No poultry, but shows go on

This is due to the uncertainty and as a precautionary step to protect poultry and exhibitors from the current outbreak of H5N1 (avian influenza).

The cancellation decision for the Finley Show, which takes place on September 6, was announced on Friday.

This includes the Group 9 Poultry Young Judges Final.

Berrigan, scheduled for October 4, made their announcement on Sunday.

The cancellations came after a fifth case of H5 avian influenza (bird flu) was confirmed in NSW on Saturday, with more than 200 nationally.

It was a positive test result from a deceased Greater Crested Tern found at Snug Cove near Eden on the South Coast.

The first two detections were made in two migratory petrels found near Port Stephens in early July, with one other recent case near Wentworth on the Murray River in western NSW.

The Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth and Hobart Royal Shows have also all cancelled poultry exhibits for this year.

Finley Show’s chief steward of poultry Stephen Legge said the Finley Ag Society Committee made the decision in consultation with the Department of Primary Industries.

He said while it was disappointing, particularly due to poultry’s popularity, organisers would rather err on the side of caution than have an ill bird at the show and for all birds required to be euthanised.

Berrigan Show’s chief steward for poultry Jude Lawrence made similar observations.

Her husband and fellow champion exhibitor, Alan Lawrence, has bloodlines he’s bred for more than 45 years which would be wiped out due to a bird flu detection.

While uncertainty reigns about bird flu’s impact on the show birds’ futures and birds hunker down, bird owners are asked to listen to advice from the Department of Primary Industries and chief veterinary scientist about handling birds.

While the poultry pavilions may be closed, Mr Legge and Mrs Lawrence said all other show attractions will go ahead, with preparations in full swing.