Looking ahead, next week is packed with activity. We have committee meetings for the BSSA, North East, and ANBC Working Group, and don’t forget the Port Pirie Show next weekend – a Young Bird (2024 rung) Show, with no pre-entries required, so feel free to turn up on the day in Kadina. A reminder that entries for the inaugural BCSA Tri Club Cup close next Friday, so get out there this week and chose those birds you’d like to put in front of Richard, Peter and Gary!

Interstate, it’s a busy weekend with the Clyde UBC Show & Club Championship in Dingley, Victoria, and multiple events in Queensland, including the Fraser Coast Show, Bundaberg Bird Expo, Julie Trebbin Tribute Show in Ipswich, and the ABS Carnival Show & Presentation.

At a National level, things are moving quickly with preparedness for Avian Influenza. Note that responses and mandates are on a state-by-state basis, so what applies in one state, may not apply here in South Australia. Australia is the only continent not to have had outbreaks of this virus, however it is spread by migratory birds. South Australia in particular has many breeding areas for migratory birds, so it is continually monitoring for the arrival of the H5N1 strain.

The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has released an insightful video in their Biosecurity Matters Newsletter, detailing essential strategies for breeders to minimise the risk of Avian Flu. The specific H5 strain of the virus that has led to significant poultry deaths overseas, is not currently present in Australia. That being said, precautions need to be taken to minimise the transmission of the virus. It can be carried by wild birds such as ducks, geese, and swans, which pose a risk to backyard poultry and pet birds when they mix.

The Department recommends that if you own or work with birds, it’s crucial to monitor for health changes, as signs of avian influenza can resemble other bird diseases. Key symptoms include sudden deaths, diarrhea, reduced appetite, decreased egg production, and general illness. To protect your birds, avoid feeding or attracting wild birds, use netting to prevent contact, regularly clean housing and equipment, and isolate any new birds for at least 30 days.

While avian influenza poses a low risk to humans, practicing good hygiene is essential—wash hands after handling birds or equipment, and clean clothing and shoes after visiting bird facilities.

You can watch the video by clicking the link here.

PPBS Meeting & Show

🗓 Date: Sunday, 20th October 2024
📍 Location: 12 Barkla Road, Kadina, SA (Simpson Residence)

Join us for an exciting day at Bob Simpson’s with the Young Birds and UBCs 2024 event! All 2024-rung birds are welcome, and the Port Pirie Club is aiming for 5 birds per member (5 UBC’s and 5 Young Birds) to ensure a good competition, as well as adequate staging. PPBS are extending a warm invitation to guests from other clubs to participate—no need for pre-entry, just bring your birds on the day for an 11 AM start.

This is a great opportunity to compete for fantastic prize money for both the Best UBC and Best Young Bird. It’s also a chance to showcase your birds, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy some spirited competition over some great catering and even better banter.

The day will include a Special General Meeting (SGM) ahead of the General Meeting, so there’s plenty to look forward to at Bob’s. Don’t miss out on this eventful and rewarding day!

For more information, contact Bob Simpson on 0407 189 975

BCSA Tri Club Young Bird Cup 🏆

🗓 Date: Saturday, October 26
📍 Location: Campbelltown Function Centre

We’re thrilled to announce the first-ever BCSA Tri Club Cup Interclub Challenge! This exciting competition will see the BSSA, NEBS, and Port Pirie clubs go head-to-head at Budgie Fest, showcasing their current year rung birds.

The judging panel is top-tier, featuring WBO Judge Richard Miller from the UK, alongside ANBC Accredited Judges Peter Thurn and Gary Gazzard. With such a distinguished lineup of judges, the competition is bound to be fierce and exciting!

Entries are now open, so don’t miss your chance to participate and represent your Club. Submit your birds using the link below and join us for an unforgettable day of budgerigar excellence! 🐦✨

Interclub 24 – BSSA Vs NEBS🏆

🗓 Date: Sunday, 10 November
📍 Location: Ascot Park Scout Hall

Mark your calendars for the BSSA annual Interclub Challenge with the North East Budgerigar Society on Sunday, 10 November 2024! This year’s event will be extra special, as it will feature, for the very first time, current year rung birds (2024 red ringers) as the focus of the Interclub challenge.

Please note the new venue: Ascot Park Scout Hall, located at 51 Sixth Avenue, Ascot Park. Let’s hope for good weather to make it a fantastic day! 🤞🌤️

The BSSA’s long-standing rivalry with NEBS dates back to 1978, with the competition being held every year except for two (due to extreme weather and COVID). The scoreboard remains impressively close after 44 events, with NEBS leading at 24 wins to BSSA’s 20.

Below is a picture of the coveted Interclub Trophy, which will be up for grabs once again. Get ready for a thrilling day of competition and may the best club win! 🐦🏅

The North Queensland Budgerigar Zone extends a warm invitation to all budgerigar enthusiasts, their families, and friends to join them in Cairns, North Queensland, for the 2025 Australian National Budgerigar Council (ANBC) Championship Show. This exciting event takes place at the Brothers Leagues Club, a premier venue perfect for our championship. For your convenience, accommodation is available at the Cairns Colonial Club Resort, just 600 meters from the venue, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all attendees. Join them for the 2025 ANBC Nationals in Cairns for a spectacular showcase of the finest budgerigars, engaging activities, and the chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts in the beautiful setting of Cairns. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be part of a memorable event!

There is a discount code of CAMP-SHOW25 that you can use when booking for the event!

Register using the link below.

Exciting Announcement!

The North Queensland Budgerigar Zone Inc. is thrilled to announce an incredible opportunity for all bird enthusiasts!

Mark and Rebecca Fellows have generously donated an outstanding budgerigar, which will be raffled off to raise funds for the A.N.B.C. Nationals 2025 in Cairns. Don’t miss your chance to own this exceptional bird while supporting a fantastic cause!

Details of the Budgie:
Normal Grey (cock bird) MRF 146/23. Hatched early December 2023. Not sure if you can tell off the pics but looks to have the added bonus of Violet. Out of one of our better producing cock birds.
Father: Normal Grey Green (split Cinnamon) MRF 026/21
Mother: Normal Dark Green MRF 051/22
Tickets: Only $20.00 each!

The lucky winner will be responsible for arranging transportation from the aviary of Mark and Rebecca Fellows to their property.

For ticket purchases or more information, please contact:
Bruce Schuster: 0426 731 339
Michelle Vidler: 0457 088 108

Help support the Nationals 2025 and grab your chance to win this amazing bird! Good luck!

Budgie Fest 2024 will span three exciting days, from October 24th to October 26th, culminating in a spectacular finale on Saturday, October 26th, from 12 Noon to 3 PM at the Campbelltown Convention Centre, 172 Montacute Road, Rostrevor. This is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of our shared love for these wonderful birds. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of something truly special!

We’re excited to run our Pet Bird Competition alongside the inaugural BCSA Tri-Club Cup Interclub Challenge! This special young bird show, featuring current year rung birds, will see a friendly yet fierce competition between Port Pirie, the BSSA, and the North East Budgerigar Society, in a format similar to the prestigious Logan Shield.

Have you reserved your place at Budgie Fest 2024? Whether you’re showcasing your birds or cheering on your club, this event promises to be a fantastic day of competition and camaraderie. Prepare your best birds and bring your enthusiasm— October 26th is going to be a memorable showdown! Get your FREE tickets using the link below.

For the pet bird section of the event, entries are now open. The pet budgies will be judged against the following awards criteria, so get your budgie ready!

• 🌟 Chirpiest Chatterbox: For the best talking budgie or vocal imitation!
• 🌈 Most Fashionable Feathers: Recognizing the budgie with the most vibrant plumage.
• 🤝 Best Budgie-Buddy Award: For the friendliest and most sociable budgie.
• 🎬 Scene Stealer Award: For the budgie that loves the spotlight!
• 💏 Sweetheart Pair Award: Honouring the inseparable duo with a special bond.
• 🎓 Whose A Clever Bird Award: For the budgie with the most impressive tricks.
• 🐦 Tweet-heart Award: For the best children’s pet budgie, open to 12-year-olds and under.
• 📷 Social Media Star: For the budgie with the largest social media following.
• 🥇🐦 Chirp-Champion: The ultimate Best Pet Budgie of 2024.

For the first time ever, Budgie Fest will feature three exciting “pre-events” leading up to the big day! These exclusive events are designed to build the anticipation and excitement, offering unique opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts and our special guests. These pre-events are the perfect lead-in to Budgie Fest, so don’t wait—secure your place now and join in the fun!

Pre-Event #1 – Discover Hentley Farm
🗓 Date: Thursday 24th October, Noon to 3 PM
📍Location: Cnr Gerald Roberts Road & Jenke Road, Seppeltsfield, SA 5355
SOLD OUT

Pre-Event #2 – Track Experience at the Bend Motor Sport Park
🗓 Date: Thursday 24th October, 6 PM Track
Dinner: 7 PM at APEX Bar
📍Location: 543 Dukes Highway, Tailem Bend, SA 5260
Book directly using the link in the details provided below.

Pre-Event #3 – Richard Miller Presentation 
🗓 Date: Friday 25th October, 6 PM
📍Location: The Maid, 1 Magill Road, Stepney, SA 5069
Tickets still available on the Budgie Fest Page of the BCSA Website.

Unleash Your Inner Speed Demon at The Bend Motorsport Park!

Date: Thursday, 24th October, 6 PM
Location: 543 Dukes Highway, Tailem Bend, SA 5260

Are you an adrenaline junkie? Get ready for a heart-pounding evening of speed, thrill, and racing glory at South Australia’s premier racetrack, The Bend Motorsport Park!

Join Richard Miller, Peter Thurn, and Gary Gazzard as they take on the ultimate Mustang Drive and Holden Racing Car Experiences. Feel the roar of the engines, the rush of the track, and the exhilaration of high-speed corners as these racing veterans put pedal to the metal. Think you’ve got what it takes to beat the judges? Book your own drive experience and line up alongside them on the track!

Make It an Unforgettable Evening!

After the race, refuel at the APEX Bar with a delicious dinner from 7 PM. Relax, swap stories of the day’s racing, and relive the excitement over drinks and fantastic food. Please note that dinner is pay-your-own-way, but the memories are on the house!

Ready to Race?

Secure your spot on the track by booking your racing experience now using the link below. Don’t miss this rare chance to race with the pros, enjoy the thrill of the track, and make your mark at one of Australia’s most famous motorsport parks.

Cost: Pay Your Own Way (Book using the link below)

Book Your Racing Experience Now and Take on the Judges!

Richard, along with his wife Sarah, is eagerly anticipating his first visit to Australia, and he’s determined to make this presentation unforgettable. He’s not just excited—he’s ready to deliver a knockout session on everything exhibition budgerigars. And when it comes to credentials, Richard’s are second to none. At just 41, he’s already a four-time world champion, a title he’s earned in partnership with his father, Michael Miller. Beyond that, he’s an international judge and keynote speaker, having shared his expertise across Europe, the US, and the Middle East.

This year, Richard judged the World Championships in Austria, alongside Australia’s own Stephen Mow. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear from one of the UK’s leading breeders in person. Richard will delve into the intricacies of exhibition budgerigars, the challenges of the field, and his vision for the future, all in a presentation unlike any other. This is your chance to learn from someone at the top of their game, so make sure you’re there to catch every insight.

Join us for an unforgettable evening, beginning with a warm and welcoming meet and greet from 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM. This is your chance to mingle and connect before we transition to a sumptuous three-course meal designed to delight your senses. To complement your meal, a variety of drinks will be available at bar prices, ensuring you have the perfect pairing for every course. This event promises to be an evening of great food, great company, and unforgettable memories—don’t miss out!

Cost: $55 per person including food and presentation.
Join us in the Terrace and Chamber Rooms.

For those attending Budgie Fest and seeking accommodation in Adelaide, we’re excited to offer an exclusive deal through our partners with purpose at Cruise Advisors. Alex and his team at Cruise Advisors are the stellar company who are making Richard’s trip to Adelaide possible, and we thank them for their support of Budgie Fest 2024. When you book through Cruise Advisor’s principal, Alex Prez, you’ll enjoy a luxurious stay at the Pullman Adelaide with some fantastic perks.

This special offer includes a complimentary room upgrade upon check-in (if available), daily breakfast for two, and a $100 USD hotel credit to enhance your stay. Plus, you’ll benefit from early check-in and late checkout (subject to availability), allowing you to make the most of your time in Adelaide. And to top it all off, you’ll be greeted with a welcome amenity on arrival, setting the tone for an exceptional stay. Don’t miss this opportunity to combine comfort and convenience during Budgie Fest!

The Pullman Adelaide is conveniently located in downtown Adelaide, 2.1 km from The Maid, and 8.4 km from Saturday’s festivities at Campbelltown Function Centre.

For more details, contact Alex Prez on 0434 774 830 or [email protected]

Note – this booking must be made through Alex, and is not available through direct bookings with the Hotel.