This week, the BCSA has been working diligently behind the scenes as we prepare for the hard launch of Budgie Fest 2026—and we’re thrilled to share the first of our pre-events with you!

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!

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!

As we gear up for the hard launch of Budgie Fest, we’ve been spreading the word with several radio interviews, with more to come! Tomorrow morning at 11:00 am, if you’re in the south of Adelaide, Tribe 91.1 will be featuring Budgie Fest on their Generation Gap show. Be sure to tune in as BCSA President Troy Holmes discusses why this incredible hobby has such a passionate following. Yesterday, we also had the pleasure of chatting with ABC Radio, and the interest continues to build as we countdown to the event, now just one month away! The excitement is growing, and we can’t wait to share more with you in the coming weeks.

Looking ahead to the weekend, we’re thrilled to announce that Balaklava Agricultural Cage Bird Show Manager Bob Simpson has confirmed that we’ve surpassed the magic 80 entries mark, officially meeting that eligibility criteria to be a recognised show (pending all 80 entries being present on the day – other criteria that have to be met include that all ANBC colours and varieties are listed in the show schedule). This is a fantastic endorsement of the hobby, and we couldn’t be more excited for the incredible turnout. We wish all the exhibitors the best of luck as they showcase their birds—this is sure to be a memorable and exciting day for everyone involved!

This Sunday, the Aviculture Society of South Australia (ASSA) is hosting their bird expo at the Fullarton Community Centre, open from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. Given last year’s impressive turnout and the overwhelming level of interest, we highly recommend members arrive early to make the most of this fantastic event. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and explore the latest in aviculture!

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.

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. With classes now confirmed, members can begin planning their entries and preparing their birds for competition. The release of the schedule also underscores the collaborative nature of South Australian clubs, as the Tri Club Cup brings together the BSSA, North East and Port Pirie Clubs to showcase the very best of the fancy. Exhibitors are eager to see how their birds will perform, while the friendly inter-club rivalry ensures a spirited and enjoyable event.

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