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FIELD and GAME FEDERATION of AUSTRALIA Inc. |
Volume 5
Issue 4
December 2005
FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT:
Firstly, I wish to thank Cheryl Arnol for her dedication and her time that
she put into Field and Game Federation of Australia. I know that Cheryl
will uphold her new position as President of the Australian International
Shooting Ltd very well.
Cheryl has left very “large boots” to fill, so as your new President I will
endeavour to fulfil this position to the utmost of my ability.
I wish to thank all those who attended the AGM in Melbourne and I must
say that Glen chose an excellent venue. I apologise for having to leave
early and not being able to have the opportunity to stay longer.
Congratulations to all those who took on positions and also to our new Vice
President Mr. Howard Barks from Western Australia.
As your Vice President, I attended the Nationals in Renmark and must congratulate
South Australia for a terrific weekend and Victoria on winning the National
Teams Title also all those who won or was placed and especially to all of
those who attended.
John Younger for winning High Gun and the other results should be further
on in this newsletter.
The Nationals for 2006 will be held at Laang Victoria near Warrnambool.
I urge all members to attract new members to their clubs as I know you have been and to encourage Juniors and Ladies as the Juniors are the shooters of tomorrow.
Keep the shiny side up,
Take care
Enjoy our sport
Matt Leighton
President.
FROM THE PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT:
BY THE TIME......
You receive this newsletter you will have a new National President. To not
stand for National President is not a decision I made lightly.
However, recently I was elected President of Australian International Shooting Ltd (the new name for the Australian Shooting Association). Unfortunately their constitution precludes me from holding a ‘like position’ in another organisation. As a National Shooting Organisation the Federation is a full member of AISL that sanctions our overseas teams.
As I have stated on many occasions, I have been privileged to be National President of this wonderful organisation for 6 years now. It has been at times challenging. It has always been rewarding and I would encourage any of you, as I have done many times in the past, to consider taking a position on the National Executive if the opportunity arises.
Thank you to everyone I have worked with since 1999! Your friendship, cooperation and enthusiasm for the Federation is awe inspiring.
Cheryl Arnol
National President 1999-2005
CLAY TARGET NEWS
Nationals Carnival Renmark Berri 2005
A record entry was in attendance at Renmark Berri Field and Game Range with 200 shooters in the English Sporting and 264 for the Australian Sporting Clay Nationals.
Weather was fine and hot for the 3 days of competition.
The conduct of the Nationals by the joint hosts Renmark Berri and Loxton
Branches was excellent. The three layouts were efficiently staffed, as were
the Office and Canteen.
Our loyal Sponsors were once again making sure that the prize winners were
well rewarded for their efforts.
I would like to thank our sponsors Beretta Australia, Winchester, Rio-Oceania,
Highland Sports, Spartan Global, The Outdoor Sportsman and SSAA Insurance
for their continuing support.
Brian Heffer travelled from Barham with a number of his Viper Automatic Traps and was a great assistance as our roving Trap Mechanic throughout the Championships. A great effort once again Brian and we are grateful for your support not only this year but over a number of years
The English Sporting was a good warm up for the Nationals and was conducted over the Rio and Winchester Layouts.
John Younger showed that he was in fine form and was the Open Champion
on 70/80, Colin MacPherson 69/70 and Peter Tobin 65/70 were the open placegetters.
Ladies Cherie Neilson 59/80, Maree Birgan 57/80 and Natasha Lonsdale 48/80
Juniors Rohan Lay 57/80, Jason Gravenall 57/80, James clancy 50/80
Sub-Juniors Robert Hall 61/80, Nicholas Guerra 55/80, Aaron Howe 51/80
Veterans were bowled over by Richard Sinclair 61/80, Rod Brain 58/80, Malcolm
Whitehead 57/80.
AA Grade
1st John Younger, 2nd Colin MacPherson, 3rd Peter Tobin
A Grade
1st Richard Sinclair, 2nd Scott O’Brien, 3rd Robert Hall
B Grade
1st Steve Chilton, 2nd Robert Whiting, 3rd Jason Gravenall
C Grade
1st Clinton Murray, 2nd Julien Wolfhagen, 3rd Tania Scicluna
Saturday morning and the start of the Australian Sporting Clay Nationals,
weather was fine and hot, the many flies that were around on the Friday
had multiplied and were immune to repellents. Chris Brown started in style
and straighten the Rio Layout, John Younger replied with 24/25 on Beretta..
Chris followed with a 24 on Beretta and with John having a 20/25 on Winchester
he had a handy break. Round three and Chris with 22 on Winchester and a
total of 71/75 ensured the overnight lead but by how much. John’s 20 on
Winchester left him 5 targets behind and was joined on this score by Sox
Pilipasidis and Colin MacPherson. Mike Birgan was next on 65, with son Damien
, Peter Hall, Peter Tobin, Brenton Irons all on 64.
Ladies:- Renae Birgan led with 53/75, Natasha Lonsdale, Maree Birgan and
Cherie Neilson were tied on 48/75
Juniors:- Rohan Lay 58/75 led from Brett Kelynack and Julien Torresan both
on 52, Jason Gravenall and Jarryd Passarin on 51 and James Clancy back in
the field on 48/75.
Sub-Juniors:- Robert Hall was the stand out on 63/75, Blake Nankervis 65
and Nicholas Guerra 55 left the rest of the Sub Juniors struggling
Veterans:- Ken Triffitt led with 62/75 from Rod Brain and John Torresan
on 61, Richard Dean and Malcolm Whitehead 58/75.
Sunday again fine blue skies and the flies were back stronger and more
plentiful than ever.
Chris with his five target lead opened with 23/25 on Beretta, John on the
difficult Winchester layout nibbled away at the lead with a 24, this set
the tone for the day as it was only John who could spoil the Brown parade.
Round 2 and both Chris and John shot 22/25 and it looked all over.
Chris was first back after round 3 with a 20/25 on Rio. This left John needing
a straight to win and 24/25 to tie on the Winchester Range. Impossible I
thought and had a stubby with Peter Hall that he would not make it.
Stands 1 and 2 were shot clean, stand 3 and the Double Barrel Tower got
away, to Stand 4 one down, again shot clean and now onto the last, A target
quick looping midi, B target high battue, C target long looping standard,
still only one down, double to go, both targets in the bag and we had a
tie with both Chris and John on 136/150, fabulous shooting on very difficult
targets.
The shoot off was held on the Winchester layout using stands 1, 2 and 5.
Toss of the coin to see who would be first and John sent Chris in to bat,
the result five inkballs.
John’s reply was scratchy making full use of both barrels but the result
was also five zip.
Stand 2 and John’s turn to lead off. Oops the long Crow got away. Chance
for Chris and yes another four inkballs but trying to make sure of the battue,
left it a little late and over the top, still both equal.
Stand 5 Chris shot the A and B targets and missed the monster looper from
the right.
Double and the long looper again gets away.
Can he do it A and B targets OK, a bit of a think about the looper and bang
got it. This left the double and one required for victory, he destroys the
A target and misses the looper and wins by one target.
This was John’s eighth Nationals victory between his first win at Mildura
in1984 and this one at Renmark Berri in 2005. A great record for both achievement
and longevity in the sport.
To Chris also a great effort under enormous pressure, it was a privilege
to Referee such a great spectacle that kept the large crowd that followed
each shot enthralled.
Results:-
Open
1st John Younger 136/150 +13
2nd Chris brown 136/150 +12
3rd Sox Pilipasidis 131/150
4th Damien Birgan 129/150
5th Peter Tobin 126/150
6th Richard Triffitt 126/150
Ladies
1st Renae Birgan 103/150
2nd Natasha Lonsdale 101/150
3rd Maree Birgan 97/150
4th Cherie Neilson 97/150
Juniors
1st James Clancy 108/150
2nd Rohan Lay 107/150
3rd Brett Kelynack 101/150
4th Julien Torresan 101/150
Sub-Juniors
1st Blake Nankervis 120/150
2nd Robert Hall 117/150
3rd Nicholas Guerra 100/150
Veterans
1st Ken Triffitt 117/150
2nd Rod Brain 113/150
3rd Richard Dean 111/150
A Grade
1st Richard Triffitt 126/150
2nd Con Scolora 120/150
3rd John Leach 115/150
B Grade
1st Neville Johnson 110/150
2nd Wayne Nankervis 107/150
3rd Alex Grodski 101/150
C Grade
1st Julian Wolfhagen 90/150
2nd Matthew Flemming 89/150
3rd Greg Dawes 89/150
State Teams Event
1st Victoria 838/1050
2nd Queensland 788/1050
3rd South Australia 714/1050
4th Tasmania
5th New South Wales
6th Western Australia
Comments for what they are worth.
Tasmania and Northern Midlands Club produced three National Champions, A
Grade Richard Triffitt, Veterans Ken Triffitt and C Grade Julien Wolfhagen,
4th in the State Teams Event, what a great result from the Apple Isle. Was
it luck or are they eating more weeties at breakfast. No Northern Midlands
is a new Club and led by Ken Triffitt, they decided that when they started
just a few short years ago, they were sick of bringing up the rear of the
field.
Ken and Richard have been regular visitors to Geelong over a number of years
and always complained that in Tassie they were not allowed to throw the
type of targets they got at Geelong.
When they acquired the range at Northern Midlands they decided to start
at the top and that the remedy was to throw International Style targets
at all of their shoots, it has certainly paid dividends for them.
Especially pleasing was to see Richard finish with a 25 straight on the
difficult Beretta layout.
Not only did he win A grade but was also equal 5th Overall.
Something for the other States to think about.
I have had many comments on the difficulty of the targets some congratulatory
and some derisive.
Yes the targets were too difficult as a whole and what made it worse was
that to many of the more difficult targets were in the Doubles. This will
be fixed next year and the targets hopefully will display more bias to the
Grade Shooters. Who was at fault we the FTSSC have full control of the trajectories
and the difficulty of the targets and the blame lies with us.
The Host Club provides the venue and builds the layouts, we then check them
and make alterations as seen fit. We did not do enough to ensure that all
competitors had a Nationals to remember.
This does not mean that any of the targets were not fit to be thrown at
a Nationals, what it means is that there were to many of the more difficult
targets.
Funnily enough when you look back at the winning scores for last year you
find that the winning scores in Open, Sub Junior, Vets, A Grade and B Grade
were higher in Renmark Berri than in Brisbane.
Ray McFarlane
NDTS
National Training Squad 2005/2006
Open
John Younger, Chris Brown, Socrates Pilipasidis, Damien Birgan, Richard
Triffitt, Peter Tobin, Mike Birgan, Brenton Irons, Peter Hall, Terry Scicluna,
Colin MacPherson, Anthony Panetta, Colin Johns, Josh Terpstra, Craig Ralston,
Craig Brown
Ladies
Renae Birgan, Natasha Lonsdale, Maree Birgan, Cherie Neilson, Jenny Nicholls,
Tania Scicluna
Junior
Blake Nankervis, Robert Hall, Rohan Lay, Brett Kelynack, Nicholas Guerra,
Jason Gravenall
Veterans
Ken Triffitt, Rod Brain, Richard Dean, Les Power, Barry Jane, John Torresan
Rule Amendment:
Further to the Target Committee meeting at the 2005 Federation AGM in November it has been decided to revise Rule A2.18.2 & allow the option of sighter targets to be seen by the first shooter only in the squad, even if they are backing up. This option lies with the first shooter of the squad. This rule is now current.
Rule A2.18.2 Delete, ,provided they have not arrived at a particular stand before the last shooter of the preceding squad has commenced shooting. Note:- All other aspects of Rule 2.18 still applies.
PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE
Once again in 2006 members of the Federation in covered by a new Personal
Accident Insurance.
The policy covers;
The Executive, State Associations, Members, Range Staff, Voluntary Workers
and authorised visitors participating in or working for or on behalf of
the Federation, State Association or Club. It also covers the Association
Executive, Branches, Committees, Members participating in or working for
or on behalf of the Association, including travelling to and from ranges/meetings.
The policy does not cover visitors on a shooting /hunting trip or professional
hunters.
Compensation payable under this policy shall be reduced should the member
be entitled to receive benefits under any Workers Compensation Act or any
legislation having a similar effect.
For more information on this cover or if you wish to lodge a claim please
contact
Glen Rider
Federation Secretary
ADVERTISING IN THIS NEWSLETTER
New rates!!!
If there are members, clubs or companies out there that wish to advertise in this newsletter here are the new rates:
Single column width less than 100mm deep $30 per issue 4 issues $100.
Double column width less than 100mm deep $50 per issue 4 issues $200
Three column width less than 100mm deep $100 per issue 4 issues $300.
Full page $150 per issue 4 issues $400.
What a great place to advertise your shoots check out some of the shoots in this issue.
The planned issue are March, June, September and December.
Information contact:
Glen Rider
WORLD TITLES 2009
The Federation will be submitting to FITASC that the 2009 FITASC World Championships be awarded to Little River Range, Victoria.
HUNTING and HABITAT
By Peter A Teakle
(Incorporating Hunting, Fishing, Conservation & Research)
National Animal Welfare Bill
With the newly established Federal high-level Advisory Committee for Animal
Welfare (AAWS - Australian Animal Welfare Strategy) is set up to help implement
a $6 million National Animal Welfare Strategy, (the strategy is aimed at
all Australians and for all uses of animals); the latest Advisory Committee
consists of
Dr John Drinan,
Independent Chair
Dr Gardner Murray,
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer/Special Adviser
Prof Ivan Caple,
Chair, NCCAW
Dr Hugh Wirth,
President, RSPCA
Dr Robin Vandegraaff,
Chair, PISC Animal Welfare Working Group
Keith Adams, former Chair, NFF Quarantine Committee
Warren Starick, NFF Representative, NCCAW
Kevin Doyle, Australian Veterinary Association
Dr Heather Yeatman, University of Wollongong
Dr Maxine Cooper, Primary Industries Health Committee
Submissions have been called for by the 30th November and are in process
by many organisations
Qld Duck & Quail issue
This was a shock to the system, the ban on duck & quail hunting and
the underhanded strategy used by the Qld AWAC, EPA and others is a lesson
for all other states, Steve Matthews and others worked hard to get the five
year management plan renewed. This places enormous pressure and constant
vigilance by the remaining three States to retain duck and quail hunting
and wary of the methodology used to knock it out.
Bool Lagoon and Hacks Lagoon Conservation Park
The 90 page Draft Management Plan for Bool Lagoon and Hacks Lagoon Conservation
Park has just been released for public comment with submissions closing
in February 2006.
Anyone requiring a hard copy can contact the Department direct at irving.Jason@saugov.sa.gov.au
or website www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/management.plans.html
It’s doubtful if the Bool will be open for the 2006 duck hunting season mainly due to the rapid dry down of the surface waters, caused mainly by depleted underground water aquifers and with the surface water area now estimated at 25% and with the summer period still ahead the remaining area of water / habitat will further decrease to the extent where there could be a virtual dry out by March.
SANPWS November 2005 Duck and Quail meeting
At the time of writing, the annual meeting to discuss the 2005 open season
species and bag limits with SANPWS and stakeholders is set for Friday18th
November 2005.
SA Aerial duck survey and population status of duck species is completed,
above average October and early November rains has seen excellent breeding
of all species, as inland areas dry out these birds will flock back to more
permanent waters. October aerial Riverland counts were 3300 birds, down
from last year being dispersed to northern pastoral areas and the South
East (64.600 birds) with a staggering 27,000 mountain ducks counted! (Looks
like a collection of 27,000 stones required). Perhaps our Cook Book may
have a stone recipe!
There is an issue with the annual meetings latest format, which is in process
for a resolve, recommendations for the 2006 duck and quail season will be
on our website following the meeting.
STOP PRESS!
SA duck & Quail hunters OFFERED a full bag (12) for the 2006 open season
The recommendations offered, were12 birds per shooter per day.
Wood Ducks outside the
bag limit shoot as many as you like!
The Bool will not be open due to low water levels and probably dry by February.
Season starts on
February 18th to 26th June.
Quail season, 18th February to 30th June 2006
(25 in bag).
No Bluewings.
Recommendations forwarded to the SANPWS Council then for the Minister to
sign off on.
Canberra Deer Management Workshop
Wild deer are an emerging pest management problem in NSW, Queensland, Victoria,
South Australia and Western Australia.
Stakeholder groups were invited to participate in the workshop; which includes
recreational hunters, FGFA requested to be registered as a recreational
stakeholder in future management of the species. George Mackenzie is our
proxy delegate; arrangements have been made for workshop proceedings to
be made available for the benefit of our members and to participate in control
activity.
The Field and Game Cook Book have excellent recipes for ‘venison and red’.
NSW Game Council
There’s a lot of interest in the Game Council of NSW, which is now a statutory authority. It’s function and vision for the future is most interesting and Newsletters are readily available from registering at opsmgr@gamecouncil.nsw.gov.au or phoning 03 6360 5100.
There are now three government agencies are working together to identify
public land areas that will be part of a major effort to control growing
feral animal populations across the State where licensed and trained hunters
will play a greater role in feral animal management on more than 180 public
land areas. Their vision is to open up more NSW lands up for hunting and
vermin control.
Shortly there will be a release of a Report on the Economics and Conversational
Values of Recreational Hunting
BASC in the UK are in the final stages of completing an 18month study of
the economic value of shooting in the UK.
Avian flu sampling
The Game Council Newsletter summarizes how licensed duck hunters have an opportunity to participate in valuable research to assist in disease surveillance for Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) by collecting samples from wild ducks. Sampling kits are available with more info in next F&G newsletter.
Fish passages
There are welcome new directions for the basin’s freshwater fishery, with
the construction of fish passages at all major locks along the River Murray
is well underway. The $25 million 'Sea to the Hume Dam' project is expected
to increase fish numbers and
reduce the need for annual restocking programs. A number of fishways have
already been built, with reports of fish already swimming upstream. The
plan is that by 2013, fish will be able to make continuous passage from
the Murray River mouth to Albury some 2,225-river kilometres.
Fish tagging:
Fish tagging is another refined development, three varieties of tags now
in use, the PIT that operates by radio frequency, Dart & T-bar anchor
tag. Any fish caught by anglers with the Dart & T-bar tag can keep the
fish, tags can be returned to State Fisheries Research Depts to assist researchers
to calculate population sizes, fish movements based on release and re-capture
locations
PIT Tags (passive integrated transponder)
These unique PIT tags are small capsule – like radio frequency identification
tags used to positively identify fish. Each tag is programmed to transmit
a unique code when activated. Implanted tags are ‘integrated’ circuits with
an antenna that are encapsulated in glass. The term ‘Passive’ means there
is no battery on the tag.
The tag is powered through the activation of a hand held or stationary device
that generates an electronic signal used to momentarily activate the tag.
The tag then transmits a unique digital code back to the transceiver/reader
where the code is displayed and/or stored. The tag only transmits its unique
code when the tag is present in the transceivers electronic activation field.
With no battery to fail, PIT tags are expected to last 100 years or more.
The tag detect and display is almost instantaneous
PIT tags have been implanted in many fish in the Murray Darling Basin. Most
fishways on the locks/ weirs on the Murray darling have been installed with
PIT tag readers so fish moving through the fishways are detected and their
unique code recorded. (Courtesy Sardi)
Heartening to see that quality research in the Basin’s ecosystem is now full steam ahead and the catalyst to trigger this has, probably, been the extended Basin’s drought factors.
It’s that time of the year again, goodbye 2005 and welcome 2006; at least
the bottle of red (if I can find it) is one year older!
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.
STATE NEWS
QUEENSLAND
Well there goes 2005 boy it was quick and 2006 is just around the corner. The calendar for 2006 is now finalised and will sent out with your 2006 membership cards. Yes that means renewal time so all you members please don’t forget to renew you membership for 2006. Next year will be a busy year with a number of great shoots on the calendar so I may get to see you at one of these shoots.
Last month I attended the 30th Birthday shoot for Gympie Field and Game Assoc. Inc. What a achievement, well done Gympie. I must thank the club for a great day I enjoyed the company and shot like #^~t.
I know the club was very disappointed with the roll up but those who made the effect had a great time in a beautiful spot.
The state conference which was held in September in Cooroy was a great success thanks to the input from the clubs we have laid down some very achievable objectives for 2006. The 5 major shoots have been decided and are place in a advertisement in this newsletter. I would like to encourage clubs to use the newsletter as an advertising tools that way we may boost out attendance to shoots. Brisbane club will be once again staging the English Sporting and Compak State Titles so I hope the members will make themselves available for this shoot.
2006 will see the Junior Development Scholarship be made available to our junior members. Brodie Grant was the lucky junior this year and I’m sure the experience and pleasure he got to be part of competition at the Renmark Nationals would be unforgettable. I must thank Brodie for the way presented himself at the Nationals and wish him the best on the way to a top shot.
Apart from the scholarship the QSC will be still providing the Junior Cards and will be supplying 5000 rounds of ammo for junior coaching.
Mark Farrow
NEW SOUTH WALES
The 2005 season got of to a shaky start, due to some confusion over the
new handicap system. Things soon settled down after the correct interpretation
was explained.
Though some members still think hearing and eye protection is optional.
Once again for the deaf and blind hearing and eye protection is compulsory.
Membership was on the rise again this year due mainly to branches promoting
themselves. Well done, keep up the good work.
This years AGM was attended by almost every branch and those who couldn’t attend tabled reports. This means we are finally receiving input from all branches. Another good sign for NSWF&G. For a full copy of the minutes see your branch secretary.
Congratulations to all shooters who attended selection shoots this year, branches who held events, workers and the successful 2005 state team members. One shooter dominated this year and was awarded the title of NSWF&G state champion, congratulations to Steve Payne a Mudgee branch member.
With the Federation AGM over and the Nationals, our congratulations must
go to Victoria for their win in the National Team Titles and to John Younger
for the High Gun.
Congratulations also to our State President, Matt Leighton on the position
of Federation President.
Some NSW members are looking forward to the awards night that will be held on the 2nd December in Sydney and this will almost be the wind up for State except for one teleconference.
The branches are in or getting ready for their Christmas period, with lots of fun shoots and Christmas dinners not to mention the seafood, hams, turkeys or chickens that may be won and taken home.
On this note, we will close and wish all NSW members, Federation executive
and Federation members a very merry Christmas and for those who are travelling
please take care and have a safe, happy and healthy New Year.
Paul Smidt and Deb Hotchin
VICTORIA
Two major competitions are to be held in January 2006
1 Daylesford will conduct the Victorian Old Style FITASC Championships on
8th January.
The event is 100 targets over four old Style FITASC Parcours.
Number of entrants is restricted to 64, entries are by post. Entry fee is
$75
2 Stawell Gun Club will be conducting a 200 Target FITASC Compak Commonwealth
Championship on 14th and 15th January.
The event will be conducted over four FITASC Compak Layouts.
Stawell Gun Club is one of the best kept secrets in Australia. They are
situated within walking distance of the township of Stawell.
They have an enormous clubhouse, 10 DTL layouts, Pistol Club, 1200 metre
Big Bore Range, Paint Ball etc.
Stawell is known for the famous Stawell Gift and is also very close to Halls
Gap and the Grampians.
Entry fees are Open and Veterans $100, Ladies, Juniors and Pensioners $80
Event is open to members of Federation, SSAA, ACTA and FGA
Entry Forms for both events can be obtained by contacting me on Ph. 03-52502327,
Fax 03-52502173 or Email:- raymcf@pipeline.com.au
FITASC Grand Prix will be held at the Geelong Sporting Clays Range on 29th
and 30th April.
This will be a 200 target event shot over 8 FITASC parcours.
It is a leg of the FITASC World Cup in Sporting.
Entry Form and details this issue
Federation are applying to
FITASC for Australia to host the 2009 FITASC World Sporting Championships.
Submissions were received from both Victoria and Tasmania The Federation
chose the Victorian submission mainly because of the terrain that is offered
at the SSAA(Vic) Eagle Park Range near Little River.
Those who attended the 2003 FITASC Oceania Championships will remember what
a successful event was hosted at the Little River Sporting Clays Range and
the variety of terrain was on offer.
SSAA(Vic) will suspend all shooting disciplines at Eagle park for a two
week period during the World Championships.
This will allow us to provide a World Championship where 75% of the layouts
will be on virgin ground that has never been used for Sporting Clays.
Congratulations to Little River Sporting Clays on their successful submission.
The SSAA(Vic) Warrnambool Branch has been allocated the hosting of the
2006 3 Day National Carnival.
The Range is located at Laang which is 15 minutes East of Warrnambool.
Plentiful accommodation is available in Warrnambool and details will be
provided in next newsletter
Laang have conducted two successful VSCA State Championships and with the
generous assistance of a adjoining farmer have access to additional areas
that will provide great terrain for the event.
Congratulations to the VSCA members who were successful at the recent Nationals
in Renmark Berri.
Especially John Younger who won his 8th Nationals and also to Chris Brown
who run him so close.
It was pleasing to see aprox. 110 Victorians attending the Nationals
I wish all a Happy Christmas and a Merry New Year, I hope that 2006 will
see our sport progress to new heights
Ray McFarlane
President VSCA
TASMANIA
Hunting and Fishing Interstate and then returning to Tasmania.
Just a few things to be aware of when traveling back to Tasmania after Hunting and Fishing interstate. As circumstances can change after this article is submitted for publication, it is best to check with the relevant authorities before leaving Tasmania.
All fresh fruit/vegetables, cut flowers, potted plants and plant cuttings are not allowed entry into Tasmania unless accompanied by a Plant Health Certificate issued by the Department of Primary Industry (Agriculture) in the State of origin. To prevent the spread of unwanted weeds, pest and animal/plant disease please ensure that all soil is removed from boots, weeds from your camping equipment and that you cleanse your fishing waders and fishing gear prior to your return.
Dogs to Tasmania including hunting dogs will need to be certified free
of the Hydatids Tape Worm. Please phone the ‘Dogs to Tasmania hotline’ 1800
684 215 to find out more. Contact the Animal Health Officer for additional
details on (03) 6233 6875.
Quarantine Tasmania conducts inspections at all points of entry into Tasmania
on behalf of Animal Health, Inland Fisheries and the Wildlife Management
Branch of Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (DPIWE).
Inspections are undertaken to verify that:
When importing Deer skins/hides (trophies) from Victoria, the hunter is
covered by their Shooters License and Authority to Hunt (VIC).
For all other States, and for all other game animals from including pest species such as Foxes, a “Special Authority” will need to be issued by the Chief Veterinarian Officer in Tasmania prior to importing the carcasses or skins. Contact (03) 6233 6875.
The deer meat imported is “fit for human consumption” and is for personal consumption only and not for resale. If further information is required re this matter please contact the Senior Meat Hygiene Officer on (03) 6336 5296.
While Foot and Mouth disease doesn’t exist in Australia, Quarantine Officers conduct random checks on skins and hides looking for unwanted weed seeds, soil and other contaminants. Please declare (show) these items to Quarantine upon arrival in Tasmania.
If you are hunting Fallow Deer in other parts of Australia, then be mindful that as this species of Deer is Partially Protected in Tasmania, documentary proof (evidence of proof) will be needed stating that the deer was taken interstate. As no ‘game tag’ is issued please keep invoices or proof of travel to assist with this transfer.
Salmon and Trout are not allowed entry to Tasmania. The Chief Veterinary Officer has included many more species to this restricted list that include; Flathead, Flounder, Eels, Hake, Herring, Sardines to name a few. Please check the new fish and fish products requirements on our website or call into our Office for a copy of the listing. www.dpiwe.tas.gov.au/quarantine (new fin-fish requirements). Phone Quarantine TAS (03) 6233 3352 or the Quarantine Vet. (03) 6233 6875 for further details.
The Inland Fisheries Service also restricts the entry of Pest Fish Species into Tasmania in particular Fish Bait that includes yabby meat. Yabbies dead or alive will need a special “import permit” from Inland Fisheries Service. Ring (03) 6233 8530 to find out more.
Airlines
As advised by the airlines: When booking tickets please comply with airline
requirements. For example when travelling with Qantas/Jetstar/Qantas-link
please contact the Security Officer to obtain an approval number for any
ammunition travelling with you as “Checked in Luggage.” This approval document
will need to be arranged two weeks prior to travel by e-mailing mmontuori@qantas.com.au
To find out more, visit the Qantas website www.qantas.com.au (dangerous
goods.) Inspections are undertaken by airline staff to ensure ammunition
is new and in the manufacturer’s container.
TT-Line
As advised by TT-Line: When traveling on the Spirit of Tasmania please contact
the Call Centre staff to discuss current security arrangements. Phone 1800
634 906, as your firearm and ammunition will need to be handed over to security
staff for safe keeping and a declaration issued.
Quarantine has created a new brochure called “Tasmanian Quarantine a Traveller’s Guide” This lists items that you can and cannot bring to Tasmania. It also lists some restrictions when travelling to other mainland States and Territories.
If you require copies of these brochures or have any queries relating to this article please don’t hesitate to call me. The next issue will contain useful information when hunting in New Zealand and other like countries.
Sabatino Cesile
Senior Quarantine Officer
Quarantine Tasmania
DPIWE Biosecurity and Product Integrity
Quarantine Centre
Macquarie Wharf No. 1
Hunter Street Hobart 7000
03 62333 205
BRANCH NEWS
Bagdad field & Game
Work has been progressing steadily on “Shene”. Soon we will be able to throw up a few targets. At the time of reading this, the annual Cray fishing trip to Fortescue Bay would have been and gone. I’m sure they had a good time and hopefully caught some good Crays.
Results from the recent Arthur Adams Memorial Shoot are:
1. M. Crowe 40/41
2. C. Thomas 39/41
3. S. Browning 38/40
4. P. Page 37/40
5. Dave Williams 48/52
6. Dennis Williams 47/52
Northern Midlands
Where has the year gone, Christmas is just around the corner, so if we don’t see you before have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Ho Ho Ho. Then it will be back into trying to break some more targets hopefully, getting sick of giving clubs all them pickups.
The Nationals have been run and won, the targets were possibly a bit stiff on the Sunday but overall it was a good weekend. Well done Renmark. Caught up with old mates I haven’t seen for a while and, like every year, told lies about shooting.
This year’s Nationals was a very successful one for us here at NMSC, the results from the Nationals justifies the quality of the targets we present to our shooters. We had 3 National Championships come home with us (not bad for a club that has only been going 4 years, we can only go forward from here), they were Julian Wolfhagen - C grade National Champion, Richard Triffitt - A grade National Champion and Ken Triffitt Veteran National Champion, Alex Grodski was placed 3rd in B grade. Julian was 2nd in C grade in the English Sporting on the Friday. Richard was also 6th overall and also managed an awesome 25 on that dastardly Beretta course. Both he and Ken are off to Geelong to try out for the Australian team in April.
We are getting a few members who want to do a bit of travelling, we had a little group of 6 who attended Oceania in New Caledonia at Easter. At the Nationals, apart from Dwayne Evans, all the team members were from NMSC. The Grand Prix next year is courting some interest already with about ten expressing their wish to head off to Geelong.
We are continuing our practice days next year as they are as popular as the monthly competition.
One of our junior members has done us proud recently, not only is sporting clays her chosen sport but she also does karate and apparently is very good at it, for her age group she holds an Australian championship, a Tasmanian championship and was placed 4th at the World championships in Sydney recently, well done Amelia.
We were unsuccessful in our bid to host the 2009 FITASC World Sporting Clay Championships, congratulations to Little River on being chosen and we hope everyone gets behind them to make it a great Worlds.
Well that is about all for now, see ya at a shoot somewhere.
“Stumpy”
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
State and Branch News.
Steve Ragless
SOME THINGS DON’T CHANGE
The following poem was found in David Hender’s ( a Southern member) fathers
shooting bag and was written by his shooting mate W.L.Harvey who lived somewhere
between Stathalbyn and Langhorne Creek and shot the lakes through the first
part of the last century.
The author died in 1954 which indicates opening day has not changed all
that much in over 50 years.
I consider myself a bit of a poet and will do a modern version featuring a few of our local identities and embarrassing incidents for the next newsletter unless I am voted out at the next A.G.M. (Who mentioned Blackmail?)
Twa’s the evening of the opening
And I thought a trip I’d take,
Along with the great procession
That was heading for the lake
The night was rather boisterous
But no one seemed to care’
For everyone seemed happy
And anxious to get there
Some travelled down in buckboards
And some in open vans
On motor bikes and cycles
And some in big sedans
Their guns were miscellaneous
Some costly new and neat,
Whilst others looked quite shoddy
And a trifle obsolete.
There were automatics and the Hollis,
Belgian makes from Ostend
Some of which, looked quite capable
Of killing at both ends.
Their cartridges were powerful
Some swore by superfines
Whilst crack shots like Fiddle Potts and Natt,
Said ,”Give us the good Sraightline”.
And everyone took a hamper
For refreshments there to take,
And be ready for the shooting
At early morning’s break.
Some dined very sumptuously,
On roast beef, pork, and ham.
Whilst others munched contentedly
At biscuits, bread and jam.
Some camped upon their buckboards
Others in samphire did roll,
Whilst the irritating “skeeters”
Buzzed round and took their toll.
Some told tales around the camp-fire,
Whilst wood ducks gave a “honk”.
Others walked round impatiently
And consoled themselves with “plonk”.
In the early hours of morning
They rose up for a bang
From Mosquito Point and Tolderol,
From Pt Sturt to Milang.
Then they went into their posies
And silence reigned supreme,
Whilst guns were cocked and ready
Awaiting daylight’s gleam.
“Sit down you fools they’re coming”
Then out this good news rang
Then a whirr of whistling feathers,
And bang, bang, bang, bang.
Oh! Look I’ve got a beauty”,
Exclaimed an excited City youth,
Said his mate of more experience
“You damned fool you’ve shot a goose”.
Grab your bird very quickly
Dump it in that lignum Don,
Be slick or your a “goner”
Here comes the local John”.
Though that youth was shaking badly
His worry was soon gone,
When that cop said “show your licence”,
And went walking quickly on.
As the sun rose slowly higher
And the sport began to flag,
They all came out their “posies”
Just to compare their bag.
Some had shot a nice lot
Others hadn’t got a feather
For which they blamed their bad luck,
The next man and the weather.
Still no one seemed unhappy
Although some did complain,
They just tossed off a pint or two,
Then settled down again.
W.L.Harvey
12-8-1879 to 21-6-1954
News from Lake Bonney
Hello again from Lake Bonney Sporting Clays. The 8 months since I last wrote
have been fairly busy with an average of 95 shooters per shoot day, a little
down on last years average but with our club Championship still to go and
our Xmas shoot it should see us over the 100 mark again. Our clubs founding
President Colin Whitehead became our inaugural life member this April and
even in his med seventies remains active shooting around the Sth. East SA
and West Vic. Garry Schoning for the second year in a row took
out our 150 Classic with a score of 129/150 for the two days, this event
also saw shooters from Adelaide, Victoria and even Queensland compete, all
competitors who shot both days had the chance to win a gun safe as the door
prize (won by Tony Sellers). Most shooters enjoyed the abundance of ducks
for our season but were a little disappointed with the Freckle ducks not
playing the game and staying at Bool Lagoon instead of flying north and
ruining our best chance so far this century to shoot this magnificent GAME
RESERVE. On behalf of everyone at Lake Bonney Sporting Clays I would like
to wish all S.A. shooters a fantastic end to 2005, a Merry Xmas and a safe
New Year and don’t forget to swing!
Toddy
Southern Branch News.
Steve Ragless
The shooting at Southern will be over for another year by the time you get this news and we will be looking forward to 2006.
We are still waiting for settlement on the land sale and have been told we will have it by the end of the year.
Shoot numbers have stabilised at about 50 shooters and our financial position is improving partially due to proceeds from this years raffle
The Engel Fridge was won by Colin Nunn at Renmark and Jason Bridgart from Bowhill took out the Colman barbecue
To the disgust of hardened drinkers I won all the beer and you probably got one if you turned up for the November shoot.
Thanks to all that bought tickets to support the club.
A very special thanks to Wally Forbes who negotiated donations from the suppliers of the two major prizes, Engel Distribution and Colman Barbeques.
The Southern Branch A.G.M.. will be held at 39 Compass Drive Seaford on
Friday the 20th of January 2006 and as major projects funded by the land
sale will be on the agenda we would
like all members to make a special effort to attend.
PS:
By the time this newsletter is out I expect the State Titles , Masters Games
and the Nationals will be over for another year.
We have had a busy year at Southern and with the proceeds from the land sale coming available early next year we expect to be able to start on the long overdue facilities upgrade.
If you have been around the traps you would have heard rumours of some unrest in the Southern camp.
There has been some difference of opinion on important issues concerning the running of the club and the quality of targets presented.
This has resulted in the resignation of Steve Kelly as President and put the committee in damage control.
I take this opportunity to thank Steve for his service as President over the last couple of years and hope the new year will bring new committee members with fresh ideas and the energy to follow them through.
At Monarto we have the property and resources to provide a first class sporting clay facility.
What we need is individuals prepared to stand up and help steer Southern into the future.
The A.G.M. will be held late in January next year. Your attendance and willingness to serve as a committee member is an important factor in this clubs stability direction, and future, if not its survival.
Central Branch
This time of year all the various hunting groups get together and take part in the in the annual Wildfowl Survey, Centrals put in a good show, with counts being carried out around the Adelaide area and surrounding Game Reserves. Thanks to all those members who took part, it was good to see everyone out there putting an effort in. Personally I found it great to get the duck boat out and cruise around the familiar haunts, some of the backwaters are higher than they have been in previous years provided added interest. I didn’t see a lot of birds but that was to be expected this time of year with a majority of birds in the reeds and rushes hiding with their young, or taking advantage of the wide spread spring rains we have been getting - all off feeding on greener pastures. Given our good rains and breeding conditions for our wildfowl and quail populations I would like to think things are looking good for our up and coming season.
The Combined Hunters and Shooters Association of South Australia (CHASSA)_ran a very successful dinner at Fontana Di Trevi Restaurant with guests from the Department for Environment and Heritage, Dr Glenn Shimmin and Paul Wainwright. Former Field and Game conservation officer, Tony Sharley from Banrock Station gave an interesting talk on cycles and seasons in relation to wetlands explaining how as hunters we are more attuned to these things; an ability that fast moving modern society is losing the ability to recognise. This was well attended and supported by our branch, with members organising the sale of many of the tickets. Again this was another great effort by the hunting community putting a broader public face forward to the Department, combined with an entertaining evening amongst friends.
Things to do before the next duck hunting season (just over 3 months to go);
Think about getting the youngsters tuned up for their Waterfowl Identification
Test. So all you old hands out there see if you can’t get at least one youngster
through this year.
Get up to the gun club and keep your eye in.
Get your outboard serviced.
The club is looking terrific this spring, and the stalwarts at the club have been ensuring everything has been picture perfect for our shoots, a special mention needs to be made this quarter to our honorary lumberjack, Chris Ball, who took care of an enormous gum tree which came down prior to our last shoot.
Sponsorship has been terrific for our shoots this year and 2006 is looking even better, with up to two sponsors per shoot. Craig White has been working very hard to expand on our sponsorship as ours is not a cheap sport to run, our current sponsors are invaluable but new ones are essential to keep things going – so guys when you’re up there don’t forget to show your appreciation, a simple thank you goes along way. While on the subject of thanks, Toll Logistics deserve a big one as they managed to get our supply of clays up to the club in the nick of time for our August shoot. The club is also organising some corporate days, and is hoping to arrange more in the future if enough interest is generated.
Two new automatic traps are due to arrive next year; a battue and a normal (also capable of throwing an almost vertical teal), continuing with the clubs aim to develop a fully automatic course – so all you budding course setters don’t hold back, come up and help set up.
Central’s AGM is on Friday 20th January 2006 at the Institute of Engineers, Bagot Street, Adelaide. All are welcome so you can show your support for the club and those who put in the hard work for the year, then enjoy a beer and a chat afterwards. PT
Its hard to believe that most of the shooting year is over. Duck season is gone as is the quail season. Reports here varied, some thought it was a good year, for others it was pretty average. Still I got a feed or two. Funny how things go though; on one duck shoot I was scratching to find a bird, then on a Hannafords Reef shoot on station one a mob of woodies came over, well in range. Rules are however rules and they were left to go on their way!
Shoots have generally been well attended and the weather has been kind to us. Even on a day of horror weather predictions we had a decent Sunday with only a shower or two. I can recall a day many years ago when we were shooting in rain so heavy that the shot path could be seen.
The August two day shoot went well. Saturday about 30 showed up and had a good day. The targets were interesting and not on the other side of the paddock! I think things are definately getting better in the target difficulty end. We seem getting this right more often! Don't forget that you too can offer to set the course and we do need to skill up more people to do this task.
The committee has been working well but I think a few extra helpers at the working bees would be great. The same bodies do the same jobs month after month. A bit more help for cleaning up after the shoot would also be welcome. It is a long day if only 2 or 3 do this task!
The office staff is getting more experienced in their work but we do need
a computer literate person to be available if things go a bit crooked. Knowledge
of Excel is what is required. Graeme Goldsmith has been the designer and
we are most grateful for his expertise and the hours he spends getting the
scoresheet and high gun software to work well. Work like that is not all
that obvious and is often not publicly acknowledged.
Thank you Graeme!
If you have computer skills and are willing to help out then please approach
me and offer your help. There will be times when Graeme or I may not be
there and your assistance would be very welcome.
The grounds are looking real good. The trees continue to grow at an amazing rate and are starting to reduce the grass cover. The fully automatic grass cutters and fertiliser spreaders may well be in action soon.
Well that's all for now. Support the clubs, practise your shooting and above all, be ethical in your hunting. We do not want to follow Queenslands duck season experience here. Licensed hunters need to be on the books so do not neglect to renew your licence to hunt and encourage others to do the same! KG .
STATE TITLES
SOUTH EAST BRANCH FIELD AND GAME
1st Oct & 2nd Oct
The weather was perfect for the 100 competitors who nominated in the 2 day
State Title event, to determine the four shooters who would represent the
State at the National Titles, to be held in Renmark, in a fortnight.
The best four man National team will then represent Australia at the World
titles.
The Overall winner was Colin McPherson from Geelong and local shooter Terry
Scicluna, won Top State shooter, and will represent the South East Club
as a Team shooter at the Nationals.
Tania Scicluna is the State’s lady shooter. Terry and Tania have travelled
to many shoots throughout SA, to achieve this honour.
Competitors came from the Riverland, Adelaide, and Victoria as well as locally.
High scores were not shot by everyone, but they still had smiles when they
returned from finishing their rounds.
This is a very social sport, where all ages sit around at the end of the
day and talk about the ones that didn’t make into the shot pattern.
Rory McEwen, our local member, presented the winners with their trophies,
which had been sponsored by many local businesses and some from away. Without
their sponsorship this event would not be possible.
Thank you to our Sponsors
One Steel,Whitehead Timber Sales,Coates Hire
South West Freight,
Unimin,
Bucik Tyre Power,
City of Mt. Gambier,
Elders-Gambier Farm Supplies,
Wurth Industries,
District Council of Grant,
Robert Simson ,
Garry Clifford,
Banner Hardware,
Coopers Brewery,
Rio Oceanic,
Whiteheads CRT,
WESTERN AUSTRLIA
2006 SHOOT CALENDAR
January
29, Perth WP, Compak, 9am
February
4, Wanneroo, Practice, 4-7pm
19, Wanneroo, Club Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
26, Perth WP, Compak, Practice, 9am
March
5, Wanneroo, 75 Aust Sporting, 2nd State Qualifier
19, Harvey, Club Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
26, Perth WP, Compak, Practice, 9am
April
1, Wanneroo, Practice, 1-4PM,
9, Miling, 75 Aust Sporting, 3rd State Qualifier, 9am, $40
16, EASTER
23, Wanneroo , Club Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
30, Perth WP, Compak, Practice, 9am
May
6, Wanneroo, Practice, , 1-4pm,
7, Harvey, 75T Aust Sporting, 4th State Qualifier, 9am, $40.00
21, Wannamal, 75T Aust Sporting, 5th State Qualifier, 9am, $40.00
28, Perth WP, Compak, Practice, 9am
June
3,4,5, Wannamal, Scouts
5, TRAINING, Club Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
18, Wanneroo , Club Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
25, Perth WP, Compak, Practice, 9.00am,
July
1, Wanneroo, Practice,1-4pm,
9, Harvey, Club Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
23, Wanneroo , Wanneroo 100, 100T, 9am, $40.00
30, Perth WP, Compak 100, State Championships, 9am, $45.00
August
5, Wanneroo, Practice, 1-4 pm,
6, Wannamal, Budget Forklift, 100T, 9am, $40.00
13, Wanneroo, 100T Aust Sporting, State Championships, 9am, $45.00
20, Perth WP, Compak, Practice, 9am
27, Harvey, Westpark 100, 100T, 9am, $40.00
September
2, Wanneroo, Practice, 1-4pm,
10, Wannamal, Hotmelt 100, 100T 9am, $40.00
17, Wanneroo, Anniversary, 75T, 9am, $30.00
24, Perth WP, Compak, Practice, 9.00am,
October
1, Three Springs, 75T Aust Sporting, 1st State Qualifier 2007, 9am, $40.00
15, Harvey, Club Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
22, Wannamal, Wannamal 100, 100T, 9.00am, $40.00
27, Laang,
English Sporting, NATIONALS,
28, Laang,
Aust Sporting, NATIONALS,
29, Laang,
Aust Sporting, NATIONALS,
29, Perth W.P, Compac, Practice, 9am,
November
5, Wanneroo, Xmas Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
12, Harvey, Turkey Shoot, 75T 9am, $30.00
26, Perth WP, Practice, 9am,
26, Wannamal, Xmas CBU Games, 48T, 9am, ??
December
2, Wanneroo, Practice, 1-4pm
MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL
Last word from
Renmark /Berri Field & Game.
Well! What can I say?
Thank you to all who participated over the three days, which were “The Nationals”
To the winners, applause and backslaps. To all who competed, you prove that
our sport is still growing, making up the largest field in years (260plus
shooters), and including a lot of junior shooters.
Over the past year or so, there were those dedicated folk who put in much
time and effort in preparation of facilities. We also acknowledge volunteers
from Ren/Berri and Loxton clubs who worked their butts off during the shoot.
A “Bloody Well Done!” to you all.
It was good to hear good comments made after the event.
Comments like “One of the best, if not THE best ever” were like gold!
They made the whole effort of two small clubs totalling barely 50 members,
very worthwhile
To those who made the journey and attended, we hope you enjoyed the Riverland,
and all it had to offer.
For those who DIDN’T make the trip, you missed the Food & Wine Festival,
The Renmark Rose Festival, some of the best wines in the country, even the
National Sheepdog Trials!
It seemed there was something on in every town that week.
Perhaps you could venture over next Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend in June
and compete at three clubs over three days to experience some of the best
shooting around (more in the next magazine).
I am winding up now. Congratulations again to all.
On behalf of the clubs involved, and the Riverland Region, thank you for your support.
Paul Hansen.
Renmark / Berri Field & Game