Primarily the trip was made to see how David (Reese) went after seven weeks treatment for cancer. The other reason was of course to see his aviaries and especially his Marked Whites.

He'd caught several pairs out for easy discussion in his bird room. A great sight, many dark tails on show. Breeding records were discussed between David and Eric. It seems a good rivalry is on to see who has the first normal markings on a white bird.

Another highlight of our trip was to visit to a bird meeting of the Riverland Birdkeepers Club Inc. Over 40 members were present although they have many more. A very financial club, they don't show their birds (finches and parrots) but have a good social life with meetings and aviary visits to sell and buy birds. They have a bus trip to Gunnedah coming up and we paid our $10 and are now members!

Not a bad cost for hospitality and a beaut afternoon tea home cooked by the ladies. The new mutation in the Gouldians were interesting. The host property was on five acres with over 100 aviaries. Three different groupings of them.

After ten days away and coming back to our aviary setup it looked rather small.

Val and Eric Brown

P.S. I have to note that Marian (Reese) is breeding some beautiful budgies.