Many people grow out of it. But there are many more who continue the ‘hobby’ into adulthood, and it is indeed a fascinating pursuit.

Feathers were fluffed and beaks polished for the annual Inverell and District poultry show held over the weekend.

The show is held every year to promote pure breed fowls of all descriptions. And, with more than 480 entries this year there were a lot of birds on display.

Show secretary Leonie Purcell said the event is held every year and has been running for well over 40 years that she can remember.

“My husband and I have been involved in the show for 40 years,” she said. “I know it’s been going a lot longer than that though.”

Leonie said she was very surprised this year at a ‘new’ breed of chook called a Phoenix.

“It’s a little bird with a big tail, very impressive, and I hadn’t heard of it before this year.”

Judges for the show included Graham Finlay, who judged the soft feathers, junior sections and ducks, while Paul Smallpiece judged the hard feathers. Both judges came from Gunnedah.

The Champion bird of the show was won by Gary Shepherdson of Narrabri, who also won the Champion soft feather.

Matthew Hugo, from Tamworth, won the Reserve champion soft feather.

Kevin Lawty from Narrabri won the Champion hard feather.

Graham Prior won Reserve champion hard feather, and the junior champion prize was won by E and J Higgins from Elsmore. Reserve was won by Angus Harris.

“There were quite a few entries from Narrabri,” Leonie said. “Many also came from Tamworthm North Star, Uralla, Armidale, Guyra, Warialda and also Dalby”.

After his 30 years involvement with the society, Tom Watson from Gilgai was presented with an honorary membership.

“Tom served as president and committee member for most of the time he has been involved with the poultry show society, and is still a very active member in the show ring.”

Leonie said they still need members and encourage interested people to contact her on 67223543 for a membership application form.

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