New showgrounds tohost national pigeon show

BALLARAT’S new showgrounds will play host to hundreds of pigeons and their doting owners this weekend as the Australian National Pigeon Association stages its annual show in the city for the first time.

Taking place over 18 to 20 July, the show is organised by the Melbourne Pigeon Society supported by the Geelong and District All Breeds Pigeon Club.

Melbourne Pigeon Society president and show organising committee chair Mark Tung said that at 3500 square metres in size the new agricultural pavilion at Ballarat Showgrounds is ideal for the event.

He said the pavilion is capable of housing up to 5000 pens and there is also ample space for individual breed judging areas and a secure sale bird area, with 24-hour video security cameras.

The venue was chosen after an extensive search around the state for a suitable show venue when a second hall was not able to be secured at Geelong Showgrounds to accommodate what is expected to be a large entry list.

“It’s pretty impressive and we will fill it,” Mr Tung said of the new pavilion.

He said the plan is to have two tiers of pens to ensure birds are at an ideal height for judging and viewing.

“There’s 105 exhibitors and they’re coming from WA, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and SA,” Mr Tung said.

“There’s just shy of 3000 entries and at least 50 breeds. In each breed we will have the champion of breed, best young and best opposite sex.”

Mr Tung said this will be the 37th running of the annual national show and the first time that it has been held in Ballarat.

He also said it’s a great chance for anyone to learn more about the fancy pigeon scene and exhibiting the birds.

“You’ve got passionate people there from all around Australia. You’ve got the best in the country there to advise and share their stories,” he said.

“Pigeons come in many shapes and sizes. There’s some very fancy pigeons out there, some impressive and beautiful birds. It’s the showcase of the fancy pigeon in Australia and everyone’s welcome.”