip, act quickly—seats are limited and won’t last long!

Melton (Live) Auction 2025 🦜
Date: Saturday July 26, 2025
📍 Venue: St Francis Catholic College, 109-141 Bulmans Rd, Melton West VIC
🕘 Viewing: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
🔨 Auction Starts: 10:00 a.m. sharp
Lots Available: 218

Melton Auction is back, featuring an exceptional lineup of birds from leading breeders across Australia—including names like G Duffin (VIC), Ian Hunter (VIC), Holmes Family (SA), CET Budgerigars (NSW), M & R Fellows (NSW), Glenn Schiller (NSW), Alan Rowe (VIC), and Hedra Kamel (VIC)—this is your chance to secure elite stock for your breeding program. With over 200 lots catalogued, this auction is not to be missed. Birds on offer include National class bloodlines and proven breeders—many from families that have placed at ANBC Nationals and state shows.

➡️ For enquiries, contact Hedra Kamel (0401 751 050) or Steve Grech (0412 560 628).

Moreton Bay (Live) Auction 2025 🦜
Date: Sunday July 27, 2025
Lots Available: 180+

The Moreton Bay Budgerigar Association is proud to present its highly anticipated 2025 Auction on Sunday 27 July, held at the Burpengary Community Hall. Doors open at 8:30am, with bidding starting promptly at 10am. This standout event will feature over 180 high-quality lots from some of Queensland’s most competitive breeders, as well as selected national exhibitors.

Whether you’re looking to introduce fresh genetics to your stud or secure birds with a proven show record, this auction offers an excellent mix of variety, quality, and opportunity. The Moreton Bay Auction is renowned for attracting strong interest from fanciers across the eastern seaboard—and this year promises to be no exception.

All birds must be benched by 9:00am. Fanciers of all levels are warmly encouraged to attend and enjoy a day of quality birds and great company. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Queensland’s premier budgerigar auctions for 2025.

The BSSA is seeking expressions of interest for those willing to go on a long weekend bus trip to Melton Auction. The transport is a 12-seater bus, and the BSSA have a couple of spare seats if anyone is interested. It will be a fun filled 4 days, with aviary visits planned to Alan Rowe, Hedra Kamel and Steve Grech, in addition to the live auction. Those interested in those last couple of seats are asked to reach out to Janet Harris on (0456-160-553) for further details.

Join the United Birds Societies of South Australia for their annual seminar weekend, to be held at Sferas on the Park in Tea Tree Gully. To register, contact Brian Reichelt on 0418 896 995.

Successful interstate events like Budgies in the Bool, Newcastle, Melton and Riverina have shown how impactful a great pre-auction gathering can be. We’re looking to bring that same energy to South Australia this year, creating a social  evening where members can connect, catch up, and celebrate the hobby. Mark your calendars – Saturday 2nd August. Contact George England to reserve your place.

Join the BCSA for South Australia’s only live budgerigar auction, featuring birds from studs representing 10 of the 28 ANBC Logies winners from 2025, and 7 Hall of Fame breeders. 189 Lots are on offer. Viewing from 9 am, Auction commencing 10:15 AM ACST.

Join us prior to the Auction kicking off, to cover off the year, in one of the rooms adjacent to the Auction.