BARBECUED, fried, satayed or skewered, the humble chook can be served up in many guises.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But the more refined side of our favourite feathered food will be on display this weekend at Uralla.
It's the little-known world of poultry breeding, where exotic fowls such as Rhode Island reds, langshangs and sebright bantams strut around like prize thoroughbreds. Chook fanciers from across the region will wing it to Uralla Showgrounds tomorrow for the Armidale Poultry Club's popular purebred auction.
Poultry club president Barry Simpson, who has been showing birds for more than 50 years, said it was an addictive hobby.
"I really get my kicks out of breeding something that wins at shows," he said. He said chook enthusiasts came from all walks of life and a pair of the birds could sell for up to $400. About 200 pens are expected at this weekend's auction, the majority young birds. The proceeds from a number of pens will be donated to Armidale Can Assist, while a raffle will be held to raise funds for the drought appeal.
The auction starts at 10.30am with a dedicated viewing time from 9am.
