The visit to the Longbottom family in Spalding was a standout day on the calendar, drawing an excellent turnout from members across the region. It was fantastic to see such strong support for the aviary visits, which continue to be a valuable and enjoyable initiative within the hobby.

A highlight was John Mulley’s presentation on show preparation. John has now taken the time to deliver this same session across all three major clubs, ensuring that fanciers right across the state are aligned and well-prepared in the lead-up to our State Titles in May. His commitment to getting around every club and doing so at exactly the right time of the season, speaks volumes for his commitment to putting SA’s best team forward at the Nationals, and is just another endorsement of why John was awarded Life Membership of Council. The consistency of message and attention to detail in preparing birds for the show bench will no doubt lift the overall standard our of team across the board.

Off the presentation floor, Clare and Asha ensured no one went hungry, putting on a fantastic lunch that was thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance. These moments off the perch are just as important, providing the opportunity to connect, share stories, and strengthen the camaraderie that underpins our hobby.

In the birdroom, Jason and Harry proudly showcased their setup and the progress they’ve made in a relatively short period of time. What they have achieved since first coming along to our Come & Try Night’s just a few years ago is nothing short of impressive. Their development is a testament to both their dedication and the supportive environment within the fancy. They are a great example of what can be achieved when enthusiasm is matched with opportunity, and our cohort is incredibly fortunate to have them involved.

All in all, it was a terrific day, one that combined education, hospitality, and inspiration. It’s a reminder of just how strong the community spirit remains within South Australian budgerigars.

Firstly, the Harry Johnston Show Schedule has been released ahead of the May 3rd event, marking an exciting chapter for the Port Pirie Budgerigar Society under the guidance of new Show Manager, Tony Van Den Brink. The Harry Johnston Show continues to hold strong significance within the region, and this year’s event shapes as another well-supported and competitive outing in the lead up to the State Titles.

This week also brought an important update from the ANBC regarding accommodation for the upcoming National Championships on the Gold Coast. The Southport Sharks venue, which will host the 2026 Trill™ Expert ANBC Championship Show, has now officially reached full capacity for accommodation. Demand has been exceptionally strong, which is no surprise given the significance of the 50th anniversary event and the level of interest it has generated from fanciers right across the country.

As a result, SQBBA are now directing fanciers to look for accommodation nearby on the northern end of the Gold Coast. Fortunately, there are still a number of suitable hotels, apartments, and holiday stays within close proximity to the venue, ensuring that attendees can still secure comfortable lodging without being too far from the action. For those yet to book, it’s a timely reminder to act sooner rather than later. With momentum continuing to build toward what shapes as a record-breaking National, the Gold Coast is set to be a hive of activity come May, both on and off the show bench.

Further Afield

Interstate, it was another busy and productive weekend across the country, with strong activity both on the auction front and on the show bench.

In Queensland, the Wynnum Auction proved to be a great success for the hosting club, with a quality lineup of birds available across a wide range of price points. Events like this continue to provide an important avenue for breeders to move surplus stock while also giving fanciers access to well-bred birds to strengthen their own aviaries.

Over in Victoria, competition was strong across multiple shows. At the United Diploma Show, Alan Baxter secured Grand Champion honours with a standout Normal Blue, a bird that also went on to claim the Diploma. Meanwhile, at the Border Districts Diploma Show, Rob Rigoni took out Grand Champion with an Adult Cinnamonwing Cock, while M & R Randall secured the Diploma for Best Young Bird with a White Cap.

At an operational level within the BCV, Ray Slade announced on Wednesday morning that he has relinquished his position as BCV Secretary and resigned from Council. A former South Australian, Ray has been an outstanding contributor for the BCV, and we wish him well in his future endeavours.

Looking Ahead
This weekend sees the staging of the Murphy Classic Future Champions Show, an event dedicated to fostering the next generation of exhibitors within the hobby. With classes focused on Intermediate, Novice, and Junior fanciers, the show provides a valuable platform for developing skills, confidence, and experience on the bench. Show Manager George England has reported a strong entry of 198 birds, setting the scene for a highly competitive and rewarding day. Numbers like this are a great reflection of the enthusiasm building within these ranks and highlight the depth of emerging talent coming through the system in South Australia.

Adding further value to the day, the morning will also incorporate a Come & Try session, offering the general public the opportunity to learn more about breeding and exhibiting budgerigars. These sessions continue to play an important role in attracting and nurturing new participants, ensuring the ongoing growth and sustainability of the hobby.

All signs point to a fantastic day, one centred not just on competition, but on learning, encouragement, and the future of the fancy.

We’re inviting everyone to join media personalities Graeme Goodings and Nic Hayes for this relaxed and enjoyable lunch as we bring together fanciers from across the state, past and present, to share stories, memories and a few laughs about the hobby we all love. BCSA members can attend free, while guest tickets are available for $25, making it easy to bring along a partner or friend to join in the celebrations. Tickets are strictly limited due to venue capacity.

Events like this don’t come around often, and 30 years is a milestone worth celebrating properly, so we encourage everyone involved in the South Australian fancy to be part of the event.

Whether you’ve been involved since the early days or you’ve only recently joined the hobby, this is a great opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and celebrate the community that makes the budgerigar fancy so special.

🎟 Secure your ticket and join us in celebrating 30 years of the Budgerigar Council of South Australia. For the first 30 members to register, you will get a FREE 30 year commemorative hat, courtesy of the BCSA.

Saturday 18th of April 2026, Max Amber Community Hall – Wayikuu, George St Athelstone, between Noon and 2 PM.

BSSA Murphy Classic
📍 Ascot Park Scout Hall

One of the highlights on the BSSA calendar — don’t miss this competitive and well-supported show, specifically for Juniors, Novices and Intermediates.

BSSA Budgie Varieties Night – White Cap, Yellow Faced & Golden Faced
Presented by Wayne & Kelwyn
📍 Unley Community Centre, 18 Arthur Street, Unley

An informative evening focusing on these increasingly popular varieties.

NEBS Blast From The Past – Budgie Bill Davis
📍 Hectorville Community Centre, 47 Reid Avenue, Hectorville

A nostalgic and educational session revisiting birds and stories from years gone by.

BCSA Judges Meeting, 9 am
📍 Enfield Community Centre, Regency Road, Enfield

BCSA 30th Anniversary Celebrations, 12 pm to 2 pm
📍 Venue Athelstone Football Club – Max Amber Community Hall

A major milestone for the Budgerigar Council of South Australia.

Some good news! A photo of Gordon Lowe has been sourced. Two in fact, thanks to his Grand Daughter, and the relentless efforts of Nigel Tonkin. Well done! The poster set is complete, and all will be revealed in May at the 50th anniversary event.

This week also brought an important update from the ANBC regarding accommodation for the upcoming National Championships on the Gold Coast. The Southport Sharks venue, which will host the 2026 ANBC Championship Show, has now officially reached full capacity for accommodation. Demand has been exceptionally strong, which is no surprise given the significance of the 50th anniversary event and the level of interest it has generated from fanciers right across the country. SQBBA are now directing any further accommodation enquiries to nearby options throughout the northern end of the Gold Coast. Fortunately, there are still a number of suitable hotels, apartments, and holiday stays within close proximity to the venue, ensuring that attendees can still secure comfortable lodging without being too far from the action. For those yet to book, it’s a timely reminder to act sooner rather than later.

Missed Out on the Nationals ANBC Merchandise? Here’s Your Chance!
Did you love the look of our ANBC Polos at the 49th Annual Trill Expert ANBC National Titles?

You weren’t the only one!

Now’s your chance to own a piece of Nationals history – grab your very own official ANBC Polo, as worn by the team carers at this year’s event. Whether you’re a breeder, exhibitor, or proud supporter of the fancy, these polos are the perfect way to show your passion in style.

Comfortable fit
Striking design
Perfect for club events, shows, and everyday supporter wear

These will be pre-ordered with the carers shirts in early 2026. Get your orders in now.

To order yours, use the link below: