Chatter Magazine Summer 2025

In this edition of Chatter, we profile long-time South Australian fancier Rob McKie, whose journey from a backyard cubby house to National-winning exhibitor captures the grit, humour, and mateship at the heart of the hobby. Rob reflects on early mentorship from Nigel Tonkin, the Opaline that rose “from the clouds” to win Nationals while he recovered in hospital, and the highs and lows of building a stud that once filled a 16-metre bird room at Redwood Park.

Our Genetics Corner takes a practical look at the Albino colour variation, explaining in clear language how Ino works in the birdroom and on the bench. The article explores what “white” really is, how lighting and background change our perception, why Albinos can struggle with eye sensitivity, and how planned matings over strong normals can improve both exhibition quality and long-term health.

In Overseas Corner, we travel to Europe for “Belgium’s Finest Budgerigars”, a digital interview with respected Australian breeder and judge Gary Gazzard. Fresh from officiating at the Belgian Championships, Gary shares his impressions of European birds, key differences in frontal feathering and breeding depth, and what Australian and European fanciers can learn from each other in an increasingly connected global fancy.

Pet Corner turns to everyday care with a clear, practical guide to Safe and Unsafe Foods for Pet Budgie. From seeds, pellets and vegetables to fruit, herbs and treats, this easy “yes / no / sometimes” checklist helps pet owners balance variety and nutrition while avoiding common hazards such as mouldy seed, high-fat snacks and toxic foods.

Our Novice Corner offers a straightforward introduction to Feather Problems in budgerigars, unpacking complex issues in beginner-friendly terms. The article explains how viruses, genetics, environment and diet can affect feather growth and structure, clarifies confusion around French moult and PBFD, and outlines practical steps novices can take to improve hygiene, feeding and breeding decisions.

In Exhibiting, we dive into Breeding Opaline and Opaline Cinnamon Budgerigars, tracing the history of these varieties from early Australian and British pioneers through to modern WBO standards. Detailed sections on inheritance, crossing over and judging guidelines are paired with practical breeding advice to help exhibitors refine markings, opalescence and colour while maintaining size, balance and type.

Finally, Around the Clubs captures a full season of community life, from presentations and “Come & Try” nights to aviary visits, juvenile and UBC shows, Christmas gatherings, the Aviculture Society Bird Expo, Budgie Fest highlights and “Budgies in the Media”. Together, these snapshots showcase the friendship, learning and shared enthusiasm that keep the South Australian fancy thriving.

Enjoy the read, and here’s to many more memorable birds, shows and stories ahead!

Warm regards,

Troy Holmes
BCSA President

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