As bird flu outbreaks continue to impact poultry exhibitions, several shows in South Australia and Victoria have been cancelled, disrupting the usual show season for poultry fanciers like Trevor Dent.

Typically busy with weekend poultry competitions around Australia during this time of year, Dent finds himself with more free time due to the cancellations caused by the bird flu outbreaks. The Mount Gambier Poultry and Pigeon Club, for example, had to cancel its annual championship show scheduled for August due to quarantine requirements for birds coming from Victoria.

With about 80% of the show’s entries usually coming from Victoria, the decision to cancel was made to ensure the safety of the birds and prevent the potential spread of the illness. Club president Trevor Kuhl expressed understanding among members, noting the dedication and effort put into breeding poultry.

While competitions at the Royal Adelaide Show are still set to proceed, the Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society SA has decided not to accept interstate entries for pigeon, poultry, and egg competitions. This decision may lead to fewer club members participating in the show, scheduled to take place from August 31 to September 8.

As concerns about the spread of bird flu persist, many poultry enthusiasts are taking extra precautions to safeguard their birds from potential contact with wild birds. The South Australian government has indicated that further measures will be considered if the illness reaches the state.