A key takeaway from the evening was James’s emphasis on the importance of giving oneself time in the judging process and the benefit of stepping back to observe the class as a whole—often revealing a cascading effect that helps in final placements.

He also spoke about the importance of providing constructive, structured feedback to exhibitors. Rather than focusing on what a bird lacks in comparison to the one placed above it, James encouraged judges to highlight the bird’s strengths in relation to the one below it. This approach fosters a more positive and supportive feedback cycle for breeders.

Another standout theme was the importance of humility in judging. James stressed the value of leaving your ego at the door and seeking a second opinion when unsure—especially in borderline cases such as condition, or flecking. Consulting with fellow judges not only strengthens decision-making but often provides clarity through the process of verbalising your thoughts.

James stayed long after the formal presentation concluded, taking time to engage personally with attendees and answer questions. His generosity with his time and insights made for a truly memorable and enriching evening.

Congratulations to Shiralee Reardon, whose standout Opaline Grey Hen claimed top honours. As James noted, “You didn’t need to be a judge to pick the best bird in the hall today.” A well-deserved win, and two Grand Champions for Shiralee in 2025, with two different birds so far – congratulations!

Well done also to Jane Kelb and Dave Miller, who benched the Champions in the Intermediate and Novice sections respectively—great recognition for their dedication and developing stock. And to Pauline Lampre, who accumulated the most Novice points on the day.

With over 250 young birds benched, the show delivered an outstanding turnout, especially impressive given that several regular exhibitors were unable to attend this year.

The team worked through the key details for the day’s structure, ensuring everything is in place for a smooth and successful event. One important point raised was the continued need for Stewards. If you’re exhibiting, consider putting your hand up to help—one of the strongest takeaways from James Bader’s recent presentation was the value of stewarding. It’s an excellent way to learn, offering a front-row seat to the judging process. Plus, for the Logan Shield, volunteers will be treated to a free meal from our onsite caterers, Cuppa Gino’s, as a thank you!

A reminder that for the Logan Shield, entries close tomorrow, May 10^th. This is the premier event on the South Australian exhibition budgerigar calendar, where the top three birds from each class are selected to represent South Australia at the 49^th Annual Trill™ Expert ANBC National Titles the following weekend in Cairns.

Exhibitors can earn valuable points for their Club, with placements awarded down to 9th in each class. The competition is open to all Open, Intermediate, Novice, and Junior members of the BCSA. Make sure your birds are entered—this is your chance to be part of something special and fly the flag for SA on the national stage!

Speaking of the Auction, save the date, as this year, the BCSA is planning a special social event on Saturday night, August 2nd, to coincide with our Annual Live Auction the following day. The social side of the hobby is what truly sets our community apart. With strong interest already coming from interstate, we’re expecting a larger contingent of visiting breeders—and we want to make them feel welcome.

Successful interstate events like Budgies in the Bool, Newcastle, 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 an evening where members can connect, catch up, and celebrate the hobby. Mark your calendars – Saturday 2nd August, and let’s make it a weekend to remember!

Looking ahead to next week, the North East Budgerigar Society (NEBS) is hosting a pre-Logan Shield hands-on workshop, open to members of any South Australian budgerigar club.

This practical session is designed to help exhibitors prepare their birds for the Logan Shield, taking place the following Sunday. Experienced bird carers and top open breeders will be on hand to work directly with your birds, offering grooming tips, cage presentation advice, and showcasing techniques to ensure each exhibit looks its best for selection. While National Judge John Mulley won’t be in attendance due to his judging commitments, skilled bird handlers will be there—tools of the trade in hand—ready to assist. All you need to do is bring your birds (ideally one per show cage), and we’ll aim to work through as many as time allows. This event is open to all SA club members – don’t miss this opportunity to fine-tune your team ahead of Sunday’s big day.

As we head into this week, a reminder to all members: no photos of winning birds from the Logan Shield or those selected for the State Team are to be shared. While we’re ahead of schedule this year, it’s important we uphold the integrity and secrecy surrounding the South Australian team. This includes maintaining radio silence on both results and bird identities until after the ANBC National Show.

This policy helps preserve the excitement and fairness of the national event for all states and competitors. If you’re unsure about any part of this process, please refer to the ANBC Social Media Policy or speak directly with one of your Club’s BCSA delegates for guidance.

Thanks for helping keep the spirit of the competition strong.

Latest Update on Bird Flu (H7N8)

The most recent information on Bird Flu (H7N8) is outlined below. The key takeaway for bird owners is the importance of maintaining strict biosecurity measures. The good news is that it looks like the controlled area has reduced, which means that they’re getting on top of things. Vigilance is still required:

✅ Keep sheds, yards, aviaries, and equipment clean
✅ Ensure footwear is clean before entering bird areas
✅ Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling birds or eggs

Staying vigilant with hygiene practices is essential in protecting your birds and preventing the spread of disease. Note that poultry and bird sales, shows, markets and auctions or other gatherings within the control and restricted areas are prohibited until further notice.

Get State show-ready with the North East Budgerigar Society (NEBS)! In the lead-up to the prestigious Logan Shield, NEBS is hosting a special hands-on workshop evening and inviting fanciers from all Clubs to join in. This free session is designed to help you clean, prepare, and spot your birds under the guidance of experienced bird carers—both past and present. Bring along your grooming tools and birds, and let the NEBS team share their expertise to help you present your birds at their very best. Whether you’re a seasoned exhibitor or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to fine-tune your prep ahead of the Logan Shield State Selection Show on Sunday, 18 May.

Get ready for the pinnacle event of the South Australian Exhibition Budgerigar Calendar, the Logan Shield State Selection Show. The Show schedule has been released, featuring the new Class 29 AOSV, as well as some changes to ensure we get the very best possible team on the bench. Check all of the details below.

A huge thank-you to Josh Portch of Noosa Custom Alloy for generously donating this premium, moveable aluminium and stainless-steel wire-front baby cage.

Prize Details:
🔹 Cage Size: 1950mm (L) x 950mm (W)
🔹 316 Grade Stainless Steel Cage Fronts
🔹 2 Slide-Out Litter Trays
🔹 8 Hardwood Perches
🔹 1 Main Access Door
🔹 1 Smaller Feeder Door
🔹 2 Drinkers
🔹 1 Transparent Seed Hopper

🚚 Freight to the winner is fully covered by NQBZ Inc.
📅 Drawn at the Presentation Dinner – Sunday, 25th May 2025, Cairns
🎟️ Tickets are just $10 each

To purchase tickets, please contact:
📞 Michelle Fidler – 0457 088 108
📞 Bruce Schuster – 0426 731 339

Don’t miss your chance to win this top-quality, fully mobile flight cage — and we can’t wait to see you in Cairns!

Drawn during the ANBC Presentation Dinner – Sunday, 25th May 2025, in Cairns
You won’t want to miss your chance to win from this incredible prize pool!

🔹 First Prize: $1,000 CASH
🔹 Second Prize: $500 CASH

🎁 Plus, a fantastic selection of additional prizes generously donated by our sponsors:
🍷 Individual bottles of Hentley Farm Wine – from the renowned Barossa Valley
🧪 Anpario Pack – featuring Salgard and Orego-Stim
🐾 Carlingford Animal Hospital Pack – includes Zade Liquid and Quikgel, thanks to Dr. R. Marshall
🌿 5 TummyRite Packs – Prosperity & TummyRite Plus
☕ Cairns & District Budgerigar Club Inc. – handmade tray and cups crafted by Gloria Buffa
🔨 Capricornia Budgerigar Society Inc. – Bunnings vouchers
🛠️ Mackay City Budgerigar Society Inc. – Bunnings voucher
🏡 North Queensland Budgerigar Breeders Club Inc. – Bunnings voucher
🥃 Townsville & District Budgerigar Club Inc. – a stunning engraved Yeti set (coffee cup, water bottle, wine glass, scotch, rum, and stubby holder)
🖼️ Two hand-beaded, framed artworks – flowers and parrots, lovingly made by a 92-year-old budgie enthusiast
Australian Bird Keeper Packs

🎟️ Tickets are just $5 each

To secure your tickets, please contact:

📞 Gloria Buffa – 0428 772 147
📞 Bruce & Sylvia Schuster – 0426 731 339

Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, there are plenty of amazing prizes up for grabs. Don’t miss out – support your Zone and be in the running to win!

ANBC Trivia

In the lead-up to the Nationals, the ANBC has been sharing Throwback Thursday trivia each week—have you been keeping up? Are you a true budgie buff with the knowledge to answer these fun and challenging questions? It’s a great way to test your memory, learn some history, and get into the Nationals spirit!

This week’s question relates to 1978, and the inclusion of different States in the buildup to a national competition as we know it today.

To answer the trivia question from last week is Norm Wheatley and the Rowe Brothers. They are the exhibitors sitting just outside the ANBC Hall of Fame on 6 wins.

As for our 3-win breeders, sitting one same class win away – the correct answer is Dave Bishop in the Lutino’s, Keith & Carol Gough in the Fallows, and South Australia’s own Peter Glassenbury in the Black Eyed Self classes.

If either of these three exhibitors can get up in those same classes in Cairns, they’ll make their way into the ANBC Hall of Fame Breeder’s Excellence Division too!