First talk

Koi appreciation (not assassination) Round 2 - part 2.

By Christine Woolger and Bernie Woollands

The third in the series from Christine & Bernie following on from their two previous sessions. This one will concentrate on the finer points of appreciation relating to the patterns associated with the Show Classes Asagi/Shusui, Bekko and Tancho. Then they will endeavour to cover some of the more popular varieties in the Kawarimono Class in equal detail as well as identifying some of the other varieties found in this very diverse class. As usual their presentation will be littered with lots of photographs showing some impressive examples of the chosen varieties along with some average examples for comparisons. Throughout the session there will be several chances to test what you've acquired with some straightforward tests. Don't worry if you haven't attended their previous lectures, this one kicks off with a brief reminder of the basic appreciation points and the terminology used.

At the end of this lecture you will be able to identify the key appreciation points of these varieties and approach Koi Appreciation with a positive view.
 

Second talk

Water quality and water testing

By Syd Mitchell

When The Newmarket Koi Group was formed it was decided that, in addition to lectures on koi appreciation, there should also be lectures on how to improve water quality so as to keep koi in good condition and good health.

This presentation explains the mysteries of water parameters in simple understandable language.  It begins by briefly describing the essential features of a koi pond so that everyone can understand how different aspects such as water flow, aeration and filtration affect the quality of the koi environment and therefore the koi themselves. It then moves on to the subject of water quality, explaining why we test, what we should test for, what are acceptable values and what action should be taken if a parameter is not in the acceptable range.

This will be a combined presentation and question & answer session with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and have them answered in plain language with demonstrations that will help clarify the answers.
 

Third talk

Changes in Shiro Utsuri over the years

By Allan Tait

This variety has developed and diversified so much over the last decade that it was thought that people should be updated as to what a judge is looking for at a show.  The difference in some appreciation points and the reason for them will be discussed and highlighted by slides and video. The approach that different breeders have to the subject will also be discussed to help explain why there are the different styles around now.