Spotlight on budgies

By Kath Gannaway
EVENTS at Wandin and Badger Creek in October will give insights into two quite different hobbies – blacksmithing and budgerigars.
On Sunday, 8 October, more than 100 budgies will go on show at Badger Creek.
Local budgie enthusiasts are presenting an exhibition of show budgies at the Badger Creek Old School Building (opposite Healesville Sanctuary) from 11am to 3pm.
The aim of the exhibition is to improve awareness of showing and breeding and to share information with other budgie enthusiasts. The show will also gauge interest in setting up a local budgie club.
For more information phone 0419 591 617 or 5962 4640.
The weekend after, at Wandin, blacksmiths from around Australia will fire up their forges at Mont De Lancey for the second Australian Blacksmiths’ Convention.
The convention provides a chance to observe masters of the ancient craft including ornamental smithing, knife-making, tool smithing, horseshoeing and armour making.
An added spectacle is medieval re-enactments in the grounds of the historic homestead.
The Blacksmiths’ Convention is on Saturday, 14, and Sunday, 15 October. Phone Oskar Huecherig on 9874 8841 for further details.
Meanwhile, the popular blacksmithing and welding course with Friz Rappold is on again at Mont De Lancey starting on Saturday, 7 October. Mont De Lancey has a fully equipped blacksmith area with all materials and equipment supplied. Phone 5967 1776.