FIELD and GAME FEDERATION of AUSTRALIA Inc.

NEWS

Volume 03                                  Issue 4                December 2003

PRESIDENTS MESSAGE

I was delighted to have the opportunity to participate in the 2003 Nationals presentations and to meet many of the shooters and their families who participated at this year’s Nationals in Tasmania. It was particularly pleasing to see so many young (and talented!) shooters not only participating but winning medals. Well done to Damian Birgan for being the 2003 National champion.

The Northern Midlands Sporting Clays branch did a wonderful job of hosting the event. The Tasmanian State President Peter Darke was instrumental in securing this ground from the Gatenby family some time ago. The members of Northern Midlands Sporting Clays then decided that they could run a Nationals and put in an enormous amount of work to ensure the stands and facilities were just right.

What would we do without Lorraine Barber? Lorraine is always there in the office at the Nationals and her expertise, coupled with that of Craig Hobbs, meant that the office and it’s band of willing volunteers worked like a well-oiled machine.

There are so many times when we hear criticism of the

Federation because we do not do this or that. Like everyone who worked at the Nationals, we are a group of volunteers who put in an inordinate amount of time to ensure that Sporting Clays continues to be the success that it is in this country.

At the Annual General Meeting held on the Monday after the Nationals I was re-elected National President. As I said at the National’s trophy presentation I am privileged to be the National President. I have limited hunting experience (but a wealth of knowledge as I have been married to a duck hunter for many years) and I am a DTL shooter. I have given the delegates from Queensland an undertaking that I will shoot at least one round at the next Nationals which will be held in Brisbane. Sometimes it would help to engage one’s brain before one’s mouth but it’s done now and I know they will keep me to the promise!

Many of the faces around the table did not change, but we now have a ‘new’ Director of Habitat and Resources. Steve Matthews from Queensland did not seek re-election (thanks for your efforts though Steve) so Peter Teakle from South Australia has stepped into the role. Many of you will know Peter as he has been around our organization for a lot of years and is absolutely passionate about hunting! It was never intended that this newsletter would be totally clay shooting. Some articles on hunting should start appearing soon now that Peter has taken on this very important aspect of our organisation.

Till next time….

Cheryl Arnol
President

FITASC BOARD MEETING

A meeting of the FITASC board of Management was held in Paris on 24th-26th November
The full Board was in attendance and the new President of FITASC Jean Francois Palinkas chaired the meeting

Items of interest to come out of the meeting were

a) Audit of FITASC books was carried out for the years 2000-2003 by international accounting firm KPMG. It was found that their has been misappropriation of the FITASC funds of between 90,000 and 130,00 Euro’s. The Board have authorised that KPMG due a further audit for the years 1997, 98, 99.
They have further authorised that legal action be instigated on the alleged perpetrator.
b) FITASC accounts were presented and show a reserve of 425,602-72 Euro’s.
c) World Sporting Championships 2004France 14th-18th July
European Sporting Championships 2004 Prague May
Inaugural Compak Sporting World Championships San Antonio
Championship of Oceania, Little River, 9th-12th April 2003
FITASC Australian Grand Prix Geelong February 28th-29th

d) Compak Sporting and Five stand Sporting are to be combined into one discipline and the new rules will be placed on Federation Website for all to see
e) FITASC will have their own Internet Web Site up and running in the new year.
When the site is functional FITASC Office will handle all entries for FITASC events
f) Russia was accepted as a member of FITASC and a number of other countries applied for membership.ie. Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Norway. They will have to provide more information on their organizations before acceptance.
g) Maximum Shot Load FITASC have adopted that the maximum Shot Load in a Cartridge will be 28 grams from 1st January 2005.
h) Senior Teams are to remain at four members. Super Veterans Teams will be admitted.
i) All FITASC Intercontinental Championships will be Open. This means that Australians can compete at the European, Pan African or Pan American Championships and take medals in the top three placings.
Juniors, Ladies or Veterans are now able to take the top three places at all FITASC events
j) Flambé or test firing of a gun at the first stand of a days competition is now banned.
k) FITASC are drawing up a new constitution and this should be ready for the General Assembly Meeting in July 2004
l) Eye and Ear protection is now mandatory at all FITASC international events
m) Club Team events are discontinued
n) World Championship Dates
Europe 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011
South Africa 2006
Oceania 2009
America’s 2012
o) FITASC are designing new medals for presentation at events and they will be of Bohemian Crystal from the Czech Republic.

Ray McFarlane
Vice President FITASC

 

FGFA Clay Target Committee November 2003

a) Compak Nationals will be held at the Geelong Sporting Clay Range 29th and 30th May
The competition will be over 4 Compak Layouts and will be a 200-target event
b) It was confirmed that the 2004 Nationals will be hosted by Brisbane and held on the 8th- 10th October
c) FITASC Championship of Oceania will be hosted by Little River Sporting Clays and will be held on 9th-12th April
c) FITASC Australian Grand Prix 200 Targets Geelong Sporting Clays 28th-29th February
d) Nationals allocated
2005 SA. Renmark
2006 Vic.
2007 WA.
e) Colin MacPherson was the recipient of the 2003 Sporting Clay Achievement Award

f) Australian Teams for 2004 Championship of Oceania will be selected from the results of the 2003 Nationals
World Championships will be chosen from the results of Qualifiers over the aggregate of the 2003 Nationals and scores attained at FITASC Australian grand Prix
g) It was decided to alter the Guidelines for Australian Team Selection
The Minimum Qualifying Score for Ladies will be reduced from 75% to 72%
h) It was decided that the Shot Load for Australian Sporting Clays Competition would remain at 36 gram maximum.

Ray McFarlane
NDTS

Nationals 3 Day Carnival 2003

The Nationals for 2003 were hosted by Tasmania at their Northern Midlands Range.
Northern Midlands is a new Branch in Tasmania and had their first competitive Sporting Clay event in May 2002.

I was in attendance at that shoot and what a change there has been in such a short time.
Under the guidance of their President Ken Triffitt they have achieved the purchase and erection of a transportable Club Room, new Toilet Black and equipment sheds. They have even constructed 30 trailers for Automatic Traps. A fantastic effort by their dedicated members.

To assist Northern Midlands a number of Automatic Traps were sourced from the mainland, Brian Heffer from International Target Products brought over a total of 18 of his new Viper Traps, Geelong Sporting Clays 14 Traps and Warrnambool SSAA (Vic) 4 Traps. This assistance was greatly received by Ken Triffitt as it meant that the two National events were conducted using mainly Automatic Traps.

Northern Midlands also wish to thank Groups Tasmania who organised the majority of the travellers from the mainland re accommodation and travel arrangements.
Thanks also to those in attendance who filled out the Tasmanian Government Survey.
This means that through Events Tasmania, Northern Midlands Club are eligible for a Government Grant of upwards to $10,00-00.

Once again Federation were blessed with their loyal group of sponsors who provided magnificent trophies for the winners of all events.
Sponsors are listed below in alphabetical order.

Beretta Australia:- Provided all the trophies for the National Champions in their categories including a Beretta U/O S686E Shotgun for the National Champion.
International Target Products: - Brian Heffer Managing Director provided the use of 18 Viper Automatic Traps for the event
Highland sports: - Provided a range of their products, which included Gun Slips, Shirts and Miroku Caps.
The Outdoor Sportsman: - Sponsor of the three person Team Event
Rio / Oceania: -Provide forty cases Rio Shotshells that were used for all the trophies in the English sporting event and also for the Graded Events at the Sporting Clay Nationals
SSAA Insurance: - Provided cash sponsorship that was used to supplement other trophies
Winchester Australia: -Sponsors for the State Teams Championship
Sponsors of the “Overall 3 Days National Carnival High Gun Champion” with a Model 525 Browning U/O Shotgun.

Federation wish to thank our generous sponsors and hope that the relationship we have continues for many more years.

The English Sporting Nationals on the Friday attracted a field of just over 200 competitors and the Sporting Clay Nationals on the Saturday and Sunday saw 240 competitors take part.

Friday 14th November
80 Target English Sporting Nationals

Shooting started at 8-30am and shooters had to shoot two rounds of forty targets over two courses.
Each course had five shooting stands with four doubles per stand.
Course 1 was Rio and
Course 2 Corsivia.
Both had a great variety of targets that were a test to all of the competitors.
Results:
National Champion:
Peter Tobin 68/80

Ladies Champion:
Cherie Neilson 57/80

Veteran Champion:-
Warwick Cumberland 6/80

Junior Champion:
Daniel Johnson 63/80

Sub Junior Champion:
James McKenzie 2/80

AA Grade:
1st Peter Tobin 68/80
2nd Damien Birgan 67/80
3rd John Younger 66/80
A Grade
1st Ross Matthews 59/80
2nd Anthony Post 58/80
3rd Andrew Northam 57/80
B Grade
1st Toby Callanan 58/80
2nd Milton Cartwright 55/80
3rd Neville Foot 51/80
C Grade
1st Sally Ridgeway 45/80
2nd Aaron Brooks 42/80
3rd Peter Spinks 40/80

Saturday 15th November
150 Target Australian Sporting Clays Nationals

At the completion of the English Sporting the Target Setters rearranged the three Ranges that were to be used for the Sporting Clay Nationals.
New Shooting Stand positions were chosen and new target trajectories introduced.
Care was taken that the targets for the Saturday were of a degree of difficulty that would allow for a stiffening of the ranges for Sunday the final day.
Course 1 was Beretta
Course 2 was Rio/Corsivia
Course 3 was Winchester.

At the completion of the day John Younger was leading the field with a total of 71/75
Craig MacPherson and Damien Birgan 70/75
Socrates Pilipasidis 69/75, Anthony Panetta and Colin Johns 68/75 and the two leading Tasmanians Richard and Ken Triffitt both 66/75 together with Craig Hobbs and Marty Seymour also 66/75.

Juniors:
Daniel Johnson and Chris Brown 66/75 Daniel Baskerville and Brenton Irons 63/75

Sub Junior:
James McKenzie 63/75
Brett Kelynack 61/75
Blake Nankervis 53/75

Ladies:
MareeBirgan 64/75
Cherie Neilson 57/75
Kerrie Spencer and Christine O’Brien 54/75

Veterans:
Barry Cooper 63/75
Barry Jane 62/75
Richard Sinclair 60/75

A Grade:
Ken Triffitt and Craig Hobbs 66/75
Craig Ralston 65/75
Ross Matthews 64/75
B Grade:
Andrew Opie 63/75
Phil Irons Craig Leach, Shane Geddes 60/75
C Grade:
Bruce Riches 59/75
Anthony Searle 56/75
Peter Spinks 53/75

Sunday 16th November

At the completion of shooting on the Saturday the Target Setters were sent out with instructions to make the targets for Sunday the final day a test for all competitors.

Traps and Shooting Stands were shifted, target trajectories were stiffened, and this was especially evident on the awesome Winchester Course.
John Younger and Craig Macpherson both started on Course 1 Beretta, with Younger posting 24/25 he picked up three targets on Macpherson who managed 21/25, Damien Birgan on the difficult Winchester course posted a creditable 21/25.

In the second round younger and Macpherson were shooting the Rio/ Corsivia Course where Macpherson picked up a couple of targets on Younger with 23/25, Birgan was on Beretta where he also shot 23/25. This meant that Younger went into the last round on 116/125, which gave him a two-target lead over both MacPherson and Birgan.
Three shooters within two targets going into the last round, Mac Pherson was out first on the Winchester course and put in the round of the vent with a fantastic 24/25, younger only two squads behind was two down going to the last stand and needed to clean it to stay one target in front, but oops the first bird of the double, B on report B got away, it looked like a shoot-off at least between MacPherson and Younger for the top spot.
But don’t forget Birgan, who was trying to make it three Nationals on the trot,
Yes he cleaned the first two stands on Corsivia, but that was expected as they were not to difficult, Stand 3 was harder and he left that still clean, Stand 4, tough Stand still clean, this was not unusual as Damien had now cleaned the first 5 stands on each of the six layouts throughout the competition.
Last Stand and a perfect 25/25 to take out his 3rd National Championship in a row, well done Damien.

In the Ladies Maree Birgan continued on her way and collected another National Championship from Cherie Neilson and Christine O’Brien.
Veterans saw a change as Barry Cooper faltered; Barry Jane seized the opportunity and won his first National Championship from Richard Sinclair and Bob Vittori.

In Juniors Brenton Irons whom was 3 targets behind shot a great 68/75 to take out the Junior Championship from Chris Brown and Daniel Johnson. Daniel Baskerville came in 4th and only 3 targets out of the Bronze Medal. He is one to watch for the future.

In Sub Juniors James McKenzie made it a clean sweep of the Nationals and won comfortably from Brett Kelynack and Wes Fenton. More young talent on the rise.

In A Grade Ken Triffitt topped off a great Nationals for Northern Midlands with his win over Craig Hobbs and Craig Ralston
B Grade and Andrew Opie won from Craig Leach and Graeme Blaskett
C Grade Wayne Jessup won from Peter Spinks and Anthony Searle
Victoria won the State Teams Championship from Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania, South Australia and West Australia

Damien Birgan topped off his weekend when it was announced that he was the winner of the
“Field and Game Federation of Australia, 3 Day Nationals Carnival, High Gun Champion”
and received the Winchester trophy of a Browning 525 U/O shotgun

What a great Nationals Northern Midlands have put on, a small Club who make up for lack of numbers by the support they get from the one’s they have.
When they were formed only a short time ago it was due to a vision by their president Ken Triffitt. He wished to lift the profile and expertise of Tasmanian Shooters at the National level.

In this he is succeeding due to the quality of targets that is thrown at the Club right throughout the year. In this he is backed by his family, wife Judy and son Richard and I am sure that if they continue along this way success will be theirs.
They have certainly put pressure on Brisbane to continue the good work next year in October.

Results

Junior Team Champions
1st
Daniel Johnson
Brett Groves
Daniel Baskerville
2nd
James McKenzie
Brenton Irons
Brett Kelynack
3rd
James Clancy
Rohan Lay
Toby Callanan

The Outdoor Sportsman Team Event
1st
Craig Ralston,Craig Hobbs,Colin MacPherson
2nd
Chris Brown, Bob Brown, Ross Matthews
3rd
Chris Brown, Scott Hibble, Ross Matthews

State Team Championships

1st VIC 894 / 1050
2nd QLD 798/1050
3rd NSW 770/1050
4th TAS 728/1050
5th SA 713/1050
6th WA 673/1050

Individual - Open
1st Damien Birgan 139 /150
2nd Craig Macpherson 138/150
3rd John Younger 138/150
4th Peter Tobin 135/150
5th Socrates Pilipasidis 133 /150
Ladies
1st Maree Birgan 123 /150
2nd Cherie Neilson 112/150
3rd Christine O’Brien 100/150
Veterans
1st Barry Jane 117 /150
2nd Richard Sinclair 115/150
3rd Bob Vittori 115/150
Juniors
1st Brenton Irons 131 /150
2nd Chris Brown 128/150
3rd Daniel Johnson 125/150
Sub Juniors
1st James McKenzie 120/150
2nd Brett Kelynack 112/150
3rd Wes Fenton 97/150

A Grade
1st Ken Triffitt 124 /150
2nd Craig Hobbs 123/150
3rd Craig Ralston 112/150
B Grade
1st Andrew Opie 120 /150
2nd Craig Leach 118/150
3rd Graeme Blaskett 118/150
C Grade
1st Wayne Jessup 107 /150
2nd Peter Spinks 105/150
3rd Anthony Searle 104/150

Ray McFarlane
NDTS

STATE NEWS

NEW SOUTH WALES

We have had a very interesting year, considering the last couple, things are definitely on the way up now. Membership has shown a slight increase in 2003 which should continue.
For 2004 we have some new blood in the state committee, who bring with them new ideas and enthusiasm. Matt Leighton (president) has already opened the lines of communication with former NSWF&G branches and other sporting clay clubs in NSW. On behalf of all NSW members I would like to welcome your new committee and thank the 2003 committee for their time an effort during the year.

Some NSW branches will be looking at new approaches in 2004, eg dropping range fees for juniors who shoot with their parent or guardian at club shoots, promotional days ect,
We also have some good news from the Cooma branch; they have been busy running a clay target program for sport with a local high school. With plenty of positive feedback from students, teachers and parents the future is starting to look a whole lot brighter in the Monaro.
There was a lot of behind the scenes work to get this program up and running. All branches should be looking at this program with the view to implementation within there own area. (Contact your branch secretary for more information) Congratulation to all those involved especially Peter Reeves.
The State selection shoots were concluded on the
13th & 14th Sep at the Buckaroo range Mudgee. This was, in my opinion, the best shoot I've attended on this ground, the targets were challenging yet all there to be shot. We shot over some new ground and saw some different presentations over the weekend. There were plenty of crossers; a rabbit that bolted down a gully below the shooter, a lovely long incomer and what we thought was a long teal (that's until we saw the Sunday teal on Winchester range at the TASSIE NATIONALS)

Speaking of the Tassie nationals the NSW team once again put in a strong performance. Peter Kay who was the team reserve was called upon to replace Lee Cunningham who unfortunately was not well enough to attend. (Hope you’re on the mend Lee)
Both Peter Kay and Daniel Baskerville showed their ability over the weekend shooting scores of 125/150 and 122/150 respectfully their efforts have earned them an invitation to the national training camp for 2004. The team placed third behind VIC and QLD.
Congratulations to Southern Branch and all the helpers for putting on a memorable event.

Results of the state raffle are:

1st Craig Hurst (Bermagui) TV/DVD
2nd Craig Hurst (Bermagui) DVD
3rd E Edwards (Mudgee) VCR

We seem to have a lot of members who forget to advise their membership secretary about changes of details especially change of ADDRESS. If you wish to receive this newsletter and any other correspondence you must inform your branch secretary.

2004 Committee

President: Matt Leighton
Vice President: Tas Touvras
Secretary: Deb Hotchin
Treasurer: Clare Smidt
Clay Target Paul Smidt
Referee Examiner: Paul Smidt
Team Manager: Ken Moore
Coaching Director: Ken Moore
Firearms officer: Terry Dawson
Membership Secretary: NSWFS&T

2004 Selection shoot dates

1st 8th Feb Dubbo
2nd 17/18th Apr Milparinka
3rd 8th May Mudgee – Windermere
4th 9th May Mudgee-Windermere
Championship 14th/15thAug Sydney

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

The State Titles and National competition is over for this year and we are left with a few Christmas novelty shoots leading up to the big break.
In keeping with our aging population Southern Branch are implementing a system where the handicap is used to determine winners nominated in veterans at all club events.
Earlier this year we decided to set courses so shooters could drive the course if they decided to.
Particularly the older members have readily accepted this initiative.

The State Championship held at Centrals attracted 94 shooters from all over the State and a few from interstate.
Whitey’s crew did a great job with a good selection of challenging targets.
The general consensus that the targets were about 3 tougher than usual makes me feel a bit better about my 14 average.

The Southern Club team took out first place and Simon Baldwin put in a fine performance to justify his place in the State Team. Our open team came second to the Victorian team and the scores show we could do with a little more practice.

HIGH GUN:
J Younger 128/150

AA:
Malcolm Whitehead 121/150
Terry Scicluna 117/150
Jeremy Kent 114/150
A:
Tim Steer 108/150
Darren Small 105/150
Bob Brown 103/150
B:
Daniel Torresan 104/150
Mark Della-Zoppa 99/150
Wayne Fenton 93/150
C:
David Tonellato 86/150
Damien Torresan 76/150
Michael Carter 74/150

Ladies:
Tania Scicluna 77/150
Cheryl Brown 71/150
Jill Marden 60/150

Vets:
Richard Dean 106/150
Barry Jane 104/150
Laurie Sharam 102/150

Juniors:
Chris Brown 127/150
Simon Baldwin 95/150
Julian Torresan 95/150

Sub Junior:
Wes Fenton 79/150
Ryan Baum 78/150
Nick Makin 67/150

S.A. Club Team:
Southern:
Mike Gill, Richard Dean, John Gugliandola, Laurie Sharam….412

Central:
John Torressan, Grant Baum, Eddie Maggee, Chris Ball…..404

Open Team:
Peter Hall, Chris Brown, John Younger, Terry cicluna 483/600

Darren Small, Richard Dean, Mike Gill, Peter Eckerman, 405/600

Junior Team:
Wes Fenton, Simon Baldwin, Julian Torresan …….269/450

Ryan Baum, Brodie Clark, Tyler Clark …………206/450

The following shooters competed in Tasmania as our State Team and enjoyed the experience better than they coped with the targets. The results and placing’s are included elsewhere in this newsletter.

Open:
Terry Scicluna, Jeremy Kent, John Torressan Rob Shawyer.
Vet: Dave Gagnon.
Lady: Tania Scicluna.
Junior: Simon Baldwin.
Sub Junior: Wes Fenton.

The Longford Branch deserves accolades for the effort they put in to produce an excellent event.

Merry Christmas and good shooting.
Steve Ragless

SA HUNTING & HABITAT

Nothing much to report on the hunting scene during the year of 2003 as the drought severely impacted on all field shooting activity, although we did achieve a shortened quail season following effective debate with the Department.

Patchy rainfall in most inland catchments has not filled the basin’s major dams or off river channels that support many off stream wetlands. At this point of the season, the basins catchments require a 20” rainfall period to December to get storages and environment back to pre-drought conditions!

This impacts on downstream Murray River usage, bird life and fish. Although the southern areas of the state have had one of the wettest seasons for many years with Bool Lagoon near full (first time for 10years). The SA government has set in place historical restrictions on irrigation and domestic water use by legislation.

2004 duck open season:
The new Shimmin Format (Dept Environment & Heritage) to improve data collection in assessing future Duck & Quail seasons is in a trial phase and shaping up well from it’s first trial in March The completed October (spring survey) results were tabled at the November 14th waterfowl meeting with CHASSA / DEH to assess the 2004 Duck and Quail season with the following recommendations.

The bag limit for Ducks is reduced from the usual twelve (12) birds per shooter per day to eight (8). Permitted birds – Grey Teal, Chestnut Teal, Mountain Duck, Pink-eared Duck and Black Duck.
No bag limit on Wood Duck.
Closed season for Blue winged Shoveler and Hardhead.
Proposed open season dates from Saturday 14th February until Sunday 27th June.
The recommended Quail hunting season is from Saturday 7th February until 25th July, the meeting supported that the season close at the last day of July.
The following are recommendations only and subject to the Minister’s consent.

CHASSA have created a special quail section (Quail Tomorrow) chaired by John Francis. It’s envisaged that this new committee will handle all Quail issues and research.
The data from the currant spring survey will be available shortly with copies to all SAFGA Branches as well as copies to other states CHH officers.

Aerial surveys:
The Richard Kingsford’s annual inland east/west transects flown into South Australia is of a broadband nature, missing out on many areas holding water. To build more accuracy into the model (and with onground surveys) SAFGA decided to fly the SA watercourses and riverine wetlands holding water this year between these transects. Two aircraft were used over the six-hour period to cover the South East and Riverland regions. SAFGA financed the successful operation; a NPWS ranger was invited onboard for credibility of bird counts.

Satellite Tracking:
Recently, I have forwarded via my email network details of the satellite-tracking project of ten game birds (teal) by David Roshier, the project has attracted some $300k. in funding. The latest update advises eight transmitters were deployed on grey teal at Lake Hope on 26th October. Lake Hope sits between the Birdsville and Strezlecki Tracks and is surrounded by sand dunes. Two birds have been released at Griffith NSW. Interesting to follow their movements (one teal travelling 280km over night) Website http://www.csu.edu.au/faculty/sciagr/sst/pers/droshier/default.html

SA River Fishery Restructure:
The historical decision in banning commercial net fishing in the River Murray is welcomed; commercial activity has ceased in other states with a dramatic improvement in native fish stocks. The MDBC intends to install fish passages on most of the river locks, which will see greater native fish migration. I have inspected the new fish passage near completion on lock eight with lock seven to be started shortly.

The new “restructure” permits only six commercials to operate anywhere in Murray waters (apart from a few restricted areas) to catch carp. Other endorsed devices that can be used are - 30 gillnets to 50mtrs in length, 50 drum nets, 50 setlines with 10 hooks each, 100 yabbie pots, 40 hoop nets, 40-drop nets!

Cod Research – Warrnambool Deakin University.
The Deakin University has been issued an exemption under the Fisheries Act 1982 to collect up to 60 Murray cod brood stock for a major aquaculture research project. The project leader has advised the Department of Primary Industries and Resources SA (PIRSA) that the University’s work with the 60 fish will involve researching improved propagation techniques for native freshwater fish. And this research could lead to year-round fingerling production in the future, which would enhance the economic viability of future inland aquaculture.
Cod from the River Murray in South Australia were considered the best source for brood stock due to their condition and genetics. The brood stock is to be collected by one of the licence holders in the non-native River fishery, who is working closely with the University. All fish will be tagged for research purposes only and cannot be sold or transferred to another party.
The latest news is that the exemption has been revoked. Eight (8) female cod were ‘tagged’ and returned to the water.

A Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all.

TASMANIA

President’s/Hunting & Conservation Report
(As will appear in the Tasmanian Farmer, December 2003)

Recent changes in our insurance has meant that Field and Game members will now have public liability cover wherever and whenever they are hunting. This quite obviously gives farmers the insurance cover that they require in today’s environment. Field and Game members can now hunt in the knowledge that the farmer whose land they hunt on is well covered.

The Minister Brian Green has now signed off the Wood Duck issue. The resolution of this problem is very timely. Because of its addition to the nuisance bird list, Wood Ducks were recognised as an environmental problem. It has been the case on mainland Australia that Wood Ducks are now seen as a pest species. Let us hope that in Tasmania this species will be controlled to the extent that they will cease to be a problem to dams and cropping and therefore be another species that benefits by game management.

There has been frequent discussion amongst hunting circles regarding the adoption of the Wagels system of game licensing. This method of licensing hunters to harvest game is quite clearly so logical that it is hard to understand why there would be any argument to the contrary. Hunters would much prefer the option of carrying a simple credit card type licence than the reams of paper that the current system requires. A hunter, under the Wagel system, if confronted by an enforcement officer would simply have to produce their hunter card to prove their right to hunt the species in question.

It is very encouraging to see that the minister has seen fit to appoint a further two staff members to the Game Management Unit. The acceptance of the unit by farmers and hunters is well recognised. 2004 will see the first decade of Game Management. The fact that the unit is now locally, nationally and internationally recognised is something that Tasmania can be proud of.

Duck hunters need to be aware that there will be a phase out of lead shot for duck hunting. Next year, 2004, will be a hunter education year. 2005 will see the use of lead shot on public wetlands prohibited. In 2006, the use of lead shot for duck hunting will be totally banned. Wallaby hunters and clay target shooters will not be in any way affected by this ban. Hunters who have any concerns about non-toxic shot particularly steel (soft iron) should consult their gunsmith for advice on this important and potentially dangerous matter. Remember, don’t listen to the bush experts, consult your gunsmith.

Peter Darke
President/Director of Hunting & Conservation

2004 Duck Season/WIT
In the lead up to the 2004 Duck Season, the Tasmanian Field & Game are preparing for new shooters wishing to pass the Waterfowl Identification Test (WIT), a requirement to obtain a duck hunting licence in Tasmania. Training sessions and tests are being coordinated by Tasmanian Field & Game, which will be conducted in the North, South and the North-West of the State. This should give most people a reasonable chance of participating.

The cost is $40.00, however if you need to re-sit the test, or have previously tried and failed in the past two years and want to repeat it again, the fee is $30.00. Courses will be conducted immediately sufficient numbers are enrolled in the respective regions, so get in early and be ready for opening day in March 2004.

Application forms are available from most recognised gun shops, or from the State Secretary Kevin Preece Tele. 6344 7295.
Branch News

Spring Bay Field & Game
Spring Bay Field and Game is based on the East Coast of Tasmania at Triabunna.

Although a field and game branch we shoot DTL rather than Sporting clays as that has been the prime focus of the area for many years. The branch evolved at the time the gun laws were changing and picked up a number of shooters who had been a member of the old ACTA club East Coast Gun Club.

We consistently have 25 - 30 shooters every month with a good spread across all grades AA, A, B & C. We are fortunate to have a good sponsorship base, which allows us to provide excellent trophies every month.

The range is situated on Freestone Point Road, Triabunna (which is locally known as the Mill Road as it goes to the woodchip mill) and we shoot on the third Sunday of every month.

Everyone is made very welcome so if you are visiting Tasmania any time drop in even if it is only for a coffee and a chat.

Glenn Arnol
Vice President

Bagdad Field & Game
The Arthur Adam’s Memorial Shoot was held on the 4th October at the Hobart Gun Club. Results were:
25 Target D.B
AA S. Browning 25/25
A M. Crow 24/25
B J. Hall 24/25
C P. Piueselli 23/25
A. Adam’s 40 Tgt Novelty H-Cap

1.S. Browning 40/40
2.J. Hall 46/47
3. M. Crow 45/47
4.G. Jackman 38/40
5.B. Evans 37/40
6.T. Newman 39/43

50 Target D.B Point Score

AA S. Browning 146/150
A S. Webb 139/150
B L. Carpi 134/150
C J. Foster 118/150

Congratulations to S. Browning, and to those shooters who achieved a personal best on the day.

Wallaby hunting is now winding down with the weather warming up and snakes becoming more active. Members are still spotlighting under permits.

A number of our members are going to Flinders Island on January 24th-25th to partake in the annual Cape Barren Goose Hunt. With 7 shoots being held over the January/February period, 50 permits will be issued per hunt, with each permit allowing the holder to take up to 10 geese.

With great assistance from the Tasmania Target Shooting Club (TTSC), work is progressing on the establishment of a 25m Pistol Range on our grounds at Shene. Once range approval has been given, the TTSC will be conducting their shoots on Shene. Work is still progressing with the other ranges.

Robert Anders
Secretary

Northern Midlands News
Well the Nationals have been and gone. We believe that all the hard work which went into this year’s event paid off and that the 2003 Nationals were a great success for both Federation and us. We would like to once again thank all the competitors and families who crossed the seas from the North Island to give us a chance to show what we had to offer and I don’t think anyone was disappointed. So you see Queensland doesn’t have ALL the good weather, had the Nationals been a week later, as this is being typed, you would have seen a different side to our weather, we are pleased it was warm and sunny.

A big thank you to the clubs and people that lent us traps, they deserve a mention again, Geelong Sporting Clays – SSAA Laang – ITP (Brian Heffer) – South East – Penguin – Derwent Valley – West Tamar – Ray Williams – Peter Spinks – Julian Wolfhagen – Dennys Williams (bill on its way Dennys). Without these we would not have been able to run the shoot. Thanks go to the trappers we used and to Peter Lowe and Peter Rowbottom for their efforts in keeping the traps full, the ladies in the kitchen for keeping the bellies full and the workers in the drinks tent for keeping the drys away (who was the veteran in the drink tent with the digital camera getting an eyeful of young boobs). So that we don’t offend anyone
A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THOSE WHO HELPED US OUT IN ANY WAY.

We must also thank all those businesses which sponsored us in any way, especially the Tasmanian State Government through Events Tasmania.
We relieved Brian Heffer of 4 of his traps before he left, another 2 went to clubs in Tassy and 3 went to Victoria, a good result for ITP.

Congratulations go to all the winners and placegetters over the Nationals.
To those who took the opportunity to have a holiday we hope you had a good time. Those who went fishing before or after the event, hope you caught a monster.

See you in October next year in Brisbane for another get together.

Northern Midlands Sporting Clays would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

“Stumpy”
And Finally…
The Tasmanian Field & Game wishes everyone a safe and Christmas and a happy new year.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

2003 Nationals Report.

WA had 17 shooters at the Nationals and 9 extra travellers, all the groups stayed a few extra days and travelled about and I know that a few of the women helped the local economy very well. I personally visited a lot of shops that had things that couldn’t possibly be left there, and had to come home with us.

To the Shooting, all the competitors shot well and everyone said that we need to shoot more of the style of target that was presented. We had a few first timers at this nationals and it was encouraging to hear that they are keen to improve and do better next year in Queensland. A couple of the Boys went for a drink one night and found a nightclub that looked alright from the outside, Inside was a different story, not every day you see a hard drinking man leave a full beer on the Bar. There weren’t any girls in that club, but lots of cuddling going on. There will always be somebody on the Trip to the nationals who will have an adventure.

I have to congratulate the Tasmanians on a very well run shoot, with minimum breakdowns and hold-ups. It was also good to be so far from home and find that every where we went the people were so friendly and every where we went they knew about the Shoot, The media there were very helpful again well done Tasmania.

WA have applied for the 2007 Nationals and we will be presenting to the Federation a new ground, with some very differing terrain that will make the Target choices unlimited.

Our Shoot program for 2004 will be out soon, keep an eye on the Federation Website.

Finally a happy festive season to all and see you round the Traps.

Harry B
WA Target Director.

W.A. Shooting Assoc. - Open Day

This year’s Open Day for Ballistic Sports was organised by the West Australian Shooting Association at the International Shooting Complex at Whiteman Park on October 9th. The forecast was unsettled with rain periods, the few light showers between burst of sunshine failed to dampen the enthusiasm of participants, till the rain started in mid afternoon.

There were three layouts for visitors to the Field & Game area, and a five stand layout of our usual Compak, for demonstration purposes.

Stand 1 was for the children who had the use of a .410 shotgun and static targets.

Stand No 2 was a safe distance away from the first and provided a 12gauge Shotgun and an electric trap which threw a high target going away from the shooter.

Stand No 3 had a manually operated trap throwing a lower target, but still going away, and with a choice to use either a 12ga or 20ga shotgun. Each stand was under the control of a qualified coach, with the addition of volunteers to assist with the replenishment of clays, operation of traps and management of waiting visitors. The coaches provided clear and definite procedures for correct handling, thus re-enforcing safe techniques for these young people who represent the future of our sport.

Some of our members were more than willing to demonstrate the sport for the benefit of our clientele during the day, and we are extremely grateful for the country members who volunteered to travel so far to promote our sport.

Visitors began arriving just after 9 am and continued uninterrupted until 12.30 pm, when a short halt was called to allow a Trap shooting demonstration by members of the W.A. Clay Target Association. We took the opportunity for a short lunch break, which was followed by a constant line of would-be participants, mainly youngsters, who were anxious to have a turn at the static stand. This continued until the .410 ammunition ran out.

Some 93 visitors registered to try the stands, and there may have been some who did not sign in after they paid their fee. Several people, adults and children tried all three gauge shotguns, and many children came back for second and third tries. The cost of $3.00 for 5 shots, including ear plugs, was certainly no impediment to the many interested visitors to our stand on the day.

Glen Goudie provided a couple of ‘skeeters’ - metal sleeves which fit into a 12ga gun to enable it to fire .410 cartridges - however, many of our young participants found that the 12ga was too heavy to hold up, and they preferred the lighter weight of the .410 - provided on the day by Jamie Smith.

Only standard clays were used on the day, although they did vary in colour, and we were able to use ‘pick-ups’ for the static stand. We found that some of the thrown targets were difficult to see in the dark, cloudy conditions. We used approximately 1800 clays throughout the day, with 1200 rounds of 12g; 125 rounds of 20g and 250 rounds of .410; although a final tally is difficult because some members brought and used their own ammunition.

It was gratifying that some parents expressed appreciation that their children were introduced to firearms in a positive manner with an emphasis on safety practices. The looks on the faces of the children after a good round (as well as those of some of the adults) were a delight to see. I hope that the people, who took information brochures and membership forms, expressing an interest to attend some of our calendared shoots, will indeed follow through.

Promotions Day 2003 was a success from the perspective of Field & Game despite the threatening weather Thanks must go to those members who set up the stands, others who loaned equipment and donated shells, and everybody who gave their time on the day, especially the members who travelled from outlying clubs to assist. The coaches were almost run off their feet during what I perceive to have been a most enjoyable day. The event, as a whole, demonstrates a commitment to the association and a desire amongst members to encourage new participants to our sport.

I hope the day was as successful for other ballistic sports groups who were represented at the Promotion Day this year. The event was originally the brain child of W.A. Gun Club, and our thanks must go to them for their brilliant idea and for allowing Field & Game to use part of their allocated area for our display.

Frank Parkinson

QUEENSLAND

Clay Target Report December 2003

The year is again almost at a close & as we reflect on our shooting successes (& not so successful at times), one thing we can be guaranteed …..it all begins again next year. With the National titles at Brisbane over the 8 to 10 October 2004 period our calendar along with everyone else has been compressed a month earlier than usual.
Dates of Interest for the competition orientated of the Queensland members.

2004 Selection Shoot dates:
1st Brisbane 14th March
2nd Fraser Coast 4th April
3rd Brisbane 13th June
4th Gympie 18th July
State Titles: 11th -12th September
National Titles:8 - 10th October

The most important piece of News recently that has been indicated to affect our sport has been from FITASC regarding the reduction of cartridge loads from the present 36grms down to 28grms as from 1st January 2005 & the compulsory wearing of protective glasses & Hearing protection at FITASC events.

To avoid any confusion in Queensland, at present F&GFA will maintain the present 36grm maximum ruling at all Australian F&GFA competition events.

At present as from 1st January 2005 the 36grm ruling will remain in F&GFA competitions. This will not be the case with official FITASC sanctioned events after this date ( Grand Prix & Oceania events) whereby competitors to these events will have to comply with the 28grm rule.

We already have Compak & English Sporting that are restricted to 28grm loads.

Comment is often made that these disciplines are not as well attended as the FITASC discipline events are. Some say it is the structure of these disciplines in which the 28grm ruling is a main component that stops participation.

Our culture has always been for a choice with cartridge loads up to the maximum of 36grms. Usually because of long targets & the confidence the extra quantity of pellets bring. Not everyone wants to or uses 36grm cartridges, the choice has always been left up to the individual shooter to make a selection, not bureaucratic meddling.

Pollution, Noise & Health, have been the main problems put forward for the reduction in shot load, but this problem has always been there in our sport. I am still at a loss as to why the Cartridge manufacturers have not been more active in finding an alternative cost effective solution ( No sorry, Steel is not an alternative) to lead ,there are enough Cartridge manufacturers out there to find an collective alternative, surely they have a vested interest to keep people shooting ?

I have seen reports that show recoil from the 36grm heavy loads are three times that of the average 28grm load. The report also shows that a fast 28grm has as much recoil as an average 32grm.

Noise is also an issue with the same findings that a 36grm has two & a half times the noise level as an average 28grm. At the end of it all Lead is Lead, Noise is Noise & recoil is always present no matter what the load.

I have listened to options that you can hit any target with 28grms.

This is true, but the shooter is the one playing the game & if they choose not to accept these arguments they may end up voting with their feet & spend their money on another sport that does not have all these rules & regulations.

Most shooters choose a way of spending their free time in Sporting Clay shooting ( & hard to earn money) as far as possible from the rules & regulations that control our lives in the real world.

This naturally leads onto the question whether Australia also follows the lead of FITASC & change Nationally to the 28grm rule? This change could have a far-reaching effect into our sport & the way we play the game.
This question is not going to go away & will come up for review in the Target Committee meeting again at the next AGM in October 2004.
Your Constructive thoughts?????

Until next year have a happy Christmas & safe New Year

Glen Rider

Hunting & Habitat Report
Current state of play regarding Hunting and Habitat in QLD in relation to Ducks seasons are as follows:

Summary Season 2003

After lengthy debate of the D&QMC it was proposed by the majority of the committee members to request the Minister to allow both a shortened season and reduced bag limits and reduced species take in the 2003 year. At this point NPWS had previous made recommendation that a season was not possible given the drought situation in QLD and the remainder of the eastern seaboard. At this point committee members were requested to meet with the Minister in his office to discuss the final outcomes. In this meeting the following statements were made:

1. The environmental situations did not meet with favour, although ground proofing of duck numbers/species etc were far removed from those of Richard Kingsfords yearly aerial survey in November.
2. Minister stated that the media would crucify him if he made a decision outside the usual "science" of the decision making process.
3. Minister stated that the credibility of all the hunting organisations would be seriously put at risk if a season went ahead due to drought conditions.
4. Minister stated that the current hunted species of duck were no in danger of extinction and that they were a renewable resource.
5. Minister stated the all decisions made on duck seasons would be based on science, not on emotive issues pushed by RSPCA etc.
6. Federal Labour Party has dropped their policy of banning duck hunting! Minister Wells said his decisions would be made on scientific fact and sustainability.

Further discussion was made on what state of climate/environmental issues would be used to determine seasons, the Minister agreed that if these needed to be changed in the future then he would highly consider them ( ie duck numbers on the ground distinctly higher than those in Kingsfords survey).

The Wetlands Funding has been snubbed by RSPCA with both funding and manpower, and there has been basically a closed book on the subject since the Ministers meeting although he stated that the loss of habitat was the major contributor to declining duck numbers Australia wide (not for wood duck).

Season Prediction for 2004

The truth hurts, realistically there has been insufficient rainfall since season end 2003, and sheep numbers in QLD are at their lowest level since records have been kept due to drought conditions. Greater than 85% of QLD is still drought declared and QDPI forecasts predict a return to El Nino drought conditions again after February 2004. This is not a good sign, compacted with the current push by Animal lib/RSPCA who are currently campaigning the NSW/VIC and SA Parliaments to ban all hunting (PARTICULARY DUCK VIA PEST MITIGATION PERMITS). The D&QMC is due to meet again in February to analize NPWS climate conditions to allow a season in 2004.

VICTORIA

2003 has been a fantastic year for VSCA our members to the World Championships in Kansas were very successful and along with their team mates brought a lot of respect for our sport.

Our Clubs are increasing their equipment and facilities all the time and I see a great future for those who participate in Sporting Clays.

VSCA will be conducting a number of Major Events in 2004
Little River(SSAA) will be hosting the 2004 FITASC Championship of Oceania
Daylesford will again host the VSCA “Old Style FITASC” State Championships
Geelong will host the FITASC Australian Grand Prix and the Compak Sporting Nationals
Geelong will once again assist Federation in hosting the Junior and Ladies Training Camp.
It was pleasing to see that some of the Juniors who have attended these Camps are performing well at the Nationals.

VSCA members done very well at the recent Nationals in Tasmania and we would also congratulate Damien Birgan on his three in a row. A fantastic first by a great Sporting Clay Competitor.

By the time you receive this newsletter it will be getting close to Christmas. I would wish all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Ray McFarlane
President

From John Tingle MLC

Interesting "coincidences" here. John Tingle this week has a go at the Minister for Police, asking (paraphrased) "if the Registry cannot be run properly, would the Government consider ditching Registration"... then John Tingle and the Upper House MP3 Committee decide to call the boss of the Registry to give evidence about lack of resources, and then the Minister finds $2.9M to get the Registry back on track. Hmmmmmmm..…………...

Well done JT I'd say.......

John Tingle MLC
The Shooters’ Party, Parliament House, Sydney
Email: ctingle@parliament.nsw.gov.au Phone (02) 9230 3059
Fax: (02) 9230 2613
Shooters’ Party website for more info: www.shootersparty.org.au

FGFA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Election of Officers:
President: Cheryl Arnol
Vice-President : Peter Drake
Secretary: Glen Rider
Treasurer: Mark Farrow
Clay Target Dir: Ray McFarlane
Coaching Dir: Ken Moore
Disability Officer: Mark Farrow

HAVE A DISABILITY BUT NOT DISABLED

People with disabilities do not enjoy the same opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity as do people without disabilities. The reasons for this are many and varied. Society does not cater very well with diversity and difference and there are still many attitudinal and structural barriers that people with disabilities face on a day to day basis.
But society is changing and events like the Paralympic Games are gradually shaping positive attitudes towards the full and active participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. Sport and physical activity are excellent vehicles for change. Teachers, coaches and community leaders are becoming more flexible and accepting of individual difference and people with disabilities are also becoming more involved in community activities and sport.
The Field and Game Federation of Australia needs members that have a disability to step forward and be counted. If you have any disability or know a person that has a disability with an interest in shooting could you please forward the information to: Mark Farrow 29 Harrogate Tce, Birkdale, Q 4159. or email at markfarrow@mapgraphics.com.au
Please send name and contact and the type of disability
Mark Farrow
Disability Officer

COMPILERS NOTE

There is no intention by the Federation to produce this newssheet as a Target News sheet only.

All States are contacted and asked, should I say begged, for submissions.

If your main interest in this Organisation is, Field Activities,
why not tell us about it?

Put pen to paper and tell all of the Federation members what you do on the weekends. It just may instil some enthusiasm in others members to become active in your interest’s.

But most of all do not complain about content if you have not submitted an article.

2nd FITASC AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX

16th FITASC Championship of Oceania