Welcome to your Monthly Edition of the ANBC Gazette

Dear Fanciers,

The ANBC held its January Meeting, resulting in positive and proactive outcomes. Three important documents were tabled for discussion, all of which received unanimous support.

1. By-Law 11 Update
The ANBC executive recognised that the current By-Laws regarding the cancellation of the Annual Event did not comprehensively cover all scenarios involving the cancellation of the ANBC National Show. In collaboration with BCSA and BCT, a new version of the document was formulated and tabled. This document addresses the impact on both the Zone where the cancellation occurs, and the Zones following in the rotation.

For those unaware, the ANBC follows a seven-year rotational timetable for hosting the National Show. Each Zone’s designated year involves extensive preparation, sometimes spanning years. The importance of By-Law 11 became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Nationals had to be cancelled due to health concerns.

The motion to update By-Law 11 was moved by BCSA, seconded by BCT, and unanimously approved. The updated By-Law can be found on the ANBC website under “By-Law 11.”

2. Topography of the Budgerigar

The second key discussion focused on updating the Topography of the Budgerigar in the ANBC Standard. The current depiction, in black and white, represents an outdated style of budgerigar. A proposed update was presented by the C and S Coordinator, featuring a colour version and a “modern style” budgerigar.

This updated version was circulated among the Zones’ C and S Delegates for their input. Once approved, minor adjustments—such as the position of the primary wing—were made. All other elements of the bird remain identical to the original document. The final colour version will soon be added to the ANBC Standard on the website.

3. Expanding the ANBC Working Group’s Mandate
The third document, tabled by BCV, involved a motion to formalise and expand the functions of the ANBC Working Group, officially making it a Sub-Committee of the ANBC.

Motion from the BCV: The BCV formally requests that the ANBC expand the mandate of the recently formed “Live Streaming Working Group” to include the following objectives:

1. Sponsorship identification and development.
2. Exploring the future direction of the ANBC.
3. Enhancing the ANBC National Show through solutions such as container systems.
4. Reviewing and potentially restructuring the ANBC Management.
5. Identifying additional areas for long-term ANBC benefits.

The Working Group is tasked with sourcing and discussing matters related to the ANBC’s future and operations. Representation from New South Wales is encouraged, especially in light of the upcoming Canberra Nationals. The group will report bi-monthly to the ANBC Executive and Member Zones on their progress and outcomes.

Reason:
This motion aims to enable the Working Group to effectively achieve its objectives, with the full trust and support of the ANBC Executive and Member Zones. The goal is to secure the ANBC’s long-term success and development.
The motion was unanimously accepted and recorded.

Additional Topics Discussed

• ANBC financial reports and updates.
• Gazette subscriber numbers.
• Cairns National Show updates.
• Sponsorship and live streaming developments.
• Commentators for the Nationals.

In addition to the ANBC meeting, we’ve also gathered for an ANBC Working Group session, where plenty of exciting initiatives are taking shape. Among our key projects is enhancing recognition for the Hall of Fame Breeder Excellence Division, ensuring its prestige is celebrated even further. We’re also exploring the introduction of optional carer tops that we would also make available to fanciers – the design aligns perfectly with our brand, and we’re thrilled about their potential.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the exciting developments the working group is working on!

Vale Leigh Downey

On a sad note, we acknowledge the recent passing of Leigh Downey, a cherished member of our community and the former ANBC Secretary-Treasurer for many years. Leigh was well-known for his cheeky sense of humour, but more importantly, he was an outstanding contributor to our hobby. His achievements are far too numerous to list, and his absence will be deeply felt. When I stepped into the role that Leigh held with such dedication, I believed I would have my mentor guiding me for many years to come. I will miss him not only as a mentor and a friend but also as the kind of person you could always call for a chat or a word of encouragement. Leigh was not just a remarkable figure in the hobby but also a kind, approachable individual whose legacy will live on.

To Betty and the Downey family, the ANBC extends its deepest condolences to you all. Rest in peace, Leigh—you will be greatly missed.

Warm regards,
Neale R Love
ANBC Secretary

Dear Budgie Enthusiasts,

One month into the new year and the show scene is starting to hot up. Most breeders will already have their show teams picked and will no doubt be in the midst of preparations for the upcoming shows. The National hopefuls will still be some weeks away before their preparation starts in earnest.  At the moment it’s all about the birds, and that’s what the hobby is all about. Good birds, good shows and good friends.

Meanwhile the unenviable part of our hobby continues. The administration both at state and club level, the organizing of venues and shows and the myriad everyday little things that must be done so we can all enjoy this wonderful pastime. Please think of these wonderful volunteers next time you’re at a show.

The organising committee of the 2025 TRILL™ Expert Australian National Budgerigar Council (ANBC) Championship Show are well advanced with their preparations and invite you to register via the link on the ANBC website. Don’t forget to look at the accompanying tours in and around this tropical wonderland of Cairns. Why not make it a memorable holiday?

One of the fundraising initiatives of NQBZ committee is to run some raffles of birds from well-known and established breeders and they are proud to announce that a North Queensland stalwart of the hobby in Joanne Towler was the winner of the second raffle of a pair of outstanding birds kindly supplied by Craig Barnett. Keep an eye out for the next raffle starting soon.

Leigh Downey, one of our hobbies most dedicated and hardest working members who served many years as the ANBC Secretary/Treasurer, as well as being an ANBC Hall of Fame Services Inductee sadly passed away recently. I, along with the ANBC executive, delegates and all members of the hobby send our deepest condolences to Betty and family on this sad occasion.

Warm regards,
Russell Ogden
President – ANBC

ANBC Judges Coordinator

As the 2025 show season dawns upon us, there is a lot of excitement in the air. Exhibitors and Judges alike are eagerly anticipating the display of quality birds that were bred during the last season.

These fine specimens are set to grace the show benches, showcasing the efforts of their owners for other Exhibitors & Judges to view.

The early show season provides an invaluable opportunity for these birds to gain experience. This initial exposure is crucial, as it lays the foundation for their performance throughout the season, culminating in the prestigious 2025 TRILL™ Expert Australian National Budgerigar Council (ANBC) Championship Show. With each show, the birds not only refine their deportment and presence but also acclimatise to the competitive environment, making them stronger contenders as the season progresses.

For Judges and exhibitors, this time of year is particularly special. It marks the beginning of a journey filled with anticipation and camaraderie. As we admire the promising birds from last year’s breeding season, we also strengthen the bonds of friendship that define our wonderful hobby. There is a unique joy in witnessing the fruits of our labour, as the birds we have carefully bred and nurtured take the stage.
The show season is more than just a series of competitions. It is a celebration of the dedication and passion that drives us all. From the meticulous planning and breeding to the excitement of seeing our birds shine, every moment is cherished. The friendships that flourish in this environment are as rewarding as the accolades our birds receive.

As we embark on this journey, let us take a moment to appreciate the collective effort that goes into making the show season a success. The collaboration between breeders, exhibitors, and judges is what makes this community so vibrant and dynamic. Together, we create an atmosphere of mutual respect and shared passion, ensuring that the art of bird breeding and showing continues to thrive.

So here’s to the 2025 show season—a time of growth, learning, and celebration. May our birds rise to the occasion, and may our friendships grow stronger with each passing show. Let’s make this season one to remember!

Regards
James Bader
ANBC Judges Co-Ordinator

Colours & Standards

You will all be aware that we now have three new possible classes at upcoming National events commencing in Cairns in May this year. Some nominal changes are to be made within The Standard for these varieties in the coming weeks however the critical issue with these lesser classes / varieties is to spread the currently small genetic pool to enable all states and zones to participate as we move forward.

Conversely states and zones that do not have that material must seek it out. The last thing we need is that states and zones cry wolf when the time comes to present birds for points in a National event. These additional points could ultimately reflect a winning National state and zone against falling at the crossroads. Effectively a maximum of 81 points could be in play. A current winning state could drop three or four places by non-participation.

This is precisely the reason that the classes have been spread forward with an implementation strategy to give all time to obtain and breed for your state or zones benefit.

It would be a sound practice for this task to initially be owned by state and zone executive to ensure each state and zone are ready to act when required.

The time and action must start NOW.

Regards,
Peter Glassenbury
ANBC Colours & Standards Coordinator

WBO Noticeboard

The Budgerigar Society is set to mark a monumental milestone with its 100th Anniversary Club Show, a celebration of a century of dedication to the hobby. Held at the Grand Hotel, Blackpool, from Friday 6th to Sunday 8th June, this special event promises an unforgettable weekend filled with expert lectures, top-tier competition, and a grand gala dinner to honour the occasion.

🎟️ Event Programme

Friday 6th June – Setting the Stage
🔹 10:00 AM – Staging setup begins
🔹 12:00 – 6:00 PM – World Budgerigar Organisation (WBO) meeting
🔹 4:00 – 8:00 PM – Acceptance of birds for exhibition
🔹 6:00 – 7:30 PM – Lecture: *Colour Budgerigars – Speaker: Martin Stieglmaier (Germany)
🔹 9:00 PM – Quiz Night & 100 Club Draw
🔹 All Day – Trade stands set up in the foyer

Saturday 7th June – Show Day & Gala Dinner
🔹 9:00 – 10:30 AM – Acceptance of birds continues
🔹 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM – Lecture: The HHW1 Partnership: A Modern Approach to Budgerigar Breeding
Speaker: Maarten Heylen (Belgium)
🔹 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM – Judging of Birds
🔹 12:30 – 2:00 PM – Lecture: The New Way of Modern Budgerigar Breeding
Speaker: Ali Bouresli (Kuwait)
🔹 4:00 – 6:00 PM – Show open to the public
💻 Major Awards Judging will be live-streamed during lecture time
🔹 7:00 PM – Pre-Dinner Drinks in the Bar
🔹 7:30 PM – Late – Gala Dinner (£35 per ticket)
🎤 Gala Dinner Speakers:

• Grace: Grant Findlay
• Toast to The Budgerigar Society: Carlos Ramôa (WBO Chairman)
• Response: Harry Hockaday (BS Chairman)
• Toast to the Visitors: Geoff Bowley (BS President)
• Response: Gerd Bleicher (Immediate Past WBO Chairman)

(All speakers will be limited to a maximum of 5 minutes per speech.)

Sunday 8th June – Final Day & Grand Auction
🔹 9:30 AM – Show Opens
🔹 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM – Annual General Meeting
🔹 12:30 – 1:30 PM – Lecture: Medical Issues in the Budgerigar Stud
Speaker: Marcellus Burkle (Germany)
🔹 1:45 – 2:45 PM – Grand Auction
🔹 3:00 – 3:45 PM – Presentation of Awards
🔹 Final Thanks & Closure of Event

📍 Venue & Accommodation
📌 Grand Hotel, North Promenade, Blackpool FY1 2JQ
🏨 Room Rates (Including Breakfast):

• Single Room: £80 per night
• Double Room: £120 per night

📞 To Book: Call +44 1253 623434 (Option 3) and mention The Budgerigar Society
🔔 Book early to secure your stay!

🍽️ Gala Dinner – Saturday Evening (£35 per ticket)
💌 To book your ticket, contact: Adrian Richards at [email protected]
📅 Book early to avoid disappointment!

Regards,
Ghalib Al Nasser
World Budgerigar Organisation (WBO)

Pairing Skills
By Terry A Tuxford

Selecting pairs of budgerigars, which breed youngsters of quality, is a skill which makes the difference between success and failure for the exhibitor. Occasionally luck occurs and produces a winner from an apparently poorly matched pair. However, producing winners year after year suggests that something more than luck is at work. Even so, when a carefully chosen pair breeds a top quality youngster it often also produces brothers and sisters which are not so visually appealing.

Chicks Of Less Quality

Nature has the habit of regressing from an excess and the outstanding features of any Budgerigar tend to be diluted in its young. Even two well balanced show birds usually produce chicks of less quality than themselves when paired together. Loss of size is the problem most often encountered in the young of such matings. Spreading desirable qualities through a stud dilutes them. If we could find a way of increasing a desirable quality we would have solved the problem of consistently breeding top quality livestock, but nature is not so obliging.

When selecting breeding pairs today we must take into account flecking, which was not so much of a concern when I first came into the fancy and we cannot afford to ignore it in the breeding room. Intelligence needs to be employed when using flecked Budgerigars in breeding programmes or else we could lose the beautiful clean caps that the best exhibition birds possess. Many breeders believe there is a link between flecking and quality, and this is much stronger in hens than it is in cocks. Hens with grizzled caps are often far ahead of their clean counterparts in respect to overall head qualities and size.

This is far less true of cocks. Grizzled males are seldom ahead of clean ones in quality. For this reason it makes sense to limit the flecked Budgerigars in the breeding team to hens, which also ensures that flecking is limited to one side of each pairing only. Even this is not completely foolproof as some Budgerigars carry the fault of flecking recessively in hidden form.

No Place In Any Stud

A quality Budgerigar that is flecked can bring benefits to a stud but flecked individuals of only average quality have no place in any stud at all. Some fanciers buy in a flecked Budgerigar in the belief that quality is always allied with the fault as they believe that their studs will be improved. In most cases they may increase the size of their Budgerigars’ throat spots but the problems they introduce completely outweigh the benefits. A flecked headed hen will often produce clean headed cocks but which in turn breed dirty-headed daughters.

It would be best if all pairings consisted of two clean headed partners but unfortunately such individuals capable of breeding winners are few and far between. If they can be obtained they are priceless and should never be put with flecked partners.

When selecting pairings, my considerations are influenced mainly by what I can see followed by what I know about the family from where they came from. When an outcross is brought in, more account must be taken of visual properties due to your lack of knowledge of its pedigree than that of one of your own birds. Some breeders will bring in an outcross but then use it with the lesser quality birds in the stud. This is just ludicrous, because if a budgerigar is worth obtaining then it is worth the best partner you can find.

Whatever methodology you use in selecting pairings in the birdroom you need to get down to basics. Each of my breeding cages is fully prepared with sufficient food and water to minimise disturbance of the pairs for their first few days together.

The cocks in my breeding team will have been selected as a matter of course in the months prior to breeding through daily observation. My first consideration is overall quality and only the top cocks are used for breeding. Some pairings select themselves because they were very successful the previous year. I have heard it said that little progress will be made if pairings are repeated from year to year. My view is why change a good thing when you’ve got one.

The cocks are placed into their breeding cages and the most suitable hens are selected from the flights. Of course fitness does govern the timing of this activity. It is usual that the best cock is paired with the best hen but even so, this does not often produce the top quality youngsters. Top quality Budgerigars are paired and produce chicks which are useful but not outstanding. The best youngsters come from the young of the top quality parents from the following year. So the Budgerigars retained and used for breeding are not always the best looking ones. Very often it is the brothers and sisters of the most striking individuals who breed the specials winners. This situation has been confirmed by breeders for many years.

A Change In Partner

Once paired and seen to be getting on together, the Budgerigars are left. To get full eggs followed by chicks requires the cooperation of both the cock and the hen and if a pairing fails it can be either bird that is at fault. There are times when a change in partner is needed. Some cocks just do not have the libido to stimulate the hen into successful mating. I am never too quick to return a hen to the flight as a failure. I try another cock as a partner first.

Introducing a new partner to any Budgerigar calls for vigilance in case there is fighting and this is even more important when one partner has already reared a nest of chicks. In my experience a hen which has reared accepts a new partner more readily than a cock in the same situation. To minimise the risk of problems it is best to put the pair into a cage which is new to both the cock and the hen. However, make sure the nest box is in the same location.

Many of the problems encountered during the course of the breeding season are caused by imposing your selection of a cock to a particular hen. Of course doing this is essential to any pedigree livestock breeding programme and so the difficulties have to be accepted and attempts made to overcome them.

Acidification of Drinking Water
By Nameer Al-Rawi

Here I thought at the same time about the type of water for birds and the answer was that it is almost similar to the specifications of human drinking water. This is because they drink from rivers, which are fresh water. I am talking of course about birds in the wild, and it is necessary to provide these water specifications to birds in captivity or with bird breeders.

Why use acidification for drinking water for birds?

One of the most important Chemical specifications for water that the breeder must pay attention to is:

1. The hydrogen ion concentration (pH):
   The hydrogen ion concentration expresses the degree of basicity or acidity of water. The hydrogen ion concentration must be (7.0).
2. TDS (Total Dissolved Solids):
   The water should be free of dissolved salts such as table salt.
3. Turbidity:
   The water must be pure and free of suspended and dissolved impurities.
4. Toxic mineral elements:
   Toxic mineral elements, when their concentration exceeds the safe limit, lead to poisoning of the bird when it consumes water containing them such as iron.
5. Nitrates & Nitrite
   The water should be free of nitrates and nitrites, because their presence in high levels is toxic.
6. Hardness
   Hard water containing high levels of magnesium and calcium salts should be avoided.
7. The water must be free of pathogenic bacteria, especially salmonella bacteria.
   Here I will talk about the most important point, which is that when filling the water for the birds. I may not change the Bird Drinker Feeder for more than two days, and when changing the water I see a semi-viscous transparent substance on the walls of the Bird drinking feeder.Here comes the question???? Why when the water is changed daily, we don’t see this sticky substance but only some food residue?After some time and searching for the reason, I found that the reason for the appearance of this sticky substance is the growth of microorganisms. These are organisms that cause diseases for most birds if the water is left unchanged and the drinker feeder isn’t cleaned.The factors that help microorganisms grow are:
   1. The right temperature
   2. Food residue in water
   3. pH of water more than 7.0Most professional budgie breeders should change the drinking water and clean the drinker feeder once a day to prevent health problems for the birds, as drinking water is the most important cause of the spread of diseases by:

   1. Mostly after eating the grains, the birds drink water and some food remains may fall into the water. Here, the breeder does not notice this, and the water remains for more than a day, which causes the formation and spread of bacteria and fungi.

   2. Sometimes some bird droppings may fall into Drinker Feeder, and this can be a source of diseases such as worms or bacteria.

   Through my reading of some research on raising poultry farms to produce meat and eggs, I found that one of the most important ways to control diseases is to acidify drinking water… I have tried it with budgies for three years and I am still satisfied to this day. As I had the necessary means to conduct research, as birds were available and I had a laboratory ready to conduct the experiment.

   Bird drinker feeder must be cleaned regularly.

pH of Water

In order to further understand acids and their useful behavior in water, we first need to have a good understanding of pH and what it means. To keep the definition of pH in simplest terms, it is a measurement of the concentration of hydrogen ions [H+] in an aqueous solution (for the purposes of this article, we will be referring to water).

The pH scale is generally presented with values that range from 0 to 14. Pure water has a pH value of 7, and any solution with a pH less than 7 (pH 7 to zero) is regarded as “acidic” and any solution with a pH greater than 7 (7 to 14) is regarded as alkaline, or “basic.” The pH scale is a logarithmic; on this scale, each whole number change results in a solution that is 10 times more acidic or basic.

Examples:

• A pH value of 3 is 10 times more acidic than a pH value of 4, and a pH = 3 is 100 times (10 times 10) more acidic than a pH = 5.
• The same relationship holds true with alkaline solutions.
• A pH value of 11 is 10 times more alkaline than a pH value of 10, and a pH value of 11 is 100 times (10 times 10) more alkaline than a pH value of 8.
• When acidifying water, the goal is to increase the concentration of hydrogen ions [H+] to create an excess of them in the water. This shifts the equilibrium of the water, resulting in a decrease in, or lowering of, the pH of the water.
• The ideal pH level for Bird water is between (6.0 to 6.8) as this range provides optimal conditions for nutrient absorption and microbial control in the digestive tract.

1. Acidification prevents bacteria from multiplying.
   The acid reduces the pH in a bird’s crop, making the gut less hospitable to bacteria. This, in turn, reduced the amount of contamination at the processing. Most pathogenic bacteria are Gram-negative and are therefore sensitive to acidic environments, which have a bacteriostatic effect. When birds drink twice as much as they eat, the acids in the drinking water can have a beneficial effect on the crop, reducing the development of pathogens. That must suppress bacteria that are “pH sensitive” like E. coli, Salmonella& Listeria.
2. Acidification does not affect feed probiotics
   Many probiotics are rapidly gaining popularity in bird production. They are either lactobacilli, lactic acid producing bacteria, or protobacteria, which are less sensitive to acidic environments. As a result, acidification of drinking water has no effect on the probiotic products in the feed.
3. Acidification can aid early protein
   The acidifiers improve nutrient digestibility. (Protein, Ca & P in young birds). It improves digestive enzyme activity and litter quality.
4. Water acidification prevents the growth of harmful fungi and yeasts in birds
   One of the most important bird diseases is harmful fungi and yeasts, which are caused by poor hygiene and high humidity in the feed, which leads to the growth of mould that infects birds and causes many deaths in young bird.

How to Acidify Water for Birds
There are some points that must be taken into consideration before working on acidifying water: –

1. You must purchase a simple device (pH meter) to measure the acidity of the water, along with the calibration solutions. This device does not cost more than $20

3. We may need some precise tools such as

1. Small electronic scale
2. Graduated dropper
3. Teaspoon (Spatula)
4. Choosing the type of acid added to the water, which are several types:

It comes in two forms: –

1. Liquid as is natural lemon
2. In the form of solid salt

1. Available in bird food supplement stores. Pay attention to the concentrations when purchasing
2. It is a potent natural antioxidant, which mitigates the adverse effects of stress and improves productive performance.
3. Studies have established the positive effects of dietary AA on improving immune response, growth performance and health status in birds under stressful conditions
4. In addition to the previous benefits, it helps acidify drinking water

1. Water must be tested (pH) before adding any acid. This is to know the type of water and how much acid needs to be added. For example, my main water source has a pH of (7.53)

1. You can use fresh natural lemon juice instead of citric acid powder. Use drops to determine the required volume.
2. If you cannot buy a device to measure pH meter, there is a method for testing that we used in schools, which is pH papers. But it is not as accurate as the device.

1. Acidic water with a pH level below 6.0 can also irritate and damage the digestive system of birds, reducing nutrient absorption and increasing the risk of disease.
2. Alkaline water with a pH level above 8.0 can reduce the solubility of minerals and nutrients in the water, making them less available for bird absorption. It can also promote the growth of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and algae in the water, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

4. Caution should be exercised when some medications, supplements or vitamins are given to the bird, as they may be acidic in nature. Here, the pH must be measured after addition.

I hope this research will be useful to ornamental bird breeders to get rid of the problems caused by some diseases such as salmonella and fungi.

Andre Ozoux

If you could choose one bird room anywhere in the world to visit and spend a day in, which would it be and why?

I am content and have two and am staying at home.

• Jeff Leong – I am in awe of what he is doing with his Lutinos (colour and face).
• Troy Holmes – The enthusiasm he has for the hobby and the modern face he put on his stud.

What bloodlines have you used to influence your stud?

• Craig Buckingham
• Gary Gazzard
•  Jeff Leong

Who are the top couple of people in the hobby you highly respect and why?

• Craig Buckingham:  A friend, who loves the hobby like I do, and always there for me and others.
• Peter Glassenbury:  A behind the scene man. Hardly anyone sees the work Peter does mainly on C&S.  Just look at your Standard today and that is all down to Peter and his Committee.

What bird do you feel was your best bird and why?

My Spangle hen that won in SA 1986, the following year at the BSNSW Annual, she ran second (Reserve Grand Champion) with 1200 plus entries.

What other hobbies or interests do you have?

• Golf – I play at Strathfield Golf Club, off 21 these days.
• Travel – We enjoyed a trip to Greece and Istanbul last year.
• Reading – I am an avid reader and enjoy many different writers.

What does your aviary setup involve and how have you evolved it over the years as you’ve created new bird rooms?

My original bird room was 3m² and contained 18 wooden cabinets with internal boxes.  Today it 8.2 x 5.5 metres.

The breeding room is 3.1 x 4.3m containing 30 wire cages on opposite walls and two sinks and a fridge.  There are two flights approximately 4.1 x 1.2m x 2.3m high.  I have one other room 3.9 x 2m containing my nappy cage by NCA Custom cages, six large plastic seed bins and four cabinets for show cages and other budgie supplies.

What is one staple medication/preventative medicine you use and what do you use it for?

I use Aviform Ultimate (from Avian Vitality) in the water once a week. I change the water three times a week. All water comes from my rain tank. I don’t give my birds tap water. I have a soft food (carrots, beetroot, mung beans and sweet corn (to which I add Tummy Rite and Feed Enhancer) and seed mix (two small ice cream containers of hulled oats one of peach face and one of greens and grains) to which I add, Fossil Flour, BVM powder, B9 powder and egg and biscuit mixed with the Good Oil.

I dislike finger draws – they are too time consuming and wasteful (birds crapping in them). This only goes to the breeding cabinets and what’s left goes to the flights the next day

What is one issue in the hobby you think can be improved and how do you feel this could be improved?

The cost of setting up, show cages etc.  Five or ten more Troy Holmes’ would help

What do you feel is the best piece of advice to provide to any beginner starting out in the hobby or fellow hobbyist?

Latch onto an open breeder in your club who is willing to part with his/her knowledge and, some of their better birds, cheaply. That is what I did with Peter Dodd all those years ago. Great mentor sadly missed.

What do you want to achieve with your budgerigars?

Win four more Logies and get into the Hall of Fame.  No harm in dreaming, right?

History of Some of the Oldest Clubs

Over the years, Northside has been home to some of the Society’s most respected members and judges, including Keith Nicholls, Allan Reid, Peter Dodd, Dave Brenton, and the well-known vet and television personality, Harry Cooper. While these esteemed figures have since retired from judging, the club continues its legacy with Craig Buckingham—one of today’s leading judges. Craig’s journey with Northside began as a 10-year-old attending meetings with his family, demonstrating the deep generational ties within the club.

In its heyday, Northside meetings regularly saw 40 members in attendance, with over 50 on special occasions. It was a club buzzing with activity, camaraderie, and a shared passion for budgerigars.

The contributions of dedicated members like John McNamara and Pam Giles were instrumental in shaping the club’s success. John, a founding member, rarely missed a meeting until his passing in 2015 and held almost every position on the committee at some point. Pam, another tireless worker for Northside, had to step away due to health reasons, but her impact remains deeply valued.

One of the club’s most memorable nights took place in 2009, when members rallied together to set a record for a table show—an impressive 120 birds were presented. It was an event filled with excitement, hard work, and a true sense of community.

Today, like many long-standing clubs, Northside faces challenges. An ageing membership, the passing of valued members, and the migration of fanciers to larger properties in regional areas—where space for aviaries is plentiful—have all had an impact. Meanwhile, Sydney’s increasing urban density, with more townhouses and apartments, leaves fewer opportunities for budgerigar breeding in backyards.

Yet, despite these changes, Northside keeps going. The club endures because of the love for the hobby, the friendships it fosters, and the joy of sharing a passion that has connected generations. It may not be as bustling as it once was, but its spirit remains as strong as ever.

The South West Budgerigar Auction, part of the “Budgies in the ‘Bool” weekend, released its catalogue featuring birds from ANBC Hall of Fame members and notable breeders. The event aims to foster fraternity and friendship within the budgerigar community, offering participants the opportunity to acquire exceptional birds and engage with fellow enthusiasts. The little auction, that packs a big punch, is on this weekend, so get along and support. A link to the Live Stream of the event is provided below.

February will also see Melton hold their annual Diploma show on February 8th, as well as the Geelong Club Championship and UBC Show on February 16th. For more information on these shows, get over and check out the BCV website.

On a very sad note, the Budgerigar Family has lost another of its great contributors. Mr. Leigh Downey passed away on January 16, 2025 at the age of 79.  There was an outpouring of condolences on social media following the announcement of his passing, with much of the commentary highlighting his hard work, dedication and commitment. One comment stood out that described Leigh’s acerbic wit: “If you’ve not been insulted by Leigh, you haven’t lived”

Leigh started in budgies over 40 years ago with the Batman club and finished his budgie time with the Dandenong club. During that time, he was:

• BCV Show Manager for the State Shield shows for 18 years,
• BCV President for over 10 years,
• Editor of “Budgie News” for 3 years,
• ANBC President twice
• ANBC Secretary for 8 years,
• ANBC Historian for 15 years,
  and:
• Helped to organise 4 National Shows in Victoria,
• Won 4 National logies including 3 for the Clearwing variety.

In 2023 Leigh was inducted alongside his great mate Alan Rowe into the ANBC Hall of Fame Services Division. Leigh was a larger-than-life character who made an enormous contribution to the hobby. There will never be another one like him.

Peter Thurn
BCV President

February 2025 is shaping up to be a bustling month for the New South Wales budgerigar community, with a lineup of exciting annual shows that highlight the passion and dedication of breeders and exhibitors. The Illawarra Annual Show kicks off the month on Saturday, 1st February, setting the stage for an impressive display of top-quality birds. Note that the following weekend, Shoalhaven has been cancelled. Mid-month, the St George Annual Show on Sunday, 16th February, will showcase the incredible work of breeders in the region and offer a platform to celebrate the hobby. Finally, the Newcastle Annual Show on Sunday, 23rd February, wraps up this packed schedule, drawing participants and spectators from across the state for one last spectacular event in February. Each of these shows not only highlights the diversity and quality of budgerigars in New South Wales but also fosters a sense of community and shared passion among all involved.

Steve Wackwitz
BSNSW President

At this stage in the year, there hasn’t been much activity in terms of shows, with the Moreton Club kicking off the season on the 2nd of February. Currently, the weather is proving challenging for breeding budgerigars, with very hot temperatures, high humidity, and frequent thunderstorms. No doubt, many breeders are eagerly hoping for cooler and more stable conditions in the near future.

The Australian Budgerigar Society (ABS) kicked off the live auction season on January 12th in Beenleigh, Queensland. The event attracted over 250 attendees and garnered substantial online engagement, with 686 viewers tuning into the live stream and over 2,100 interactions during the two-day online availability. Feedback highlighted the excellent organization and catering, underscoring the growing enthusiasm within the budgerigar community.

Vale Mal Lawn

It is with a very heavy heart that the WRBS advises that Mal Lawn passed away. Mal was a much loved and valued member of the WRBS who will be sorely missed and fondly remembered by all. The club would like to extend their deepest condolences to Mal’s family & loved ones.

Mal was an open breeder who achieved much success over the years breeding and showing birds at the highest level including 5 SQ Future Show Awards as well as having birds in the SQBBA National Team. Mal’s down to earth humility made him very approachable, and he was always happy to share his extensive knowledge and experience with anyone seeking a hand in the fancy

Cheers mate, you will be fondly remembered & missed greatly

Garry Hibberd
SQBBA President

The show scene in NQ is currently at a standstill as it is far too hot and humid to conduct shows at this time of the year. Similarly for most breeders with their breeding regime. March normally sees quite a drop in both temperatures and humidity, so here’s hoping the weather gods play nice and give us some reprieve.

Congratulations to one of our most respected breeders, Joanne Towler on being the winner of the wonderful pair of Craig Barnett birds in our second raffle. Great to see the winner was from our Zone. I’m sure they will do well for you Joanne. Of course we have another raffle starting soon, details will be advertised shortly.

I hope everyone has their respective show teams picked in anticipation of qualifying birds for the upcoming Nationals. The 2025 TRILL™ Expert Australian National Budgerigar Council (ANBC) Championship Show is generating a lot of interest interstate and is shaping up to be a cracker of a show.

Warm Regards,
Russell Ogden
NQBZ President

2025 TRILL™ Expert Australian National Budgerigar Council (ANBC) Championship Show

The North Queensland Budgerigar Zone extends a warm invitation to all budgerigar enthusiasts, their families, and friends to join us in Cairns, North Queensland, for the 2025 TRILL™ Expert 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 us 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!

At the recent 2025 Western Australian Budgerigar Council (WABC) Annual General Meeting, a new committee was elected to lead the council into the year ahead. Les Trumper was appointed as Chairperson and also takes on the role of Ring Registrar, continuing his significant contributions to the council. Bryan Doust was elected as Vice Chairperson, with Les Woodcock stepping into the role of Secretary. Jan McMahon was seconded as Treasurer, serving without voting rights, while Mick Gearing was named Judges Panel Coordinator.

The Committee also includes John Patterson as the C&S Coordinator, with Ian Cullen and Chris Thomas serving as Committee Persons. Local representation will be provided by delegates Noel Kerr and Betty Rea. Congratulations to all appointees and thank you for stepping into these essential roles to support and guide the WABC through another successful year.

On behalf of the Western Australian Budgerigar Council, we would like to invite everyone to the 2025 State Show & State Derby, proudly hosted by the South West Budgerigar Club. This exciting event will take place on Sunday, 16th February, at the Coodanup Community Centre in Mandurah. Doors open at 10:00 am, and we encourage all budgerigar enthusiasts to join us for what promises to be a fantastic showcase of top-tier birds and breeders. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with our vibrant community, share knowledge, and celebrate the beauty of budgerigars. We look forward to seeing you there—weather permitting, of course!

Cheers
Les Trumper
WABC President

The North East Budgerigar Society (NEBS) kicked off the year with its first committee meeting, unveiling an exciting plan for their “Once in a Blue Moon” evening. This themed event will spotlight blue series budgerigars, with a special focus on Rainbows, providing a unique and educational experience for members and enthusiasts alike, and a specific blue series show.

In a significant leadership transition in South Australia, Nigel Tonkin announced his decision to step down as a NEBS delegate to the Budgerigar Council of South Australia (BCSA) and, consequently, from his role on the Council. Nigel’s contributions to the hobby have been extraordinary, serving as the BCSA’s first Secretary at its formation in 1996, next as President, and most recently as the State’s Ring Officer. His leadership has extended to coordinating National titles and fulfilling various roles within the ANBC. In recognition of his tireless dedication, Nigel was awarded Life Membership to the BCSA in 2016. Over its 29 years of existence, Nigel has held a continuous role on the Council, and his unwavering commitment has been pivotal to its success. The BCSA extends its deepest gratitude to Nigel for his exceptional service and contributions to the hobby.

During January, Port Pirie also hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in the scenic coastal town of Port Broughton. The meeting brought together the club’s passionate members to set the course for the year ahead. A new leadership team was elected to guide the club into 2025, with Doug Lange as President, Jason Longbottom as Vice President, Peter Glassenbury as Treasurer and Secretary, Ruth Lange as Ring Steward, Bob Simpson as Show Manager, and Sharon Jeffries as Assistant Secretary. Additionally, Michael Smith, Doug Lange, Graham McCallum, and Peter Glassenbury were appointed as delegates to the BCSA for 2025. Congratulations to all appointees, and thank you for taking on these vital roles!

A highlight of the AGM was the recognition of three remarkable members for Port Pirie Life Membership. Malcolm Loveridge was celebrated for his incredible 40 years of membership and long-term service. Bob Simpson was honoured for his steadfast commitment, ongoing service across various roles, and his outstanding contributions as an ambassador and mentor within the club and the broader budgerigar community. Peter Glassenbury was also recognised for his tireless efforts in supporting the club through numerous activities and responsibilities. A heartfelt congratulations to Malcolm, Bob, and Peter on their well-deserved nominations. Their dedication and contributions have left a profound and lasting impact on the Port Pirie Club and the wider South Australian budgerigar community, serving as an inspiration to others in the hobby.

Looking ahead, February promises to be an exciting month with the Budgerigar Society of South Australia (BSSA) AGM and the much-anticipated “Once in a Blue Moon” event hosted by NEBS.

Regards,
Troy Holmes
BCSA President

Our February meeting will double up as the Club’s AGM and will include a presentation on Rainbows and Goldenfaces.  South Australia has been very prominent in advocating for a new class at the ANBC show to feature Rainbows, Saddlebacks and Darkwings – 3 varieties in the ANBC Standard but which are not represented in the available classes for the Show.  It is fitting that both the BSSA and the North East are featuring the Rainbow prominently in meetings for the early part of 2025.

With January out of the way, February for Tasmania’s exhibitors is the start of our show season with preparations of birds and show entries for the Coastal Budgerigar Society Annual Diploma Show being held at the Don Hall, Don on 1st February.  Doors open at 8 am with birds benched by 9.30 am and judging to commence at 10.  This year, ANBC National Judges Malcolm and Robert Randall from Victoria will judge the Show.

The Northern Tasmanian Budgerigar Society Annual Diploma Show will be held the following weekend on the 8th February at the Perth Community Hall, birds to be benched by 9:30 am with judging commencing at 10.00 am.  Judges for the day will be ANBC National Judge Jim Fletcher and Probationary Judge Dale Ward.

Our exhibitors and budgies will have a short break with the Tasmania Budgerigar Society Annual Diploma and BCT Feature Show being held on the 15th of March at the Midway Point Hall, Midway Point.  This show will be judged by ANBC National Judge Peter Thurn from Victoria, ably assisted by our Probationary Judge Dale Ward, who has another gig of judging alongside Peter.

If you are travelling to our great State and we have a show on, call in and say hello.

Our Show scene then has a break until the three clubs hold their selections and BCT Selection Show for the 2025 TRILL™ Expert Australian National Budgerigar Council (ANBC) Championship Show.

This year the BCT has reinstated the Future Champions Show, a show day in November 2025, for Novice and Intermediate exhibitors only, after several years of combining “this show” with the three-club diploma shows.  It will be great to add this show back onto our Tassie calendar for these exhibitors, with the show being run by the Open exhibitors.

Budgerigar Council of Tasmania Inc. has released the 2025 Show Schedule booklet containing details of the State Show Calendar and general information.  Download your copy from the BCT website.

Catherine Charlesworth
BCT Secretary

Remember to stay connected and up to date by visiting the new ANBC website at https://anbc.org.au. Regular updates and information will be posted there to keep you informed.

Thank you for your continued support, and here’s to another exciting month for all budgerigar enthusiasts!

Neale R Love
Editor, ANBC Gazette
[email protected]
Mob 0421 471 781