Victorian Shooter - SSAA Victoria
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Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Victoria) official magazine
Victorian
Shooter September 2019
Practical
rifle series
takes off
Popular discipline gains
interest at Eagle Park
ALSO INSIDE
• Long-range shooting at Mildura
• Duck Bill dead in the water
• Next month’s SHOT Expo ramps up
News
Assistant Manager Training
and Education Fady Khalife
with the Victoria Police
certificate.
It’s show time! The posts and trusses for the new roof
at the first week of September. Bottom:
Expert deer panel at
T
he SSAA SHOT Expo the damage to the roof last year.
is upon us and we’re
SSAA SHOT Expo. P6 getting excited about
what is shaping up to be
Eagle Park
Ask Megan: Insurance a great event with a hall
full of exhibitors and many replacement
column. P7 thousands of visitors ex- Denis Moroney
Anti-duck hunting Bill
pected to attend.
We’ve themed the event
President SSAA Victoria roof nearing
dead in the water. P8 around getting into the
completion
Training course T
shooting sports because we see the SSAA as the pathway for new shooters into
VEAC recommends shut- club and competition participation.
The clubs are the grass roots of the Association and provide a huge variety of
he roof over Eagle Park’s Main
Range 1 is on track for comple-
ting hunters out. P9 disciplines including long-range shooting and I’m very pleased to see our young tion at the end of September.
Mildura member Lachlan Adolph succeed at the highest level. At the time of writing, posts had
Practical rifle gains
recognised by
Lachlan has now won two world junior titles in 50-calibre long-range shooting been installed ready for the next
momentum. P10 and is showing what can be achieved through the SSAA.
At the SHOT Expo on October 19-20, we will again have a cross section of our
stage of the frame construction
which is expected to be complete
Cooper’s Counsel. P11 clubs on display but with a slight difference. You will find them all on two long
combined stands facing each other to give you a real sense of the variety on offer,
mid-September.
Victoria Police
From there, the PA and electrical
2019 SSAA National from deer hunting to shotgun shooting to single-action cowboy and plenty in
between.
systems will be installed and roof
sheeting should be done in the last
Junior Challenge. P13 We will also be showcasing our successful Practical Firearms Training Program week of the month.
which has just been recognised by Victoria Police as an official firearms safety
S
It’s expected at this stage that
The long view: long- course. It means you can complete our course to satisfy the safety course compo- SAA Victoria’s Practical Firearms
Training Program Introductory
course delivered in June last year and
forms the basis for other courses which
the range will be reopened for
range shooting. P14
nent of the firearms application process. public use after the roof sheeting is
It is great news for people who want to not only get their licence but want to Course (PFTP IC) is now officially rec- are being developed under the PFTP
complete.
ognised as an alternative to the Firearms banner.
Branches & Clubs. P18
feel comfortable handling a firearm and understand the responsibility of firearms But as with all these things, we
ownership. Safety Course (FSC) which is required to “Our Introductory Course is very
temper that expectation with the
We’re also very close to having the course accredited by the Victorian Registra- obtain a firearms licence. popular because new shooters want
unforeseen circumstances factor
Victorian
Shooter
tion and Qualifications Authority after a very long application and panel hearing Victoria Police Licensing and Regula- to learn and feel confident handling a
and are keeping our fingers crossed
process. Achieving accreditation will go some way to enabling us to run officially tion Division issued SSAA Victoria with firearm,” Mr Khalife said.
for a long-awaited result.
recognised firearms training and show our commitment to responsible and ethical a certificate approving the PFTP as a “To have it recognised as an official
“All we can do is thank everyone,
firearms use. firearms safety course under Section 179 step to obtaining a firearms licence is
particularly the clubs which have
The Victorian Shooter is a quarterly Knowing there is an organisation prepared to take beginners under its wing will of the Firearms Act 1996. recognition of SSAA Victoria’s commit-
been most disadvantaged, for their
magazine produced by the Sporting also encourage more people to join the shooting sports. That is good for the retail It means people who complete the ment to safety and responsible firearms
ongoing patience,” said SSAA Victo-
Shooters Association of Australia industry and we’re very pleased they have come out in support of the SHOT Expo PTFP IC can apply for their firearms use.”
(Victoria). Unit 3/26 Ellingworth Parade, ria Facilities Manager, Shaun Doyle.
after the difficulty we experienced with the previous organiser. licence without having to complete the Those people who successfully
Box Hill 3128 “It’s been a frustrating journey
To fill the hall in a year when there are two other firearms and hunting events FSC as well. complete the PFTP will be able to use the
which is hopefully drawing to a
Editor and Graphic Designer: is a credit to our new organiser Level Up Events and the team at State Office “It’s great news for those wanting to certification they receive to meet one of
conclusion.”
Justin Law Keep an eye out for the major marketing campaign in all forms of media to burst get professional guidance and practical the requirements of the firearms licence
Disclaimer: The views expressed in through our previous attendance record of 17,000. experience in handling a firearm and application process.
some articles and by some contributers September is Annual General Meeting time and we’ll be getting through the then taking the step to obtaining a If you have already received a PFTP
are not necessarily those of SSAA formalities in a couple of weeks. As there were just enough candidates to fill firearm licence,” said Assistant Manager certificate from a previous course and
Victoria. the vacancies, an election wasn’t required so we will be presenting the financial Training and Education Fady Khalife. haven’t completed the police FSC, you
The Victorian Shooter online: statements and attending to general business. The Annual Report is now on the Mr Khalife was employed last year to can have your certification updated to
www.ssaavic.com.au website: ssaavic.com.au develop a training program and created proceed with a firearms licence applica-
Look forward to seeing you at the SSAA SHOT Expo at the Melbourne Show- the PFTP to give participants actual tion. Contact Fady Khalife at training@
Email alerts: Subscribe to SSAA
grounds October 19-20. range shooting experience. ssaavic.com.au or (03) 8892 2777 for
Victoria’s news alert. Email state_
office@ssaavic.com.au Safe shooting The Introductory Course was the first details.
2 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 3
SHOT
ssaashotexpo.org.au
EXPO Australia’s biggest
shooting sports and
It’s back! hunting expo
• 150+ exhibitors and 100s of brands to check out
• Educational and Expert talks on gear, equipment and techniques
• SSAA Field to Fork cooking and butchery demos
• WGAA Working Gun Dog demonstrations
• SSAA Indoor Shooting Range using air-pistols &
Stoeger Air XM1 air-rifles for adults and children 12+ years
• Bushbow 3D Archery range for adults and children of all ages
• Aimpoint Virtual Reality Hunting Experience
• Interactive Indoor Range (The Firing Line) sponsored by OSA
• R-Licence testing
• Activities for the children including jumping castle, petting zoo and face painters
Buy your tickets online to enter the major draw for Use the code “SHOT” and
receive a bonus entry
the chance to WIN a share in $37,000+ in prizes*
ssaashotexpo.org.au
*See website for details on prizes including terms and conditions
October 19-20 !
Follow us on Facebook @ssaashotexpo for latest news and announcements
s o n s a l e n o w
Melbourne Showgrounds tic k e t ssaashotexpo.org.au
Major Partners Media Partners
HUNTER
AU S T R A L I A N Great Australian
Shooter WOMEN’S
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OUTDOORS
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Field to Fork
THE MAGAZINE FOR SPORTING SHOOTERS SHOOTER A U S T R A L I A’ S FAV O U R I T E H U N T I N G M A G A Z I N E
The Australian Game Cookbook
Media Partners
News News
SSAA SHOT Expo
information Ask Megan
Buy tickets and win SSAA General Insurance Brokers
L
All tickets purchased online by midnight, et me introduce myself, my name T h i s
Thursday October 17 will receive an is Megan Spiniello and am em- could
entry into the draw for the chance to win ployed by SSAA General Insur- be as
these awesome prizes: ance Brokers. Since I have been in the simple as
• A 2019 Polaris General 1000 EPS role I have been asked what is the role general
Premium Hunter Edition valued at of SSAA General Insurance Brokers f i r e
$27,995. (SSAAIB) and what part do I play in it. protec-
• A K624i Rifle Scope valued at $3890. The short answer is SSAAIB is an tion and
• A Swarovski EL O-Range 10x42 WB Insurance Brokerage and I am an hazard
valued at $3490. Insurance Broker. The long answer is advice or
• 1 of 5 Winchester 65L Eskys valued that, more importantly, both SSAAIB a more
at $299.95 each. and I see my role as an Insurance compli-
• A Walther Pro GL1500r Torch & Pow- Advisor to the SSAA, SSAA members cated risk survey report.
er Bank valued at $425. and our clubs. • Be available to answer your
Expert deer panel at Expo
To book, click on the Buy Tickets button Most of our clubs see insurance as an questions. I am here to provide service
at ssaashotexpo.org.au important tool for protection but too and advice all year round. Not just
often it is treated as a commodity with when the club’s insurances are due to
Times not enough thought going into what be renewed.
9am-5pm Saturday October 19 or how much insurance is needed. The • Represent your club at claim
9am-4pm Sunday October 20 Hunters to discuss deer issues on the main stage at SSAA SHOT Expo result of this can be under insurance, time to ensure the policy responds for
A
a gap in cover, even total exclusions the best it can and that the insurers
panel of deer hunting experts disciplines to those wanting to get more of covers and tragically this may only involved meet their obligations in full.
What’s On will discuss the state of the pur- involved in the shooting sports,” said become apparent after a claim inci- When required, I will work with SSAA-
• 150 exhibitors and hundreds of suit on the Main Stage as part of Event Co-ordinator Lee-Anne Romans. dent or when catastrophe strikes. IB’s claims department and assist with
brands to check out the latest equip- the presentations held at the SSAA SHOT “Clay target shooting, deer hunting, So, as a SSAA Insurance Advisor I am the management of the claim from
ment, gear and accessories Expo at Melbourne Showgrounds on handgun shooting, single-action prepared to: start to finish.
• Educational talks and demos on October 19-20. cowboy, militaria collectables, duck • Take the time to understand One more thing, I understand that
gear, equipment and techniques. SSAA Victoria’s Hunting Development hunting and working gun dogs are your club’s activities, its exposures, price is important and by no means
• SSAA Field to Fork cooking and Manager and keen deer hunter David among them. and its insurance needs. With this, I should any club (or business) pay
butchery demonstrations. Laird will be joined by the Australian “The SSAA SHOT Expo is a great can then suggest an insurance plan more for their insurance than neces-
• WGAA gun dog demonstrations. Deer Association’s Barry Howlett and opportunity to connect the thousands of that meets your requirements and sary. But you should also carefully
• SSAA indoor shooting range with air Zach Powell from the Game Manage- people who come to the show with our budget. Remember, the better I under- consider the value you place on prop-
pistols & Stoeger Air XM1 air rifles for ment Authority to discuss key deer clubs. stand all your activities, the layout of erly protecting the club’s assets. Being
adults and kids 12 years and over. hunting issues. Ms Romans said the many shooting the club, etc, the better the advice and dictated by price alone can result in
• BushBow 3D archery range for Topics will include the role recreation- disciplines represented by the clubs service I can provide you. the wrong type of cover and have the
adults and kids of all ages. al hunting plays in deer management, are run by hard working SSAA Victoria • Provide advice and guidance same ramifications as not taking out
• Aimpoint Virtual Reality Hunting compulsory game licensing and main- member volunteers. with respect to the insurance prod- any insurance at all.
Experience. taining deer’s game status under pres- “They do an excellent job of helping ucts, the cover they provide as well as To find out more about the services
• Interactive Indoor Range (The Firing sure to have them declared pests. to provide a pathway into the shooting their limits, gaps and exclusions. that SSAAIB and myself can provide to
Line) sponsored by OSA. It’s part of a full program of talks which sports for new shooters,” she said. • Assist with providing and you please give me a call, I am always
• R-Licence testing are focussed on helping people get One of the popular events is the coordinating risk management advice. up for a chat.
• Activities for the kids including involved in the shooting sports. Working Gundog Association of Austra-
jumping castle, petting zoo and face Among them will be how to start in lia’s demonstrations which will be again
painters. handgun shooting presented by the held on the main arena. It’s a fantastic We can arrange the protection and
• Promotions to win great prizes. Sporting Shooters Pistol Club which is display of how dogs are trained to be the coverage you need.
Tickets one of SSAA Victoria’s many hunting perfect hunting companion.
Tickets are for both days. and shooting clubs. Another popular feature of the SHOT Don’t renew any of your insurances
• $20 SSAA Members They will also be part of a showcase of Expo is the indoor gun range where until you get an obligation FREE quote.
• $25 Adults (16 years and over) our clubs on two big stands which will new shooters can try their hand with air • We find the right coverage for your needs
• We will manage all claims for you
• $40 Family (2 adults, 2 children 15 include each of the five hunting clubs rifles and pistols under the supervision of • We are LOCAL, so we are here when you need us
years and under) and a cross section of the other disci- our professional range officers. SSAA Member • Professionals, tradies, business and retail - we know the market
• Free for kids 15 years and under plines offered by SSAA Victoria’s clubs. SSAA Shot Expo, Melbourne Show- Advantages. www.ssaaib.com.au CONTACT MEGAN: 8332 0281
when accompanied by an adult. “We have more than 50 clubs and grounds October 19-20. Visit ssaashot- SSAA Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd ABN 86 077 822 970 AFS Rep No. 315403
branches which offer a huge variety of expo.org.au for details and ticket sales. are Authorised Representatives of PSC Connect Pty Ltd ABN 23 141 574 914 AFSL 344648
NO Broker Fee
6 The Victorian Shooter for personal insurance. The Victorian Shooter 7
News News
Anti-duck hunting Bill
143°0'0"E 143°10'0"E 143°20'0"E 143°30'0"E 143°40'0"E
Map A: Final recommendations for public land use in the Central West Investigation area
!
Redbank
Mount Cole - Pyrenees
Su
Kara Kara National Park Nature Reserve
n ray
(Aboriginal Title) Timor
sia
M aryb oro !
u gh-S
H
t Ar
S
wy
w na
ta
el
l-
Moonambel ud
Rd
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oc 144°16'30"E 144°27'0"E
37°0'0"S
aR
E1 d
E2
Wellsford
D3
37°0'0"S
Moonambel South
! Nature Reserve E7 E33
Landsborough
E31 D4
E32 Tanwood South
son Rd
Nature Reserve Ph
elan
E37 Rd
A2
Bendigo-Tenny
E6
Pyrenees National Park
Goornong
F1 E8 !
36°37'30"S
E18 y
36°37'30"S
Percydale Hw
Historic Reserve E17 a nd
wy Be nd igo M i dl
E9 es H Greater Bendigo National Park C
ene
dead in the water
G1 Pyr (Aboriginal Title) re e
k
Pyrenees State Forest E35
C1 E36 Barnadown
E16
Pyrenees Regional Park Glenmona Forest !
Bushland Reserve
Avoca
t Arnaud Rd
E15 Bung Bong
E34 ! Nature Reserve Paddys Ranges
F2 E14
State Park
Huntly !
F3
Locality map
Ararat-S
E12 A3
E13 A3
G6 Greater Bendigo
Greater Bendigo
Hwy
A2 E10 Glenmona E19 National Park
National Park
R i v er
Pyrenees National Park State Forest Bendigo
Midland
Maryborough State Forest
E11 Regional Park
e
sp
a m pa
!
WANGARATTA
C
HORSHAM
! BENDIGO !
E44 E45 E46
! Eaglehawk C2
Bendigo Bendigo Regional Park
37°10'0"S
Regional Park
Talbot !
E5 E43 !
37°10'0"S
E47 BALLARAT MELBOURNE BAIRNSDALE
W i m m er ! !
Ri Mt Sugarloaf
a
v er E42
Elmhurst Amphitheatre GEELONG
!
TRARALGON Nature Reserve
E4 ! WARRNAMBOOL !
!
!
E3 E20
D2 Py
re n ee D1 ! Bendigo
Ben Nevis Nature Reserve s H wy
Lexton
t Rd
E38 E41 Nature Reserve McIvor
e
k
Hwy
albo
E39
re
Caralulup Axedale
C
e
o n-T
E21 Nature Reserve
x
!
A
Ararat Hills E40 D7 Kangaroo
xt
Regional Park Rosyth South Le
Flat
Sunrays
36°48'0"S
Strathfieldsaye
Animal Justice Party MP Andy Meddick chickens out of voting on
36°48'0"S
Nature Reserve !
!
O1
wy
k
i a Hwy
sH
Wimmera River
ree
ek S t r a th f i e l d
ee
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Pyr
m
tB
Mount Cole State Forest E48
al lu
(Aboriginal Title)
River
Be
cc
Axe
M
Bendigo
Avoca
Regional Park
! Creek
Warrak !
G2 E25
Mount Lonarch ! Lexton
State Forest
his own anti-duck hunting Bill, which has been shelved.
144°16'30"E 144°27'0"E
d
! E24
R
Ararat o
n
e xt
A1 D5 t -L 144°0'0"E 144°10'0"E 144°20'0"E 144°30'0"E 144°40'0"E
fo r
37°10'0"S
Mount Buangor Ben Major u
Langi Ghiran E22 B ea
Wombat - Macedon
National Park
37°10'0"S
Nature Reserve
Wester State Park
ek
n Hw
Cro w C re
Hwy
y E23 Fryers Ridge
Nature Reserve
37°20'0"S
Midla nd
G5 Malmsbury
A
N1 Mount Cole !
Jim
37°20'0"S
Buangor State Forest D6
Rd
Reference Area Castlemaine Diggings
Rd
Waterloo
field - Tooborac Rd
y
E27 National Heritage Park
ur
Nature Reserve Campbelltown
Edgecombe
msb
!
n attempt to have the 2020 Duck ed majority support for duck hunting
Mal
ad Rd
d-
Raglan !
or
- Newste
Cal de
sf
r Fw
le
y
Day
!
E65
e ek
B2
Lanc e
Buangor Cr Cobaw Conservation Park
Creswick
u
m
E66
Season banned recently has failed and gave MPs an opportunity to declare
E
unt
E49 E50 Kyneton !
Mo
E26 E29 E64
G4
Middle !
Musical Gully-Camp Hill E51 E52 D
E67 e e p C re
Creek State Forest E75
ek
don River
ek
E30
Lancefield
after voting on the Bill was de- where they stand on the issue.
Fier y Cre
F4 E78
!
B1 E63 Upper Coliban Carlsruhe !
Lod
Reservoir
Hepburn E53 !
i
Trawalla
M
! Conservation Park
ddle C
! E62
Beaufort E54 E73
r eek
We !
G3 s ter E76
n Hw
Hepburn Glenlyon
ferred indefinitely and the Government Naturally there was support from the
E28 y
Trawalla-Andrews
Sk ipton Rd
D14
State Forest Springs E55 Tylden Nature Reserve r
R iv e r
! Hanging Rock
Burrumbeet C3
ve
E72 Reserve
Hepburn Regional Park
Ri
!
37°20'0"S
(Aboriginal Title)
Campaspe
G3
n
iba
ol
37°20'0"S
Smeaton le
C
declared it would not support it. Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party
!
L itt
Daylesford Woodend
C3 E70 Rd
Hepburn Regional Park !
Recreation Reserve F11 Romsey
h am
C7
!
(Aboriginal Title) E57 A4 Macedon Regional Park
rent
143°0'0"E 143°10'0"E 143°20'0"E 143°30'0"E 143°40'0"E F5 Wombat-Lerderderg
E56 E59 !
E61
n -T
F6 E60 National Park E68
Woodend
Public land use category
eto
E58 E79
E71
Kyn
But that does not mean duck hunting MP Jeff Bourman and The Nationals liban R E69 D15
Co iv e r Black Forest Nature Reserve E81
National park, State park Trentham
! E77
F7
National heritage park E74 !
Mount
in Victoria is safe. Melina Bath. Liberal Democrats MP Tim
C3 Macedon
Conservation park Hepburn Regional Park !
F8 D11 Monegeetta !
D8
Bullarto
Regional park South
! D12
d
od R
F9 Macedon
Rd
In the Legislative Council on Wednes- Quilty took the opportunity to point out
Nature reserve
kw o
C5 D10
efield
A4 ac Blackwood Regional Park C6 D16 Slaty Creek
Bl Fingerpost Regional Park
Wombat-Lerderderg N2 Nature Reserve
rne - Lanc
Bushland reserve National Park ! Musk Creek
Reference Area
L
New
Riddells
Korweinguboora Creek
Dean D9 Gisborne
Historic reserve
!
l bou
!
N3 E80
day, Animal Justice Party MP Andy the divide between rural Victoria and
!
A4 Ruths Gully
Me
Rosslynne
Wombat-Lerderderg Reference Area Reservoir
National Park Blackwood ! Em
State forest Bullengarook
u
Clarkefield !
Cree k
F12
sford Rd
!
Gisborne !
Water frontage, beds and banks reserve C4
d
37°30'0"S
e - T re n th a m R
Spargo Creek
Notes:
Meddick put forward a bill to have duck the “urban elites … who have lost their
37°30'0"S
Jac
Ballarat-Dayle
Regional Park k so n C
1. Coloured areas are public land. White areas are Commonwealth, local government or private land. F10 r eek
Water production reserve L A4
erderd e r g Ri
Wombat-Lerderderg
National Park
2. Public land use categories are those from the government-accepted recommendation R1 of the 2017 VEAC Statewide
Community use reserve Assessment of Public Land Final Report. Existing state parks (outside the Central West Investigation area) are still
dal
M el
W
Ba
rri N5
labelled as such because the proposed amalgamation of this category with national park has not yet been legislated.
e
Mo o
ve
en
Riddell Rd
O2
llan-
to n
hunting banned in 2020 under the Wild- connection to the natural world”, and
Pyrete Range
Utilities and government services reserve
be e
r
re
Lerderderg River Reference Area
Da
r a b o ol
Rd
G
Ri Heritage Area
3. Public land on this map includes land held by public authorities in freehold title.
yle
ve r
L a n c e f ie ld R d
sfo
Land leased or licensed for plantation purposes, Plantation
Ri v
rd
4. A hatched pattern shows recommended changes in public land use as compared with those proposed, approved or rE
Rd
e
Ko r j a m nunni p C
ast
Bra A4
varied by government following earlier investigations. E85
Cal
Uncategorised public land nc
Mo
Gr Wombat-Lerderderg
ee
life Act. went so far as entertaining a “Rexit”
de
o ra
n
h
National Park
r Fw
Ballan
bool
da
5. For details of numbered recommendations see report text and appendix 1.
y
Recreation Reserve
le-M
Public land use overlay Wes
R ive
ter re Sunbury
yrnion g R d
E82 n Fw E84 ek
6. Some small areas of public land may not be shown, such as public housing sites.
!
N4
r We
!
y Ah Kows Gully
Reference area E83 Goonawarra
st B r a
G is b
Reference Area
7. Small blocks (generally less than 0.1 hectare) may not be visible at this scale. A higher resolution map can be viewed
He made the usual emotive, wildly exag- where regional Victoria would secede
nc
E88 S
o rn
at www.veac.vic.gov.au. un
h
Heritage river Bungal !
Toolern bu
e R
Bushland Reserve E86 !
Ballan
Gisb
Vale
ry
d
Myrniong Merrimu E87
R
Diggers
d
Reservoir
orne
!
F13 L1 Rest
Investigation area boundary Bulla
- Mel
gerated and outright false claims used to from the State.
! Mount Egerton ! Rd
ton Rd
D17 L1
Recommended change in public land use Disclaimer:
This map may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the map is without flaw of any kind or
Lerderderg River
Nature Reserve
D18
Pyrite
is wholly appropriate for your particular purpose and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or any consequence which may arise from
Long Forest
Major road you relying on any information on this map. D13 Nature Reserve
s C
attack duck hunting and had the support Perhaps the most eloquent of the Bill’s
37°40'0"S
© The State of Victoria, Victorian Environmental Assessment Council 2019
r e ek
37°40'0"S
Major waterway or waterbody
Werribee Gorge !
Bacchus Melton
Rd
! State Park
±
Marsh Western Fwy
!
Lal Lal
Geelong-Ballan
M e lto n
of three other Senators representing The opponents was The Liberals MP Gordon
Hwy
Clarendon roroit C
Ko
!
Parwan re
ek
0 2.5 5 10 15 20 Parw a n C reek !
Map projection: Vicgrid of Australia - Vicgrid94 km
144°0'0"E 144°10'0"E 144°20'0"E 144°30'0"E 144°40'0"E
Greens, The Reason Party and Sustainable Rich-Phillips, whose comments on intoler-
Australia. ance resonated strongly. The maps which show vast tracts of State Forest converted to National Park which would exclude hunting.
VEAC recommends shutting
The overwhelming response was from “It is often the case that those who
those opposed to the Bill with the Govern- preach tolerance, those who preach
ment declaring it would not support a respect for minorities, those who preach
ban on the 2020 season. respect for other cultures are in fact the
During Questions Without Notice, effect. If they vote for the Bill, they go most intolerant themselves,” he said.
Minister for Agriculture, Jaclyn Symes said
“The Andrews Labor government had a
duck season this year and we have got
no change of policy in relation to that.
against long-standing policy to support
hunting in Victoria.
By adjourning debate, the Government
ensures the Bill will not get to a vote and
“We saw the demonstration of that this
morning with Mr Meddick’s comments on
this motion where he sought to demonise
a group of Victorians who participate and
hunters out of public land
S
… If we were to vote on the motion, we avoids both issues, but it is still able to have participated for generations in a SAA Victoria is meeting with the Action Plan (SHAP). ronment and Climate Change Lily D’Am-
would oppose it.” declare its support for hunting. The safe legitimate recreational and cultural activi- Minister for Energy, Environment “We do not understand why there is an brosio.
The reason the Bill was not voted on is middle ground. ty, just because he does not like it. and Climate Change next month obsession with locking away accessible “We put two solid submissions to VEAC
less clear. After statements from several It also places the onus on keeping duck “The man who preaches tolerance on after a report recommended locking up public land when there is a clear need clearly outlining the impact its proposal
MPs in relation to the Bill, a motion to season on hunters ourselves. The Govern- everything else came into this place and vast tracts of hunting land. to control pest and game species,” SSAA would have on our members, but they
adjourn the debate until later in the day ment has not said duck hunting is here to made some frankly disgusting comments The Victorian Environmental Assess- Victoria Hunting Development Manager have been ignored,” he said.
was carried. stay forever. about the fraternity of Victorians who ment Council (VEAC) recently submitted David Laird said. “The recommendations impose the
Opponents of the Bill argued to keep In his rebuttal of claims made in Mr engage in recreational hunting on our to the Minister its Central West Investiga- “It is hunters who achieve these same restrictions on hunters as consump-
the debate open and put it to a vote, Meddick’s Bill, Labor’s Nazih Elasmar wetlands. tion Final Report, which recommended outcomes and who do a great service tive users such as the timber industry.
which would most likely have seen it referred to duck hunting’s sustainability “He made claims about illegal activity, turning 77,377ha of Mt Cole, Wellsford in the areas that VEAC wants to protect. “That makes no sense considering
defeated. But all the Labor MPs voted for relying on safety and responsibility. He he made claims about rubbish being left, and Wombat State Forest into national The idea of locking us out of it makes no hunting benefits native wildlife by
the adjournment, along with Meddick also pointedly closed his statement with he made claims about damage to trees park. sense. removing introduced species from their
and his supporters. “We have no current plans to cease duck and the like, all without basis, all without The recommendations severely restrict “The recommendations also fly in habitat.
Some observers say this is a way to bury hunting”. It leaves the door wide open for evidence, because he does not like a the already limited hunting opportuni- the face of SHAP, which the Victorian “We are now meeting with the Minis-
the Bill without the Government having future debate on the issue, especially if legitimate cultural activity that has been ties for hunters in the State’s west. Government has committed to, that has ter to ensure the potential impact on our
to publicly take a stand on the duck there is a season of bad hunter behaviour pursued by Victorians over generations.” The final report also ignored SSAA clear principles in delivering increased members and the environment is prop-
hunting issue. as there was in 2017. The full transcription of the debate on Victoria submissions made during the hunting opportunities.” erly understood.”
If they vote against the Bill, the head- But overall, the debate on the Bill was the Bill can be found under the Legisla- public consultation process in 2017 and In response to the release of the The Government has until early 2020
lines in the mainstream media would be a good outcome for hunters as it put tive Council section at parliament.vic.gov/ late last year which raised concerns that recommendations, SSAA Victoria CEO to respond to the recommendations.
along the lines of “Andrews Government on the table Government-sourced facts hansard. the VEAC proposal contravened the Jack Wegman has arranged an urgent SSAA Victoria strongly suggests writing
votes to slaughter ducks” or words to that about duck hunting. It also demonstrat- Communications Manager Justin Law principles of the Sustainable Hunting meeting with Minister for Energy, Envi- to your local MP if you oppose them.
8 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 9
News News
Cooper’s
Counsel
Peter Cooper Lawyer
Dealing with the
Firearms Clause
Practical rifle gains momentum at Eagle Park
W
atch that firearms clause! If cannot be set aside when the order
you are looking at an interim expires. It will defeat any application
T
he popular practical rifle discipline ed in joining the club and we’re about to Intervention Order or an appli- under Section 189 of the Firearms Act to
is getting a foothold at SSAA Victo- organise a competition, so momentum is cation for an Intervention Order against become a non-prohibited person.
ria’s Eagle Park range with a recent- building.” you at the moment, watch out for the So here comes the dilemma. When
ly formed group gaining interest. Andrew got involved through his firearms clause within them. faced with an application against you, or
Already immensely popular in the US, 25-year-old son Jordan who started Firearms owners and, quite often, their an Interim Order for a Family Violence
practical rifle is a situation-style disci- competing in the PRS series a couple of legal advisors are very poorly informed in Intervention Order that contains a fire-
pline where competitors shoot a course years ago. matters to do with the Firearms Act 1996, arms clause:
designed to challenge skill in shooting “I was just plinking and shooting paper particularly where it intersects with the • Do you fight it with a risk of losing
from a variety of positions. and was looking at something different other Acts, such as the Family Violence and getting a Final Order with a
Each stage within a practical rifle and discovered PRS which looked pretty Protection Act 2008 and the Personal firearms clause?
event is a timed shoot which requires good,” Andrew said. Safety Intervention Orders Act 2008. • Do you consent to it, firearms
movement from station to station and “I liked the different shooting positions, A lot of decisions are made in the clause and all?
accurate shooting under stress. the different platforms to shoot from, Magistrates Court, but, this court is not a • Do you negotiate the firearms
In Australia there is a Practical Rifle and the physical element of shooting court of record and not all magistrates put clause, with a plan to consent to
Series (PRS) national competition which against the clock.” their reasons for their decisions in writing. a Final Order that has no firearms
is shot around Australia including SSAA’s He’s not alone and if he succeeds in However, the Supreme Court has clause?
Mildura, East Gippsland and Eagle Park some of the ideas he has for the disci- spoken twice about the Firearms Act in These are tough decisions, they are
ranges and now clubs are starting to pline in Victoria, there will be state-wide a way that is helpful to firearms owners personal and individual. None of them
emerge within the Association. competitions. In the meantime, he is and their legal advisors, when it comes are wrong decisions. This article does
East Gippsland has been active in focused on getting a club at Eagle Park to dealing with Final Intervention not prescribe advice.
attracting shooters to the discipline and together. Orders and the decisions which firearms Point it out to your legal advisor, partic-
now SSAA member and range officer It means finding willing volunteers owners will need to make. ularly if you are in a family law matter,
Andrew Iggleden is working towards prepared to put in the time to become The case I wish to talk about today or using a practitioner who does not
forming a club at Eagle Park. part of a committee to drive the disci- is the one that deals with the harshest regularly deal with Firearms Act matter.
He and Dave Acker are currently pline forward at Eagle Park. outcome for firearms owners, if it is not Feel free to make a call to this office.
running the discipline on the third “We’re now into our fourth month of faced and managed from the outset.
Saturday of each month and interest is pulling everything together and want The case is called Stephensen v LeBes- Lawyer Peter Cooper has been SSAA
growing. to become an official SSAA Victoria club, sis (S CI 2013 04432) and it was handed Victoria’s counsel when it comes to legal
“People have rolled up at the range hopefully early next year,” he said. down in 2014. It concerns the circum- matters concerning firearms. His services
and seen us during our shoot and “If anyone is interested in getting stances where a Final Intervention Order are now available at State Office in Box
expressed interest from there,” Andrew involved, they can email me, give me a is made against a firearms owner and it Hill. Peter attends the office three days a
said. “They see the value in practising call or catch us at the range on the third includes in the Order a ‘firearms clause’. week and provides legal advice to Asso-
for hunting and they’ll use their hunting Saturday of each month.” The effect of this clause is to make a ciation members at a third off his normal
rifle to give it a go, so you don’t need Andrew’s email address is andrew@ person prohibited for five years beyond rate. To make an appointment, call Peter
expensive equipment to get started. powerofone.com.au and his phone the five years of the Final Order and it Cooper Lawyer on 0430 468 127.
“We’ve got nearly 40 people interest- number is 0412 102 562.
10 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 11
Lead dust: News
Reduce the Risks
• Eating, drinking and 2019 SSAA National
smoking when shooting
can put you at risk.
Junior Challenge
I
t was a cold July day out at Eagle Park where the 2019 SSAA National Junior Chal-
• Wash your hands and face lenge was held. Young shooters from Canberra, Tasmania and South Australia
competed against juniors from SSAA Victoria’s Youth Training Scheme, which host-
after using firearms. ed the event. SSAA National’s Coaching and Membership Development Manager
Gemma Dunn (top left) was also on hand to help organise the event make the pre-
sentations at the ceremony held at the Springvale Range.
Any amount of lead exposure is harmful to expose your family and children.
human health. People using firearms, handling Your children are especially at risk
ammunition or visiting shooting ranges are Children are more vulnerable to the effects of
at risk of inhaling or swallowing lead dust or lead exposure. Extra caution should be taken
fumes, and to a lesser extent, absorbing lead when attending the ranges. Ensure your body
through the skin. and clothing are free of lead dust before em-
Protect your family bracing children or handling toys and personal
Don’t bring lead home with you. effects. If you are pregnant, consider the risks
Lead is ‘sticky’ and can be transported from of lead exposure to yourself and your baby
a shooting range on your body, clothes and and take appropriate precautions to minimise
equipment, into a car and your home. It may exposure to lead.
Pregnant? Lead dust can affect
your unborn child
SSAA Victoria: Promoting safe and responsible firearms use
Visit ssaavic.com.au for more information
These guidelines are detailed in Information for Gun Shooters: Managing Exposure
to Lead. State of Victoria, Department of Health and Human Services, October 2018. The Victorian Shooter 13
Feature Feature
The long view
Shooting 50-Cal out to 600m is a whole lotta fun
By Mick Matheson ing visitors from overseas.
The attention-grabbing drawcard is shoot-
T
hey’re having way too much fun at the ing 50-calibre rifles, but club president Russell
Long Range Shooting Club at Mildu- Dawson describes a much bigger picture to
ra. Maybe it’s the variety of long-range complete the allure of the 600-yard range.
competitions and challenges they set down “We also shoot other calibres as well,” he
for members. Maybe it’s the fact that they’re says. “We shoot 50-cals, and the guys bring
shooting everything from .223 to .50BMG. out 338 Laps and 300 Win Mags. The new 6.5
Perhaps it has something to do with the Creedmoor is popular. And .243, even .223
couple of world titles brought home to them. shoots out to 600 yards all right.
Whatever it is, The LRSC is attracting “We have small competitions each third
members from several states and even bring- Sunday. No prizes, just the kudos. Friendly
Main: Mildura junior Lachie Adolph on
his way to a consecutive world title at
the 50 Caliber Shooters Association
World Championships in July.
Top: The 600m range at Mildura. Continued Page 16
14 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 15
Feature Feature
From Page 15 ing membership, in a similar way that
competition. new pistol shooters must go through a
“It’s great fun, and you’d be surprised: probationary period. Russell says it helps
we’ve got some pretty good blokes. the authorities because the club is doing
Those 6.5 Creedmoors, they’ll hit some of the vetting process for them.
anything! They’re amazing. “No one has been knocked back yet
“There’s a guy who’s just got a hunting but one young shooter was asked to do
rifle that he put a bipod on and he’s as a fourth shoot before he was considered
good as there rest of them. ready,” Russell says.
“He’s an old bloke,” Russell adds. These big rifles are not easy, as some
“It’s a nice range. It’s beautiful weather, very good, competition-winning shoot-
always. There’s lots of other things to do ers found to their disappointment at the
in Mildura as well. first Australian titles shoot in 2016.
“If you wanted to you could shoot “I think they found it’s a whole chal-
handguns on the same day, because lenge in itself,” said Michele Harbor, who
that morning that we use is actually
Sunraysia Pistol Club’s day.
“We’ve got a barbecue, we’ve got
won that first crown. “It’s a challenging
rifle to master.”
The three classes shot under FCSA
Yes, there’s
a gun club
solar power on, we’ve got a club room, rules in Australia are Hunter, Heavy and
TV, fridge, toilet, showers; you can camp Unlimited, allowing a range of price
there. It’s good.” points and competitiveness among
W
The LRSC was the driving force behind shooters.
e’ve got a club gun,”
SSAA Mildura’s Cardross range getting “The factory 50-cals aren’t the most
Russell Dawson says with
the rare approval for 50-calibre shooting accurate things but once you get down to
pride. “Anyone can use it.”
about four years ago. At the time, LRSC the custom-built rifles — and they’re fanat-
LRSC Mildura bought an Armalite
gained affiliation with the Fifty Calibre ical with their hand loads — it’s exactly
in .50BMG and have set it up to
Shooting Association (FCSA) in the USA, the same as top-level benchrest or F-Class
digest a diet of Hornady 750gr
and the first FCSA-sanctioned competi- shooting,” says LRSC member Owen
factory ammunition.
tion at Cardross (the first ever outside the Adolph, who won the Unlimited class at
It not only allows prospective
USA) was held in May 2016. August’s Warracknabeal Open 1000-yard
owners to prove their mettle before
The club has arranged Australian titles competition with his custom .284.
buying a 50-cal of their own, it
shoots each year since, has expanded “We’ve just opened up all the classes
enables other members to enjoy
the number of lanes on the range to 10, to hand loads. That encourages import-
the challenge of mastering the big
and is in the planning stages to take the ers and it encourages people to develop
calibre without having to invest in
mound back to 1000 yards. Mildura for the range, with $22,000 of The LRSC’s FCSA affiliation brings lation and licensing. The official connec- and get the most out of their rifles.”
the full kit.
It will also benefit from a $70,000 Victo- it allotted to the purchase of electronic tangible benefits for 50-calibre shooting tion with an internationally recognised In a short time, the LRSC has already
“Some guys just come and buy
rian Government grant given to SSAA targets. in Australia, particularly regarding legis- shooting discipline means membership produced a world champion, offers
two or three shots,” Russell says.
of the LRSC is a genuine reason for unique shooting opportunities, has
“They might come out here and just
kicked goals for 50BMG shooters in the
The Aussie 50-Cal Junior World Champ
buying a 50-cal rifle in a jurisdiction that fire two or three shots and that’s
has viewed high-calibre rifles with suspi- regulatory field, draws members from all
their fun for the week.
cion. over and has practical plans for improv-
The Armalite is competitive, too.
L
The LRSC requires new members to ing its facilities.
achlan Adolph won his first Lachlan Adolph used it to win the
complete at least three shoots with the “We’ve got a bright future,” Owen
50-calibre world champi- Hunter class at the FCSA Australian
club’s own 50BMG rifle before grant- says.
onship at the age of 13, in Titles in August, and in the process
2018. He backed up with his shot the best score and best
second title in 2019. aggregate group across all 50BMG
Lachie got his chance to shoot classes on the day.
against the world’s best in the
USA when FCSA President Randy
Powell (pictured with Lachie
left) was in Australia and was so
impressed with the teenager’s
shooting that he offered to
sponsor him. With $4000 raised Hundreds of competitors are involved,
by shooters in Australia, Lachie was and it’s the driving force behind the
able to head over and claim the FCSA development of 50-cal shooting in
1000-yard junior crown. general.
To repeat the victory the following “There’s $30,000-$35,000 on the
year was no mean feat, considering prize table,” Lachlan’s father, Owen
how big this competition is in the USA. Adolph, says.
16 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 17
Branches
Branch & & Clubs
Club News Branches
Branch & News
& Club 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
18 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 23
19Branches
Branch & & Clubs
Club News Branches
Branch & News
& Club Clubs
(arrive by 8.15am) on the third Sunday recognised as SSAA National disciplines, to visit our range to discuss your interest tional and international handgun rifles only at 50m (no magnums); and
of each month at Main Range Two. The and these two events comprise the annu- Practical Pistol on the first Sunday of each month from competitions. has 25-50m pistol ranges and a 10m air
range has a roofed firing line with 25
permanent concrete benches.
al Fly Nationals, which are held by each
State in turn. League of Australia around 9.30am. • Instruction, coaching and training for
competition-oriented shooters
rifle range.
The range hosts a number of competi-
Buying a custom-built rifle can be a big The 500m Fly and 200yd Rimfire are shot tions throughout the week, as well as ca-
commitment, so shooters with “off the and scored as described above for the
Practical Pistol League of Australia (PPLA)
was formed in about 1976/77 because of
Sporting Shooters • A home base at the SSAA Springvale
Range Complex. tering for corporate and group shooting
shelf” hunting or tactical rifles are wel-
come to come with them to one of the
300yd Mozzie but with a fly motif replac-
ing the mozzie.
the surge in interest in IPSC. Pistol Club The SPC has approximately 40 members,
many of whom actively train for and
activities, such as Scout groups, birthday
parties and community activities.
The PPLA was the second IPSC club
monthly competitions and try benchrest. The annual MBC membership fee is $50. shoot competitions at local, state and The 50m, .22 main range is available
formed in Australia and the first in Victo-
If you’re interested in this type of At each attended shoot there is a $15 The SSPC is a friendly and social hand- interstate events. Shooting is a sport to the public and members. Unlicensed
ria. The aim was, and still is, to expand
shooting, feel free to come and join in range entry fee ($20 for non-MBC mem- gun shooting club with over 400 mem- that does not present a barrier to anyone shooters are welcome to come down and
the interest in the shooting discipline
or contact us for further information. bers) and a MBC target fee $5 to $10, bers. It runs primarily from the SSAA who wishes to get involved - neither age, use the facility under the guidance of
of the International Practical Shooting
The monthly shoots are as much a depending on the day’s competition. Springvale Range. physical ability nor gender are barriers to experienced range officers/instructors.
Confederation or IPSC. This action pistol
friendly, social get-together as they are Contact: MBC secretary Nick Aagren, Competitions and practices are held on enjoying the sport of pistol shooting. Loan firearms are available at the range.
sport epitomises the safe use of pistols in
competitive. 0408 551 575 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights It does require a high degree of self-dis- Trading hours Mon-Wed: 5pm to 9pm,
the sporting arena.
Benchrest guns are typically pur- Email: nick.aagren@gmail.com from 6pm-8pm, Saturdays from 10am and cipline, attention to detail and willingness Thu-Fri: 3pm to 9pm, Sat: 10am to 6pm,
IPSC, as the name indicates, is an Inter-
pose-built to suit the individual shooter Facebook: Melbourne Benchrest Club. Sundays from noon. to learn if you are to progress to high Sun: 10am to 5pm.
national sport followed by literally thou-
and are single-shot centrefire guns, sup- A variety of competitions are shot, in- levels of performance, but it is also a Phone: 9547 0007 during trading hours
sands of competitors in just about every
ported by front and rear rests. With this cluding ISSF style sport pistol, centrefire Email: springvale@ssaavic.com.au
set up, benchrest guns return to point of Military Rifle nation on the planet. IPSC only uses full
power handguns of .38 or 9mm calibre,
and classic pistol at 25m, 25m and 50m,
great pastime for those who have less
time to practice.
aim and can be fired rapidly, if necessary,
to take advantage of a prevailing wind Club including all their variants.
service match, IPSC and metallic silhou-
ette (at Eagle Park range).
The SSAA Springvale Range Complex has
many facilities for the use of members.
Victorian Muzzle
condition.
The effect of wind is very noticeable We are dedicated to the safe, competi-
The PPLA runs monthly competitions on
the third Sunday of each month at Eagle
Our website contains a full calendar of
competitions and range times.
Those who wish to learn the disciplines Loading Club
of target shooting and how to shoot
Park and has built an enviable array of
when trying to shoot small groups, so tive use of military firearms. Friendly and Introduction to Handguns course them well are welcome to join our grow-
pistol ranges to ensure that IPSC shoot-
wind indicator flags are used to show welcoming atmosphere. Competitions are New members are welcome. We run reg- ing membership. SPC shoots on Wednes- Want to have some fun? Relive the
ing is shown at its best in Australia.
the direction and speed of the wind. held at the SSAA Little River Range on the ular Introduction to Handguns courses day nights. excitement of bygone days by shooting
In fact, the range complex area built by
Benchrest shooters enjoy experimenting first and second Sundays of the month. which will teach you the basics of hand- Email: secretary@springvalepc.org black powder firearms –a truly engross-
the PPLA for IPSC is amongst only a few
with reloading and shooting accurate The first Sunday (9am start) of the month gun safety and shooting fundamentals as Website: www.springvalepc.org ing and satisfying sport – with the Victo-
within Australia that can truly host and
calibres, such as the light recoiling 6BR events include the main event, a 3-posi- well as provide an introduction to joining For women who love to combine shoot- rian Muzzle Loading Club (VMLC).
International level IPSC competition.
and improved versions of this cartridge tional competition over 100m, 200m and the club. ing and socialising. New members and visitors are always
PPLA has produced some of the finest
like the 6mm Dasher, BRX and BR Ackley 300m, plus the specialty event, which The course consists of 30 minutes of the- welcome to attend the VMLC monthly
IPSC competitors and International
Improved. includes rapid-fire and focuses on a ory followed by 60 minutes on the range shoots at the SSAA Eagle Park Shooting
Competition events throughout the year different rifle/theme each month.
Range Officers within the world of IPSC.
PPLA has its own website and produces
firing a variety of club handguns. Springvale Complex, located near Little River, on
are 500m Fly, 300yd Mozzie, 200yd Rim- Various long-range events at 500m are The course costs $130 and includes the third Saturday of every month. Even
fire and 100 and 200yd Centrefire. held during the year with standard ser-
newsletters at various times throughout
the year to keep members informed and
range entry and ammunition. Bookings Women’s Group if you don’t own any muzzle loading or
The 300yd Mozzie is the most popular vice (iron sights) and scoped rifles eligible for the course are taken online at our black powder firearms, knowledgeable
plays a large part in the running of IPSC
event on the MBC calendar and is a to enter. website or at the front desk at Springvale We meet on the second and fourth and generous VMLC members are always
at a State, National and International
scaled down version of the 500m Fly. The The second Sunday of the month (11:30 Range. Thursday of each month at SSAA Victoria eager to give you a few shots. In addi-
level with various members holding
competition involves each competitor fir- am start) main event is the 3P Trainer Completing the introduction course is the Springvale Range at 7pm sharp. tion, supervision and support is given
positions at these levels. PPLA also has
ing five shots at five targets, with scoring Competition on a mini 3P target over 50m, first step in joining our club. We shoot multi-disciplines which may to all novice muzzle loading and black
government accredited testers to exam-
based on both group size and score. 75m and 100m, using military trainer rifles Club fees consist of a $400 joining fee include 3P, Field Rifle, Practical Rifle, powder shooters.
ine new members to ensure that they are
This tests the skills of the shooter in (.22 and 310 cadet). and thereafter a $200 membership fee Sports rifle, Air Rifle, Feral Targets, Competitions are organised for all black
properly trained in the safe use and care
developing an accurate load for their rifle The MRC State Titles are held in April at due at the end of April of each year. Stuff-We-Make-Up-As-We-Go. powder firearms, including handguns,
of firearms.
(group size) and also being able to read the Dookie Agricultural College. Club rifles Range entry fees are separate and paid No membership fees, just a $5 target fee cowboy single-action rifles, black powder
The club annual fees are varied and huge
the wind to get their shots in the 10 ring are available for competition and practice, directly to the SSAA, however yearly payable at each shoot. cartridge rifles, shotguns, and cannons.
discounts are offered to families who
(score). and the opportunity to practice and sight range entry passes are available from Need more information? Email Jenny, In November, many members camp at
wish to join, and as we are an IPSC only
The Mozzie is the motif in the centre of in your own rifles is possible on either of our club. dejen@jeheda.com or Katie Ktgrl0111@ Eagle Park for the two-day State Champi-
club, each member is required to join
the 10 ring and an extra point is awarded the two Sundays. Website: www.sspc.org.au hotmail.com. onships, where lots of black powder and
IPSC. Prospective members should visit
for each hit on it. Other special events are held in part- Contact: info@sspc.org.au If your preference is a phone call, talk to lead is expended during the day. At night
our web page to see how they can join in
Short-range benchrest – 100 & 200yd nership with several VRA clubs and our Club Coach Bill, 0408 323 060. everyone relaxes with a free barbecue,
this exciting handgun shooting sport.
group competition – is the historical basis
of benchrest; however, with advances in
Military Rifle Clubs in Victoria. The club’s
General Meeting for all members is held
The club is a sub-club of the SSAA and Springvale exchanging black powder stories and
generally having a good time.
equipment, particularly optics, the longer at the SSAA Springvale Range on the
membership of that organisation is
mandatory. Pistol Club SSAA Springvale For additional information, contact the
distances of 300yd and 500m have be-
come increasingly popular at MBC.
fourth Thursday of every second month
at 8pmAnnual membership is $45 for
Our ranges are situated at the SSAA Ea- Range VMLC President Jim Morraitis on 03
9401 1955 during business hours. Visit
gle Park Range facility in Little River, an
MBC members also participate in 500m adults and $15 for juniors (12 to 17 years The Springvale Pistol Club (SPC) was the VMLC website at www.vmlc.com.au;
easy 40 minutes from Melbourne.
Fly matches held at SSAA interstate inclusive) formed on June 17, 2004 to provide: The Springvale Shooting Range is open Facebook at www.facebook.com/Victori-
PPLA can be contacted either at our
ranges in ACT, NSW and Queensland Website: www.vicmrc.com every day of the week. The facility, which anMuzzleLoadingClub; Twitter search for
website, www.ppla.org.au or directly to • Affiliation with the peak bodies
throughout the year. Email: milrifle@vicmrc.com includes a licensed bar, lounge, and vmlc3; or Pinterest search for Victorian
Bill Campbell on 0412 855 266. Feel free in Victoria and Australia for na-
The 500m Fly and 200yd Rimfire fly are restaurant, allows patrons to shoot: .22 Muzzle Loading Club.
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20 The Victorian Shooter The Victorian Shooter 25
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