What the club did not anticipate, however, was the resurfacing of the road outside the Hectorville Community Centre, which made access a little more challenging and unfortunately deterred several members of our cohort from attending. Despite this, the night was still well supported, with fanciers travelling from as far as Spalding to have their birds worked on by current and former bird carers.

While we cannot share photographs of any of the birds, the evening was a very worthwhile exercise. Birds were tidied, masks and spots were worked on, and newer exhibitors had the opportunity to watch, learn and ask questions from those with years of experience preparing birds for major shows. These evenings are a valuable reminder of the strength of our hobby, where knowledge is shared freely and everyone is working towards presenting South Australia’s birds in the best possible condition.

There was also plenty of good humour throughout the night, particularly when Big John “BJ” Farrugia Gay managed to take home all of the raffle prizes, much to his delight. Nigel Tonkin also brought along a selection of laminated feather reference pages from various studs around the world, including material connected to Jo Mannes and Reinhart Molkentin. These proved to be a great point of interest and discussion for those in attendance.

Attention now turns firmly to the Logan Shield this Sunday. The event will be held at Klemzig Community Centre, next to Gaza Football Club, with an outstanding 458 birds entered, a record in recent years. South Australia is expected to field a strong team for Southport the following weekend at the 50th Annual Trill™ Expert ANBC National Championships.

Access to the hall for setup will be available from 8:00 am, and as many volunteers as possible are encouraged to assist with staging through until 9:00 am. Benching of birds will take place from 9:00 am to 9:45 am, with judging scheduled to begin at 10:00 am. Cuppa Gino’s will be onsite from 9:00 am serving coffee and will also be providing a lunch option for those attending.

The ANBC has also released an important reminder to fanciers from all states regarding Young Bird selection shows. No results or photographs of birds selected for the National Show are to be posted online. This includes any of the three birds selected in each class, as well as reserves, from any Zone team. These birds must not be promoted, discussed or shared on any website or social media page until after the ANBC National Show has concluded. Penalties may apply for breaches of this rule, including the possible disqualification of the promoted bird or birds, or in more serious cases, the Zone’s entire team being ruled ineligible to compete at the ANBC National Show. Members are therefore reminded to exercise caution and help protect the integrity of the National competition during this media blackout.

BCSA Logan Shield
📍 Klemzig Community Centre, 242 North East Road, Klemzig

The Logan Shield Schedule for May 17th has been released, turning attention firmly toward the State Titles. This event remains the pinnacle of the South Australian show season, serving as the selection platform for the team that will represent the state on the national stage. With the 2026 Trill™ Expert ANBC Championship Show on the Gold Coast marking the prestigious 50th anniversary, there is an added sense of occasion and motivation for exhibitors to present their very best.

50th Annual Trill™ Expert ANBC National Championships
📍 Southport Sharks, Gold Coast, QLD

The pinnacle event on the exhibition budgerigar calendar, hosted by the South Queensland Budgerigar Breeders Association. Festivities run from Friday evening through Sunday, including the National Auction.

Combined Bird Expo
📍 Port Pirie Basketball Stadium

The Port Pirie Bird Club Inc. and Port Augusta Bird Society Inc. proudly present their Combined Bird Expo on Sunday, 24th May 2026 at the Port Pirie Basketball Stadium, Grey Terrace. Trade stands open from 10:00am, with the expo running from 11:00am to 1:00pm. This is a great opportunity to explore a wide range of birds, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and pick up quality stock. Food and drinks will be available throughout the day. Exhibitors must register prior to the event, and the UBSSA Code of Practice will be strictly enforced. For more information, contact Brian on 0418 896 995.