It’s been a busy week behind the scenes, with both the ANBC Meeting and the NEBS Committee Meeting taking place as we gear up for Budgie Fest 2025 — now just a week away!

The ANBC Meeting featured valuable discussion on a range of motions. While there was strong support for announcing the International Judge earlier, the Victorian motion to bring forward judge announcements before the traditional January 1st date was defeated 5 votes to 2. On a positive note, the ANBC endorsed a proposal to recognise the Hall of Fame Service Division with dedicated pull-up banners, similar to those used for the Breeders Excellence Division. This initiative will debut at the 50th Anniversary event in Southport.

Additionally, members voted on the World Budgerigar Organisation (WBO) Pictorial. Although Australia won’t be formally adopting it, the vote (6 in favour, 1 abstention) confirmed its acceptance.

Meanwhile, the NEBS Committee Meeting centred on final preparations for Budgie Fest 2025, particularly the Tri Club Cup and the Interclub Challenge between BSSA and NEBS. With the finishing touches now in place, NEBS is ready to proudly host this year’s event.

It’s also been a hive of activity in the media this week. On Monday, we joined Graeme Goodings in studio on FIVEaa, followed on Tuesday by in-studio appearances on the FIVEaa Breakfast program with David Penberthy and Will Goodings, as well as a chat with Brett Charles on 4KZ. To round out the week, Thursday saw us visit the studios of Nova 91.9, where we featured on the Jodie and Haysey Breakfast Show. A big thanks to our friends at Media Stable who have been working furiously behind the scenes to get the good word out about budgies. You can listen to each of the interviews below.

To help us finalise catering numbers, both events will close at the end of business today. If you’d like to attend the Human Stories Behind Budgies Dinner or join the Barossa Wine Tour, make sure to book by the close of today.

However, the temperature will play a crucial role in determining whether the show goes ahead. With the forecast predicting 32+ degrees, the Juvenile and UBC bird show will be cancelled if the heat rises, prioritising bird safety above all else. The Port Pirie Club won’t be able to make the final call on this until Saturday.

This year, you can enter by submitting a video of your budgie’s best moment—talking, playing, or showing off those clever moves. These videos will be featured throughout the festival, and the most impressive performances will take home the glory.

Budgie Fest 2025 grand finale will happen on Saturday afternoon at the Campbelltown Convention Centre, 172 Montacute Road, Rostrevor. It’s more than an event—it’s a nationwide celebration of our love for these incredible little birds.

Join us between Noon and 3 PM at the Campbelltown Function Centre for a FREE FAMILY FUN DAY filled with all things budgies. Kids can enjoy face painting, magic shows, colouring competitions, and even free 5-minute vet checks for feathered friends. Adults can relax with a Barossa wine tasting thanks to our partners at Hentley Farm and enjoy a live art demonstration inspired by—you guessed it—budgies!

This year’s awards will be based on your video entries, so get filming! Be in the running to be

🥇🐦 Chirp-Champion 2025 – The Ultimate Best Pet Budgie of the year

Grab your camera, capture your budgie’s personality, and be part of Australia’s biggest celebration of budgies. Don’t miss out—Budgie Fest 2025 is your bird’s moment to shine!

🎥 Film your budgie: Record a short video (30–90 seconds) of your budgie talking, playing, or performing tricks.

For those of you joining us from interstate, you may like to take the opportunity to join fellow fanciers for an all day, best of the Barossa tour. Or why not join us on the Friday evening, for a buffet style dinner and dessert at the home of Budgie Fest, Campbelltown Function Centre, with Master of Ceremonies Graeme Goodings. Our first event kicks off on Friday, 24th October, with a luxury day trip through the stunning Barossa Valley wine region. For those of you who joined us last year with Richard Miller, Peter Thurn, and others, chauffeur Andrew Dunn is back and has organised complimentary tastings and a delicious regional platter for lunch. He’ll be picking up from Adelaide and returning you just in time for the second part of our festivities.

Spring in the Barossa is nothing short of magical—rolling green vineyards, fragrant cellar doors, and world-class wines, all served with the warmest country hospitality. This small-group, relaxed tour will visit a curated selection of boutique and heritage wineries across Tanunda, Seppeltsfield, and beyond. Think generous tastings, fascinating stories from the winemakers, and plenty of time to savour the views. Your day includes comfortable return transport, guided tastings, and a regional lunch platter showcasing local produce. Andrew might even treat us to a sweet stop for artisan chocolate—because why not?

The cost is $118 per person, and tickets are strictly limited. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience!

Human Stories Behind Budgies – Last Day Today!

Next up, we’re changing things up with our Budgie Fest Dinner this year. Hosted at the Campbelltown Function Centre, home of Budgie Fest, our dinner will feature a buffet dinner and dessert, all provided by our dedicated cohort of volunteers.

The evening will be hosted by Graeme Goodings, the beloved former Channel 7 news anchor and current FiveAA radio personality. Graeme will guide us through heartfelt conversations with passionate budgie breeders, including Garry and Helen Hibberd from Toowoomba, Mitchell Boal from Queensland, James Bader from Victoria, and others, as they share their personal stories, challenges, and triumphs that go on behind their budgerigars.

This isn’t just about the birds; it’s about the amazing people behind them. Graeme will bring their stories to life, offering you a rare and insightful look into their world. Enjoy the buffet-style dinner, filled with delicious options, and cap off the evening with a decadent dessert. It’s sure to be a night to remember, filled with good food, great company, and inspiring conversations. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just love great storytelling, this event is for you!

Location: Campbelltown Function Centre, Home of Budgie Fest, 172 Montacute Rd, Rostrevor. Tickets: $35 per person—limited tickets available. Secure yours today!

Alex Prez from Cruise Advisors has an excellent package for anyone planning to attend Budgie Fest in October. For those arriving on Thursday, 23 October, and departing on Sunday, 26 October, to take advantage of the proposed aviary visits, the packages are priced at $1,131.30 for a Superior King room and $1,239.30 for a Deluxe King room. For attendees arriving on Friday, 24 October, and leaving on Sunday, 26 October, the rates are $799.20 for a Superior King and $880.20 for a Deluxe King. These rates cover the full stay period and include a room upgrade at check-in if available, breakfast for two daily, a US$100 hotel credit, and early check-in and late checkout where possible. To book, contact Alex Prez, Independent Travel Specialist at Savenio – Signature Travel Experiences and Independent Travel Designer Solutions, via mobile at 0434 774 830 or Email alex.prez@savenio.com.au

The Interclub and Tri Club Cup are always a highlight of the South Australian exhibition calendar. Entries close later today for this prestigious event. Be sure to get yours in before the deadline.

The day will also include an aviary tour of Doug & Ruth’s, which is always a great time.