The Royal Agricultural Society of WA has made the precautionary decision not to proceed with the poultry competition at the 2026 Perth Royal Show due to the evolving H5 avian influenza situation around Australia.
While the absence of recent detections in Western Australia is encouraging, the Poultry Competition would ordinarily bring approximately 750 birds from around 80 exhibitors to Claremont Showground. The Royal Agricultural Society of WA has determined that avoiding this movement of birds around the State is the most responsible approach this year.
The decision follows ongoing consultation with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the WA Poultry Association, with animal welfare and responsible biosecurity remaining the Royal Agricultural Society of WA’s highest priorities.
Royal Agricultural Society of WA CEO Robyn Sermon said the decision balanced responsible biosecurity management with the Show’s important role in celebrating poultry and educating the community.
“While the risk of an outbreak at the show is extremely low given the current status of the disease in WA, we are aware this could change at any time.”
“The Perth Royal Show has an important role in agricultural education, so rather than closing the Poultry Pavilion, we are adapting the program to give visitors new ways to learn about poultry, egg production, caring for birds, and avian influenza.”
In place of the traditional poultry competition the Show will expand its Egg Competition. Open to commercial producers, seasoned exhibitors, hobbyists and junior competitors, the competition will include classes celebrating different egg colours, sizes and types, along with creative decorated egg classes. Entries will open this Monday, 17 August and close at 5.00pm on Monday, 14 September 2026.
The Royal Agricultural Society of WA will also consider a small educational display of birds in the Poultry Pavillion. Any displays featuring birds would only proceed if considered appropriate closer to the Show and in accordance with government and industry advice and all necessary biosecurity requirements.
While poultry has long been a valued feature of the Perth Royal Show, there are many other competitions that will be hosted from Saturday, 26 September to Saturday, 3 October 2026. Last year, more than 10,600 entries were judged across the Show’s competitions, with an extensive program of animals, agricultural exhibits and experiences still available for visitors to enjoy.
For more resources on H5 Avian Influenza in Western Australia, visit the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website here: H5 avian influenza (bird flu) in Western Australia.
ENDS
Media Contact
Aimee Ko
PR & Communications Specialist
Royal Agricultural Society of Western Australia
0412 508 435
