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Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Victoria) official magazine Victorian Shooter February 2019 Busting clays A guide to shotgun shooting with SSAA Victoria ALSO INSIDE • 2019 SSAA SHOT Expo coming to Melbourne • CPM program gets a makeover • PRS takes off in East Gippsland
News
The future of
duck season
SHOT Expo. P3
Meet Indi candidate. P4
depends on us
W
e’re already full
CPM fair go policy. P4-5 swing into the
New Year and
PRS at Buchan. P6 it’s nearly time for our
hunters to go out and en-
Cooper’s Counsel. P8 joy the cultural pursuit of
Denis Moroney
duck hunting.
Eagle Park update. P9 We’re lucky in Victoria President SSAA Victoria
Hunters under fire. P10 to still have a duck season
and it is constantly under
True Grit at Single Action
SHOT Expo Oct 19-20
attack from the antis who use it as a political platform.
Politicians are swayed by public opinion and that makes it important for us to
Nationals. P11 show we are responsible hunters.
So please take care on the wetlands this season and don’t be afraid to report
Shotgun special. P14-19 wrongdoers who threaten the future of duck season.
Sustainable game
SSAA SHOT Expo – the legitimate SSAA SHOT Expo – has moved to October
19-20 (at the same Melbourne Showgrounds location) to take advantage of SSAA SHOT Expo back bigger than ever with a new date.
hunting. P21
W
release of new products. inchester, Swarovski Optik and Mr Allendorf said the most pleasing sports and we will try to make that
A lot of products released in the US at SHOT Show and other major events early Polaris have signed up as Gold aspect of liaising with the industry has pathway as easy as we can.
Clubs and Branches. P22 in the year take time to come to Australia. Sponsors for the SSAA SHOT been the overwhelming support after “We see the number of hunters and
That means the decision to have the event in October gives distributors enough
Miltary Rifle Club time to get these new releases onto their SSAA SHOT Expo stands.
Expo to be held in Melbourne on Octo-
ber 19-20.
the former organiser, Exhibitions Group,
abandoned the event.
firearms owners growing in Victoria
every year and that’s great news for the
Anzac Shoot and State It’s also a good time to be thinking about Christmas presents and we’re looking
forward to a bigger and better Melbourne event this year.
They will be among more than 150 “I think the response has shown that future of the sport.”
Championships. P27 Speaking of expos, SSAA Victoria will be bringing its five hunting clubs together
exhibitors expected to display the latest
in firearms, hunting and outdoor gear
the industry understands the stability
and sound management that SSAA
Tickets for the SSAA SHOT Expo are
now on sale. You can find the link on the
for the Wild Deer Expo which will be held on March 30.
Victorian
Shooter
from more than 500 brands at the brings to the event,” he said. ssaashotexpo.org.au website.
It’s a great opportunity to come along and see what we have to offer in the Melbourne Showgrounds. SSAA Victoria CEO Jack Wegman said
hunting space and a wonderful collaboration by the different hunting clubs.
Our large 12m by 6m stand will show that we are a major hunting organisation
SSAA SHOT Expo is Australia’s biggest
and most popular firearms and hunting
he was looking forward to a successful
event.
Come see us at
The Victorian Shooter is a quarterly
with many opportunities for hunters.
Also coming up next month is the annual State Conference where delegates
expo attracting huge crowds who want
to see the biggest and best brands
“We have open channels of communi-
cation and are collaborating closely with
Wild Deer Expo
S
magazine produced by the Sporting from each of our clubs and branches are invited to discuss the issues and hear together in the one place. Level Up Events to ensure it’s even better SAA Victoria’s hunting clubs
Shooters Association of Australia from guest speakers. will
(Victoria). Unit 3/26 Ellingworth Parade, “The industry response is always very than before,” he said. be coming together on Ma
This year we have club administration expert and former Collingwood Football rch
Box Hill 3128 positive, and the new date has also One of the focuses of the 2019 30 for the Wild Deer Expo.
Club chief financial officer Terry Dillon making a presentation on how to boost been very well received,” said Michael Melbourne SSAA SHOT Expo will be on The five clubs include Dee
Editor and Graphic Designer: participation. rstalk-
Allendorf from Level Up Events who is new shooters with seminars and activi- ers, Field Hunters, Duck Hu
Justin Law Researcher Dr Suzanna Fay from the University of Queensland will also be nters,
organising the event in close partnership ties designed to encourage more people Working Gundog Associatio
speaking at the event, as will my fellow board director Marion Barnes. n of
Disclaimer: The views expressed in with SSAA Victoria and SSAA National. to get involved with the shooting sports. Australia and Big Game Rifle
some articles and by some contributers Marion has been very effective at getting publicity for events at her Shepparton Club.
“October is that sweet spot when “In our conversations with some who They will be part of the
are not necessarily those of SSAA Shotgun Club and will explain some of her methods. SSAA
new products that everyone saw online conducted market research at previ- Victoria stand at the expo to
Victoria. It will be part of the State Conference program which is designed to assist our be held
during SHOT Show in the US come to ous SHOT Expos, we were surprised on March 30-31.
The Victorian Shooter online: many clubs with administration and membership. Australia. to learn that 30 per cent of those who It’s a great opportunity to see
www.ssaavic.com.au Our clubs represent the different disciplines offered by SSAA Victoria. At Nation- how
“It means the thousands of shooters attend don’t have a firearms licence,” Mr you can get involved in our
al level we have appointed a professional manager to help support the disciplines various
Email alerts: Subscribe to SSAA and hunters who come to SSAA SHOT Wegman said. hunting disciplines and get mo
so this should help our Association continue to grow. re out
Victoria’s news alert. Email state_ Expo will get to see the very latest prod- “This tells us that SSAA SHOT Expo of your SSAA membership.
office@ssaavic.com.au Safe shooting ucts fresh off the boat.” is seen as a pathway into the shooting
2 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 3
News News
SSAA member A fair go for CPM volunteers
shoots for Indi Mentor initiative to provide more CPM opportunities for properly accreditated SSAA members
T
he Conservation and Pest Manage-
This article was supplied by The Nationals
ment program operated by SSAA
Victoria has a new assistant manag-
CPM volunteer checklist
N
Deputy Leader Bridget McKenzie. er and a new mentor initiative. ew CPM assistant manager Sav- good news for our CPM volunteers,”
A
spiring political candidate for the Fed- Savvas Savva took on the role in vas Savva says the process of Savvas says.
eral seat of Indi Northern Victoria, Mark January to fill the vacancy left by Rhys obtaining a Section 37 permit The steps for an experienced shooter
Byatt has been a long-time member of Coote and says giving members a fair required to use a firearm in National to become an active SSAA Victoria
the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia. go is a policy he is continuing with the Parks has been streamlined. CPM volunteer are:
Mark was raised on a dairy farm at Cudgewa program. A Section 37 is required along with 1. Become a SSAA member.
in far North East Victoria, where as a teenag- “The door to the CPM program is open CPM accreditation before a SSAA 2. Contact the CPM assistant
er, shooting was part of a day-to-day rural life. to all SSAA Victoria members with some Victoria volunteer can participate in a manager (cpm@ssaaavic.com.au or
In those times as a school student at Corryong level hunting and shooting experience,” CPM program. 8892 2777)
High, Mark recalls “shooting was also a regular he says. “It was an area that had been a little 3. Attend an accreditation
activity within the school sporting curriculum, “We want to provide opportunities for slow in the past, but we have worked course to prove competency.
with regular clay target shoots at the Corryong our members to hunt pests or take part with Parks Victoria to ensure they 4. Obtain a Section 37 from
clay target range. It was a great experience for in conservation programs to assist Parks come through much quicker which is Parks Victoria. CPM Assistant Manager, Savvas Savva.
regional students of the day”. Victoria.
Firsthand experience to impress “We also want to ensure we are Meanwhile, existing
Mark has since had an impressive work career and involvement in leading key region- delivering a professional service to Parks active CPM volunteers Controlling foxes is
al development agencies and community associations. He was in local government as Victoria, so we are developing ways to have been going a CPM objective.
a councillor of eight years (including five years as Mayor) with the City of Wodonga. bring those two goals together.” through a reaccredita-
Mark is now putting his hat in the ring for a seat in the Federal Parliament, endeav- The CPM program commenced in tion process to ensure
ouring to win the Federal Electorate of Indi as the National Party of Australia’s pre-se- 2007 when the State Government best practice is being
lected candidate. entrusted SSAA Victoria to provide observed.
Regional experience at the table skilled volunteers to control pest animals Savvas says he has
“I’m often asked, ‘Why politics?’ My response is that my heart is in the region, I am a and achieve conservation outcomes on been notifying active
product of the region, the majority of my career has been in regional development, Parks Victoria-controlled land. CPM volunteers of the
and I believe strongly in the potential of regional Australia as a key part of the nation’s An updated accreditation course was requirement to obtain
future growth and prosperity agenda. I like to think I have something to offer at the implemented in early 2017 and that the current CPM card
political table for the betterment of regional people”. was revised last year with the practical by completing a reac-
Mark has extensive government, business and community networks. Importantly, shooting component upgraded to better creditation course.
he has a very good understanding of all tiers of government, and has well established replicate field shooting. “We have new CPM
experience in advocating for a fair share across rural and regional Victoria including The new mentor program will mean programs starting in
in multiple terms leading Regional Cities Victoria and Regional Capitals Australia. With SSAA Victoria members will be able May which will provide
such a diverse and dynamic background, it’s amazing he finds time to run an Angus to participate in a CPM program soon hunting opportunities
cattle farm with his wife, and still get the odd shot in eradicating feral pests. after they have passed the accreditation for properly accredited
SSAA membership course. volunteers,” he says.
Mark has been a member of SSAA since 1996 and is a long-term member of the The mentor program works by pairing “So if you’re a new
Antique and Historical Firearm Collectors Guild of Victoria. Mark says he has been experienced CPM shooters with newly member with some
impressed with how the SSAA has responded to the expectations of modern society accredited volunteers to ensure they are hunting experience,
with the development of sensible and workable policies and standards that balance getting proper guidance. then sign up for the
community outlooks and the needs of a diverse range of shooter cohorts. Mark says, “A CPM operation is typically handled next accreditation
“Responsible management of sports shooting has long been at the heart of the SSAA’s adhere to the rules set out by Park Victo- ing those animals before being consid-
by a team of eight shooters and the course.
“If you’re an existing active CPM volun- ria.
charter, with great success. With feral pest numbers continually on the rise, I can ered for the CPM program.
tendency has been to only select that
see a day when pest management strategies and practices will routinely incorporate It means that the volunteers selected “CPM is not a training exercise or
team from the ranks of those with previ- teer who hasn’t done a reaccreditation
the value of SSAA member shooters in practice. This largely volunteer cohort, if used to take part must demonstrate previous education program,” says CPM assistant
ous CPM experience,” Savvas says. course within the last 18 months, then
appropriately and within the best possible governance frameworks, can perform a hunting experience and marksmanship manager Savvas Savva.
“Our new mentor program will see get in touch and we’ll ensure you’re
valuable service to society, particularly in rural and regional communities”. competency. “SSAA Victoria does have training for
newly accredited volunteers included in right to go.”
Enjoying a shot Volunteers who successfully complete those who want to improve their skills.
that team of shooters so the experienced The next course will be on April 14 and
Now Mark enjoys time shooting with his son Mitcham (also a SSAA member), getting the accreditation course can hunt a full “However, CPM demands a high level
participants can show them the ropes. another is scheduled for September.
out occasionally for an afternoon or spotlighting excursion, although he admits to variety of species from rabbits to goats of skill and the practical component of
“It means we can maintain a level of
not allocating enough time to get out regularly. We suspect the schedule might get to deer. our accreditation course is designed to
professionalism while ensuring those Am I CPM material?
even tighter if he is successful in the campaign for Indi! I’m sure many sporting clubs However, they will need to show that ensure we’re putting competent shoot-
new to the CPM program will get equal The Conservation and Pest Management
would welcome him for a shoot down the track. they are capable of effectively dispatch- ers on the ground.”
opportunity to participate.” program is professionally run and must
4 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 5
At The Range
PRS shooting takes off
Lead dust:
in East Gippsland Reduce the Risks
P
recision Rifle Series (PRS) shooting
is fast becoming the challenging
new alternative to traditional target
shooting at SSAA East Gippsland’s Bu-
chan Rifle Range.
The branch has hosted two official PRS
events which attracted around 40 shoot-
ers each time from throughout Australia.
The popularity among the V19
members who shoot there has meant
that the branch is now holding its own
club-level shoots.
Precision Rifle is a dynamic discipline,
challenging the shooter in different
• Eating, drinking and
ways. This may include positional shoot-
ing off unusual and improvised rests and smoking when shooting
barricades, long-range engagements,
movement between firing positions, all can put you at risk.
on a time limit.
The objective is to test marksmanship
and to challenge a shooter’s ability to • Wash your hands and face
problem solve, improvise and adapt to
varying and changing situations. after using firearms.
“This is one of the most diverse styles
of shooting you will find,” says the PRS
website.
“One minute you may be shooting
Any amount of lead exposure is harmful to expose your family and children.
while laying prone, then next you'll be human health. People using firearms, handling Your children are especially at risk
shooting from five different positions ammunition or visiting shooting ranges are Children are more vulnerable to the effects of
on a weird looking piece of timber, and at risk of inhaling or swallowing lead dust or lead exposure. Extra caution should be taken
moments later you will be transitioning fumes, and to a lesser extent, absorbing lead when attending the ranges. Ensure your body
from a pistol to a rifle to complete the month for general shooting, and the through the skin. and clothing are free of lead dust before em-
stage. first Sunday of each month for a black
“The joy of PRS matches is the creativ- powder shoot.
Protect your family bracing children or handling toys and personal
ity and diversity of the stages. By not Qualified range officers are on hand to Don’t bring lead home with you. effects. If you are pregnant, consider the risks
putting major restrictions on the match run shoots and assist the many members Lead is ‘sticky’ and can be transported from of lead exposure to yourself and your baby
director you could be encountering all from throughout the east of the state a shooting range on your body, clothes and and take appropriate precautions to minimise
sorts of things. who come to shoot there. equipment, into a car and your home. It may exposure to lead.
“Firstly, the stages must be safe and Branch President Steve Waddell said
in some way mimic something you may they are always on the lookout for
encounter in a real world hunting envi-
ronment.
“Aside from that, it is pretty free rein The 500m Buchan Rifle Range, where
people keen to take advantage of the
facilities.
“We’re a pretty active branch and it’s
Pregnant? Lead dust can affect
within the range rules, which is why this
has been so popular with such a large
range of shooters.”
the branch holds its events, was recently
refurbished and has 12 undercover
shooting benches on a concrete floor.
great to see new faces at the range,” he
said.
“We have regular meetings at Bairns-
your unborn child
SSAA’s East Gippsland branch has To make it a social event, there is an dale and those wanting to get involved
embraced the series and is looking at undercover barbecue area with toilets, are more than welcome.” SSAA Victoria: Promoting safe and responsible firearms use
increasing the number of club-level plenty of shade and picnic tables. The range is situated 65km east of Visit ssaavic.com.au for more information
events through the year to add to its The range is open on the second Bairnsdale on the Buchan-Bruthen Road.
calendar. Wednesday and fourth Sunday of each Visit www.egbssaa.com.au for details. These guidelines are detailed in Information for Gun Shooters: Managing Exposure
6 The Victorian Shooter to Lead. State of Victoria, Department of Health and Human Services, October 2018.
News News
Here come the protestors Eagle Park
H roof update
Cooper’s
ere comes Duck Season 2019.
And with it, the protesters.
For hunters, it’s easy to get
T
he new 171m Main Range 1 roof
Counsel
angry with the abuse hurled by those
who only seem to want the clash. While is coming! But it has taken longer
it’s hard to legally do something about than we had hoped.
it, there are ways to take these protes- Construction is expected to commence
tors to task. by the end of March and take up to five
The Wildlife Act 1975 has sections weeks to complete.
which create offences against public To explain how things have transpired,
safety, but even if a protester was part of the roof was blown back by a
charged, it would be weeks or months freak gust of wind on September 15 last
before the case was heard in court. Peter Cooper Lawyer year. The insurance company was imme-
Instead, a banning notice pursuant to The yellow area shows the new subdivision’s proximity to Lake Connewarre. diately notified and an engineer assessor
Sec 58 G of the Act only needs police was sent to determine whether or not
and Game Management Authority
officers to form a belief on reasonable
by what they are carrying, as what they
are carrying cannot be guaranteed to
(Signed) as a Statutory Declaration.
A Statutory Declaration is a very
SSAA Victoria submission the roof could be repaired or completely
replaced.
to council puts hunters first
grounds that the offending conduct has be under their control. formal document. It needs to be made It took some weeks for that process
taken place. It follows therefore that a protestor in front of a specified person (police/ to be finalised and in November it was
They can then immediately ban an carrying a two-metre banner should pharmacist/solicitor/JP) but it is simple finally agreed the roof needed to be
A
offender from a wetland. have two metres added to the 10 metres and compelling as evidence. SSAA Victoria submission has the lake and that the council should not completely replaced.
A hunter can provide the authorities to make 12. I conclude by saying this is about helped an independent panel take action if there were complaints.” A demolition permit was acquired in
with material that can be reasonably An authorised officer should be asked a mindset. As shooters and hunters, conclude duck season at the Lake Part of the SSAA Victoria submission December and the remaining roof was
used to support a banning notice. to direct the protestor back to where particularly duck hunters, we have Connewarre State Game Reserve should was quoted in the final 101-page panel removed before Christmas.
Section 58 C of the Act refers to enter- the extension does not create a risk to accepted regulation grudgingly, but we not be impacted by a nearby residential report to the council, including: It’s a bad time of the year to get
ing and remaining in areas without the the 10-metre separation. accept it. development. “The sound of firearms can be discon- anything done because the building
appropriate documents. Sec 58 E refers to hindering, obstruct- The enforcement officers enforce The panel was appointed by the certing to those uneducated in their use industry is out of action until mid January,
This is the offence of being in the ing, interfering and harassing. regulations and the officers who are in Geelong City Council to consider a range and function. which is when the building plans for the
wrong place (specified hunting area) at All of these terms have broad legal the prescribed hunting areas are often of issues arising from the new residential “A lack of understanding can lead to new roof finally came through.
the wrong time (during hunting hours). meanings so we just need to create a not there in the regulated times. It is an land subdivision at Leopold, adjacent to unnecessary and unfounded concerns The good news was council approved
If the person is not in possession of a factual statement as to what the protest- issue of resources. the lake. about safety. The rezoning of farmland the new plans. The bad news was that
longarm licence and GMA game permit, er has done. Therefore, what we need to do is Among the considerations was the to General Residential Zone will bring in them was the requirement for 84
then they are committing an offence. To issue a Banning Order the officer disrupt the protestors. If the enforce- potential for new residents moving into many more people into hearing distance concrete footings, which were not part
If an authorised officer or police does not need to have proof these ment officers have less to do by merely the subdivision to object to duck shoot- of shooting activity.” of the original estimate.
officer is not there at the time, a hunter things happened. He just must honestly issuing banning notices and they are ing on the lake. As a result, the panel concluded It has meant going back to the under-
can take a description of the offender. It believe it on reasonable grounds that receiving a simple, concise, legally SSAA Victoria was one of several that the potential for land-use conflicts writer to approve the additional cost.
might be appearance, clothing and one it took place. For a hunter to provide admissible statement to assist them, submitters who raised concerns about between the proposed development We expect that approval to come
photo with a date and time signature. evidence that it did take place, we then they can act. potential conflict between duck hunting and duck hunting activities was not suffi- through in the second week of March.
When the police or GMA officer recommend they be prepared to make If they do not act then your organ- and the residential development. cient to justify recommending against After that, the builder can then
arrives, they can then ask the offender a simple, factual statement in the form isation will have a large database of “All too often we hear about people the Amendment or the permit. commence construction hopefully by
to produce their longarm licence and of a Statutory Declaration. statutory declarations, which it can then moving to an area where there is an In other words, if the Geelong Council the end of March.
GMA permit. If the officer has a clear For example: use for lobbying and making change for established activity and then complain adopts the panel’s recommendations, The range will be completely closed as
statement and a good description from My name is …. the future. It’s a lot more effective than it out of existence,” said SSAA Victoria duck hunting on the Lake Connewarre the new footings are installed. The range
a witness they could form an honest and My address has been provided to getting angry. Hunting Development Manager David State Game Reserve would be allowed will then reopen in staggered sections
reasonable belief that there are grounds (authorised officer, eg. the police). Laird. to continue without fear of protest from and be fully reopened when the works
for a banning order, even if the protes- On (date) I was at (eg. Carpenters Lawyer Peter Cooper has been SSAA “So we wanted to make sure that neighbouring land holders. are completed in early May.
tor refused to show the documents. Swamp). Victoria’s counsel when it comes to hunting on a State Game Reserve, which “It’s a win for us because it shows Main Range 2 will continue to be
Sec 58 D of the Act refers to approach. At 10:30am five people (eg. three legal matters concerning firearms. His was established by hunters, is not threat- common sense can prevail at local usedd during this process.
It is often known as the 10-metre men and two women) wearing clown services are now available at State Office ened by this new development. government level,” Mr Laird said.
offence. costumes shouted “Hey, Hey, Ho, Ho; in Box Hill. “We said that the proposed develop- “We are also pleased our submission
It is often interpreted by police and Duck Hunting has to go” for about five Peter attends the office three days a ment should not directly impact hunting was given due consideration and used
GMA officers by the drawing of a minutes. week and provides legal advice to Asso- on Lake Connewarre, as the distance is to argue for this outcome.
10-metre line horizontally or across the I have pointed them out to (name/ ciation members at a third off his normal great enough to eliminate any possibility “This is one of many submissions we
ground between the hunter and the number of police officer) at 10:45am. rate. of shot fallout. have made on various issues affecting
protestor. However, I suggest that, the I attach a single photograph with To make an appointment, call Peter “We also said that land purchasers hunting and firearms use as we continue The wind damage to the
protestors’ distance needs to be judged date and time notification. Cooper Lawyer on 0430 468 127. should be told about duck hunting on to fight for a fair go for our members.” roof in September last year.
8 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 9
News News
Duck hunters
short changed
Shorter season, reduced bag limits and Liberal
MP attack puts duck hunters on back foot.
D
uck season has been shortened Victoria Parliament in December last year.
and bag limits reduced in re- The newly elected Member for Brigh-
sponse to questionable science ton attacked duck hunting in his speech,
about duck numbers in Victoria. but at the meeting with Mr Laird and Mr
The declaration of a nine-week season Law said that he did not support a ban of
with a bag limit of four birds on the first duck season.
weekend and five per day for the remain- “I wouldn’t use the B word (ban),” he
der of the season has been criticised by told the SSAA Victoria representatives.
the Association. Since then, Mr Newbury has shown
Hunting Development Manager, David support for a ban by posting a link to a
Laird, said that SSAA Victoria and FGA animal activist commissioned poll which
had called for an unaltered season in showed more than 50 per cent of Victori-
submissions to the GMA as they deliber- ans wanted duck season stopped.
ated on the coming season. When SSAA members attempted to
True Grit on display at Eagle Park
“Both Associations’ submissions were point out Mr Newbury’s promise to not
reasoned and clearly demonstrated why support duck season ban on his Facebook
a normal season should have been put in page, their comments were deleted.
place,” he said. “Animal activism seems to be the new
“Those submissions were clearly trend among the protest movement and
ignored. It is difficult to understand how perhaps Mr Newbury is seeing some Little River Raiders to host the country’s best at the Single Action National Championships
the decision to make the announced political mileage in that,” Mr Law said.
F
changes has been reached.” “We can’t see why else a member of amous John Wayne film True Grit is
SSAA Victoria called for a change to the Liberal Party, which has recently the theme of this year’s Single Ac- Single Action National Championship Program
the current arrangements in determining been supportive of the shooting sports, tion National Championships which Wednesday, April 3-Sunday, April 7
the duck season and to make the process would oppose duck hunting.” will be hosted by SSAA’s Little River Raid- April 3: Long Range Rifle Events
much more transparent. The 2019 duck hunting season will ers at Eagle Park April 3-7. Single Shot Blackpowder and Smokeless, Lever Action Rifle
“It is difficult for hunters to accept the be modified from 12 to nine weeks National Party Deputy Leader Senator Calibre, Lever Action Pistol Calibre and .22.
decisions being made where there is no commencing on Saturday 16 March 2019 Bridget McKenzie will officially open the Cowboy Clays (5-Stand); 3-Member Team Event using pistol,
clear scientific basis to them,” Mr Laird and closing on Sunday 19 May 2019. event which will attract competitors from rifle and shotgun; and a Derringer Match.
said. Hunters will be restricted to four game around Australia. April 4: Pat Garrett – 4 Stages
“The GMA will not even disclose what ducks per day on the opening weekend, “We’re expecting more than 150 Warm up Stages (3), Speed Events and Shotgun Alley.
its recommendations to the Minister are with a five game duck per day bag limit for competitors this year who come from all April 5: Official opening
and on what basis they have been made. the remainder of the nine week season. the states and territories,” said Little River 6 stages of events for high-level competitors.
“The Association expects decisions on The hunting of Blue-winged Shoveler Raiders’ Doug Berwick. April 6: Another 6 stages are shot today
game management to be based on facts will again be prohibited throughout the “A number of those competing also Main dinner, including costume competition and raffles.
and science, not as it appears, on opinion, entire season. compete in the Single Action Shooting April 7: Top-Gun Shoot-off
prejudice or political expediency. We will As per last year, hunting on the Society (SASS) World Championships. Raffle draws and presentations.
continue to work towards that goal.” opening weekend of the 2019 season will “That event, which is held in New
This year’s season has also come under commence at 9am on Saturday and 8am Mexico, is called End of Trail and is the still able to enter and participate in the accuracy. Contestants shoot at metal game, the contestants are dressed in
increased pressure from animal activist on Sunday across the whole of Victoria biggest single action event in the world. world championships.” targets with pistols, lever-action rifles and period costume accordingly. They also
groups and politicians, including, surpris- as part of a two-year trial of opening the “But that doesn’t mean you need to The upcoming national event is held shotguns in a variety of stages which are have registered nicknames borrowed
ingly, the Liberal Party’s James Newbury. season during daylight hours. For the be a world beater to compete here. One under the auspices of SASS, which is an scripted in specifically designed scenari- from the time to make it as much fun as
SSAA Victoria Hunting Development rest of the season, hunting times will of the many good things about single international membership organisation os and shooting sequences. it is competition.
Manager David Laird and Communica- revert to the standard period of half an action, or cowboy action shooting, is formed in 1987 to promote the sport of The scenarios generally replicate ‘Old For more information about the Little
tions Manager Justin Law met with Mr hour before sunrise to half an hour after there is no minimum ranking in SASS. single action. West’ movies or historic events from US River Raiders, visit www.littleriverraiders.
Newbury after his maiden speech to sunset. “So whatever your skill level, you are Single action is a test of speed and cowboy history and in the spirit of the com.au
10 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 11
Australia’s biggest
shooting sports,
ssaashotexpo.org.au hunting and outdoors expo
• 150+ exhibitors to check out
The original and best is back! • Educational talks and demos on the latest gear, equipment, techniques and more
• SSAA Field to Fork demonstrations
• WGAA Working Gun Dog demonstrations
• SSAA indoor shooting range for adults and children 12+ years
• Archery range for adults and children of all ages
• R-Licence testing
SHOT
• Plenty of activities for the children
• Win great prizes
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EXPO a l e n o w !
October 19-20 t i c k e t s o n s
Melbourne Showgrounds
October 19-20
ssaashotexpo.org.au
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Feature Feature
Give it a shot(gun)
We turn the spotlight on clay target shooting with a look at what
SSAA Victoria can offer at Eagle Park and Shepparton ranges
F
ive-stand shooting is a great introduction to the clay tar-
get shotgun sports but if you want to make it really chal- Little River Sporting Clays
lenging, Sporting Clays is where it’s at. Location: SSAA Victoria Eagle Park Range, Gifkins Road,
Sometimes described as “golf with a shotgun”, Sporting Clays Little River
is designed to replicate field shooting for duck, quail or rabbits Contact: Robert Matuch (treasurer)
and takes place on natural terrain. Phone: 0439 717 183
SSAA Victoria’s Eagle Park range is home to Little River Sport- Email: robmat6@bigpond.com
ing Clays (LRSC), a club which hosts around 100 people for its Facebook: @Littleriversportingclays
regular shoot each month. Club Events
Sitting on top of the mountain, the shooting grounds are Practice: 2nd Sunday of each month
unique with rises and gullies creating an environment to test 75-targets or 100-targets competition: 4th Sunday
the best shooters.
“It’s one of the best locations to have sporting clays anywhere Rob says.
in the country,” says LRSC treasurer, Rob Matuch. “At LRSC, we have a famous target we call the Mixo Rabbit,
“The hills and small gullies mean you can throw targets from which slowly rolls down the hill. Hitting that always gets a big
a great height or have them spring from low spots to make it a cheer.”
different experience every time you shoot. One person in the squad is nominated the referee and they
“You’re not just throwing along flat ground, you can create a will trigger the remote control to start the traps. They might
variety of challenging targets.” come as singles or in pairs and a total of 50 or 100 (depending
A day at LRSC competition would start with you being allo- on the competition) are thrown for each shooter.
cated to a squad of around five or six shooters. “We set the traps differently to create a new experience
The squad will move to eight stations set up along the course every month,” Rob says.
(or ground, as it’s called) where clays are thrown from a series “With the terrain we have and the size of the area, we’re also
of traps arranged in different locations. pretty lucky that we can set up two grounds for a day’s shoot.
“You can create high birds, low birds, quick birds or rabbits That means we can get through twice as many shooters, so it’s
and other ground targets by where you position the traps,” getting pretty popular.”
14 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 15
Feature Feature
What is clay target shooting?
T
here are many clay target shotgun competitions, which vary in the type of
targets thrown, the angle, height and speed at which they are thrown, and
the field layouts from which shooters shoot.
Sporting Clays
The area of clay target shotgun shooting that has shown the greatest growth world-
wide in recent years is Sporting Clays. This competition is usually set up in a natural
bushland setting, with the traps presenting clay targets that simulate hunting a variety
of game such as ducks, rabbits, quail and pheasants. The traps can be concealed in
the bush or on towers, with the targets only visible in cleared areas. The targets can
be shot over a course of six or seven ‘stands’, where shooters are shown targets in
singles or doubles of various sizes and colors, and shoot each station with their squad
of five or six shooters in turn. Most courses comprise 25 targets and the degree of
difficulty can vary from easy to extremely hard.
5-Stand
The SSAA has an interesting variation of Sporting Clays called 5-Stand. This is a clever
and space-saving way of achieving much the same as a traditional Sporting Clays
course, but in a much more economical space. 5-Stand has five shooting stands
or stations that are lined up in a straight line close to each other. The stands are
surrounded by six to eight numbered traps, which throw targets in every possible
direction, including from behind, towers, vertical shots and rabbits, with all targets
generally converging in an area in front of the stands. Competitors rotate through
the five stands and receive an identical mix of targets in a random order, with single
and double targets presented. This provides a real test of a shooter’s ability to read
Buying your first shotgun
targets quickly and shoot them before they get beyond the effective range of a
shotgun.
5-Stand is conducted with a computer and the course can be as easy or as devious
as the course-setter decides. One round comprises 25 targets, and because the
competition is compact and relatively quick to shoot, it can be very tempting to shoot
Keen clay shooter Marion Barnes offers tips for buying a shotgun. five or six rounds in a day. There are several other versions of 5-Stand, including
COMPAK and Birdbrain, where the rules vary slightly.
Marion Barnes is a member of the
Shepparton Shotgun Club and a Shepparton Shotgun Club Low Field
SSAA Victoria board member. She is Location: SSAA Victoria Shepparton Low Field (or Field) Shotgun is shot off pads that are either level with or 1m back
relatively new to the shotgun sports, Range, 1170 Midland Highway, from the front of the trap house. They may also be 1m either above or below the trap.
having started three years ago, but Shepparton There are 10 shooting pads, five on either side of the trap house, that are placed 1.2
says she is now fully hooked and a Contact: Geoff Morton to you which you’d prefer. to 1.8m apart. The shooting pads are 3 to 5m from the trap house. Squads of up to six
keen promoter of the clay target Phone: 0417 337 494 Once you decide what type of shotgun competitors shoot alternately from their designated positions. Competitors will rotate
disciplines. We asked Marion for Facebook: @ssaashepparton you want, you should try different over the 10 positions, five at a time, until the competition is completed.
some advice for new shooters. Club Events models and sizes to see what feels best.
Practice: 2nd Saturday of each month. Each brand has different stock shapes High Field
I
love shooting sporting clays and when 5-stand, skeet and tower 10.30am and sizes and will be in different barrel High Field Shotgun has similar shooting positions and routines as Low Field; however,
I bought my first gun I relied heavily Sporting clays competition: 4th lengths. Skeet guns might be 28 inches the trap is located in a tower 10m above the ground, enabling competitors on both
on the knowledge and expertise of the Saturday of each month long while the most common for clay sides of the tower to look up and backwards to sight the target as it leaves the trap.
person behind the counter. and trap are 30 or 32 inches.
I had received some good advice along Left: Shepparton Shotgun Club To find which fits best, strike the pose Trap and Skeet
the way but being able to try different member Marion Barnes with her for shooting and then mount the gun, Many SSAA members enjoy participating in other variations of clay target shooting,
shotguns is really valuable in making a beautiful Miroku 9000 shotgun, also which is throwing it up to your shoulder. including Trap and Skeet. In Trap or Down the Line (DTL), a trap is concealed in
good decision. pictured above. Look for how it comes up to the sweet a house and throws rising and going away targets at unknown angles in front of
There are some basics that can help spot in your shoulder, how much you shooters, who shoot from handicap positions on five lanes radiating from behind
you before you get to the counter and can see down the barrel, does it sit flat the trap house.
help you ask the right questions. A slightly heavier shotgun will reduce in front of you, that’s a different gun and point well. Skeet shooting is shot over nine shooting pads positioned in a semicircle between
Firstly, knowing the different types recoil making it more suited to sporting again. You would probably use a trap Stock fit is most important because a a high tower trap 3m above ground on one side and a low trap at ground level
of shotgun. You can have a field gun, clays because you can be a bit more gun, which has a high rib down the well-fitting gun is a beautiful gun to use on the other side. The flight and speed of the targets is fixed, but as shooters move
which is lighter and more for hunting accurate. barrel to help you point. and means you can comfortably shoot around the shooting pads, they are presented with a variety of single and double
because you’re carrying it around, but Or if you are shooting down the line, Some people successfully shoot all all day. One that doesn’t fit so well can targets at different angles.
the trade-off is you get more recoil. where the clays are coming straight out those styles with the same gun, so it’s up Continued Page 18
16 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 17
Feature Feature
From Page 17
lead to poor aim and a sore shoulder!
The shooters physique will determine the choice and the
gun shop assistant will be able to help you there.
You will generally find something pretty close and that
might do if you’re on a budget, or you can get the gun
professionally fitted up if you want to pay a bit extra.
Once you’ve settled on your gun, you must understand
how it shoots different ammo. There are lots of different
types for different applications.
I won’t go into them all but a few things I learned is that This event was sponsored
it’s not an exact science and you should pattern test your by Intoshooting Shepparton. Above left: April Thompson and brother Chris Thompson won their
gun. I can’t stress how important that is – it’s like sighting in grades. Above middle: Tom Bilney showed he is a top prospect after
a rifle and will make all the difference to how you perform taking out the Juniors. Above right: High Gun Chris Brown.
Top shooters
in the field.
Especially if you’re a duck hunter, patterning is very import-
ant.
What you’ll find is how your gun shoots in relation to how
it fits and the ammo you use. It might be the stock is not quite
at Shepparton
the right shape which can make you shoot high or low, so
patterning will tell you if you need to get it adjusted.
As for ammo, there are a lot of different shot sizes and
speeds but for clay shooting 7.5 is very common.
T
The faster the shot, the more recoil, so you need to figure he State’s top clay shooters son, 2nd Shane O’Brien, 3rd Nap
Bianca Norris was
out what you can handle on the day. You might put through came to the SSAA Sheppar- Iranios;
second in Sub-Juniors.
150 shots on a 100-target day, so it comes down to how ton Range for the Victorian B grade: 1st Matt Hipwell, 2nd
much recoil you can handle on the day. 5-Stand Titles on February 23-24. Stew Hopper, 3rd Steve Palmer;
I use 1325ft/s (it goes as high as 1500) but I started out The more than 80 shooters C grade: 1st Tony Carbone, 2nd
with 1200s with 7.5 at 21 grams, which is a very light load included top class competitors Peter Brown, 3rd Mick McKeller;
and very slow. such as Chris Brown, who won Ladies: 1st April Thompson, 2nd
A faster load means you don’t to lead so much and it comes High Gun, and Tom Bilney who Vicki Johnston, 3rd Krystal Butler;
down to how good you are at swinging the gun through the took out the Junior title. Other Vets: 1st Trevor Beach, 2nd Ron
target (gun speed) to choose which speed might suit best. results were: Purss, 3rd Bruce Duncan;
Once I had my gun fitted properly, I could use a heavier AA grade: 1st Rhys McGauran, Juniors: 1st Tom Bilney, 2nd
load because I could handle the recoil better, so that has 2nd Peter Hall, 3rd John Xavier Russell, 3rd Harry Wilkie;
helped me a lot. Younger; Sub Juniors: 1st Dale Hunt, 2nd
After that, if you want to get really good, you could try A grade: 1st Chris Thomp- Bianca Norris.
coaching. But even without it, smashing clays with a well-fit- Above: AA grade winner Rhys McGauran.
ting shotgun is loads of fun and I highly recommend it. Below: Stephen Norris aims low.
Vicki Anstice in action. C Grade winner Tony Carbone with A Grade winner Chris Thompson.
18 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 19Feature Feature
Game hunting in Africa for a sustainable future
Hunting, conservation, economics and human welfare. SSAA Victoria Hunting Development manager David Laird on an African success story
M
ost hunters understand that
hunting in Africa has a valuable
role to play in the conservation
of wildlife species and can be a strong Isaak and Marius
economic driver. That economic impact earn good
can have significant positive effects on money for their
human welfare. families thanks
Unfortunately, emotion-driven ideol- to game hunting
ogy from anti-hunting groups tends to on the farm
drown out the positive messages. where their
I have always understood the concepts village is located.
on an intellectual level and was fortunate
to experience and witness first-hand the
benefits of hunting in Africa in July last
year.
I booked my African hunt through
spread poverty every job that is created incentives for the people of Africa to
Khomas Highland Hunting Safaris in
is enormously important. value and conserve the wildlife.
Namibia. This is a family-run enterprise
Currently Namibia is very supportive of Namibia has a number of conservan-
operating mainly on the family’s 8500ha
hunting, though a recent ban on social cies where groups of landowners get
farm located about an hour’s drive west
media posts relating to hunting demon- together and cooperatively manage
of the country’s capital, Windhoek.
strates that the country is sensitive to populations across larger areas. This
The farm is on undulating country,
international criticism. leads to true sustainability, especially
rising to higher mountains. The land-
All credible information suggests for the larger animals that tend to move
scape reminded me a lot of outback
that other African countries that have across bigger areas of the landscape.
Australia, the major difference being
stopped hunting due to external pres- Harvest levels can be set for individual
the wide variety of animals that were
sure are actually going backwards with properties and for the region as a whole,
uniquely African that inhabit the area.
their wildlife populations and manage- ensuring that all stakeholders benefit
It’s a beef-producing farm but with
ment. and that the resource is not over-exploit-
the hunting revenue it now generates,
Standards of living for all those who ed.
the family has been able to reduce cattle
rely directly and indirectly on hunting There is certainly a place for game
numbers over the years. This has allowed
have fallen and animals with no poten- viewing and it is quite compatible with
the habitat to recover and allows more
tial economic value are not respected or hunting. It is not a case of having to have
native wildlife to flourish. their costs in the future through hunting Farm work, cooking, housework and disposable incomes. If there was no looked after. Wildlife is wiped out and one or the other. The added benefit of
Numbers of game animals have and trophy fees. hunting-related activities keep people hunting on the property there would be replaced by cattle and goats which then hunting which game viewing does not
increased significantly, ensuring popula- The landowner has greater incentive gainfully employed. less employment and a corresponding degrade the environment when they provide is protein. The local inhabitants
tions are sustainable. The added benefit to manage wildlife for hunting because The villagers have stability, accommo- decrease in the standard of living for all overgraze. cannot eat a photograph!
is also felt by the other animals, birds, they effectively get paid for the animal dation, plenty of protein and money. of the residents. The view of many western critics of Properly managed wildlife allows for a
reptiles and insects that inhabit the area. twice. They have a stake in ensuring that We have not yet considered any of the hunting is that tourist dollars from game stable base population that produces a
The greatest threat to all species is The hunter pays for accommodation poaching does not occur on the farm as other benefits for the entire country’s viewing will provide enough revenue surplus of animals each year which can
loss of habitat. Hunting that produces and a trophy fee which entitles him or that is effectively food and money that economy as well. Hunting brings in so that hunting is not necessary. That is be harvested. Those animals generate
revenue allows landowners to preserve her, and yes there are plenty of women is being taken from them as well as the huge amounts of foreign currency. simply not the case. Tourists want to see income and feed the population at the
and rehabilitate habitat which in turn hunters, to hunt the animal and keep the owner. The administration of hunting by the lions, giraffes and rhinos, and high same time.
provides a home for all species. horns and skins of any trophy. On my trip I mainly hunted with two government departments creates signif- animal concentrations. With so much of Africa politically unsta-
The program has been so successful The property keeps the meat. The of the men who live on the farm in the icant numbers of jobs. Having trophies Some of the national parks provide ble and the future of its wildlife insecure
that Farm Heusis is in the process of meat is either used on the farm to feed village. Isaak was a qualified master prepared for shipping out of the country these opportunities and do attract signif- it was great to see a small example of a
reintroducing species that were once the workers or sold to increase revenue. hunting guide and knew the area and or having taxidermy carried out there icant numbers of tourists. The downside model that is actually working on the
endemic to the area but were wiped out If a farmer runs cattle, he only gets the animals inside out. Our driver and employs large numbers of people. The of that is that they are struggling manag- ground. The wildlife is benefiting, the
due to competition with livestock. paid for the meat, so hunting revenue assistant Marius was an orphan who had sale and distribution of meat creates ing the impacts of high concentrations environment is benefiting, the economy
There is no government incentives enables a great system for the landown- been able to really make something of jobs, the hunting vehicle modification of visitors. Smaller farms do not have the is benefitting, the landowners are bene-
or support for these reintroduction er and ultimately the wildlife. himself with the opportunities he had and maintenance industry creates jobs. drawing power to attract those tourists fiting, and the local people are benefit-
programs. Landowners do this because There are also significant benefits been given on the farm. The firearms and hunting equipment yet account for much of the land. ing.
they have a genuine desire to see the for the local people. Farm Heusis has a They both obviously loved hunting industry creates jobs. Real sustainability for Africa’s wildlife I am proud of the fact that the dollars
species reintroduced and know they can village on the property and provides and the lifestyle they got to live. They The list is endless and in a continent will only occur if wildlife is managed I spent on my recent hunt in Africa have
afford to do it because they will recoup employment to most of the inhabitants. had a good standard of living and with high unemployment and wide- across all land tenures. There must be contributed in a small way to this success.
20 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 21Branches & Clubs Branches & Clubs
Arms & Militaria
organisations, governing bodies or targets using our amazing terrain to pro-
the club before you join.
The club arranges talks on hunting and
Benchrest Practice First Saturday
each month
training providers, keeping members Little River vide shooters with a great experience.
Collectors Club gear selection at its meets, and each
year there is free hunter training for Little River Raid- Third Sunday each
informed about what’s happening in
the hunting space. Raiders
All levels of shooters are welcome, with
many seasoned hands available to pro-
members. ers Single Action month • FREE NSW R-Licence testing, nor- vide direction and advice.
The AMCC is a club that caters for people Little River Raiders is a Single Action
For more information contact the State Pistol Silhouette Fourth Sunday mally $20. We encourage our shooters to join our
who have an interest in older-type fire- shooting club based at the SSAA Eagle
Ofice on (03) 8892 2777. each month • Organised hunting trips, including: club and become involved in setting up
arms and all associated memorabilia. Park Range, at Little River.
Little River Sport- Fourth Sunday Duck opening weekend shoot, duck the grounds.
We have a group made up of very Single Action shooting is a living history
Please give us a call or send an email.
keen members who have an extensive Eagle Park ing Clay Shoot
Little River Sport-
each month
Fourth Sunday
shooting as pest control on rice
crops during November and Decem-
sport which uses the firearms of the
American ‘Old West’.
Our competition days are the fourth
knowledge of most firearms, books and
Range ber, NSW R-licence hunts, weekly Sunday of each month, with nomina-
cartridges. ing Clays Shoot each month Participants are required to adopt a
organised fox drives during the cold tions opening at 9.30am and closing at
If you have the same hobbies then you - Competition persona typical of the era and to dress
months. 10.30am.
must belong to a nominated collectors Rifle Competition* Fourth Sunday accordingly, so a darned good sense of
The Eagle Park Range caters for all disci- All shoots at LRSC are open to all
club to obtain a collector’s licence. each month • On top of this, members have direct humour comes in handy for those who
plines, pistol, shotgun and rifle. shooters.
We are based at SSAA Springvale Range access to the club’s own Feral Animal want to join in.
The main range caters for all rifles, from Contact: Robert Matuch (treasurer)
and meet on the first Thursday of each *Rifle competitions include Field Rifle, Control Program, which has access Club competitions are held on the third
air rifles to the largest calibres. The 0439 717 183, robmat6@bigpond.com
month at 8pm. Metallic Silhouette, 3-positional and to a major area of prime hunting Sunday of every month. We shoot coach
range is approved to 500m, for all rifle Vicky Winship, vickywinship@bigpond.com
For further details, contact the State Of- novelty shoots. throughout Victoria, all within two guns (side-by-side shotguns), pistols,
calibres. hours of Springvale. lever- and pump-action rifles.
fice between 9am and 5pm on 03 8892 2019 Calendar
Opening hours: If you’re thinking of getting into or back Black powder – cartridge and percussion
2777 or email Robert Lemm at secre- Eagle Park Youth Training Scheme
Friday 9am – 5pm into hunting and want to get onto a vari- pistol – is also a recognised category of JAN 27 100-Target SCA State
tary@amccvic.com.au The training scheme teaches juniors
Saturday 9am – 5pm ety of different properties on a monthly Single Action. Our black powder shoot- Selection Shoot - Sporting
Sunday 9am – 5pm firearm safety and correct shooting tech-
or fortnightly basis then we are the club ers add to the atmosphere with lots of FEB 24 100-Target Shoot - Sporting
Bendigo Monday 9am – 5pm niques. The Eagle Park Youth Training
Scheme meets on the third Sunday of for you and your friends. smoke and noise to entertain all. MAR 24 100-Target Shoot - Sporting
Phone: 03 5283 1575 Our own Feral Animal Control Program Shooter categories are established to
Branch the month. Ken Newman Memorial
The range is home to the following hunts provide a platform that offers guid- cater for all age groups, both sexes, and
clubs: APR 28 100-Target Shoot-Sporting
Field Hunters
ance and training to enhance member different skill mixes.
• 3rd Military District Shooting Sports skills and safety in the field. Since we We also have long-range rifle competi- MAY 26 100-Target SCA State
Location: Marong Rifle Range (20 min-
Club
Club introduced this platform members have tions where speed is not as important as Selection Shoot - Sporting
utes west of Bendigo)
General shooting: First and third • Big Game Rifle Club taken in excess of 1000 rabbits and 77 accuracy. JUN 23 100-Target Shoot - Sporting
Sunday of each month from noon. $6 for • Little River Raiders Single Action To help foster and develop hunter ethics, foxes. These events use single shot, lever- and JUL 28 100-Target Shoot - Sporting
members. Undercover benches, target • Little River Sporting Clays hunter training and opportunity. On top of all of this the club has a closed pump-action rifles ranging from .22 to
Facebook group, just for members. This big bore buffalo rifles. AUG 25 100-Target Shoot - Sporting
frames supplied. 25m, 50m, 100m, 200m. • Melbourne Benchrest Club To foster the sustainable use of game.
Safety and Family Firearms Educa- To improve hunting for the future. is a great way for members to chat and All matches are run under the rules of SEP 22 100-Target Shoot
• Military Pistol Club/Military Rifle Club
tion (SAFFE) Program: Second Sunday The club was set up in the late 1980s organise hunts among themselves, so the Single Action Shooting Society. OCT 27 Vince Panetta 100-Target
• Practical Pistol League of Australia
of each month from 10am to noon. $8 by some enthusiastic SSAA members, to you could soon find that you have too Our shooting stages (scenarios) are Shoot - Sporting
• Victorian Muzzle Loaders Club much hunting available and not enough
(ammunition cost). Basic training for be- foster camaraderie among their fellow based on the ‘Old West’ – incidents out
• Metallic Rifle Silhouette NOV 24 100-Target SCA State
ginners of all ages. Club rifles supplied. hunters. The club offers a relaxed, time to fit it all in. of history, our translation of classic West-
• Arms and Militaria Collectors Club Selection Shoot - Sporting
Competitions: Rimfire, centrefire, friendly and casual environment, with In the past few months the club has de- ern movies or the old TV series.
handgun and shotgun. See the quarterly • Metallic Rifle Silhouette Club livered the following events to members: Visitors are welcome to come along to DEC 8 80-Target Xmas shoot
over 250 active members. Come along to
competition calendar at ssaabendigo. • Youth Training Scheme one of our general meetings to see what • Feral Animal Control Program hunts. any of our competitions and, if they like, - Sporting
com, or contact Vic on 0438 353 425 for Website: ssaavic.com.au/clubs we offer and enjoy a drink at the bar or a • Mid-Year major raffle with a first prize they may try their hand at Single Action
shooting under instruction.
a copy.
Contact: Branch President Vic Alexan-
Schedule of events meal at Bruno’s Café.
General meetings are held on the first
of $1500 for any hunting-related
equipment. The only thing you need is a desire to
Melbourne
Benchrest Practice First Saturday
der, 0438 353 425
Website: ssaabendigo.com.au
each month Wednesday of every month except • Aussie Disposals discount night. enjoy yourself and have fun with people
dressed in cowboy gear, using period
Benchrest Club
Military Rifle First Sunday each January at the Springvale SSAA Range, • Weekly fox drives, held in South
Email: ssaabendigo@hotmail.com 714-716 Princes Highway from 7.30 pm. firearms or faithful replicas.
month Gippsland.
Post: PO Box 1098 We strive to provide members with both For further information please look us Melbourne Benchrest Club’s (MBC) objec-
Little River Sport- Second Sunday • 4WD training course
Bendigo, VIC 3552 hunting opportunities and training. There up at www.littleriverraiders.com.au or tive is the development and encourage-
ing Clays Shoot each month • Field to Fork game meat tasting contact the Secretary Buck Silverton on ment of benchrest competition to achieve
are plenty of opportunities for members
- Practice night. 0423 052 942. extreme accuracy in firearms, ammuni-
Deer Stalkers
to get out and hunt. As a bonus, you
Little River Sport- Second Sunday meet like-minded hunters and often form • NSW R-licence pig and goat hunts. tion, equipment and shooting methods.
Little River
Club
ing Clay Shoot each month lifelong friendships. • Butchering and techniques. Shooters interested in developing their
accuracy and precision by shooting from
Big Game Rifle
Club/Military Rifle
Second Sunday
each month
If you are looking for an active hunting
club then look no further.
• Pistol shooting.
So what are you waiting for, expand
Sporting Clays a benchrest are welcome to come and
The Deerstalkers Club meets on the Member benefits include: your hunting horizon and come see for participate or contact us for further
Muzzle Loaders Third Saturday
third Wednesday of each month and Little River Sporting Clays is a sub-club information.
each month • Access to the FREE extensive hunt- yourself.
welcomes new hunters and guests. It is of SSAA based at Eagle Park, Gifkins Rd, MBC is a sub-club of SSAA Victoria,
ing DVD library. Check us out at www.fieldhuntersclub.
our suggestion to come along for a few Benchrest Third Sunday each Little River. based at the Eagle Park SSAA range. We
• The monthly newsletter. org.au, where you can sign up and pay
meetings and see if you like the feel of Competition month We aim to provide a wide variety of clay hold monthly club shoots starting at 9am
• Guest speakers from a wide range of for your membership online.
22 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 23You can also read
