ANBC Presidents Report March 2026

As many of you would have seen, the recent incident involving vegan activist Tash Peterson confronting a fisherman sparked plenty of public debate. Whether it was a publicity stunt or a genuine expression of belief almost becomes secondary. What it really highlights is a broader social trend, that people are increasingly prepared to very publicly assert strong personal views about animal use and animal welfare.

While that particular situation related to fishing, it would be naïve to think that animal-related hobbies such as ours are immune from similar scrutiny. Breeding and showing budgerigars sits within the same broader conversation about how animals are kept, transported and presented. The real question for us isn’t whether we agree or disagree with activist groups. The question is: are we prepared, transparent and proactive in demonstrating the high standards we know exist within our fancy?

In my view, the strongest position we can take is one of visible, proactive welfare standards. Rather than waiting to respond defensively to criticism, we should be leading the conversation. That means ensuring our show halls are air-conditioned or climate controlled where possible. It means birds have immediate access to fresh water after judging. It means being clear that transporting birds in unsuitable areas, such as car boots on hot days, is unacceptable. And it means having clear heat policies with defined temperature cut-offs, and being prepared to postpone or adjust events if conditions demand it. Importantly, it means publicly displaying our welfare guidelines at shows so visitors can see exactly what we stand for. When those standards are visible, they speak louder than any argument ever could. The real question for us is whether we are willing to adapt and refine procedures as expectations evolve.

We also need to recognise the difference between perception and reality. Many preparation practices that are completely routine within the fancy can appear unusual, even confronting, to someone unfamiliar with exhibition birds. What is normal to us may be misunderstood without explanation. That’s where education, open days, social media transparency and clearly articulated welfare policies become invaluable. If we explain what we do and why we do it, we reduce the risk of misconceptions escalating into criticism.

There is no doubt that some activist groups are well funded and highly media savvy. However, the best defence is not confrontation. It is calm professionalism, documented standards and consistent welfare practices. When our conduct is measured and our processes are sound, the noise tends to fade.

One of our greatest strengths, and one we should never underestimate, is the mental health benefit our hobby provides. The companionship, routine, purpose and sense of community that budgerigars bring into people’s lives is significant. For many members, the aviary is a place of calm, focus and connection. Increasingly, society recognises that responsible animal keeping contributes positively to wellbeing. When framed correctly, our message is simple and powerful: our birds are well cared for, our standards are improving rather than declining, our hobby provides genuine social and mental health value, and we are willing to review and refine practices where necessary.

That approach positions our fancy as responsible, modern and forward-thinking, not defensive or outdated. These are exactly the kinds of conversations that will protect and strengthen our hobby in the long term. After all, there is something deeply healing in bringing new life into this world, and this hobby teaches tenderness, patience and responsibility.

Garry Hibberd

ANBC President