BCSA Report August 2026

BSSA Pizza & Presentation Night

The month kicked off with a Pizza and Presentation night from the BSSA, with ANBC Secretary Neale Love flying in from Queensland to present. The Saturday evening function brought together BSSA members for plenty of conversation and what appeared to be an endless supply of pizza. George England and Chris Murphy led a question-and-answer session. During this session, members asked about Neale’s involvement in the hobby, his judging career, and his overseas visits to many of the world’s leading budgerigar breeders. There were some excellent questions covering topics such as feeding, show preparation, exhibition techniques, and general budgerigar wellbeing. Neale thoroughly enjoyed sharing his experiences and exchanging ideas with everyone present. It was an excellent evening that was both informative and enjoyable.

Ron Norman Show

On the first Sunday, the Ron Norman kicked off, with Neale as the Major Awards Judge. The Grand Champion was an Opaline AOSV Grey Green Hen exhibited by the Weidenhofer family. The Reserve Champion Cock was a Normal Grey Green exhibited by Marie and Kerry Murphy. Reserve Champion Hen was exhibited by George England, a lovely Clearbody Hen. The Third Champion Cock, exhibited by Marie and Kerry Murphy, was a Recessive Pied Light Green Cock, while the Fourth Champion Cock was exhibited by Paul Wilton. The Fourth Champion Hen was exhibited by Marie and Kerry Murphy, a Cinnamonwing Light Green Hen.

Overall, feather condition proved to be the deciding factor among many of the better exhibits. Several quality birds were carrying a few pin feathers, had shortened tails, or were entering the early stages of moult. These factors inevitably influenced their final placings. Neale was particularly impressed with the quality of the Novice and Intermediate exhibits. It was equally pleasing for him to witness the enthusiasm and friendly banter among exhibitors discussing their birds throughout the day. That level of enjoyment and camaraderie is one of the great strengths of the hobby.

 

North East Christmas In July

Members enjoyed a relaxed and friendly social outing for Christmas in July. The evening provided a great opportunity for members to catch up away from the show bench and enjoy good company in a casual setting. A selection of bird-themed prizes added to the fun, with 10 prizes on offer, including small bird statues, bird socks, bird prints and other items. Those who missed out on a prize were still treated. Everyone received either a bag of chocolates or liquorice. A few chocolates were left over and will be used as prizes at upcoming night meetings.

 

Chatter Magazine Release

July saw the Winter release of our Chatter Magazine publication, including timely veterinary articles, along with plenty of other excellent reading for fanciers.

Looking Ahead to August in South Australian Budgerigars

August is shaping up to be a busy and varied month for the South Australian budgerigar community, with auctions, educational evenings, club meetings, aviary visits and important administrative deadlines all appearing on the calendar.

The month begins with one of the biggest weekends of the year—the 2026 BCSA Annual Live Auction. Interstate visitors will be welcomed at the traditional pre-auction dinner at Gaucho’s Argentinian Restaurant on Saturday evening. Afterwards, attention turns to the Klemzig Community Centre on Sunday.

With 188 lots from breeders across Australia, live and telephone bidding, a Zoom broadcast and plenty of opportunities to catch up with friends, the auction promises to provide an exciting start to August.

BSSA Gather Around

The activities will continue on Tuesday, 4 August, when the BSSA hosts its Gather Around evening at the Unley Community Centre.

The night will cover a broad range of practical topics, including show preparation and what judges look for. Members will also learn about preparing for the breeding season, quarantine and medication, weaning young birds, inbreeding and line breeding, and making the most of the trading table.

North East AGM and Blast from the Past

On Wednesday, 12 August, the North East Budgerigar Society will hold its Annual General Meeting at the Hectorville Community Centre.

The evening will also include a Blast from the Past presentation featuring Ian Marshall, offering members an opportunity to reflect on an earlier chapter of the hobby’s history.

Port Pirie Aviary Visit

Later in the month, the Port Pirie Budgerigar Society will make its annual trip to Auburn for an aviary visit at the Van Den Brink residence on Sunday, 23 August.

These visits are always a wonderful opportunity to view another breeding setup, exchange ideas and enjoy the social side of the hobby.

2027 Ring Orders

Members should also remember that orders for 2027 rings close on Monday, 24 August. Anyone requiring rings for the coming breeding season should ensure their order is submitted before the closing date.