THE VICTORIAN

MAGAZINE SHOOTEROctober 2016, Vol 18 No 5

MEET THE NEW FACES OF SSAA VICTORIA

Buchan Range revamp revealed 3 Invasive species in the spotlight 18 Stemming the flow of black market guns 21

The official publication of the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Victoria) INSIDE THIS ISSUE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

7 COVER: Faces of 8 SSAA Victoria t’s been an exciting couple of months for shooters, Not just a number: Iwith SSAA Victoria 10 Ross Williams member Catherine Skinner winning the gold at the Rio DENIS MORONEY 11 Sambar found at Olympic Games. Catherine SSAA Victoria President Wilsons Promontory is still very young and the In other positive news, we 23 gold medal was her first were informed recently that 15 Shot in the arm for international competition SSAA clubs win. We sent Catherine a the Association and some 27 congratulatory letter and gift sub-clubs were successful in 21 Herald Sun gives on behalf the members. obtaining several grants. More shooters the bird information on those grants We have also been working can be found later in this 25 Juniors compete for closely with SSAA National, edition. I would like to thank Beretta and ACTA on the the prize our Facilities Manager Shaun #IMASHOOTER campaign. Doyle for his hard work in Many members will have seen 30 Around the traps: applying for those grants. Social photos the big billboard with Cath- erine Skinner while driving Since my last President’s along the Westgate Freeway. 32 Branches and sub- report I also attended the clubs news It was designed to encourage 30 Queensland AGM. This is a more people to try the shoot- huge annual event, which is ing sports. THE VICTORIAN combined with the State Con- On September 18 we held the ference. It was very interest- SSAA Victoria AGM at the ing to attend as a guest. Sandown Park Hotel. It was SHOOTERMAGAZINE Finally, SSAA Victoria a positive meeting and more The Victorian Shooter is a bi-monthly magazine than 50 people attended. launched its new website last of the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Victoria). Unit 3/26 Ellingworth Parade, Box Hill 3128 Please refer to the article on month. The project began page 25 for the results of the Editor and Graphic Design: Caitlin Pearson several months ago with our Board of Directors ballot. Also Marketing and Communica- Disclaimer: The views expressed in some articles and by some contributers are not necessarily those of I would like to thank outgoing tions Manager updating and Director Henry Rogers for his SSAA Victoria. rewriting all of the content on commitment to the Associ- Editorial deadline for the December edition of The the old website. The new web- Victorian Shooter is Monday, November 7. ation during his time on the site is very clean, professional Download The Victorian Shooter: This edition, Board. along with magazine archives, is available for and modern. download on the SSAA Victoria website at In the lead up to the AGM www.ssaavic.com.au the State Office released It was really important that we Email alerts: Keep abreast of shooting matters by its first professional Annual revamped our website to show subscribing to SSAA Victoria’s news alert system. the government, the opposi- Simply email the State Office on state_office@ Report. This took a lot of work ssaavic.com.au to subscribe. from the small State Office tion, the anti-gun lobby and Letters: Have your say in The Victorian Shooter. Email team. The document has the wider public that we were feedback or comments on current issues to the Editor been posted to all relevant a professional organisation. [email protected] State Government Ministers, Front cover picture: Two of the new Faces of SSAA shadow ministers, key in- We have come a long way in Victoria, Carl and Jacqui Wesley, who tell their stories in this edition. dustry partners and national recent years and methods of PICTURE: Tatjana Plitt supporters. communication are changing! 2 SSAAVIC.COM.AU SSAA’s East Gippsland Branch is preparing to officially open its Buchan Range on November 20. Buchan to blow the crowd away

CAITLIN PEARSON Editor Victorian Shooter fter a year of major BEFORE revitalisation projects, the AEast Gippsland Branch is Buchan Range’s firing line before undertaking the development works. preparing to officially launch the to the range,” he said. “I get a lot of “We’ve got 15 to 20 guys wearing pe- Buchan Rifle Range on November people calling me saying they didn’t riod costumes,” Tim said. “We’ll have 20. know we had a range here so I want cannon firing and people can have a to get the word out there. go using old-style rifles, or look at the The process began about four years display items. ago when SSAA Victoria negotiated “We also want to make a celebration with the Victorian Rifle Association out of it and try to make it entertaining “We’ve also got a trading table and to take over the range. The landown- for everyone who comes along.” some people are bringing goodies er - the Department of Environment, like cupcakes for sale. We’ll have a sausage sizzle sponsored by Jeff Land, Water and Planning - has since Shooters and Fishers Party MP Bourman. So there will be plenty to given the East Gippsland Branch a Jeff Bourman will officially open the look at and do.” 10-year licence of the property. range, but the real spectacle will be the cannon – one of two at the event – Since being granted the 10-year Branch President Tim Brooking said which he fires to mark the opening. licence the branch has worked hard more than $34,000 had been spent to build the range up to its current on improvements at the range and People in re-enactment costumes will standard. The backstops required it was time to share them with the carry out black powder demonstra- tions for the crowd, while a marquee rebuilding and massive earthworks membership and the wider public. were undertaken to level the range will be set up to display various fire- as much as possible. “The main aim of our official opening arms from WWI, WWII, the American day is to introduce the local area Civil War and the Napoleonic Wars. CONTINUED PAGE 4 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 3 DURING

Buchan Range’s firing line after installing conrete benches. RIGHT: The new water tank being installed.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 two toilet blocks and a water tank. We will allow all-weather access to the plumbed them into a septic system so target frames for range users. “Then we put in a concrete slab at we now have male and female flush- 500m for the firing line, installed con- ing toilets and clean drinking water In the future the branch will focus its crete firing benches and in August under pressure on tap.” attention on boosting security and we installed a cover over the firing improving facilities for range users line to make it all weather,” Tim said. The branch – which has 1000 mem- who want to camp the night before bers – also planned on gravelling the shoot days. “Two containers were obtained and main road in to the range office and put side by side with an area in be- undertaking draining improvement “We’re going to be working on the tween covered by a shelter pod that works. Levelling and gravelling at the picnic area,” he said. we purchased with funds from an East previously muddy 25m, 50m, 100m, Gippsland Shire grant. Then we got 200m, 300m, 400m and 500m marks CONTINUED PAGE 5

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4 SSAAVIC.COM.AU AFTER

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 in attendance was the introduction of a mid-week shoot. CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: A roof was recently “We’re going to be putting showers built over the new-look firing line to make it ‘all in the toilet blocks and we’re getting weather’. The completed firing line. The new male Tim said competition shooting and females toilets. The shelter pod that was hot water for that. We will also set up installed between two containers at the range. would be introduced next year. The bollards back from the firing line to stop access by vehicles as well as “ultimate plan” is to have the range some near the office to stop vehicles open three or four Sundays a month getting there.” for target shooting, competition, fly shoots and black powder. The improvements have already had a positive impact on attendance at Tim also acknowledged the SSAA the range, with numbers increasing Victoria Board and State Office for 10-fold. Contributing to the increase their generous support. Farmer Assist in Victoria SAA Victoria will launch the Farmer Assist Program at Sthe Elmore Field Days from October 4 to 6. The Association will use the event to educate farmers on the benefits of using volunteer SSAA members for pest control.

The fully online platform allows farm- ers and land managers to post job ads when they require help with pest and feral animal control. Developed to be simple and easy to use, farmers only need to complete a quick and simple A screenshot of the SSAA Farmer Assist jobs board, which is the hub of the program. A farmer process to register and then gain will post an advertisement on this portal and members can apply to that ad. When the right person applies, the farmer will invite them to his or her property. full access to the program’s online ‘jobs board’. It is where a farmer can farmers to find, review and select kill native species. quickly place a pest control task that SSAA members to carry out the “With farmers working in excess of explains the details of a specific pest required pest control work. 12 hours a day during busy periods, animal problem and how they would “Feral and pest animals cost our pri- they have limited resources for man- like assistance. mary industries hundreds of millions aging pests on their own properties. Only accredited SSAA members who of dollars every year,” SSAA Victoria Having an extra pair of hands, or a are approved and registered can ac- Conservation and Pest Management group that you can trust, coming onto your property and controlling pests cess the program to see and respond (CPM) Manager Rhys Coote said. can relieve a huge burden.” to any listing. The jobs board and its “These animals also cause consider- personal messaging system allow able damage to the environment and CONTINUED PAGE 6 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 5 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 I’m a member and I want to get involved The concept behind the development 1. Members must read the Complete Program Booklet via the website and of this program was simple: SSAA commit to obey to the program’s safety, animal welfare and ethical hunting wanted to develop stronger ties be- requirements. tween its members and the farming 2. Members who are not CPM accredited must undertake a self-guided shooting community. It was designed to allow competency assessment. members with a certain skill set to 3. The assessment requires members to shoot a five-shot group within the provide assistance with pest animal assessment zone of the SSAA Farmer Assist Assessment Target at a SSAA management. range. 4. Members are able to choose their most favoured shooting position for the A special online platform was de- assessment task. The minimum qualifications for the assessment are as signed to allow farmers to communi- follows: cate with SSAA members, who were • Rimfire assessment must be conducted at a minimum range of 50m. happy to volunteer their time to help • Centrefire assessment must be conducted at a minimum range of 100m. deal with problem wildlife. 5. Once a member has successfully demonstrated the required marksmanship, The Farmer Assist Program also pro- a Range Officer from the range must ‘sign-off’ the qualifying target. The Range Officer does not need to supervise the assessment process. vides SSAA members with hunting opportunities they may not be able to 6. When the assessment is complete, members can go to the sign-up form on the Farmer Assist website, enter the necessary details and complete their get on their own. registration. “People with no direct connections to 7. CPM-accredited members must photocopy their CPM card upon registration. the land often have a hard time find- 8. Respond to the system-generated email from SSAA Farmer Assist as directed ing hunting opportunities,” Rhys said. to verify your account. “We get several calls each week from 9. SSAA members then apply for jobs through the SSAA Farmer Assist Program members who want to help control jobs board and farmers will review their applications and contact the mem- pest and invasive animals, but they bers directly. don’t know where to start. 10. Members must keep a copy of the signed target in a safe place so they can produce it whenever requested by a SSAA representative or farmer. “Driving from property to proper- ty knocking on doors can be time consuming and it can be a hard sell. I’m a farmer and I want help with pests Farmers want to deal with someone 1. You will need access to the internet and an email address to register. they can trust and this portal allows 2. Register for the program and create a job ad on the jobs board. members to build up that trust over 3. From this point you need to monitor applications and read through them. time through the online application process and the marksmanship com- 4. Suspend the job once you have enough applicants to talk to. petency assessment.” 5. Find the right person for the job and invite them onto your property.

Prior to registering, all volunteer any person other than a professional this program will be insured. operators undertake a self-guided is purely based on perceived animal For further information visit the shooting competency assessment welfare concerns. Unfortunately, SSAA Farmer Assist website (www. using an approved SSAA Farmer As- paying someone to do a job doesn’t sist Assessment Target. The target farmerassist.com.au), or contact necessarily mean you always get the is then signed off by an accredited CPM Manager Rhys Coote on 03 best outcome. The skill requirements Range Officer. 8892 2777 or SSAA National Farmer for this program will hopefully go a Assist Co-ordinator Matthew Godson long way towards addressing this “This requirement will demonstrate on 08 8272 7100 (option 3) or spoh@ an appropriate level of marksmanship issue.” ssaa.org.au equivalent to commercial macropod All members who participate in the harvesters, or professional shooters,” SSAA Victoria will be in the program are covered by the Asso- SSAA National Farmer Assist Co-or- Agribusiness Pavilion at Elmore ciation’s $20 million public liability dinator Matthew Godson said. Field Days site AP38. Members are insurance. It will give farmers peace encouraged to visit the site and show “The reluctance in certain parts of of mind knowing that SSAA members the team their membership card to go the community to endorse the use of invited onto their property as part of in the draw to win a member prize. 6 SSAAVIC.COM.AU ISPC prodigy rakes in the titles

ISPC competitor Daniel McIvor is making a name for himself in shooting circles.

MARK OLIVER It means that in just three years shoot small IPSC matches twice a SSPC Vice President of active high-level competition week after work.” aniel McIvor is something Daniel has amassed seven IPSC President’s Medals. Most IPSC The practice has paid off for of a Prodigy in IPSC in competitors go their whole com- Daniel, who is now graded a Australia. Daniel joined D petitive career without winning a Grand Master (the highest grading the Sporting Shooters Pistol single President’s medal. available in IPSC) after winning Club (SSPC) in June 2013. the 2016 IPSC Nationals. He is Since that time he has logged Daniel has been shooting lon- also automatically raised to Mas- over 230 IPSC attendances with garms since the age of 12, when ter Grade in open, standard and SSPC alone. his family moved to Canada for a production divisions. few years. “My Dad and his family Daniel recently won the 2016 IPSC were keen duck hunters and we Daniel is an exceedingly humble Australian Nationals for Classic lived in a rural area so I was able competitor. He is always the first Division. To win this event Daniel to shoot quite often,” he said. to assist in stage restoration and had to beat the best IPSC Classic “When we moved back to Austra- working with his squad at a shoot. Division shooters in the country. In lia and I was old enough I applied this competition all three current for my longarms licence and At 32, Daniel is also very young to Australian Classic Grand Masters became interested in long range achieve such high-level success. were present, along with all the top rifle shooting.” Being so young, he has earned master grade shooters. Not only the affectionate nickname among did Daniel finish first, he won it He stumbled across pistol shoot- the high-level IPSC Classic by a whopping 14.5 per cent (200 ing after struggling to find a local competitors of ‘Pedal Car’. This points). That is a convincing win to rifle club. Initially focussing on is based on the fact that we all put it mildly. ISSF shooting, Daniel came to the think it was only a couple of years SSPC in pursuit of ISPC compe- ago that Daniel would have been On his way to this win Daniel also tition. “The club has been very driving a kids’ pedal car around came first in the Classic Division accommodating,” he said. “The his parents’ lounge room. in all five Victorian State Selection other members are always very matches. Daniel also won one of helpful and keen to pass on any We look forward to seeing what the South Australian State Titles knowledge they have. SSPC’s other achievements Daniel has in (the only one that he entered). IPSC schedule is fantastic. We store.

SSAAVIC.COM.AU 7 FACES OF SSAA VICTORIA

In July SSAA Victoria ran the ‘Faces of SSAA Victoria’ campaign to find members who represented the organisation’s vision, mission and objectives. These people are featured on the website, which was launched last month and their stories will be shared with the membership and the wider community over the coming months. Each of them has a different story to tell, whether it be their hunting philosophy; their passion for reloading; their drive to help and educate others or their experience breaking down the stigmas sometimes attached to the shooting sports. Keep an eye out for each story on the website and in future editions of this magazine. In this edition we introduce you to three of the new Faces of SSAA Victoria. Carl and Jacqui

Carl and Jacqui Wesley have been around the shooting sports their whole lives. Now in retirement they keep busy controlling pest animals on thier property. PICTURE: Tatjana Plitt Retiring to shooting hen it comes to ham, England, when he “still had his “My favourite part of hunting when shooting, Carl and nappies on”. I was young was we had a close WJacqui Wesley’s journey family friend, Peter Bell, who grew “My father was a policeman who spans two continents, at least four peas commercially,” he said. “Wood became a firearms instructor and he generations and almost 70 years. pigeons were a big pest for those shot at the Queen’s Prize,” Carl said. products in England and we would The pair - who have been married “I think I was under 10 when my fa- help him control them.” half a century - shoot pistol, rifle and ther used to take me to the range and shotgun, have a target range on their he would allow me to have a go after As a school boy Carl met his best property and regularly hunt together everybody finished shooting.” friend’s sister. Jacqui grew up in at home near Broadford. England and also learnt to shoot while Following the family tradition, Carl young. Carl’s introduction to shooting oc- was given his first air rifle for his 10th curred at his home town of Birming- birthday, just like his older brother. CONTINUED PAGE 9 8 SSAAVIC.COM.AU FACES OF SSAA VICTORIA

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

“Well my dad taught me to shoot with an air rifle but after that I didn’t really have much to do with it for many years,” she said.

The pair relocated to Australia in 1968, with plans of a successful career in agriculture. But when the 1970s downturn in agriculture came Carl lost his job and the pair, now mar- ried, moved to Melbourne.

“I joined a security company and I was required to carry a firearm for personal protection,” he said. “I later became a prison guard and I always believed you should know how to use Jacqui and Carl have travelled the country in their caravan and always ensure they have some firearms and their meat grinder on board. PICTURE: Tatjana Plitt the tools of your trade, so I used to go along and practice.” bourne and competing in pistol elled the country and continued to It was at this time Jacqui’s interest shooting, the pair was also required hunt along the way. in shooting was piqued. As an office to carry out pest animal eradication “I always have a .22 and a .308 just manager for a concrete manufacturer, at home. in case and Jacqui always brings the Jacqui was often at work or at home “At Cranbourne we had a plague meat grinder with her in case we get while Carl took the kids to the range. of rabbits,” Carl said. “We had an something,” Carl said. “Eventually I thought I would go with extensive vegetable garden and they “The best meat is camel. I shot a cam- them,” she said. And her husband would gravitate towards that, which el in Western Australia when we were said she was a natural. did make them easier to shoot. doing an Outback trip. I was standing “I normally start people off with a .22 “We had chickens and we’d get rats up 6’2” and holding the huge back- calibre pistol at 10 yards,” he said. that we had to cull. We also got foxes strap up. It was just off the ground. “She proceeded to put 10 bullets into out there.” “There might have been 15 kg of the same hole.” Over the years the couple has been meat and that lasted us four weeks. The Wesleys helped form the Pro- involved in the SSAA bird control So Jacqui cubed it for casserole, fessional Pistol League and were in- program at the Yarra Valley, the Con- curries, and we even made sausages volved in setting up IPSC in Australia, servation and Pest Management goat in the field.” back when only security, police and control program at the You Yangs Jacqui said it was “very satisfying and several other programs, as well military were allowed to join the club. to sit down to a meal which you’ve as controlling goats, rabbits and either cultivated or grown yourself”. “I was in the first Australian team to foxes on their own. represent the country in the sec- Sharing a love of the outdoors, shoot- Carl also began hunting deer in the ond World Combat Championship ing, hunting and camping has brought 1970s and is a shareholder at the in South Africa,” Carl said. “It was the couple together, especially since Deerstalker’s Woods Point lodge. awesome. There were 600 shooters their retirement 20 years ago. from all over the world doing seven days of solid shooting. To see the The Wesleys used to go on camp- In Carl’s words, “couples who hunt world’s top shooters in action was ing, fishing and shooting trips on a together, stay together”. just incredible.” property in NSW when their children, Lorraine and Ian, were growing up. In Meet another Face of SSAA Victoria on While living on a property at Cran- more recent years the couple trav- page 23 of this edition. SSAAVIC.COM.AU 9 Not just a number Ballistic coefficients are worth understanding

The ballistic coefficient will affect the flat-shooting and wind-bucking abilities of this rifle’s ammunition.

so they don’t lose speed as quickly. C of .333 means that the bullet theo- retically has only a third of the stan- The extent to which a projectile is dard projectile’s ballistic efficiency. able to conserve its velocity (eg. fight air resistance) is called its ballistic Manufacturers commonly quote C efficiency. ratings for their bullets, which they pub- ROSS WILLIAMS Victorian Shooter contributer lish in their loading manuals. Unfortu- An object with high ballistic efficien- nately the methods used for deriving cy will cover a given distance faster these coefficients vary from maker to than one with low ballistic efficiency, urking out there is something maker. While some companies work if both are launched at the same called the ballistic coefficient, from actual test firings, others rely on speed. Lwhich contains useful an analysis of the bullet’s shape, size information. But there’s a catch. Consequently, because gravity has and weight. Although the majority We have to know what a ballistic less time in which to act, the more has the same standard projectile in coefficient is and how it works, efficient projectile will have a flatter mind, a few do not. before we can profit from what it trajectory. Where it weighs the same For instance, Remington and Hor- tells us. as its rival, it will have more energy nady derive the C-ratings for their and more momentum when it reach- Experienced rifle shooters are well 25-grain .17 bullets in different ways. es the target. aware of it but the fact is that the bal- As a result the Hornady’s C of .190 listic coefficient is misunderstood by The most useful measure of ballistic is not as superior to the Remington’s many others. Some have never heard efficiency is the ballistic coefficient .152 as it may seem. of it. So let’s set the record straight. whose symbol is C. It is a number Another complication: the value of C For the newer shooters in our midst, (more correctly, a value) that takes depends partly on velocity. Let’s look we’ll begin with some basics. into account the shape, mass and cross-sectional area of the projectile. closely at two different projectiles: When a bullet leaves the barrel it A bullet with a C of .351 is therefore • Take Sierra’s 300-grain FNHP in tries to follow the line of the bore. less affected by air resistance than calibre .458. At 1000 to 1200 feet Gravity, however, pulls the bullet one whose C is .289. per second, its C is .240. Above earthwards and air resistance slows 2200 fps, its C drops to .126 – a the bullet down. The result is a curv- Actually the ballistic coefficient relates vast change. ing flight path or trajectory. The curve the performance of a given bullet to the performance of a standard pro- steepens with increased range. • The same maker’s .243 100gn jectile. For this standard projectile C SBT goes the other way. Under Gravity has the same effect on all is 1.0. In non-scientific terms, a bullet 1800 fps its C is .391 but rises to projectiles. But the projectiles them- with a C of .5 is supposed to be only .445 above 2800 fps. selves differ – some are heftier or bet- half as good as the standard projectile ter streamlined than others, or both, at conserving its velocity. Similarly, a CONTINUED PAGE 11 10 SSAAVIC.COM.AU CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 are not mathematically predictable. the bullet’s velocity, the greater the retardation rate – and the greater But we are not always told the velocity Because exterior ballistics programs the retardation rate, the greater the range at which a ballistic coefficient available for home computers come deflection. holds true. Without this data, we have complete with drag functions, they to treat C values as “good working can calculate trajectories for us. The Because ballistic coefficients indicate averages” for the whole trajectory. better software can help us to deter- a bullet’s ability to conserve its veloc- mine C values as well. ity, they also tell us about retardation Furthermore, the trajectory of a small rates. In a nutshell, the higher the arms projectile is not a truly smooth The ballistic coefficient is also linked ballistic coefficient, the lower the curve. It is marked by “dips” — points to how far the wind can blow a bullet retardation rate. Thus a projectile where the rate of deceleration sud- off course. In many field shooting with a C of .380, for example, will be denly but temporarily increases. One and target shooting situations, wind less affected by wind deflection than of these dips occurs when the bullet deflection and our ability to estimate one whose C is .300 – all else being slows to around the speed of sound. it can govern our success or failure. equal.

To predict a trajectory with reason- Higher C ratings imply less deflection Hunters will have noticed that I’ve able precision, we must take the dips but the connection is not quite as said nothing about terminal ballistics, into account. To do that we need a simple as it looks. Wind deflection or how a projectile behaves when it table of “drag functions” derived from is directly linked to the “retardation strikes its target. That’s another story. test firing of the standard projectile. rate” (the rate at which a bullet loses Without the drag functions, the dips speed to air resistance). The higher Copyright © R. Williams, September 2016. Sambar found at the Prom third deer control operation at Wilsons Promontory A National Park in August led to the removal of another 44 Hog deer from the area. Game Management Operating across Oberon Bay, Tidal Authority staff River, Derby River, the Derby Airstrip examining and the northern Yanakie end of the the condition of the park, it was the largest deer control dispatched operation ever held in the area. Hog deer.

While previous operations were focused on controlling Hog deer, the team made a significant discovery in the lead up to the August 23 to 25 operation. lished in July. The Sambar remain at its objectives. large, but the conclusive discovery For the first time a Sambar deer was will impact how Parks Victoria man- “It was a fantastic program where we seen in the park on a game camera ages deer control into the future. managed to remove more deer than recording in July. The species had the two previous programs com- been rumoured to be in the area The main aim of the latest program bined,” he said. “All of the shooters for years but sightings were never was to protect cultural sites and re- confirmed. duce the browsing pressure on native involved were very professional and vegetation caused by the increasing their marksmanship was excellent. During the recent operation, which deer population. They all worked together, regard- was expanded to include Sambar, a less of which association they were volunteer hunter saw two Sambar at Conservation and Pest Management representing. Oberon Bay, the same area where (CPM) Manager Rhys Coote was the game camera had been estab- confident the program would achieve CONTINUED PAGE 13 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 11 PROTECT YOUR VISION AND HEARING

Ear protection is mandatory for everyone on SSAA Victoria ranges. Eye protection is recommended for all shooters and mandatory for juniors (under 18) on all centrefire and rimfire ranges.

For more information contact the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia Victoria. Phone: 03 8892 2777 ssaavic.com.au CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

“We had no safety or animal wel- fare issues and the whole operation went off without a glitch. We are now working with Parks Victoria to implement annual operations. Being Victoria’s most visited park it is hard to close down for animal control, but by coupling these operations with maintenance projects it improves the outcome.

Volunteers from Australian Deer Association and SSAA Victoria at a briefing during the Wilsons “Management of populations of any Promontory deer control operation. INSET: The dispatched deer after being examined by Game species needs to be carried out on a Management Authority staff. regular basis in a controlled and tar- geted way. This program shows that it expressions of interest from CMP-ac- Each Hog deer carcass was taken can happen using volunteer hunters, credited members and people to the Game Management Authority who are accredited for the job.” responded with their skills, whether checking station where staff deter- they had the correct calibre of fire- mined the animal’s condition, age In August last year 15 volunteers arms and whether they were avail- and gender. A veterinarian on-site from SSAA Victoria and Austra- able for the week of the operation. also checked each animal for liver lian Deer Association successfully fluke and other parasites. removed 42 Hog deer from Tidal and “Anyone who met the criteria went Derby rivers in the inaugural pro- into the draw and several names While the overall health of these ani- gram. A smaller Hog deer program were pulled out of a hat. The East mals was better than the inaugural op- was carried out at Oberon Bay in Gippsland Branch, being the local eration - most likely due to increased May this year but no animals were branch, was also given the opportu- rainfall and reduced competition - two dispatched due to poor weather nity to put forward some names and animals did have liver fluke. The conditions. they followed the same method.” presence of liver fluke was obvious through scarring on the livers. This time, nine CPM-accredited During the third operation Parks SSAA volunteers and nine ADA Victoria introduced thermal imaging volunteers were chosen to work on equipment and carried out spotlight- the program alongside Parks Victoria ing on foot. Last year spotlighting and Game Management Authority. from a vehicle was used.

Due to the operation’s popularity The other change was the shift among CPM volunteers, a ballot pro- allocations. During the inaugural trial cess was introduced for interested hunters carried out day, afternoon members. and night shifts. This time hunters were designated to one block and “We had a selection process,” Rhys they could hunt it as they wished Shooters and Fishers Party MP Jeff Bourmmn said. “We sent an email calling for during the three days. at the operation. SSAAVIC.COM.AU 13 Members answer the call n late June Victoria Police called on the SSAA Victoria Imembership to help build the longarms Firearms Safety Course instructor base in north-west Melbourne. And the membership answered.

Senior Sergeant Aaron Riches said 35 members applied during recruit- ment, and 28 successful applicants attended a Firearms Safety Instructor

induction seminar at the Footscray Since 1988 John Tanner (second from left), Mal Marsland-Kelsey and Daryl Wells have been the Police Station on August 25. only Firearm Safety Course instructors for the Wyndham, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Werribee and Footscray Police Service Areas. Divisional Firearms Officer Anita Harraway (left) recently presented them with an award of thanks from Victoria Police. Throughout 2016 Wyndham, Marib- yrnong, Hobsons Bay, Werribee people wanting to do the course and Firearms Safety Course on a rotating and Footscray Police Service Areas not enough instructors to meet the roster system. experienced a significant increase in demand. demand for Firearm Safety Courses The first three approved applicants – – which reflects an increase in the To address the demand, the Proac- David Tucker, Shane Ellis and Danni popularity of the shooting sports. tive Policing Unit created a working O’Brien – have already been accred- group called FSI Project 31 with Ser- ited to run the safety courses. Rob Since 1988 just three Firearm Safety geant Rossa Rossi, Senior Sergeant said he was really proud of the first Instructors (FSI) – John Tanner, Mal Aaron Riches, Anita Harraway and three ‘graduates’, who never missed Marsland-Kelsey and Daryl Wells – SSAA member and FSI Rob Loric- a night of training. had run safety courses in the service co, who was North West Metro FSI area. The trio provided ongoing Manager. “It takes at least a month for them to community service, contributing to get processed,” he said. “There are the safe handling of firearms, with the The aim of FSI Project 31 was to three sections in the safety course increase instructors from 3 to 31, to support of Divisional Firearms Officer – the safety, handling firearms in the provide quality service to the commu- Anita Harraway. field, and the law. They’ve got to be nity and increase safety messaging/ able to present each section in such Firearms Safety Courses had been compliance. conducted weekly at Williamstown to a way that the students who are sit- cover the entire local service area. Once qualified, FSI are issued with ting the course understand. They’ve Back in June the Footscray Police a certificate of proficiency and are achieved that, so now we will be Station had a six-month waiting list of able to deliver the relevant Victorian putting them on the roster.”

The FSI Project 31 working group is now working on a contemporary 2016 Firearms Safety Course, which The was last updated in 1996. The new Firearm course will encompass increased Safety Course storage advocacy and appropriate instructor social media behaviours in order to applicants being address storage compliance issues introduced and reputation management. to the role. Rob Loricco is one of the new ‘Faces of SSAA Victoria’. Read his story on page 24 of this edition. 14 SSAAVIC.COM.AU Shot in the arm for SSAA clubs and replace walls, and carry out sev- finish a number of important projects. eral other projects around the ranges to improve the aesthetics,” he said. “The grant will fund the installation of a disability ramp onto the main “Front entry works will enable us to range, the completion of concrete CAITLIN PEARSON lift security procedures for range works and new steps onto the main Editor users. Turnstiles will be installed in range, the range office refurbishment Victorian Shooter and out of the facility so there will be and three new clay target throw- SAA Victoria and its dedicated entry and exit doors. We ers,” Shaun said. “It was also for the sub-clubs and regional hope this will also allow for easier installation of an electronic boom Sbranches were successful access and exiting of the facility. gate to control access to the sub-club in obtaining $410,000 of funding “The toilets will be refreshed with ranges, repairs to the trusses on the through round two of the Shooting new tiling, painting, mirrors and hand main range roof, signage, painting Sports Facilities Program. Minister basins. There will be no more green and earthworks, as well as several for Sport John Eren informed the vanities.” other small projects,” Shaun said. Association and its entities of the funding in mid-August. The grant will also allow for other “We believe that the capital improve- minor works, including painting and ments will significantly benefit the The State Ofice has successful- signage upgrades. members and non-members who use ly obtained $200,000 to carry out both ranges.” much-needed works at Springvale The recent announcement followed a and Eagle Park. Each $100,000 State $100,000 Shooting Sports Facilities SSAA Victoria Chief Executive Of- Government grant will be bolstered by Program Round One grant, award- ficer Jack Wegman said the recent $50,000 of SSAA Victoria funds. ed to the Association in November announcement meant the Victorian 2015. That grant will go towards the Government had invested more Facilities Manager Shaun Doyle said replacement of the backing plates on than $500,000 into the Association the funding would enable the Associ- ranges three and four, replacement through both rounds of the Shooting ation to undertake significant capital of the side wall between ranges three Sports Facilities Program, in addi- improvement works at the ranges. and four and minor works. tion to the (up to) $1 million for the purchase of Springvale. “At Springvale, we can now refurbish The grant for Eagle Park will improve the front entrance and the toilets, repair access for people of all abilities and CONTINUED PAGE 16 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 15 FILE PHOTO: Earthworks at Eagle Park Range.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 plans to redevelop range three at the structing a new secure target storage Springvale Range. The aim will be to facility to house the large number of “This funding from the Victorian create more pistol shooting bays and targets required for monthly compe- Government will enable us to make relieve pressure on ranges one and titions, as well as State and National significant improvements at both of four. To fund the project SSPC will Championships. It will also be used our premier ranges and our regional spend $50,000 of its own money. for storing other equipment neces- facilities,” he said. “We hope that sary for the running of the club such these improvements will aid in secur- “This project will be fully funded to as trailers, generators, storage lock- ing the future of the shooting sports develop range three into two general ers, material racks, workbenches and by encouraging more new shooters purpose ranges of the size and stan- the proposed new electronic targets. to the ranges.” dard of range four,” President Brett Goldin said. The club’s existing building was Work has already begun behind erected in 1999 and is no longer the scenes for all three of the State “This grant application would not adequate for the club activities. So it Office’s grants. Members should see have been successful without a lot of will be upgraded to better serve the activity at Springvale within the next hard work from our Vice President, club members. month. All works carried out with the Mark Oliver. Mark put a lot of time program funding must be completed MRC will purchase new electronic into the grant submission and it is by the end of 2017. targets for use in long range rifle great to see that all Mark’s hard work competitions. Secretary Allan Nor- The Sporting Shooters Pistol Club has paid off for the club. On behalf man said the works would enable the (SSPC) was successful in its applica- of the club, I would like to thank Mark club to expand its range of shooting tion for a $100,000 grant, Military Ri- for all the work he put into this. With- activities and enable it to provide fle Club will receive $46,000, Wodon- out his efforts, we would not have shooting opportunities for a wider ga Branch will receive $29,000, been successful.” range of people in a safe and friendly Wodonga Handgun Club will receive environment. $20,000 and the Warrnambool Military Rifle Club (MRC) will use its grant money to upgrade its exist- Branch will receive $20,000. The The Wodonga Branch is preparing ing club facilities at the Eagle Park sub-clubs and branches will each to undertake several earthworks contribute additional funds of their Range. The grant is provided on the projects with its funding. The grant own to complete several much-antici- basis that a significant portion of the will also go towards fixing the road pated projects. cost of the works is also provided by into the range and improving access the club. between the firing line and targets. SSPC submitted a detailed proposal to the program panel outlining its The grant funding will be spent con- CONTINUED PAGE 17 16 SSAAVIC.COM.AU CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16 Albury Wodonga Field and Game – a branch’s funding would go towards a SSAA Victoria affiliate which oper- facelift for the kitchen and new traps. “Our range slopes upward, so ates on the same land as the SSAA between the 100m and 200m back- Wodonga Branch – also received a “We’re going to upgrade with kitch- stops we’re going to remove some grant, which will be spent improving en cupboards and do a tidy up so dirt because it’s our highest ricochet the complex. it’s looking better,” he said. “We’re risk,” Branch President Josh Knight getting stainless steel so it will meet said. “We’re going to take that dirt The Wodonga Handgun Club will food safety standards. and make it into a side berm for our be working with Scott Vickery from running boar range. It means it will Newcastle to install a new turning “Then we’re going spend the rest of be able to be used at the same time target system on its range. Club Sec- the money on new traps. It’ll make as our main range. retary Ruth Nicholls said the funding heaps of difference with quality would allow them to install a system traps and it will make setting up a lot “We’re also going to push a berm of national standard for future ISSF easier.” back to make the running boar range events, 25m standard, rapid fire and SSAA Victoria would like to thank the a bit longer and build it for action centrefire competitions. match pistol shooting where they run Victorian Government for its support moving target competitions.” Warrnambool’s Steve Chilton said the of the shooting sports. Range Officer revalidation is approaching

t the end of 2016 all Range Officer (RO) accreditations will expire and new three-year Aaccreditations will be issued to ROs who have been endorsed by their branches or sub-clubs.

Current ROs will not be required to attend a new course unless specifically requested by their branch or sub-club.

Lists of all recognised and accredited ROs will be sent to branches and sub-clubs in early November. The branches and sub-clubs will then endorse all ROs who are currently active at their range. They will then be revalidated.

Any ROs who are not endorsed by their branch or sub- club will no longer be qualified as of January 1, 2017. They will be required to attend the new RO course before their new three-year accreditation is issued.

SSAA Victoria recommends that all ROs make contact with their branch or sub-club in the coming weeks to ensure that they are on the current lists for revalidation.

Anyone with questions around the process, should contact SSAA Victoria Facilities Manager Shaun Doyle on 03 8892 2777.

To read more about the revalidation, visit the SSAA Victoria website and look for ‘Range Officer’ in the edu- cation section. The SSAA Victoria Range Officer revalidation will be carried out by the end of this year.

SSAAVIC.COM.AU 17 Invasive species in the spotlight

CAITLIN PEARSON Editor Victorian Shooter

he Environment, Natural Resources and Regional TDevelopment Committee is currently investigating the control of invasive species on Victorian Government-owned land.

The committee comprises Member for Thomastown Bronwyn Half- penny, Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy, Member for Western Victoria Simon Ramsay, Member for Mordialloc Tim Richardson, Member for Benambra Bill Tilley, Member for Eltham Vicki Ward and Member for A Sambar hind recorded on a game camera at Sherbrooke Forest. Northern Victoria Daniel Young. of these types of programs for “Other species targeted in CPM On Monday, September 5, the com- other invasive animal species projects have included (other than mittee held public hearings, which in partnership with Crown land deer), rabbits, foxes, cats, hares and were attended by SSAA Victoria, managers; and pigs. CPM projects have been run Game Management Authority, Inva- in parks located in the outer suburbs 3. Assessment of the relative costs sive Species Council, the Depart- of Melbourne and throughout rural and benefits, financial or oth- ment of Environment Land, Water Victoria.” erwise, of other forms of pest and Planning, Australian Deer Asso- control in National Parks. ciation, Vertebrate Pest Managers Over the past 12 years, the CPM program has saved the Victorian Association, Bushwalking Victoria In its submission to the committee, and RSPCA Victoria. SSAA Victoria highlighted the suc- Government approximately $1.2 cess of the Conservation and Pest million since commencement, by pro- The aim of the inquiry is to establish Management (CPM) program and its viding 23,750 volunteer man-hours to the benefits to Parks Victoria and positive biodiversity outcomes. The undertake projects. The program has other agencies’ use of hunting organ- Association also promoted the CPM also contributed to the local econo- isations and individuals in the control operations currently managing inva- mies of rural towns, through the pur- of invasive animals. sive species other than deer. chase of local products and services The terms of reference included but in those communities; reduced the “The Victorian CPM program be- were not limited to: reliance of Government departments gan in November 2003 when SSAA on the use of poisons, fumigants and 1. Assessment of the biodiversity Victoria provided approximately 50 1080 to control invasive animals; accredited members to help control outcomes, community safety and and improved the public perception, goats in the Murray Sunset National limitations of the trial conducted anecdotally, of both Parks Victoria Park,” the submission stated. “Since by Parks Victoria on control of and the Government for taking an then in excess of 4500 goats have deer populations in a National active role in promoting biodiversity been taken from that park, with flora Park; outcomes within the State. and fauna benefitting from the reduc- 2. Consideration of the application tion in goat numbers. CONTINUED PAGE 19 18 SSAAVIC.COM.AU Foxes kill native SSAA Victoria’s submission recommnedations: species and small 1. Deer must remain a game species. It should not be assumed that the livestock as well as reclassification of deer to pest species would automatically reduce damaging their numbers significantly. For example, the recent change to the habitats Wildlife Act to allow primary producers to shoot deer on their proper- and costing primary ties without a game licence has not served to reduce deer numbers. indsutries millions 2. Licensed hunters should be given greater access to National Parks, each year. State parks and State forests to help control deer numbers. General- ly, more Crown or public land should be open to recreational hunting CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 because the habitat provided in these areas is the source of migra- tion of animals onto private property and onto public roads. The submission called for deer to remain a game species; for further 3. Currently within the Alpine National Park, hunting is restricted to research to be conducted into deer Sambar deer. This restriction should be lifted to allow for the hunt- ing of not only other deer species but also pest and vermin species, population density, biology and the given that the problem with wildlife in the Park is not limited solely behavioural drivers affecting breed- to deer. ing and migration; improved access to Crown Land for hunters; and the 4. Given the success of the current CPM program with Parks Victoria, use sound moderators when hunting the SSAA Victoria should be afforded the opportunity to continue on Crown Land. assisting in such programs. These programs deliver quantifiable re- sults which can only improve with commitment and support from the Due to the nature of deer, which Victorian government and its associated departments. roam long distances, control opera- tions must be carried out over large 5. The inquiry should also review the current restriction on sound mod- erators (suppressors/silencers). Outside of Australia, moderators are areas and at regular intervals. There seen as beneficial and their use is common. The benefits of sound are other limitations to success moderator use include: in deer hunting which result from community expectations of access • Reduced hearing loss among hunters. It is common practice to parks and the commitment of park in hunting situations for shooters to forego the use of hearing administrators to provide that access protection in order to pick up on ambient noise; to the public. • Reduced disturbance and stress to pack animals, particularly Overall, 153 submissions were pre- where vermin/pest control activities are undertaken after dark; pared for the inquiry by Alpine Shire • Reduced noise pollution and stress to neighbours in areas of Council, Australian Deer Association, habitation; and Trevor Dennis, RSPCA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and • Reduced recoil and consequent firearm movement resulting in many more. greater accuracy and reduced risk of unintended damage.

The Alpine Shire Council’s Project of other park users, volunteer hunt- shooters and called for the Game Officer (Environment) Steven Tucker ers, Crown Land neighbours and the Management Authority to develop said increasing deer populations were agencies administering the program and implement a Victorian Deer impacting residents and tourists. The is paramount,” the Shire’s submission Management Strategy. The Associa- animals are increasingly being struck stated. tion also recommended several other by cars on the Great Alpine Road. things in its submission, including: The Shire also applauded moves to “Any programs to remove invasive control deer as they were damaging animals on Crown Land, should not • There should be an assessment fencing and contributing to pasture impact on the many positive oppor- of public land in Victoria from competition on farming operations. tunities that Alpine Shire offers for its which deer hunting is excluded, residents and visitors alike.” with a view to opening all land “Hunting is a popular pastime in where there is no good reason to Alpine Shire and we support any Australian Deer Association echoed prohibit hunting. endeavours that target the increasing SSAA Victoria’s call to introduce number of deer, as long as the safety sound moderators for recreational CONTINUED PAGE 20 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 19 SSAA volunteers regularly control rabbits as part of the Conservation and Pest Management program.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 which may cause problems. The CA called for the committee to con- solution is available at no cost to the sider the pain, distress or suffering • A state-wide strategy should be taxpayer of Victoria. It will, in fact, that could be caused by some efforts developed, adopted and properly add to the economy.” to control animal populations. resourced to sustainably manage wild deer populations in Victoria. Animal liberationist group People “(The control methods) must be con- for the Ethical Treatment of Animals ducted humanely and be managed • Actions should focus on prevent- (PETA) prepared a submission for through direct supervision by the ing the establishment of new the inquiry, which called for some appropriate government authorities,” populations of deer and on pro- outlandish approaches to deer man- the submission said. “Effective moni- tecting high value environmental agement. The group said it worked toring and auditing of such programs assets. through public education, cruelty is vital and outcomes should be • Necessary changes to regula- investigations, research, lobbying, reported to the community. tion should be made to allow the celebrity involvement and protest “We have serious concerns about us- processing of wild-shot food for campaigns. It has long campaigned ing community hunting organisations human and pet consumption on against recreational hunting. to assist with wild animal manage- commercial premises. “We urge consideration of other more ment and query the provision of train- SSAA Deerstalkers Club (DSC) effective (than recreational hunt- ing and competency testing to ensure President Trevor Dennis called for ing), more humane alternatives for that animals are killed humanely. Game Management Authority to be the reasons above,” the submission tasked with managing land, partic- said. “Culling does not provide any “In Victoria deer are currently listed ularly State Game Reserves. “The solutions in the long term. Real fixes as a protected game species, which DSC would like to remind all that the must focus on habitat alteration, to means that the long-term aim is to State Game Reserves were paid for make the affected areas inaccessible conserve them. However they are by hunters and purchased for hunt- or unattractive to subject species also now the subject of control by ing - it would be a commonsense (through measures such as exclusion agencies such as Parks Victoria approach to have GMA tasked with fencing or reducing the availability of because they are having an impact managing the bulk of land open to shelter and cover) and use of immu- on biodiversity. This conflict should hunting of game, rather than work- no-contraceptives. One successful be reviewed to ensure effective and ing through other organisations like example of the latter approach, which holistic management of the species, Parks Victoria.” used a long-lasting fertility suppres- and consideration given to removing sant, saw an 89 per cent reduction in their status as protected game.” Trevor called for more open access the fertility of the target species for at for hunters to prevent certain areas least two years following treatment.” The committee will hold a second from becoming “breeding reservoirs” public hearing on Monday, October for deer. “It is the lack of access Following a similar method, the RSP- 10 at Sale. 20 SSAAVIC.COM.AU Police smash criminal firearms syndicate; a positive step for all lawful firearm owners Stemming the flow nternational crime syndicates It led to a larger investigation, with ammunition were recovered. are illegally smuggling firearms police identifying similar rifles seized Iand firearm parts into Australia in three separate investigations. Even- Australian Federal Police Assistant via our ports. Sports shooting tually they were able to stop a large Commissioner Ian McCartney said organisations like SSAA Victoria consignment of firearms and parts the breakthrough cracked down on a have long called for a stronger from illegally entering the country. major crime syndicate importing fire- arms from the US. “I think the really focus on illegal imports and tighter Victoria’s Assistant Police Commis- important point to this is that we’ve protections for our borders. sioner Stephen Fontana said author- ities also identified earlier shipments, closed down the pipeline, both here The recent case was a positive step which included 11 AR-15s. “We’ve and in the United States,” he said. forward in the battle to stamp out recovered four of those but we’re still “As we speak there’s still action in the black market firearms trading. Con- looking for seven,” he said. “They’ve United States and we’re engaging trolling the flow of black market fire- been used in armed robberies; they’ve with our partners in relation to that.” arms into the country will stop them been used in drive-by shootings and a getting into the hands of criminals whole range of other offences.” The syndicate smuggled the firearms and ease the constant pressure on and parts in a container with a false lawful firearm owners, who are often In early September, 12 search bottom. SSAA Victoria supports the warrants were executed in Victoria dragged into the debate. authorities in their continued effort to and NSW. More than 300 firearms stop the illegal trade of firearms. The Victoria Police worked on the case and firearm parts were seized during Federal Government has allocated with Federal officers and US author- the raids. Parts for one assault rifle, ities for more than a year, starting by 19 semi-automatic handgun frames $116 million to a national anti-gang tracing the origins of a single firearm. with identical serial numbers, six squad as part of a co-ordinated The Thureon AR-15 was used in an semi-automatic handgun parts, other program to detect and undermine armed robbery in western Melbourne. assorted firearm parts and 10kg of criminal activity. Herald Sun: Giving shooters the ‘middle finger’ NEIL JENKINS Herald Sun ran 12 articles covering the following provisions of its code: Secretary firearm thefts and its push to have Combined Firearms Council of Victoria the Adler shotgun banned. 1.2. Publications should take rea- sonable steps to ensure reports are he Herald Sun has provided Two of the articles focussed on the vic- accurate, fair and balanced. its final response to the tims of the Port Arthur tragedy, so we Combined Firearms Council 1.4. Try always to tell all sides of the T can understand why comments from of Victoria (CFCV). It comes after story in any kind of dispute. Every shooting interests were not required. the CFCV raised concerns over effort must be made to contact all a string of anti-gun articles which However they were placed right next relevant parties. systematically excluded comment to other articles pushing for the Adler 1.5. Do not knowingly withhold or from shooting groups. ban, so they were clearly written and suppress essential facts. placed to support the paper’s posi- The paper’s response was an insult tion on the shotgun. to every shooter in Victoria. It was We also made it clear that notwith- nothing short of giving you, your club, standing the complaint, the door was In May, we wrote to the Herald Sun and the SSAA, the ‘middle finger’. left open for them if they needed any seeking fairness in its coverage of help with future stories relating to shooting-related matters under its The 12 articles firearms. All they had to do was call. own code of conduct. We raised con- Between March and August, the cerns that it had not complied with CONTINUED PAGE 22 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 21 CONTIUNED FROM PAGE 21 paper did call us for comment, so we We’re not done with the Herald Sun spoke with them for a good 15 minutes. yet. The Herald Sun failed to keep its promise Yet the article they published, like the The Herald Sun will continue on others, only contained comment from this path until the National Firearms What happened then is comical. The the AMF. Agreement review has been complet- Herald Sun offered us the oppor- ed. It will continue to push the view tunity to put our view to its readers Once again we wrote to the Herald of the AMF, while ignoring the view through a “prominent” letter to the Sun firmly but politely asking for of the much larger Victorian shooting editor of an agreed length. more balance in their reporting. community. Not only did the paper fail to honour The response we got was: “I simply At the time of writing this article, its promise, but it cut our letter down don’t agree with your analysis or con- to far less than the “agreed length”. clusions. We will continue to report in we’ve committed ourselves to devel- a fair and accurate manner.” op a broader strategy to deal with the During this journey we discovered Herald Sun’s behaviour. the paper’s Managing Director, Peter In other words, they gave us the Blunden, was also on the board of middle finger. What you can do the Alannah and Madeline Founda- So to summarise this: tion (AMF), set up in the wake of the You can help as well. Whenever you Port Arthur tragedy. • The Herald Sun ran a string of see an article in any NewsCorp pub- articles where it failed to report lication that fails to report views from A number of the articles we com- (using words from its own code of our side of the debate, put a letter to plained about promoted a campaign conduct) “all sides of the story”; the editor in. Keep it short and get by the AMF to have the Adler banned, straight to the point. The shorter and yet none of them disclosed Mr Blund- • The paper denied this occurred; punchier, the better. en’s connection with the foundation. • It continued to publish articles, If you subscribe to the Herald Sun, We would have thought that was a pushing only one side of the ask yourself if you need to keep that significant issue the paper should story; and going. If you can cut your subscrip- have declared to its readers. • Its staff only said they “simply tion, tell the Herald Sun why. The middle finger don’t agree with [our] analysis” without explaining what their It’s important they understand that The 12th article, which appeared in analysis was. they won’t gain subscribers for being late August, was a renewed call by the anti-gun, but they will lose many who AMF to ban the Adler. This time the So where to from here? are pro-gun. 22 SSAAVIC.COM.AU FACES OF SSAA VICTORIA

Rob Loricco

Eagle Park Range Officer Rob Loricco features on the website under the ‘Education’ section. Since retiring Rob has given a lot of time to educating new shooters and supporting range users to ensure they enjoy their time on the firing line. PICTURE: Tatjana Plitt Safety officer Rob happy to be paid in smiles riven by a desire to help chance to do an extra shift. all shooters feel welcome, safe and people, Rob Loricco has comfortable on the range. Dfound himself working just as “The drawcard for me is seeing the hard in retirement as his did in the smile on somebody’s face because “The support that shooters get from workforce. I’ve helped them with their firearm Range Officers is really good. We’re and the joy that I see after someone all professional with our approach. A shooter of more than 52 years, hits a target. Sometimes all they Number one is their safety – that is Rob is a sharing his knowledge as a need is a bit of guidance.” our top priority,” Rob said. Range Officer at Eagle Park Range. Working as a volunteer Range Officer “We get new shooters who have a When he retired from work about can be demanding, particularly at three years ago, Rob - a SSAA Vic- times when the range is full. On a firearm come up onto the range and toria member of more than 27 years weekend, more than 80 people could tell us they don’t even know how to - decided it was time to give back to be on the firing line and a dozen more load it,” Rob said. “That’s where we the sport that he loved and encour- people could be waiting to shoot. come in and that’s a joy for us. We age more people to give it a go. show them the safest way to use The Range Officers on duty are that firearm and when they leave the “I do four or five shifts a month at responsible for enforcing range or- range they can’t thank us enough. the range and I love it,” he said. “Any ders, ensuring the strictest of safety time someone is sick I jump at the standards are upheld and ensuring CONTINUED PAGE 24 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 23 FACES OF SSAA VICTORIA

Rob Loricco has devoted much of his retirement years to educating shooters, particularly those new to the sport. PICTURE: Tatjana Plitt INSET: Rob with fellow Range Officer David Tucker.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 Rob dressed in his Little “It’s not just a matter of walking up River Raiders and down and making sure everyone Single Action competition is having fun. There’s a lot more to it.” attire.

Rob’s patience and empathy make him popular among new and expe- rienced shooters alike. The Single Action Cowboy shooter credits his disability for strengthening those skills.

“I am blind in my right eye,” he said. PICTURE: “As a right-handed person it is quite Tatjana Plitt difficult to shoot with pistols because I have to use my left eye. Then Rob began running courses at Gee- “In that time I’ve also taught three when I shoot with the rifle I shoot long but was recently promoted to new instructors as well and togeth- left-handed. become Senior Instructor for William- er the four of us are going continue stown and Werribee. training more people,” he said. “I don’t care if I miss a target – I have a disability and I know I have a Working with Divisional Firearms Of- Rob is now among a team that is disability. I just shoot because I really ficer Anita Harraway in his new role, rewriting the firearms safety course for Victoria Police. He said he was enjoy it and I always come away hap- Rob has begun training new Firearm py. I just want everyone to enjoy their overwhelmed by the support and Safety Instructors to help clear a time as much as I do.” encouragement from the Victoria backlog of people waiting to do the Police’s Licensing and Regulation course. The desire to share his love of the Division. sport is what led to Rob to become a Firearm Safety Instructor with Vic- He recently ran the first training Keep an eye out for the rest of toria Police. In that voluntary role, he courses at Werribbee in two years. our Faces of SSAA Victoria in the educates people on basic firearms In the past two months he has in- coming issues of the Victorian safety before they apply for their structed about 150 to 165 applicants Shooter magazine, on the website licences. through that course. and in your local media. 24 SSAAVIC.COM.AU Juniors compete to take home the prize JUDY FERREIRA Victorian Shooter contributor

he SSAA Springvale Range is hosting the annual Victorian TState Junior Rimfire Field Rifle Competition on Sunday, November 6 from 10am.

All SSAA juniors aged 12 to under-18 across all branches and States are encouraged to participate in the competition.

One of the competitors from last The competitors at last year’s State year’s competition said “It’s all about Junior Rimfire Field Rifle Competition. equality. It’s all ages and all genders. There’s no separation between the girls and boys - everyone is equal. award for the participant that has That’s what I like about it.” shown the most improvement from the 2015 to 2016 events. Youth Training Scheme participants The prize is donated by Eagle who are aged 18 to 24, and therefore Park Youth Training Scheme. not eligible for the junior awards, are encouraged to compete in a separate 4. Field Rifle Classes: competition running alongside the 18 to under-25 years - awards championship. for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placings 15 to under-18 years - awards Practise will be held at 2pm and 5pm for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placings on Saturday, November 5 and again Last year’s winner Elise Collier with Youth 12 to under-15 years - awards Training Scheme volunteer Greg Woolnough. at 8.30am and 9.30am on Sunday, for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placings November 6, before the competi- for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placings tion starts. There will be a $15 fee 12 to under-15 years - awards 5. Resting Prone: Youth Training for each competitor, payable on the for 1st, 2nd and 3rd placings. Scheme participants not experi- day. It includes a participation match enced shooting off-hand or rapid For further information or entry forms patch. fire may enter this class. please contact the State Office or Awards will be presented to the fol- 15 to under-18 years - awards [email protected] lowing classes:

1. Victorian State Junior Champion Ballot results announced award for Victorian competitor he SSAA Victoria Annual General Meeting was held at the (12 to under-18) with the highest Sandown Park Hotel on Sunday, September 18. overall score. A perpetual shield T is displayed at the Springvale At the meeting Greg Moon and Jeff Kuyken were re-elected to Range. A miniature is awarded to the Board, and David Schereck filled the third vacancy. the champion. The results of the ballot were as follows: Greg Moon 2416 votes, David 2. Victorian Junior Non-Metro Schereck 2377 votes, Jeff Kuyken 2271 votes and Bernard Thole 954 Shooter awarded to highest scoring competitor under the age votes. of 18 from a branch other than The Board expressed its thanks to exiting Director Henry Rogers, who Springvale or Eagle Park. chose not to stand for re-election. 3. Victorian Junior Most Improved SSAAVIC.COM.AU 25 No satisfaction for sacked shooter JUDY FERREIRA Liberal Democrats Senator David and prevented it. Victorian Shooter contributor Leyonhjelm spoke about David’s treatment in a speech to the NSW Senator Leyonhjelm last year called ne year after David Waters Senate last month. In his speech, the for a nationwide boycott of Goodyear. was sacked from Goodyear, Senator informed all the sitting mem- The boycott calls for firearm owners Othe shooter is yet to bers of David’s current situation and and friends across the world to stop experience a satisfactory result. The called for a fair go for all shooters. buying the company’s products until competitive shooter has contested it rectifies the situation. his unfair dismissal through the David contested his dismissal “I am calling on firearm owners correct means, and has been through the Fair Work Commission. around the world wherever they are disillusioned by the result. Goodyear arrived at the hearing with four lawyers and a pile of documents, to stop buying products made by David was sacked from Goodyear which Senator Leyonhjelm said “con- Goodyear until it does the right thing after meeting a fellow sporting shooter tained lies and distortions that were by David,” Senator Leyonhjelm said during his lunch-break at his office dumped on Mr Waters the day of the to the Senate. “These products are: Goodyear and Dunlop.” basement carpark to assist with fitting case”. an accessory to a target rifle. Unbe- David was awarded four weeks’ pay Firearm owners cannot afford to knownst to David, the friend brought on the grounds that his dismissal allow this injustice to stand even if the rifle – with the bolt and magazine should not have been without notice. it takes over 20 years to resolve be- removed – to the meeting. Police were Yet the commissioner maintained cause “when they come for one of us called, no laws were broken and yet that David should have foreseen that in the morning, they’ll be coming for David was summarily dismissed. his friend would arrive with the rifle the rest of us at night”. Firearm newsletter calls for shooters to go covert

ictoria Police has called for firearm owners who are victimised as vulnerable to being identified as firearms owners to remove all are to blame for not preventing the a firearm owner as they are,” the Vtraces of their shooting from theft – rather than the blame resting newsletter said. social media and their belongings. with the criminal. In its latest firearm newsletter the “Posting selfies where you are Licensing and Regulation Division A 13 per cent reduction in firearm posing with a firearm is an obvious released advice for owners to follow thefts in Victoria since 2011 is a sig- no-no, but photos of hunting or target in order to stop firearms from getting nificant achievement and one firearm shooting trophies, status updates into “the hands of criminals”. owners should be proud of. But the about hunting trips and liking firearm latest publication, and several recent related pages could also identify you The tips included using “good cyber police comments in the media, is as a firearm owner.” sense” even for people who don’t sending the shooting sports under- use social media; taking no shortcuts ground and encouraging a culture of The newsletter went on to encour- when it comes to storage; storing paranoia. age people to “remove items that firearm safes in discrete locations at might identify that you own firearms home; removing gun-related stickers The firearm newsletter calls for from plain sight”. “It includes things from belongings and finding carers sporting shooters to “be aware of like stickers and magnets on your for their firearms when they go away. what you are posting or what is being vehicle, around your home, toolboxes posted about you on social media and on the outside of your firearm The storage advice is just good even if you don’t have a social media safe,” it said. sense but the motivation behind the presence”. other tips is questionable. The news- So now some police want shooters letter seems to suggest that criminals “You might not even have a social to remove all traces of their sport target firearm owners for theft above media account but if your kids or from their cars, their homes, their any other means of obtaining fire- friends post something about you social media, their clothes … It seems arms. It also seems to suggest that going on a hunting trip, you are just the author wants to drive the whole 26 SSAAVIC.COM.AU About 200 people attended the Conservation through Sustainable Use of Wildlife Conference, from August 30 to September 1. PICTURE: SSAA National Global conservation up for discussion he Conservation through gates who attended the event, which Professor Brian Reilly, who flew in Sustainable Use of Wildlife was sponsored by SSAA. Over the from South Africa to discuss recent TConference, from August 30 three days he heard from dozens of issues with the hunting industry in – September 1, was an invaluable industry leaders and academics who his home country. Brian – head of the opportunity for international and local shared ideas about sustainable use Department of Nature Conservation experts to discuss environmental of wildlife here and abroad. at Tshwane University of Technology management. in Pretoria – is an ecologist, wildlife “It was great to meet so many key biologist, academic and consultant. Hosted by the University of industry leaders and listen to people Queensland at the Pullman Bris- from across the world at the confer- On top of his academic career, Brian bane, the event allowed academics, ence,” he said. “Many of the guest is a qualified professional hunter and government representatives, industry speakers confirmed what we already safari outfitter, lifelong hunter, hand and volunteers to share their views knew and that is that recreational loader, gun collector, serving coun- about sustainable use of wildlife in hunters have a vital role to play in the cil member and contributor to many Australia and overseas. management of invasive animals in hunting organisations in South Africa. the future. Many had positive atti- His presentation, The Wildlife In- The first Conservation through tudes towards the use of recreational Sustainable Use of Wildlife Con- dustry in South Africa, explored the hunters moving forward international- international media attention ‘canned’ ference was held The University of ly and that was really encouraging.” hunting had received in recent years. Queensland St Lucia campus in Feb- For decades the South African ruary 1994. It was a landmark event Among the topics discussed was economy has been supplemented that brought together landholders, the sustainable use of wildlife as a by a healthy hunting industry. There scientists, industry and NGO repre- conservation tool; alternative strate- are more than 12,000 game farms in sentatives to discuss this important gies for wildlife conservation; private South Africa providing in excess of topic. conservation that contributes to the 70,000 jobs for locals. triple bottom line and progress in More than two decades have passed sustainable use of wildlife over the Brian said game farms in South since the original conference and the past two decades. Africa had an important role to play sustainable use of wildlife continues by continuing to breed native ani- to be an important conservation tool The sustainable use of kangaroos, mals and ensuring their populations throughout Australia, New Zealand camels, goats, water buffalo, lions, remained strong. He said hunting and across the world. horses, wild dogs, deer, rabbits, croc- provided ecotourism opportunities odiles, game birds and quail were all and removed old and sick animals SSAA Victoria’s Conservation and discussed at the conference. from the environment. Pest Management Manager Rhys Coote was one of about 200 dele- One of the keynote speakers was CONTINUED PAGE 28 SSAAVIC.COM.AU 27 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

But recent negative global media attention has impacted the South African hunting industry. Stories like Cecil the Lion who was killed by a US veterinarian in Zimbabwe and the Texan cheerleader who posted photos of her beside a dead rhinocer- os, a lion, leopard and elephant were shared thousands, if not millions of times. The public outrage, fuelled by animal liberationists has led to reduced numbers of hunters travel- ling to South Africa and less publi- One of the speakers from the three-day conference. PICTURE: SSAA National cising of their trips. The industry will work with landowners to win over the SSAA’s National Wildlife Program not overcome this damage for years, public. If Australia was able to create Leader Matthew Godson promoted according to Brian. a viable kangaroo industry it would the SSAA Farmer Assist program. Across the three-day conference be a big win for conservation, land- He said it was just one initiative that various speakers discussed the owners and the general public. demonstrated the importance of management of kangaroos in Austra- Dr Daniel Lunney, from the NSW using capable volunteer shooters to lia. The industry outlined some of the Environment and Heritage Office, control feral and pest animals. At no challenges it faces, but also explored focused on the lessons learned from cost and with tangible results so far, its true potential. Kangaroos are the 1994 event in his presentation. volunteer shooters had proven they harvested, particularly in NSW and He highlighted emerging environ- played a crucial role in conservation Queensland, to control the popula- mental challenges to consider, and wildlife management. tions and to provide iron-rich, lean including climate change, predicting meat for human consumption. that it will have an impact on wildlife The use of volunteer hunters as a Macro Meats Managing Director and populations. He called for proactive management tool was particular- founder Ray Borda provided insight policies instead of reactive poli- ly significant for deer populations. into why the company was now only cy approaches and lamented the The opportunities volunteer hunters harvesting male kangaroos. Much zoological and biological ignorance presented to private landholders and of this discussion focused on social of animal liberation activists and public land managers could not be licensing and how the kangaroo political parties. overlooked. Industry groups were en- industry was still solidifying its place RSPCA’s Chief Science and Strategy couraged to work with land managers in Australia. Officer Dr Bidda Jones reiterated that and the public to get more volunteers involved in deer management. One Macro Meats made the decision to the RSPCA did not support recre- of the vital messages for recreational only take male kangaroos because of ational hunting as a wildlife manage- the risk of joeys being in the pouches ment tool. She said that any form of hunters was: in order to sustainably of female kangaroos. The organisa- wildlife management must be “justi- manage deer populations in Australia tion could not be seen as maiming or fied, effective and humane”. they must target females – not just removing joeys from their mothers. trophies. Dr Jones went on to illustrate survey There are other benefits of only results indicating that 74 per cent In tackling the rise of the animal liber- of those approached viewed recre- harvesting male kangaroos. Hunters ationists, several speakers called for ational hunting as ‘unacceptable’. get a better price per kilogram for the hunting industry to promote the In contrast, 79 per cent of survey male kangaroos due to their heavier animal welfare side of hunting. Re- respondents recorded recreational weight, and harvesting only one sex ducing wounding rates, self-policing leads to a more consistent end prod- fishing as acceptable. She argued and the promotion of campaigns like uct. On that note, Ray told the confer- that not all involved in recreational Game Management Authority’s Re- ence to keep an eye out for ‘Paroo’ hunting could maintain high standard spect, Hunt Responsibly campaign meat at their supermarket. operating procedures and questioned whether recreational hunting could were key to ensuring the industry The key to the industry’s future is to achieve conservation goals. continued successfully. 28 SSAAVIC.COM.AU Rubbish collection Kayakers and canoeists called dumped for campers to answer survey s we approach the number of promotional ‘Carry in, aritime Safety Victoria (MSV) Melbourne Cup long Carry out’ signs in various loca- is offering SSAA Victoria Aweekend and the tions across the municipality. Mmembers the chance to win Christmas holidays, Mansfield one of four personal locator beacons Shire Council has asked SSAA “The new signs will support the by completing its paddling survey. Victoria to help promote its new education component of Coun- cil’s ‘Carry in, Carry out’ program ‘Carry in, Carry out’ policy. The results of the survey will help the or- where all campers and visitors ganisation ensure that paddlers - people Mansfield Shire Council was one to the area are now required to who kayak, canoe, standup paddleboard of the few Councils in Victoria take their waste with them when or surf ski/ocean ski - have access to the that offered a free waste drop off leaving the Shire,” said Council’s information that they need to be safe on service for campers during peak Mayor Paul Sladdin. Victorian waters. times. However, due to increased service costs and waste quantities “The ‘Carry in, Carry out’ ap- Victorians own around 242,000 reaching unmanageable levels, proach to camper waste man- non-powered vessels. Unfortunately Vic- Council removed the free service agement is supported in many toria has the highest number of kayak fa- last month. locations Australia-wide so this talities of any state of Australia. It seems is about Mansfield Shire Council It aligns Council’s approach with that paddlers’ safety awareness and trip aligning with other areas.” the likes of Parks Victoria and the preparations are not keeping pace with the popularity of this activity. Department of Environment, Land, In conjunction with the installation Water and Planning, which require of fixed signage promoting the all waste generated by campers The survey will collect data about safety message, electronic variable mes- and visitors either to be disposed attitudes and behaviours. It will also lead sage boards will also be in place of at an appropriate processing to the development of targeted safety over the Christmas/New Year and facility or taken home. information for paddlers. Easter holiday season directing In order to promote this new campers to Council’s Resource The survey (https://survey.instinctandrea- approach, Council field staff have Recovery Centre in Monkey Gully son.com/paddlingsurvey/?rcpt=04) will been out and about installing a Road. remain open until Monday, October 24. Marlboro behind-the-scenes footage resurfaces behind-the-scenes video of a 1963 Marlboro The YouTube television advertisement, which was filmed at clip. A Eagle Park Range, has resurfaced. SSAA member Ian Smith sent in the video that was filmed by his father, Colin – a committee member and Treasurer for the Association in the late 1950s and early 1960s. of the footage, which was taken when Colin’s guns and equipment were used for the advertise- the range facilities were very basic. ment and he carried out the role of Technical Director during the shoot. Similarly, it is interesting to note how safety practices have changed since the ad was filmed. There Retired South Melbourne Football Player Jim Baker and wasn’t a skerrick of anti-gun hysteria in those days! former Miss Victoria Pat Tudor are seen acting in the ad. The video can be found by searching Marlboro Ad - Be- The You Yangs are easily recognisable in the background hind the scenes on YouTube. SSAAVIC.COM.AU 29 AROUND THE TRAPS

The crowd at the Shepparton Branch’s Pink Ribbon Day, which was held on Friday, September 23. RIGHT: The competition getting started.

SSAA Victoria Board member David Zielinski at the Pink Ribbon Day. Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie (left) attended the Pink Ribbon Day, which was opened by SSAA Victoria President Denis Moroney (right). They are pictured with event organiser Marion Barnes.

ISPC shooter Daniel McIvor, who recently won the 2016 IPSC Australian Nationals for classic division.

ABOVE: Divisional Firearms Officer Anita Harraway educating the new safety course inductees. TOP: Anita (left) with the three long-standing Firearm Safety Course Instructors, John Tanner (second from left), Mal Marsland-Kelsey and Daryl Wells, who were recently recognised by Licensing and Regulation Division of Victoria Police. 30 SSAAVIC.COM.AU AROUND THE TRAPS

Got some pictures to share? Some If you have taken some recent pictures of yourself of the or friends at the ranges, an event or out on a hunt, prizes on offer send them to the editor for inclusion in our new at the ‘Around the Traps’ section. Email Pink Ribbon [email protected] or drop Day. them into the State Office.

SSAA Victoria Facilities Manager Shaun Doyle This little boy spent part of his school holidays Senator Bridget McKenzie with one of the was recently photographed by the Dandenong raising money for breast cancer by attending the shooters at the Shepparton Pink Ribbon Day. Journal regarding the new grant funding. Pink Ribbon Day with his mum.

The SSAA Victoria, ADA, GMA and Parks Victoria team members invovled in The picturesque landscape at Wilsons Promontory National Park at the deer control operation at Wilsons Promontory National Park recently. sunset.

SSAA Wodonga lever-action competition shooters (in order of score) Some of the wildlife recently seen at Wilsons Promontory National Park. Mark Anstie, Geoff Porter, Campbell C, Stan Hnatio and Patrick D. SSAAVIC.COM.AU 31 BRANCHES AND SUB-CLUBS NEWS

Schedule of events ARMS & MILITARIA DEER STALKERS Benchrest Practice First Saturday COLLECTORS CLUB CLUB each month Military Rifle First Sunday each The AMCC is a club that caters for people The Deerstalkers Club meets on the month who have an interest in older-type fire- third Wednesday of each month and arms and all associated memorabilia. welcomes new hunters and guests. It is Little River Sport- Second Sunday our suggestion to come along for a few ing Clays Shoot each month We have a group made up of very meetings and see if you like the feel of - Practice keen members who have an extensive the club before you join. Little River Sport- Second Sunday knowledge of most firearms, books and ing Clay Shoot each month cartridges. If you have the same hobbies The club arranges talks on hunting and Big Game Rifle Second Sunday then you must belong to a nominated gear selection at its meets, and each Club/Military Rifle each month collectors club to obtain a collector’s year there is free hunter training for Muzzle Loaders Third Saturday licence. members. each month Benchrest Third Sunday each We are based at SSAA Springvale Range For more information email president@ Competition month and meet on the first Thursday of each deerstalker.net or call 0400 119 852. month at 8pm. Little River Raid- Third Sunday each ers Single Action month For further details, contact the State EAGLE PARK Pistol Silhouette Fourth Sunday Office between 9am to 5pm on 03 8892 each month 2777 or email Robert Lemm at amccvic@ RANGE Little River Sport- Fourth Sunday optusnet.com.au ing Clay Shoot each month The Eagle Park Range caters for all Little River Sport- Fourth Sunday BENDIGO disciplines, pistol, shotgun and rifle. The ing Clays Shoot each month main range caters for all rifles, from air - Competition BRANCH rifles to the largest calibres. The range is Rifle Competition* Fourth Sunday approved to 500m, for all rifle calibres. each month Location: Marong Rifle Range (20 min- Opening hours: utes west of Bendigo) *Rifle competitions include Field Rifle, Friday 9am – 5pm Metallic Silhouette, 3 Position and novel- Saturday 9am – 5pm General shooting: First and third ty shoots. Sunday of each month from noon. $6 for Sunday 9am – 5pm members. Undercover benches, target Monday 9am – 5pm Eagle Park Youth Training Scheme frames supplied. 25, 50, 100, 200m. Phone: 03 5283 1575 The training scheme teaches juniors Safety and Family Firearms Edu- firearm safety and correct shooting tech- cation (SAFFE) Program: Second The range is home to the following niques. The Eagle Park Youth Training Sunday each month from 10am to noon. Clubs: Scheme meets on the third Sunday of $6 (ammunition cost). Basic training for • 3rd Military District Shooting Sports the month. beginners of all ages. Club rifles supplied. Club • Big Game Rifle Club Competitions: Rimfire, centrefire, FIELD HUNTERS • Little River Raiders Single Action handgun and shotgun. See the quarterly competition calendar at ssaabendigo. • Little River Sporting Clays CLUB com, or contact Vic on 0438 353 425 for • Melbourne Benchrest Club a copy. • Military Pistol Club/Military Rifle Club To help foster and develop hunter ethics, hunter training and opportunity. • Practical Pistol League of Australia Contact: Branch President Vic Alexan- • Victorian Muzzle Loaders der, 0438 353 425 To foster the sustainable use of game. • Metallic Rifle Silhouette Website: ssaabendigo.com.au • Arms and Militaria Collectors Club To improve hunting for the future. • Metallic Rifle Silhouette Club Email: [email protected] The club was set up in the late 1980s • Youth Training Scheme by some enthusiastic SSAA members, to Post: PO Box 1098 foster camaraderie among their fellow Bendigo, Vic. 3552 Website: ssaavic.com.au/index.php/ hunters. The club offers a relaxed, clubs-branches/clubs friendly and casual environment, with 32 SSAAVIC.COM.AU BRANCHES AND SUB-CLUBS NEWS over 250 active members. Come along to is a great way for members to chat and Shooter categories are established so as one of our general meetings to see what organise hunts among themselves, so to cater for all age groups, both sexes, we offer and enjoy a drink at the bar or you could soon find that you have too and different skill mixes. a meal at Bruno’s café. General meetings much hunting available and not enough are held on the first Wednesday of every time to fit it all in. We also have long-range rifle competi- month except January, at the Springvale tions where speed is not as important as SSAA Range 714-716 Princes Highway In the past few months the club has de- accuracy. These events use single shot, from 7.30 pm. livered the following events to members: lever- and pump-action rifles ranging from .22 to big bore buffalo rifles. We strive to provide members with both • Feral Animal Control Program hunts. hunting opportunities and training. There • Mid-Year major raffle with a first prize All matches are run under the rules of are plenty of opportunities for members of $1500 for any hunting-related the Single Action Shooting Society. to get out and do what they joined for equipment. and that is to hunt. As a bonus, you Our shooting stages (scenarios) are • Aussie Disposals discount night. meet like-minded hunters and often form based on the ‘Old West’ – either inci- lifelong friendships. • Weekly fox drives, held in South dents out of history, or our translation Gippsland. of classic Western movies or the old TV If you are looking for an active hunting • 4WD training course series. club then look no further. • Field to Fork game meet tasting night. Visitors are welcome to come along to Member benefits include: any of our competitions and, if they like, • NSW R-Licence pig and goat hunts. • Access to the FREE extensive hunting they may try their hand at Single Action DVD library. • Butchering and techniques. shooting under instruction. The only • The monthly newsletter. • Pistol shooting. thing you need is a desire to enjoy your- • Guest speakers from a wide range self and have fun with people dressed of organisations, governing bodies or So what are you waiting for, expand in cowboy gear, using period firearms or training providers, keeping members your hunting horizon and come see for faithful replicas. informed about what’s happening in the yourself. hunting space. For further information please look us up Check us out at www.fieldhuntersclub. at www.littleriverraiders.com.au or con- • FREE NSW R-Licence testing, normally org.au, where you can sign up and pay $20. tact the Secretary Tiresome (aka Tony for membership online. Mussert) 0427 053 540 or email littleriv- • Organised hunting trips, including: Duck opening weekend shoot, duck LITTLE RIVER [email protected] shooting as pest control on rice crops during November and December, NSW RAIDERS R-Licence hunts, weekly organised fox LITTLE RIVER drives during the cold months. Little River Raiders is a Single Action SPORTING CLAYS • On top of this, members have direct ac- shooting club based at the SSAA Eagle cess to the club’s own Feral Animal Con- Park Range, at Little River. Single Action trol Program, which has access to a major shooting is a living history sport which Little River Sporting Clays is a sub-club area of prime hunting throughout Victoria, uses the firearms of the American ‘Old of SSAA based at Eagle Park, Gifkins Rd, all within two hours of Springvale. West’. Little River. If you’re thinking of getting into or back Participants are required to adopt a We aim to provide a wide variety of clay into hunting, and want to get on the persona typical of the era, and to dress targets using our amazing terrain to ground on a variety of different prop- accordingly, so a darned good sense of provide shooters with a great experience. erties on a monthly or fortnightly basis All levels of shooters are welcome with then we are the club for you and your humour comes in handy for those who many seasoned hands available to pro- friends. want to join in. vide direction and advice. We encourage Our own Feral Animal Control Program Club competitions are held on the third our shooters to join our club and become hunts provide a platform that offers Sunday of every month. We shoot coach involved in setting up the grounds. guidance and training to enhance mem- guns (side-by-side shotguns), pistols, Please give us a call or send an email. ber skills and safety in the field since we lever- and pump-action rifles. Black introduced this platform members have powder – cartridge and percussion Our practice days are on the second taken in excess of 1000 rabbits and 77 pistol – is also a recognised category Sunday of each month running from foxes. of Single Action, and our black powder 10am-5pm. The cost is $10 for 30 targets shooters add to the atmosphere, with and you can shoot as many rounds as you On top of all of this the club has a closed lots of smoke and noise to entertain all. wish. We are also able to set up particular Facebook group, just for members. This practice targets for you wherever possible. SSAAVIC.COM.AU 33 BRANCHES AND SUB-CLUBS NEWS

Our competition days are the fourth Nov 20 Air Rifle Rimfire 3P target over 50m, 75m and 100m, Sunday of each month with nominations Silhouette Field Rifle* using military trainer rifles (.22 and 310 opening at 9.30am and closing at 10.30am. calibers) The MRC State Titles are held in April at the Dookie Agricultural Col- lege. Club rifles are available. The competition usually consists of 75 *Eligible for entry into National Postal targets at a nomination cost of $45, less Comp Other special away events are held in for ladies, juniors and pensioners and Little River: partnership with several VRA clubs and sub juniors shoot for free. Our last com- other Military Rifle Clubs. The club’s Gen- Date 9.30am Noon petition day was August 24, with Simon eral Meeting for all members is held at Sammut winning overall, with a great Jan 24 No shoot the SSAA Springvale Range on the fourth score of 71. We have prizes for each Feb 28 Centrefire 3P Rimfire Thursday of the month at 8pm.New SSAA State 3P SSAA grade including vets, ladies, juniors and members, juniors and visitors are always Champs State welcome. Come along and support your sub juniors. Champs club. Annual membership is $35 for March 27 No shoot We ran our first Vince Panetta memorial adults and $12.50 for juniors (12yrs to April 24 Centrefire Rimfire 17yrs inclusive) FITASC old style shoot on August 10. It Field Rifle Field Rifle Website: www.vicmrc.com was a lovely day and Chris Brown was May 22 Centrefire Rimfire the overall winner. Lots of fun was had Silhouette Silhouette Email: [email protected] with raffle prizes and wonderful food 60 Targets Phone: Ian Garth, 0408 568 083 provided by the Panetta family – a great June 26 Centrefire 3P Rimfire 3P way to remember Vince. July 24 Keith Barnett Memorial Rimfire Silhouette SPORTING SHOOTERS 80 targets Contact: Eddie Magee, 0412 279 828, PISTOL CLUB [email protected] Aug 28 Centrefire Rimfire Field Rifle Field Rifle Vicky Winship, [email protected] Sep 25 Centrefire & Rimfire Me- tallic Silhouette SSAA VIC The SSPC is a friendly and social hand- State Champs MELBOURNE gun shooting club with over 400 mem- Oct 23 Centrefire & Rimfire Field bers which runs primarily from the SSAA Rifle SSAA VIC State SPORTING RIFLE CLUB Springvale range. Champs Competitions and practices are held on Nov 27 Centrefire Rimfire Melbourne Sporting Rifle Club’s 2016 Silhouette Silhouette Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights calendar is below. 60 targets from 6pm-8pm, Saturdays from 10am and Springvale: Sundays from noon. For more information contact Bill on 0408 Date 9.30am 12.30pm A variety of competitions are shot, in- 323 060 or Jenny at [email protected] cluding ISSF style sport pistol, centrefire Jan 17 No shoot and Classic Pistol at 25m, 25m and 50m, Feb 21 Air Rifle 3P Rimfire 3P Service Match, IPSC and Metallic Silhou- March Air Rifle 10m Rimfire MILITARY RIFLE ette (at Eagle Park range). Our website 20 Precision Field Rifle contains a full calendar of competitions April 17 Air Rifle Silhouette 80 CLUB and range times. Targets Introduction to Handguns course May 15 No shoot We are dedicated to the safe, competi- June 19 Air Rifle 3P Rimfire tive use of military firearms. Friendly and New members are welcome. We run NRA 3P 120 welcoming atmosphere. Competitions shots regular Introduction to Handguns cours- are held at the SSAA Little River Range es which will teach you the basics of July 17 Air Rifle Rimfire on the first and second Sundays of the Silhouette Field Rifle handgun safety and shooting fundamen- month. The first Sunday (9am start) tals as well as provide an introduction Aug 21 Air Rifle 10m Rimfire 3P of the month events include the main Precision* to joining the club. The course consists event, a 3 Position competition over of 30 minutes of theory followed by 60 Sep 18 Air Rifle Silhouette SSAA 100m, 200m and 300m, plus the special- minutes on the range firing a variety of VIC State Champs 80 targets ty event, which includes rapid fire and is club handguns. The course costs $65 and different each month. A long-range event includes range entry and ammunition. Oct 16 Air Rifle 10m Rimfire Precision Field Rifle* at 500m is held three times a year. The Bookings for the course are taken online second Sunday (11am start) main event at our website or at the front desk at is the 3P Trainer Competition on a mini Springvale Range. Completing the intro- 34 SSAAVIC.COM.AU BRANCHES AND SUB-CLUBS NEWS duction course is the first step in joining tering for corporate and group shooting our club. SSAA SHEPPARTON activities, such as Scout groups, birthday parties and community activities. Club fees consist of a $250 joining fee BRANCH and thereafter a $100 membership fee The 50m, .22 main range is available due at the end of April of each year. Shotgun club to the public and members. Unlicensed Range entry fees are separate and paid Saturday, October 8, 10.30am start – shooters are welcome to come down and directly to the SSAA, however yearly Practice tower, skeet, two five-stand use the facility under the guidance of range entry passes are available from grounds experienced range officers/instructors. our club. Sunday, October 9 and Sunday, Saturday, Loan firearms are available at the range. October 29 – Sporting Rifle Practice For more information please see our website at: Saturday, October 15, 10.30am start Trading hours: – Kyabram Field and Game 75 target Monday to Friday: 5pm to 9pm Website: www.sspc.org.au sporting clays Contact: [email protected] Saturday, October 22, 10.30am start – Saturday: 10am to 6pm Sebastian (Secretary): 0417 034 325 Blue Ribbon Shoot 75 target sporting Sunday: Noon to 5pm clays, great prizes on offer Phone: 9547 0007 during trading hours SPRINGVALE Saturday, November 12, 10.30am start – Contact: Assistant Range Manager Ray- Practice tower, skeet, and two five-stand PISTOL CLUB grounds mond Tan, [email protected] Sunday, November 13 and Saturday, The Springvale Pistol Club (SPC) was November 19 – Sporting Rifle Practice SSAA VIC formed on June 17, 2004 to provide: Saturday, November 26, 10.30am – WOMEN’S GROUP • Affiliation with the peak bodies Sporting clays competition, 75 targets in Victoria and Australia for na- For women who love to combine shoot- tional and international handgun Pistol club ing and socialising! competitions. Sunday, October 2 – Single action • Instruction, coaching and training for Sunday, October 16 – Military Pistol We meet on the second and fourth competition-oriented shooters Sunday, October 23 – Field pistol Thursday of each month at SSAA Victoria • A home base at the SSAA Springvale Springvale Range at 7pm sharp. Range Complex. Sunday, October 30 – Single action Sunday, November 27 – Christmas shoot Multi Disciplines: Practise and competi- The SPC has approximately 40 members, and meeting many of whom actively train for and tion, 3P, field rifle, practical rifle, sports shoot competitions at local, state and Military rifle rifle, air rifle, stuff we make up as we go. interstate events. Shooting is a sport Saturday, October 1 – 3-postional Shooter of the Month Awards, Shooter of that does not present a barrier to anyone Sunday, October 16 – 3-positional Shag- the Year Award. who wishes to get involved - neither age, gy Ridge 200m Rapid ‘B’ Shoot physical ability nor gender are barriers to Saturday, November 5 – 3-postiional any enjoying the sport of pistol shooting. Annual membership fee: $20 rifle, any sight Annual target levy: $50 It does require a high degree of self-dis- Sunday, November 20 – 3-positional, .310 Need more information? cipline, attention to detail and willingness Cadet and .22 Trainer Shoot to learn if you are to progress to high Secretary: Jenny, [email protected] levels of performance, but it is also a SSAA SPRINGVALE Club PR Officer: Zdenka, 0418 562 257 great pastime for those who have less Club Coach: Bill O’Connor, 0408 323 060 time to practice. RANGE Calendar of events for 2016: The SSAA Springvale Range Complex has many facilities for the use of members. The Springvale shooting range is open Jan 14 3P - Prone 2x10, Off Hand Those who wish to learn the disciplines 2x10 & Sitting 2x10 / R5 every day of the week. The facility, of target shooting and how to shoot which includes a licensed bar, lounge, Jan 28 Practical Rifle / 2 x20 shots them well are welcome to join our grow- / R4 and restaurant, caters to: 22 rifles only ing membership. SPC shoots on Wednes- at 50m (no magnums); 25-50m pistol Feb 11 25m Precision - Animal day nights. Silhouettes Rd1 / R5 ranges and 10m air rifle. Feb 25m Precision - Animal Email: [email protected] The range hosts a number of competi- Silhouettes Rd2 / R5 Website: www.springvalepc.org tions throughout the week, as well as ca- SSAAVIC.COM.AU 35 BRANCHES AND SUB-CLUBS NEWS

Mar 10 Field Rifle - Rapid Fire 2x6 River on the third Saturday of every Day range pass: Off Hand 2x5 month. Even if you don’t own any Muzzle Standing Post 2x5 Loading or black powder firearms, knowl- SSAA members Sitting Post 2x5 / R5 edgeable and generous VMLC members Adult $10 Mar 24 Field Rifle / R5 are always eager to give you a few shots! Pensioner $5 April 14 10m Air Rifle Precision / Air Competitions are organised for all black Junior Free Apri 28 10m Air Rifle Precision / Air powder original and reproduction fire- Non members May 12 AGM – 7:00pm @ Taco arms including cap and ball, cartridge Bill’s, Springvale Adult $20 and single-shot handguns, muzzle load- May 26 Practical Rifle / 2 x20 shots ing long-arms including flint, percussion, Pensioner $15 / R4 patched ball, Minie-ball, slug projectile, Junior Free June 9 10m Rimfire Open Sights smooth bore musket cartridge rifle, and / R5 muzzle loading and cartridge shotgun. Other fees: June 23 Practical Rifle / 2 x20 shots / R4 From January to October competitions Target Frame Hire $5 July 14 Field Rifle - Rapid Fire 2x6 are held. Prize-winners are presented Targets $1 each & Off Hand 2x5 Standing with cards as well as trophies for the Post 2x5 & Sitting Post 2x5 various championships, such as Breech Competition Fee $5 / R5 Loading Rifle, Military Muzzle Loading Ri- Range passes July 28 Field Rifle / R5 fle, Traditional Muzzle Loading Rifle, Long (SSAA members Aug 11 3P - Prone 2x10, Off Hand Range Muzzle Loading Rifle, Flintlock only) 2x10 & Sitting 2x10 / R5 Muzzle Loading Rifle, Muzzle Loading Annual range $65 Aug 25 Practical Rifle / 2 x20 shots Shotgun, and Handgun. passes Jul 1 to Jun 30 / R4 Annual range $35 For November many members camp at Sep 8 10m Air Rifle Precision* / passes (pensioner) Air Eagle Park for the two-day State Cham- Six month range $35 Sep 22 10m Air Rifle Precision* / pionships where lots of black powder and passes Jan 1 to Jun 30 Air lead is expended during the day, and at night everyone relaxes at the free barbe- Oct 13 Practical Rifle / 2 x20 shots Wodonga range matters / R4 cue exchanging black powder stories and generally having a good time. December Oct 27 Field Rifle* / Rapid Fire Upon arriving at the range, leave your is set aside for some traditional competi- 2x12 & Off Hand 2x10 firearms securely locked in your vehicle Standing Post 2x10 & tions, such as cannon and novelty events. and report to a Range Officer (RO) who Sitting Post 2x10 /R5 will be wearing a high-visibility vest. Nov 10 Field Rifle* / Rapid Fire VMLC membership also includes an en- The RO will guide you to sign the range 2x12 & Off Hand 2x10 tertaining and informed newsletter, The Standing Post 2x10 & Ramrod, which is sent to members every attendance sheet and take your range Sitting Post 2x10 /R5 month. The Ramrod includes shooters’ fees. The RO will instruct you on when Nov 24 Field Rifle* / Rapid Fire scores, VMLC record scores, coming you may bring firearms from a vehicle 2x12 & Off Hand 2x10 events and additional articles of interest to the firing line and when you may take Standing Post 2x10 & firearms from the firing line back to a Sitting Post 2x10 /R5 to the black powder enthusiast. vehicle. Dec 8 Christmas Fun Shoot / For more information contact VMLC Presentations / R5 President Jim Morraitis on 03 9401 1955 The use of correct eye and hearing Dec 16 Christmas Party - Venue to during business hours, visit www.vmlc. protection is compulsory for all people or 17 be advised com.au or Facebook at www.facebook. on the firing line. Sunglasses are not com/VictorianMuzzleLoadingClub or Twit- acceptable. VICTORIAN MUZZLE ter search for vmlc3 or Pinterest search Standing calendar – rifle range(s) LOADING CLUB for victorian muzzle loading club. First Sunday – NO SHOOTING ON WODONGA SSAA RIFLE RANGE(S) Rekindle the spirit of black powder fire- arm sporting shooting with the VMLC. BRANCH First Saturday • 1pm -3pm Training programs and Relive the excitement of bygone days by group bookings shooting black powder firearms, a truly WARNING: West Wodonga Shooting engrossing and satisfying sport. Every- Complex Ranges will be closed on the Second Sunday one is welcomed to attend the VMLC first Wednesday of each month until • 11am Hunter Class Rimfire Benchrest monthly competitions at the SSAA (Vic) further notice. .22 lr Eagle Park Shooting Complex near Little • Noon .22 Rim-Fire 100m Fly 36 SSAAVIC.COM.AU BRANCHES AND SUB-CLUBS NEWS

Shoot Big Bore) (300m range) • 1pm .22 lr Rimfire Metallic Silhouette 1pm Action Match (barricades) Fourth Saturday Third Saturday 10.15am to noon Metallic Silhouettes • 1.30pm Handgun Club Metallic (rimfire and field) (300m range) Silhouette 10.30am Standard Pistol Third Sunday 1pm Steel Challenge – Club Level (3 to • 10.45am Lever-Action 25 rounds any 4 stages) L/A rifle, inc scopes Fifth Saturday Fourth Saturday 10.30am Practice and novelty events • 10.15am-noon Handgun Club Metal- The range is open some Wednesdays lic Silhouette from 12.30pm to 3pm. Contact the Secre- Fourth Sunday tary to confirm dates. • 10.45am 300m Fly Shoot any firearm See weebsite for more details on WHGC • 12.30pm 200m fox shoot http://www.wodongahandgunclub.org.au/ Fifth Sunday Contact: President Bruce Sweeney • 10am - 4pm general shooting [email protected] or Secretary Ruth [email protected] Wednesday 10am-noon (excluding first Wednesday of every month) We are very pleased that David Blacker, WORKING GUN Andrew Yeomans and Bill Allen have ac- Zeroing of hunting rifles and general DOGS ASSOCIATION cepted judging appointments and the club shooting practice is welcome on all thanks them for their ongoing support. scheduled competition days. Results will be in the next edition. Retrieving Trial Results – August 21 Perth Shot Expo – October 22 & 23 Contact: President Josh Knight, jaek1@ Seven of our top WGAA dogs will be me.com or 0488 970 293. Secretary Faith The trial was held in the Murchison area. travelling over to Perth again. Boat Porter, [email protected], A last minute change of location was retrieves, pointing, backing, single and PO Box 501 Wodonga VIC 3689. needed due to flooded conditions at double marks will be the order of the the site. Facebook and text messaging day. Breeds featured will be Labradors, helped everyone get to the new site with WODONGA Pointers, GSP’s, Irish and English Setters a minimum of fuss. Good fellowship and and Brittanys. This year WGAA WA dogs HANDGUN CLUB equally good dog work were hallmarks will be featured. of the day. A big thank you to the judges Byron Kendall and Andrew Yeomans. Upcoming major events: Novelty Monthly training Christmas shoot, December 2016 Placegetters The next training day is Sunday, October 16. Gundog training is on the third Sun- Standing calendar – Handgun Club Intermediate (17 entries): day of each month and our new venue First Saturday in Clarkefield – a move that has proved 1. Barry Oliver’s RIPRAP REBEL (Pointer) 10.30am Bullseye (900 Match) to be very successful. To see our blog – Kio – 149 points 12.30pm Service Pistol for directions - just Google ‘wgaa blog’ or 2. Luke Warner’s CODY (True to type 1pm Action Match (practical) contact the Training Officer, Kevin Phelps GSP) – 145 points 0407 091 221. First Sunday 3. Luc Tomasino’s BEEREEGAN WHERE 11.30am to 1pm Blackpowder, air pistol The club has an extensive range of EAGLES DARE (Lab) – Chief – 143 points Second Saturday training equipment, which includes sever- 10am to 12.30pm Introduction course Advanced (nine entries): al electronic throwers, a ‘backing’ dog, (must book) 1. Sam Heyes’ CONINGSBURGH TASHA retrieving dummies, stake-out chains and 1pm Centrefire/25m GIRL (Lab) – Nellie – 103 points release traps. As usual, kick-off is at 9am with a barbecue and raffle at noon. 1pm Action Match (falling plates) 2. Henry Foster’s FT CH (CS) FT CH RIP- Second Sunday RAP MARKSMAN NFTW (CS) CD (Pointer) Anyone with a gundog is welcome. 9.30am IPSC – Club Level - Riley – 99 points WGAA is on Facebook and has a blog. Third Saturday 3. Stephen Luck’s FINEPOINT HI FLEX View reports and slideshows of WGAA 10.30am Centrefire/25m (GSP) – Meg – 92 points events on WGAA’s blog at http://wgaa. 1.30 pm Metallic Silhouettes (Field and Next retrieving trial – September 25 blogspot.com or Google - wgaa blog. SSAAVIC.COM.AU 37 Hunting’s future depends on you

Hunting is an important cultural pastime in Victoria. Tens of thousands of Victorian, interstate and overseas game hunters generate thousands of jobs and contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to the State economy, particularly in rural and regional Victoria. When you are enjoying Victoria’s great hunting opportunities, be mindful that the future of hunting depends on how you conduct yourself as a hunter. Every hunter should be an ambassador for the recreation.

As a responsible hunter, you should always: Respect animals Respect the hunt • Only take what you can use • Hunt safely and abide by the Firearms Safety Code • Make optimal use of harvested quarry (have a • Lead by example minimum/no waste approach) • Respect our cultural heritage • Shoot only when you can retrieve your quarry • Always hunt within the law and report illegal behaviour • Shoot only when a humane result is possible • Uphold the highest ethical standards • Use the right equipment to effectively and humanely • Promote and praise good behaviour hunt animals • Know your skill limits and hunt within them • Look after your hunting dogs • Improve and maintain your skills through practice Respect the environment and/or joining a club • Take all your litter (including empty cartridges) Respect non-hunters with you • Help others and be courteous • Bury or remove animal remains • Thoughtfully carry hunting equipment and harvested • Drive only on designated tracks quarry (e.g. cover quarry during transit) • Keep campfires safe • Respect the opinions of non-hunters • Leave your campsite clean • Only enter private property with permission • Protect our wetlands and waterways (e.g. don’t • Share the harvest with a non-hunter and promote leave animal remains in or near waterways) the culinary/sustainability benefits of hunting • Take part in efforts to protect and restore wildlife habitats Respect the laws • Take time to know the laws and act within them Respect other hunters at all times • Be respectful and courteous if hunting or camping • Work with Authorised Officers; they are there to help in the same area as other people you and ensure safe, sustainable, humane • Be safe and abide by the law so everyone is on a and equitable hunting level playing field • Don’t tolerate illegal behaviour - report suspected • Share your knowledge and skills with others offenders on 136 186.

For more information visit www.gma.vic.gov.au

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