ANPA National cancelled

Concerns about the unpredictability of the avian flu outbreak in western Victoria, bird travel restrictions put in place by the South Australian government and news of another avian flu outbreak in NSW have resulted in the regretful decision to cancel the ANPA Geelong National which was to be held from July 19-21.

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The host clubs, the Melbourne Pigeon Society and the Geelong All Breeds Pigeon Club, had been planning to proceed with the show by putting in place a series of protocols ordered by Agriculture Victoria, as the restricted movement zones are 50km away from the Geelong Showground.

But as of Tuesday, fanciers from South Australia were prohibited from taking birds out of Victoria unless adhering to strict protocols.

This also impacts on those travelling by road from Western Australia, who have to travel through South Australia.

And with the developing situation in NSW, along with Tasmania’s strict quarantine policies, it was decided at a ZOOM meeting between members of the organising committee and the ANPA Committee last night that proceeding was simply too big a risk.

It is hoped the show can be held at the same venue in 2025.

In the meantime, exhibitors and visitors are advised to cancel travel plans and reservations. The organising committee will start the process of refunding entry fees forthwith, but ask for patience as there had been 87 exhibitors showing around 2900 pigeons.

Further information and updates will be placed on the ANPA website and social media regularly, and those who have entered birds will also be contacted directly.