Royal Adelaide Show cancels bird competitions amid South Australia H5 bird flu outbreak

The Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society of South Australia announced that all bird‑related competitions at the 2026 Royal Adelaide Show will be cancelled. The decision follows consultation with the state Department of Primary Industries and Regions, veterinarians and industry representatives, and is intended to support the ongoing biosecurity response to a high‑pathogenicity H5 avian influenza outbreak that has killed or sickened more than 140 birds across South Australia, with 87 confirmed and 57 suspected cases.

Society chief executive Will Rayner said protecting animal health and welfare is the highest priority and that the cancellation, though disappointing for exhibitors, was necessary to focus resources on controlling the disease. No H5 detections have been reported in poultry or other livestock, and the risk to human health remains low. The Royal Adelaide Show will continue with its other agricultural displays and events.