AGM report from the former South Western Zebra Finch Club 15^th February 2026.

 Well, what’s in a name. At the recent AGM of the South Western Zebra Finch Club a proposal was tabled to merge the South West Bengalese Finch Club. After much discussion the motion was carried and effective immediately. The new name which is to encompass both clubs and recognise that Foreign Birds are included in the show schedule. That name is South Western Zebra, Bengalese and Foreign Bird Society.

The merger came about due to membership of the Bengalese club had reduced to only 3 with those three also Zebra Finch keepers and exhibitors it was seen as a logical move. For several years, the two clubs have shared a show venue and divided profits or losses between them and ventured into a Foreign Bird schedule for the shows.

Members elected as officers of the new Society are as Follows-

Chairman-                      Paul Paintain.

Vice Chairman-            Adrian Wills.

Secretary-                       Peter Cannan.

Treasurer-                        Peter Cannan.

Publicity & Website-  Andy Nethercott.

Patronage-                     Geraldine McGee.

Show Manager-            Adrian Wills.

Show Secretaries-      Derrick Bates and Geraldine McGee.

Trophy Secretary-        Peter Cannan.

The date and venue for 2026 area show will be Sunday 13^th September 2026 at the Kenn Centre Kennford nr Exeter. Judges Bob Mouland & Nigel Smith for Zebra Finches, Steve Cowling for Bengalese and Alex Norris for Foreign.

The society’s summer show is planned for Sunday 9^th August at the Kenn Centre, Kennford, Judges are Zebra Finches – Andy Nethercott, Bengalese and Foreign- Ron Dewberry. In addition, there will be a small judging competition where a qualified judge will make their choice and members who judge the same will win a small cash prize.

Diary dates for 2027- Sunday 7^th February AGM 11.00, Sunday 8^th August Summer Show. Sunday 12^th September Open Area Show.

Note: Any paid-up member of the original SWZFC who wishes to see the club’s financial accounts should contact the Secretary. A reminder that subs were due 1^st January.