Blue-eared Pheasant - photo by Jonathan Beilby taken at Blackbrook in October 2010.

The organisation was originally founded in the 1980s, but was dormant (except for producing the annual Register of Birds Bred in Captivity in the UK) for a long period until a few years ago. One of its objectives is to represent our interests to government, providing a larger voice than individual birdkeepers and societies would have, and this is one of the main benefits of being affiliated to the FBF.

All foreign bird clubs are invited to join the Federation and help define its role and aims so that it can best serve the interests of the foreign bird fancy as a whole. If some clubs feel that the FBF presently does not offer them what they need, now is the time to join and change it for the better. There are vacancies for a secretary and NCA representatives, so there are real opportunities for new members to have a strong voice within the organisation. Affiliation is open to foreign bird clubs of any kind, £25 to Honorary Secretary Dennis Webster, 89 Melbourn Rd, Royston, Herts, SG8 7DG.

2012 AGM SUMMARY

The AGM of the Foreign Bird Federation was held at the “Sons of Rest” in Wednesbury, West Midlands, on Sunday 18th March 2012. Only five of the affiliated Societies attended the meeting, with apologies from one other.

Explaining the lack of activities of the Federation over the past year, the Chairman reported that no-one had brought forward topics for discussion, and the threats to birdkeeping at the present time were at a low level. The Secretary agreed, but pointed out that through the Federation’s affiliation to the National Council of Aviculture it still had the possibility of being involved in discussions with DEFRA and its Animal Health group. This is essential in keeping the voice of birdkeeping being heard. He reported that through these discussions, the “28 day rule” affecting European exhibitors showing in the UK had been lifted. Through its involvement with COM-UK, the NCA had also made it possible for UK exhibitors to show at Continental shows; a member of one of the Federation’s affiliated Societies had already won a bronze medal at the 2012 World Show in Spain.

The Treasurer reported a small profit on the year, and stated that the Federation was in a good financial position; the accounts were accepted. Following a discussion about the future of the FBF it was agreed that it should continue.

The existing Officers were re-elected en bloc for 2012 (see above).

It was also agreed that the FBF would continue to affiliate to the NCA, and delegates were chosen to be: David Paine, Dennis Webster and Peter Collins.

After discussion about the possibility of a further meeting during the year, the Chairman closed the meeting, thanking those delegates who had attended.

The 2013 FBF AGM will be held on Sunday 27th March 2013

Download this Report as a Word document here.