FIELD and GAME FEDERATION of AUSTRALIA Inc.

Volume 4

Issue 2

June 2004

FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Well, how has your hunting season progressed? I hope that you were successful but most of all enjoyed the companionship of friends and family.

Speaking of companionship, what better companion does a hunter have than their retriever? They really do become part of the family and it is so hard when one loses a faithful old friend.

The week after duck opening here in Tasmania our old hunting dog, Mac, was killed in an accident. It is one of the most devastating things that can happen to a family when the dog has grown up with the kids and been such good company. Mac was a labrador/cocker spaniel cross who became part of our family about 12 years ago and long before the Spanador breed became popular.

Because of Mac’s manner and retrieving ability, we wanted another lab/cocker cross and set about the task of finding a new pup. The news was not good ‘could be six months or more’ was one answer.

To the rescue came NSW State Secretary Deb Hotchin. “Ring this number”, she said. “I think they have one golden male left”. We did, and yes, they did have one left. If we wanted him we had to pay a deposit as he was in Victoria.

We were headed to the DTL Nationals in Wagga at about the time he would be available for collection so to cut a long story short, we detoured and picked him up on the way back home to Tasmania.

We got him by chance (thanks Deb!), took a chance (because we had not seen him) so his name is Chance. He will be three months old on the 6th May and he is showing all the signs of being a good retriever when he stops being a full-on puppy. I have decided that it is worse than having a toddler in the house!

Planning is well under-way for this year’s Nationals in Queensland. If you have not thought about going yet can I encourage you to do so. With reasonably priced air fares available all year round there really is no excuse not to go and take the family for a well-earned break. I know the Queensland crew will make you welcome.

In the meantime the Australian team will be going to the Worlds. We have a wonderful record of success at World Titles and Oceania events. Regardless of whether medals are won, we are extremely proud of our Australian shooters and the high esteem with which they are held amongst the major sporting clay nations. Good luck to the team and individual shooters attending major events over the coming months.

Till next time……

Cheryl Arnol

16TH FITASC CHAMPIONSHIPS of OCEANIA 2004
Little River - Victoria

Easter as usual is the time for the Oceania Championships. Some have raised the issue in holding the Championships over this long weekend with the expense of travel & accommodation over the holiday period, but with the extra National holidays built into the long weekend this allows participation without effecting the holidays available to the average worker. The extra expense over this period seems to be negated against the holiday period.

To anyone who has not been to the Little River, you cannot miss the area land mark "You-Yang" hill range. This being the largest bump seen from the Highway leading from Melbourne to Geelong. As expected from a hilly area the ground offers a varied backdrop to show excellent FITASC targets, One which would not escape the ground setters, Peter Hall & Ray McFarlane when organising the layouts.

The First day of competition on good Friday went without a hitch. No trap faliures & very few broken targets. The competition was also graded for classes. The Jury discussed the percentages for this competition & it was decided to run with the Australian percentages for the event in 2004, with the other countries being graded on the percentages shot over the first two days of competition. This will lead to further discussions with the Oceania nations to discuss & set up an International Class structure that will be recognised prior to next years event. The class averages is not a recognised system within the FITASC competition framework but is not to be ignored with the majority of competitors unlikely to be high gun's. The percentage system is not a perfect system in selecting place winners, but it is far better than the "Lewis" grade system which is in reality a "lucky door prize" option not recognising an ability, but rather a lucky position if your name falls on the square selected. This should lead to an Oceania system that will be formulated with the input from all countries & have the Grade percentage recognised before we attend next years event.

The leaders in the classes after the first day:

Open
John Younger 71/75
Colin Johns 70/75
Damien Birgan 67/75
Sox Pilipasidis 66/75
Peter Hall 66/75
Jeremy Kent 64/75
Ross Clancy 64/75
Bart Brighenti 63/75
Matthew Spencer 63/75
Peter Tobin 63/75
Daniel Johnson 63/75

Ladies
Renae Birgan 62/75
Maree Birgan 60/75
Cherie Neilsen 57/75

Junior
Chris Brown 66/75
Daniel Baskerville 63/75
Brenton Irons 61/75

Veterans
John Torresan 59/75
Max Kavanagh 57/75
Barry Jane 57/75

Super Vets
Stan Archard 50/75
Ray McFarlane 49/75
Frank Schultz 48/75

The weather remained perfect for the whole weekend & without the promised rain for Sunday. Wind instead, which made the targets lively when released from the traps causing a few to groan when the wind zigged when they zagged. Them's the breaks (or not), but it was the same for everyone no one gaining an advantage.

The leaders in the classes after the second day - Second days score in brackets

Open
John Younger 137(66)
Sox Pilipasidis 136(70)
Colin Johns 135(65)
Damien Birgan 135(68)
Peter Hall 131(65)
Colin MacPherson 125(63)
Daniel Johnson 123(60)
Peter Tobin 122(59)
Ross Clancy 121(57)
Bart Brighenti 120(57)

Ladies
Cherie Neilsen 114(57)
Renae Birgan 109(47)
Maree Birgan 108(48)
Natasha Lonsdale 108(60)
Junior
Chris Brown 137(71)
Brenton Irons 123(62)
Daniel Baskerville 118(55)

Veterans
John Torresan 124(65)
Barry Jane 117(60)
Max Kavanagh 114(57)

Super Vets
Stan Archard 101(51)
Gerard Berger 97(51)
Frank Schultz 92(41)

The last day of competition proceeded in good time with no delays & perfect weather. The final scores are as follows.

Open
John Younger 184(47)
Sox Pilipasidis 183(47)
Damien Birgan 183(48)
Colin Johns 181(46)
Colin MacPherson 173(48)
Peter Hall 169(38)
Peter Tobin 162(40)
Daniel Johnson 161(38)
Mike Birgan 160(43)
Terry Scicluna 160(44)

Ladies
Cherie Neilsen 154(40)
Maree Birgan 149(41)
Natasha Lonsdale 149(41)

Junior
Chris Brown 180(43)
Brenton Irons 163(40)
Rohan Lay 154(40)

Veterans
Barry Jane 160(43)
Max Kavanagh 159(45)
John Torresan 157(33)

Super Vets
Gerard Berger 134(37)
Stan Archard 130(34)
Frank Schultz 126(34)

The shoot off results:
Sox (21) & Damien (17)
Sox the winner.
Maree(15) & Natasha (14) Maree the winner.
Oceania Champion 2004
John Younger

In the grades the following competitors made a showing

A Grade:
1st Barry Jane
2nd Max Kavagnah
3rd Anthony Post

B Grade:
1st Rooma Bambridge
2nd Gerard Berger
3rd Gino Mourin

C Grade:
1st Mario Cugola
2nd Emeric Cugola
3rd Francois Pham

Sub Juniors:
1st Blake Nankervis
2nd Robert Hall
3rd James McKenzie

Thanks must go to all of the sponsors who donated a wide array of products. Without their support the presentations would be extremely sparse with this years table one of the best I have seen in Australia.

Well that is about it for another year. Next years event I’m led to believe will be in Noumea. This will be the first Oceania to be shot with 28grm cartridges !!!!!!

11TH FITASC COMPAK NATIONALS 2004

Great success with 95 shooters competing in the 200 target event held at Geelong Sporting Clays range.

Open
Chris Brown 173+21
Peter Tobin 168+19
John younger 166+17
Terry Scicluna 162+18

Ladies
Cherie Neilson 133/200

Juniors
Chris Brown 173/200

Veterans
Rod Brain 139/200

A Grade
Brett Kelynack 149/200
Andrew Bortham 147/200
Ross Matthews 146/200

B Grade
Michael Afendoulis 129/200
Brad Haugh 129/200
Warwick Cumberland 124/200

C Grade
Bob Snowdon 114/200
Dieter Neimann 99/200
Ron Lay 85/200

 

PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE

As form 15th January 2004 every member 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.
Benefit scale to be released in up and coming newsletters.
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.

Authorised visitors are not covered whilst hunting.

For more information on this cover or if you wish to lodge a claim please contact
Glen Rider
Federation Secretary

HUNTING and HABITAT

(Incorporating Hunting, Fishing, Conservation & Research)
Good to see plenty of states info into the last Newsletter; have had some downtime due to a computer upgrade, also delays in securing promised departmental info glossaries – they are still coming!
The present inland dry autumn is concerning for the 2005 SA duck season and a wet winter throughout the basin is needed. Duck numbers have held up well in most areas.

New Inquiry:
The Impact of Pest Animals on Agriculture
The House of Representatives Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Committee are to conduct an inquiry into the impact of pest animals on agriculture. The Federal Minister has requested the inquiry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon Warren Truss MP. Pest animals cause approximately $420 million worth of agricultural damage, lower future productive capacity and are a potential reservoir of human and livestock disease. The inquiry will examine: The adequacy of State Government expenditure on pest animal control in the context of other conservation and natural resource management priorities with particular reference to National Parks.

Committee Chair, Mrs Kay Elson MP, said: “Pest animals are a major threat to the prosperity of rural and regional Australia. Governments must come up with more effective and better-coordinated responses to this issue.” Graham Hall from Tassie has kindly put his hand up to write a submission.

SA River Fishery Restructure issues:
Since the banning of commercial net fishing in the River Murray, reports from recreational anglers indicate a dramatic improvement in the size of fish caught. Reports of juvenile cod & callop in some areas are creating a major departmental re-think of whether native fish always require high water to breed.

Most Commercial River Fishers have now accepted the government buy out yet within the terms of the buyout and restructure, it’s astounding that commercial fishers were not duly compensated for their nets, ie: a net buyback. Drum and gillnets are still their personal property and can be legally sold to the public. No doubt there are undesirable elements that will run the gauntlet to develop their own underhand captive market with these freely available nets.
Why not a net buyback?

Southeast Regional Marine Plan
The Chair of the National Oceans Ministerial Board and the Minister released the first regional marine plan developed under Australia’s Oceans Policy during May. The South-east Regional Marine Plan is the first of a series of plans that will ensure the protection and sustainable development of Australia's vast and rich ocean territory. The South-east Marine Region takes in more than two million square kilometres of Australia's ocean territory around Victoria, Tasmania, eastern South Australia and southern New South Wales, as well as the sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island. The Region contains rich biodiversity and unique natural habitats, which are highly valued by the Region's communities. This natural wealth forms the basis for a broad range of economic, social and cultural values and activities. The South-east Marine Region makes a vital contribution to Australia's economic and social fabric. More than 270,000 people work in marine-related industries in the Region, valued at $19 billion annually.
This plan will surely be a platform of great debate!

IWMC World Conservation Trust Snippets:
The IWMC is closely watching the behaviour of American Federal Courts as matters of wildlife conservation are brought before them. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed that seven additional National Wildlife Refuges shall be opened to hunting and fishing opportunities, and that these activities shall be allowed to be increased at three other such national properties.
This proposal is intended to accomplish more than additional recreational opportunities on national wildlife refuges. The original concept of creating wildlife refuges so that their ecosystems should be continued in a healthy manner without encroaching construction development, was also thought to be enhanced by bans on hunting and fishing.

The latter idea has been revised since those days, and it is now recognized that multiple hunting and fishing use of these lands and waters is compatible with increased conservation benefit. Ecosystems left alone without sustainable harvest of their surpluses, often decline in diversity and in overall environmental vigour. Hunting and fishing access are good ways to keep America’s wildlife refuges in an on-going healthy condition and will help ensure their continued welfare for future generations.

The Human Impacts of misguided Environmentalism.
(Courtesy Eugene Lapointe)

Some of us have made the mistake of thinking that mainly private citizens, whose good intentions are fueled by the marketing campaigns that have touched their hearts, support radical environmental organizations.

While millions of good people have supported campaigns to “save the earth” and to “save” various charismatic species such as elephants, whales, koalas, primates, seals, even sharks, large corporations, and endowments of the very wealthy have actually donated much of the support for these professional fund raising organizations. Sometimes, this has perhaps been done for the dual purposes of tax deductions and attractive public relations. The unpleasant truth is that very often, “earth friendly” campaigns that have been organized to “save” environments in Africa and India have been responsible for vast human misery, sickness, and death.

IWMC recommends that everyone read a new book by Paul Driessen, who has analysed this problem in ‘Eco Imperialism – Green Power – Black Death’. His message is that anti-use and protectionist campaigns of organizations such as Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, The Pesticide Action Network, Sierra Club, WHO, the US Agency for International Development, and large foundations such as Ford, Pew, MacArthur and Schumann, all regularly contribute to policies and projects that deny indigenous people electricity networks, power plants, genetically engineered crops that would resist insect and fungal pests, water treatment and distribution projects, and sewage treatment. Millions of people, according to Driessen, die needlessly every year because they suffer from the lack of modern power and communication infrastructure that we in the developed nations now take for granted. Millions suffer from malaria because they are denied insecticides, even to spray inside their homes.

The radical left promotes an elitist philosophy that there are too many people on this earth, and that modern infrastructure and health care development would help more of them live longer, to mature and to breed. Therefore, such “environmentalists” do all they can to keep global powers from the humanitarian tasks of ensuring decent living conditions for millions.

Dr. Patrick Moore, a founder of Greenpeace, left that organization because of his overwhelming disgust over the way that and other such organizations have promoted anti-human “pro-earth” policies that deny poor people electricity, refrigeration, hospitals, and job opportunities. When people are so desperately poor that most of their children die in unsanitary surroundings, they are not concerned with their wildlife habitats and with laws protecting the animals that provide tourists with visual pleasure. They do all they can in order to live, day-to-day.

We agree with Dr. Patrick Moore, who has said, “The environmental movement has lost its objectivity, morality, and humanity.” This is the meaning of Eco-Imperialism, a reality that has descended on much of the third world and shows no signs of relenting. We sincerely hope that Paul Driessen’s book shall raise the consciousness of the world to this reality, and that it shall have the best possible impact for those millions of people who suffer because of the inhumane policies of the powerful among us.

Croc expert backs Territory safaris
A leading Australian crocodile expert says conservationists from around the world have endorsed the Northern Territory's safari hunting proposal at a meeting in Darwin. Grahame Webb says the Crocodile Specialist Group meeting in Darwin is discussing the conservation of 23 species of crocodile from 95 countries.
He says experts from countries where the reptiles attack local people and compete with them for food cannot understand Australian opponents of safari hunting saltwater crocodiles.

"You're not dealing with the people who are watching National Geographic Channel and pontificating, you're dealing with real people that are in the swamps, in countries around the world saving crocs, and when those people are supporting something like the Territory’s program, people should sit up and listen" he said.

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL F.I.T.A.S.C TEAM 2004

The Australian team selected for the 2004 World Championships in Signes, France has been finalised & I am sure everyone wishes the team success at these Championships.

Open Team.
JohnYounger
Damien Birgan
Socrates Pilipasidis
Peter Tobin

Ladies Team
Cherie Neilsen
Maree Birgan
Renae Birgan

Veterans Team
John Torresen
Barry Jane
Max Kavanagh

Junior Team
Chris Brown
James McKenzie
Brenton Irons

A few team members have left in advance of the main party to attend the last English FITASC team selection shoot being held in the U.K at Southern Counties Shooting Ground over the weekend 12/13 June. This is the weekend prior the World titles which take place17/21 June. Hopefully they will not put in to much of an effort into this competition & still keep themselves off the boil until the World titles. Not so the Poms, who will be putting in a huge effort to attain a tem place for the World titles. These competitors will be competing with the same effort as they will at the worlds. This could leave them a little short in stamina for the main event, time will tell.

The staging of the world titles this year has caused quite an upset around the world with all other events clashing with everyone else in achieving the deadlines required to meet the World Title event date that was expected in July, not the June date.
With the restructuring within FITASC this year the dates have taken a back seat. This will have to be addressed for next year to avoid the problems that have occurred this year.

It makes it very hard on team preparation & grounds hosting events with a drop in numbers of competitors who have to chose between competitions to suit their holiday allowance & available money.

The team will all be together from Monday 14 June & will be billeted at a small village, La Farlede, outside of Toulon in Southern France & positioned about 30 minutes drive from the range. The range has been set up for 8 Parcours which should make for an interesting competition. This will be the last year for 36grm loads at the World titles. Next year the event which will be in England will be subject to the 28grm maximum rule.

For those interested the results should be available from the link attachment on the Federation web site, www.sportingclays.org.au.

We will post a full report in the next newsletter with the teams progress.

Glen Rider
Federation Team Manager

FAVOURITE RECIPE.

RABBIT SOUP

Method:
Cut rabbit into joints Put into saucepan with 3 sliced onions and 6 pints water and ham bone or slice of ham.
Simmer very gently for 4 hours, strain the stock.

Remove all fat. Melt 1 tablespoon butter, add 1 tablespoon flour, stirring it with a wooden spoon, then the soup that has been rubbed through strainer.

Stir until it boils, add 1 cup of milk or cream, season with pepper, add salt and serve very hot.

RABBIT CREAM SOUP

Ingredients:
3 cups Rabbit broth or stock
1 cup milk
2 oz butter
1 oz flour
salt, black pepper,
grated nutmeg,
paprika
parsley

Method:
Heat the broth. Make a sauce using the butter, flour and milk. Gradually add heated stock, season to taste, bring to the boil and serve immediately with chopped parsley and paprika garnish.

Variation:
Add 1 slightly beaten egg and 1/2 cup cream. Heat thoroughly but do not boil.

Serve immediately

QUAIL WITH CREAMY MUSHROOM SAUCE.

Ingredients:
6 quail,
1 red capsicum (sliced in thin strips)
1/2 cup white wine
6 rashers bacon
1 dessertspoon butter
1 cup chicken stock
3 cups of mushrooms (chunkily sliced)
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
1 teaspoon seeded mustard
1 cup cream
Method:
Wrap the rashers of bacon around quail and secure with toothpicks. Saute quail gently in butter until brown and just cooked through. Add chicken stock and simmer, covered, until quail quite cooked. Remove quail from pan and reduce stock to half.
In a separate pan, with a little butter, saute mushrooms until cooked then add in capsicum and stir fry for a few minutes more. Transfer this into the original pan with reduced stock, add white wine, parsley, seeded mustard and quail.

Simmer gently, covered for another 5 minutes to allow flavours to blend. Remove quail and place on serving dish. Add cream to pan and heat gently through but do not allow to boil. Pour sauce over quail and serve with boiled baby potatoes and snow peas. Serves 3.

If you have a favourite recipe that you think the members will enjoy. Please send it to msfarrow@bigpond.net.au or fax it to 07 38444088

ADVERTISING IN THIS NEWSLETTER

If there are members, clubs or companies out there that wish to advertise in this newsletter here are the rates:
Single column width less than 100mm deep $50 per issue 4 issues $185.
Double column width less than 100mm deep $75 per issue 4 issues $285
Three column width less than 100mm deep $125 per issue 4 issues $485.
Full page $300 per issue 4 issues $1000.
Any other size or advertising on the colour cover please contact Glen Rider

Shoot advertising will be limited to be included with the text of each state or club report unless the state or club wants to pay for an
advertising at the above rates.

The planned issue are March, June, September and December.

For information contact
Glen Rider

RULE CORNER

At a resent shoot a shooter did the following:
The stand had the usual 3 single and a pair. The shooter was 3 rd shooter to the stand and had shot his singles and was facing up for the pairs, he position himself for what he thought the targets were about to be thrown. “Pull” and to the shock of the shooter another target was thrown. The shooter broke his gun and looked at the board to fine that the targets that were thrown were indeed correct. The shooter walked off the stand accepting that the score was LOST and LOST. The referee stopped the shooter and instructed him to shoot the pair again to score the second target – the shooter refused.
So what is your ruling?
Rule 8.03: When a shooter without legitimate reason, does not fire at his first target. The second target cannot be thrown (because there is no first shot). The double will then be declared LOST/NO TARGET and a second double will be thrown to determine the result of the second shot only.

Rule 9.02 If the shooter, without legitimate reason, does not shoot at a regular double the two targets will be declared LOST e.g. if subsequent to the situation as described in Rule 8.03 a shooter does not see or refuses the second of a repeat double on report.
The old legitimate reason…..

Is, “not reading the board” a legitimate reason – I don’t think so……..

NATIONAL’S SHIRT 2004

How many years have you gone to a Nationals and didn’t make the grade and came home empty handed? Starting from this year Federation will produce a National’s Shirt. This year the logo for Brisbane will be:

The shirts will be available at the shoot for a cost of $40.00 or you can order them and pay for them when you nominate for the Nationals.

STATE NEWS

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Renmark/Berri Field & Game

G’day to you all.
Our Anzac day Shoot has been “run & won”-Congratulations to Chris Koutlis for taking High Gun honours.
Competitors in the 150-target sporting clay shoot were from the local area, from Adelaide and the south–east, and there were some stalwarts from as far a field as Melbourne.
100 targets were shot on the Saturday, in very testing windy conditions. George Koutlis (Berri) was leading on 82/100, followed by his brother Chris, and Rob Shawyer, both on 79/100.
Sunday provided better weather for the final 50 targets, but it was still a challenge for the shooters.
A big “Thankyou” to all who travelled to compete! Without keen shooters like you, small clubs would really struggle to survive.
Our members are already preparing to host the 2005 Nationals.
Eighteen months won’t take long to pass, and already there are working “bees” in progress.
Duck Season has been reasonable around here with quite a few birds still around, meaning you can get a “feed’ without too much effort.
Onto other things- the flow of water down the Murray has dropped off considerably, but there is still some good fishing to be had. (Some very nice cod have been landed lately)
..till next time.. Paul Hansen

Southern Branch News
The year has started well and we are picking up a few new shooters.
This can be contributed to the small advert that the State runs once a month. We have found that there are new shooters out there but it is important to have a system in place to make them welcome and ensure they enjoy the day and come again.
Last year we decided to allow shooters to drive the course and have found we can know use more of our ground and provide a better target selection without setting a marathon for some of the older shooters.
We are considering putting in for the Masters Games in October next year.
This will be around the time of the Renmark Nationals so if you are an interstate shooter considering a trip to S.A. and want a bit of shooting, this may be the time

DUCK and MULLOWAY SEASON

I’ve checked up with a few duck hunters and it seems not all the ducks have headed north. There’s plenty of Blackies on the river and Blackies and Teal at the lakes.
The has been some good numbers taken at Narung and we picked up a few at Pt Sturt last week but saw a flock of around eighty.
In the last news letter I was looking forward to catching a legal mulloway.
Well the following week at about six O’clock after spending the day using live bait and not getting a touch, brother Clive gave up and I decided to try the lure for ten minutes.
The first cast I hooked onto a fish about 8 kg kilo. Clive got his second wind and headed for boat to get his lures. My next cast brought him back to gaff a fish about 9 kg.
He didn’t get a fish that day and the only other thing I hooked was my thumb.
With a hook out of a 5.0 treble in my thumb up to the bend and a 100 gram lure hanging off it I had to call on Clive for help again.
We have done this once or twice before and Clive knows the procedure.
Get a shoe lace around the base of the hook, put some downward pressure to help clear the barb and pull real hard on the lace.
Did that hurt? No it was not that bad!
That’s good because now it’s landed in your arm and we will have to do it all again.
I got both fish that day but it didn’t stop Clive laughing all the way home.
I stopped him smiling the following week when he caught a 10 kg fish and I upped the bet ten minutes later with one that went a little over 15kg cleaned. Watch this space, Broome in 10 weeks and I can’t wait.
Steve Ragless

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS.

The State Titles are at Loxton this year and the Loxton Branch has a great supporter in the Loxton Hotel/Motel.
This establishment has sponsored all of the major shoots at Loxton in recent years and has set rooms aside for us this year.
If you intend shooting the State Titles and want to show your appreciation for both the Loxton Club and the Loxton Motel / Hotel don’t wait until the last moment, pick up the phone and book now.
1800-656 686

TASMANIA

President’s / Hunting and Conservation Report

For the duck, deer and quail hunter, the season is over. But as they say, there’s always next year.

For the deer hunters who have committed to quality deer management, the standard of harvest has continued to be of a high level. Many property owners throughout the state however, are reporting an excessive number of does. Those hunters interested enough to attend the forums conducted by the T.D.A.C with Brian Murphy and Joe Hamilton, will understand the importance of buck to doe ratio in achieving a better quality of buck harvest. Many hunters show reluctance in harvesting does. This way of thinking needs to change if hunters want the best results from hunting. It needs to be remembered that game management is working together, between farmers and hunters, for the best results party must respect the other.

While there is no doubt that the population of ducks has been largest for a number of years, a lot of hunters have taken a lower number of birds. This is easy to understand when the large amount of water is taken into consideration. Critics of duck hunting seem to lose sight of this reality. This is the first year that wood ducks have been included in the game bag. Reports in recent media of poisoning of wood ducks suggests that the problem is greater than some, particularly the nature conservation branch of DPIWE, is prepared to recognise. Ethical duck hunters will not approve of poisoning, which is a waste of a good table bird. Pest destruction permits are the best solution to this problem. A better quantity of water in most areas will undoubtedly result in another good breeding season for ducks, which should result in a further increase in numbers of birds.

Field and Game continues to conduct sporting clay shoots throughout the state, which is a very exciting and challenging discipline of clay target shooting. The season will culminate with the state championships at Derwent Valley on the 14th and 15th of August.

Insurance continues to be an important issue for landowners and hunters. It is evident that landowners are aware of the high level of insurance carried by Field and Game members. Landowners continue to encourage their hunters to be members of Field and Game to ensure the highest level of public liability and other insurance cover.

Fallow Deer Aging Posters
This poster demonstrates the method used by the Game Management Unit of Department of Primary Industries, Water & Environment (DPIWE) to age Fallow Deer from the examination from the growth and wear of the teeth in the jawbone. This colour poster can be purchased from the State Secretary for $10 each plus postage and packaging. Contact: Kevin Preece Tele. 6344 7295

Peter Darke,
President & Director Hunting & Conservation
Branch News

Bagdad Field & Game
Cape Barren Goose Management – Flinders Is.

Bagdad Field & Game Inc. has keenly supported the goose management program each summer since the early days when the National Parks & Wildlife Service introduced it in the 1970’s. Nowadays, to maintain a viable group size of around 25 hunters, members from several branches and organizations assist in the annual hunt.

Bagdad members wishing to participate should enquire at the monthly club meeting, shoots or other activities. It’s all about being involved in your club.

Every aspect of the trip needs to be thoroughly addressed, commencing months in advance for it to run smoothly, e.g. list of participants, collection of monies, arrangement of permits, booking of flights, accommodation, vehicles, permission to hunt on properties, ranger briefing, contact with the local police, and liaise with other groups, just to mention a few.

A large group can take a fair amount of organizings, however, if the group is small it can be hard work to get the geese. Organising the geese though is always a challenge. It takes perseverance. We usually have a reconnaissance party who spend a couple days on the island prior to the weekends hunting.

Nobody seems to mind where they are positioned or how far they have to walk. Often we are lucky to have some kind farmers rouse for us, but mostly we spread people thinly over large areas and then have some walkers pass through to lift any geese. It’s then up to everyone to have a go, or at least keep them moving.

After many repeats of this process over the weekend, everyone has usually had some good opportunities, some get lucky and we usually achieve a reasonable tally. All of the geese are destined for the table.

The weekend is full on and quite tiring. It is suggested that participants take an extra few days, if possible, to relax and enjoy the “Island Experience”.

Bob Evans, Trip Organiser

Northern Midlands News

By the time you read this the first half of the year will have slipped by and only about 4 months to the Brisbane Nationals, can’t wait to be in that part of the country where the “weather is beautiful one day and perfect the next”.

Since the last newsletter we have erected a 6 metre veranda on the club house and put the roof on it so we won’t get so wet this winter, later we will look at filling it in so that will stop the wind from freezing or blowing us away. We have also put up two towers to put traps on, one is operational at present and the other is awaiting a platform. The club wishes to thank all those involved in getting the veranda and the towers done.

The first weekend of May saw the first part of the Northern Midlands Challenge between us and Cressy Gun Club (ACTA), this was at Cressy and at the end of the day they are only 7 targets in front of us, no thanks to the traitors (PS) who shot for Cressy, and we have the final shoot to come at our range at the end of May. Hope they bring their bino’s with them.

We conducted the first ever Old Style FITASC shoot held in Tasmania at our range in April, those who shot it enjoyed the day and the targets. This shoot was a bit of a preview to the 2 day 150 target Old Style FITASC shoot we are conducting in November. If this shoot takes off then we will make it a major shoot on our calendar every year. There will be $1800 worth of prizes up for grabs and if the interest we have had is any indication we should fill the book fairly quickly. It will be postal nominations only. Next year will see a few more of these style shoots and hopefully we can introduce Compak to the Tasmanian shooter as well.

Until next time
Stumpy

NEW SOUTH WALES

Milparinka selection April 17th & 18th 150tgt
For a second year now, this small club has held a state selection shoot. It does take up the best part of a week for most travellers to attend; some just come for the fully catered baked dinners. Local targets had most visitors struggling on Saturday, especially a slow rabbit at extreme range, not too many happy shooters on that stand, it was also hard to score at that distance. The ranges had plenty of variety and friendly flies. There aren’t many big rocks in this area but the trees are harder than any rock I’ve seen, a rabbit that ran between the trees on one range created a ricochet problem on Saturday even though they were 20 yards from the stand. These shoots are what F&G are all about, a weekend in the bush with your mates.

High Gun:
Rowan Foster 114 FGA
Peter Kay 113
AA Grade:
Ross Christian 111
Steve Payne 109
Dean Delaney 107
A Grade:
Peter Kay 113
Max Holland 112
Russell Bechaz 110 FGA
Lee Cunningham 108
B Grade:
Luke Cross 102
Steve Mueller 98
Rowan Young 97
C Grade:
Bruce Hill 81 FGA
Terry Chadwick 79 FGA
Matt Leighton 67
Dennis Bailey 67
Junior:
Chris Everett 94
Sub Junior:
Will Parker 66
Shane Rynehart 62 FGA
Matthew O’Connor 37
Ladies:
Jenny Nichols 101
Vets:
Ken Moore 105
Dennis Coaker 99
Doug Murray 97

Congratulations to you all.

COOMA BRANCH
Easter Shoot 9-12 April Middlingbank Range Cooma

Fine weather was on hand for the annual Cooma Field and Game Easter Classic held at Middlingbank range over the Easter long weekend. Despite the correlation of other local events, there were over 170 entries in the three competitions held over the 4-day classic, which was enjoyed by all, both at a competitive level and as a social gathering. Months of preparation are required for such an event and all those who attended would agree that the weekend went as planned. Apart from local shooters, competitors travelled from Victoria and many parts of New South Wales.
Most importantly, the support of sponsors was appreciated by all. Safari Firearms proudly sponsored the 20 gauge event held on Friday and local sponsors, Snowy Camping World together with Cooma Ex- Servicemens Club gave their valued support for the 200 target event held on Saturday & Sunday, with the trophies being presented by Bede McCosker of Snowy Camping World. The final event, 75 target side by side was sponsored by another local business, Cooma Coaches who have been showing their most valued support for the club for quite a few years now.

The results for the weekend are:

The 20 gauge State championship was held on Friday over 75 targets with the following results:
AA grade
Phillip Craig 64
A grade
Mark Corbett 61
John Starr 61
Wayne Bosden 60
B grade
Peter Reeve 61
Tony Nassar 55
Graham Vaux 51
C grade
Pat Byrne 56
Nick Harideros 49
Don Badowitz 45

There was also a 12 gauge competition held on the Friday for those not wishing to participate in the 20 gauge championship. The place getters were:

A grade
Reg McGufficke 67
Ed Osolins 64
Terry Thistleton
B grade
Marty Doherty 64
Leonard Missen 63
Doug Brenton 57
C grade
John Petriella 61
Wayne Drege 50
K. Willman 46
Vets
John Archibald 53
Ladies
Alicia Connell 36
Juniors
Glen Crimmins 50
Craig Bottom 43
Kasey Osolins 34
Sub Juniors
Tyson Pollard 52

The Saturday and Sunday Easter Classic was a 200 target event. At the end of the two days the results were:

High gun went to Vaughn Ruddick in a close shoot off with Laurie Redfern after they both had a top score of 164

AA grade
Laurie Redfern 164
Chris Davis 159
Chris Whelan 154
A grade
Peter Rae 158
Scott O’Brien 153
John Hayes 148
B grade
Milton Cartwright 158
Jarred Cartwright 145
Allen Kentwell 133
C grade
Phillip Allen 116
Doug Murray 108
Bruce Hill 104
Vets
Tom Harris 148
Nick Nichols 143
Terry Whelan 137
Ladies
Amanda Condron 113
Danielle Passarin 111
Juniors
Jared Passarin 142
Tyson Pollard 116
After the hectic weekend Monday took a more relaxing atmosphere with a total of 58 shooters who attended the 75 target side by side State championship event.

The overall winner of this event was Frank Searles with a score of 69. Frank also won the sash for the Springing Teal event.

The results at the end of the day:
AA grade
Chris Davis 67
Peter Possarin 65
Chris Whelan 60
A grade
Robert Possarin 65
Gary Georgiou 61
Phillip Craig 60
B grade
Stewart Bennet 64
Allen Kentwell 59
Ray Johnson 58
C grade
Neil Radford 51
Philip Alan 23
Vets
Nick Nichols 54
Roger Sands 53
Keith Willman 30
Ladies
Pat Byrne 35
Michelle Craig 25
Juniors
Tyson Pollard 50

There was also a cash divide event held on the Monday for under and over guns with the following results:

A grade
Dave Morgan 64
Reg McGufficke 63
Paul Bone 60
B grade
Rod Hill 59
Paul Crimmins 53
Steve McIntyre 52
C grade
Bruce Hill 51
Len Adams 40
Veterans
Tom Harris
Ladies
Danielle Passarin 50
Alicia Connell 28
Juniors
Jarrod Passarin 63
Glen Crimmins 62
Kasey Osolins 50

A special thanks to those who worked hard to set up the courses and maintain the equipment over the four days. It was pleasing to get positive feedback on the quality and standard of the targets. Only two possibles were shot over the weekend, one by Peter Passarin from Westernport in Victoria and the other by local shooter Reg McGufficke.
The weekend wouldn’t have been so successful without the help from the ladies in the canteen, the trappers, and to all our sponsors. Special thanks go to all the local and away competitors who attended the shoot during this holiday period. Once again congratulations to all the winners and shooters who made an effort to attend the enjoyable Easter weekend and I hope that everyone had a great time. Hopefully we will see you all at the next shoot, which will be held at the Middlingbank range on Sunday the 16th of May 2004
All photos are Courtesy of Mark Gunter

THIRD & FORTH STATE SELECTION SHOOT

The Mudgee branch once again conducted a first class selection shoot on both Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th May. These shoots were held at the Windamere range, with it’s fantastic terrain and beautiful weather, I can only feel sorry for those who didn’t attend, you missed a ripper. Saturdays range was tough yet all targets were of top quality. It just seemed most shooters couldn’t keep their concentration up for a whole round.
Saturday:
High Gun: Dan Baskerville
AA grade
Adrian Emery
Laurie Redfern
Craig Kurtz, Darren Ball
A grade
Ross Christian
Lee Cunningham
Dennis Dinte
B grade
Steve Mueller
Luke Cross
R Morganti
C grade
R Mundy
R Rycroft
Jim Reid
Ladies
Jo Nichols
Jenny Nlchols
Judy Taylor
Vets
John Nichols
Ken Moore
Noel Briun
Juniors
Chris Everett

Sunday ranges were cleverly changed by altering cages. scores across the board were a little healthier as a result. thanks to mudgee members for a big effort.
Sunday:
High Gun: Dennis Dinte
AA grade
Steve Payne
James Burns - prize only
Adrian Emery 2nd place medal Craig Kurtz - medal only
A grade
Peter Kay
Allec Ceccato
Lee Cunningham 2nd pl medal
B grade
C Milligan
Steve Mueller 1st pl sash
Alan Kentwell 2nd medal
Ross Christian 3rd medal C grade
R Mundy
B Baratto
G Podmore 1st sash 3rd prize
Jim Reid 2nd medal
R Morganti 3rd medal
Ladies
Jenny Nichols
Jo Nichols
Judy Taylor
Vets
Ken Moore
Noel Briun
Nick Nichols
Juniors
Dan Baskerville

NSW State Championship will be held at Sydney on the 14/15th August all F&G members welcome with cheap air fares at the moment making it affordable for interstate shooters. Why not come? Contact Ken Moore (02) 9605 5544 or Paul Smidt (02) 9606 6692.

NSW State Team. This event will decide the make up of the 2004 NSW F&G team with at least seven shooters capable of making the four available open places, it will be pressure over the two days. In the 2003 Nationals the QLD team were only 28 targets ahead after a total of 1050 targets. They might be on home soil this year but our team is eager to move up a place.

Sydney shoot date changes
Mick Smith now 4th September
Merv Burrow 21st November

State Committee news - So far this year we’ve had two teleconferences and one meeting in person. The teleconferences have been a great success with input from branches that perversely may not attended due to the distances between our branches. Some of the items on the agendas so far have been, Shoot calendar, Insurance, Rules, Firearms act, State team funding, Funding to assist NSW junior member to attend 2004 worlds ,L/J training camp, Conservation reports. Thanks to your delegates especially Mat Leighton (president) and Deb Hotchin (Secretary) for their tireless work so far this year. If members wish more details they should contact their branch secretary for a copy of the minutes its up yo you?

Congratulations to our latest group of new referees, D Coaker, L Cross, D Delaney, B Hall, D Morgan, & Jenny Nicholls

Good luck to Daniel Baskerville at the Worlds

NSWF&G
Paul Smidt

VICTORIA

VSCA State Championships are to be hosted by Warnnambool SSAA(Vic) at their Laang Range.
The Range is situated about 20klm from Warrnambool on Coulihans Rd.
Steve Chilton and Brian Cockayne have been busy with chain saws and tractors, opening up the bush area of the range to provide a greater variety of targets.
This event was also hosted by Laang in 2003, it is testimony to the great job they done last year, that they have been granted the right to again conduct this important championship.

What a year we are having so far, Chris Brown in his last year as a Junior is carrying all before him.
To back up his High Gun performance at the FITASC Australian Grand Prix, he has done it again in the Compak Nationals.
His performance at the Compak Nationals was even more convincing. I consider they were the toughest set of targets thrown at the Geelong Range.
Also the performances shown by our other Juniors already this year.
Brenton Irons also in his last year as a Junior will also have his sights set now on representing Australia in Open Team competition.
Brett Kelynack, James McKenzie, Blake Nankervis and Robert Hall have also improved greatly throughout this year.
It shows that our Junior Program is going well, these young Juniors will all have a great opportunity in the years ahead, to further themselves and Federation on the World scene

By the time this newsletter is in your hands the 2004 World FITASC Championships will be history.
I wish all members of the Australian Team the best of luck in France and am hopeful of some good results from the Open and Junior Teams especially.

Ray McFarlane
President VSCA

Power for a National event
At the end of the day
only you will need
recharging

QUEENSLAND

Queensland Clay Target Report - June 2004

The year is fast gaining momentum. Queensland is in the final preparations for the National titles being held in October. The nomination forms are well presented in this issue with costs posted to enter both the English Sporting & the Sporting Clay events.

The venue this year in Brisbane is well positioned for the shooting competitor & the family alike. The Gold Coast & all it's attractions are only 45 minutes away down the 4 lane freeway. Easy to stay in & travel up to the event, or the slower paced Sunshine Coast 1 hour away in the opposite direction, not so easy with the travel. The weather at this time of year is perfect & the summer crowds are nowhere to be seen, Accommodation & transport will also be competitive without the crowds.
Why not take the break with the family & attend this years Nationals. The family can hardly complain having nothing to do while you shoot the time away.

To all Queensland members Brisbane needs your help. We can’t run this event by ourselves so we need you put up your hand and come along and help over the Nationals weekend. So if you can help out please contact
Mark Farrow 0404 024 220

2nd Selection Shoot - Fraser Coast Branch:

The 2nd Selection Shoot was conducted at Fraser Coast on the 4 April.

Family commitments unfortunately stopped my attendance this year. From reports received Leo Cao put on a worthy event with everyone having to work for the breaks. Only one clean round was achieved during the event (Mike Birgan).

High Gun:
Mike Birgan 70/75
AA:
Damien Birgan 64/75
Les Power 57/75
A:
Craig Brown 62/75
Maree Birgan 57/75
B:
Anthony Searle 54/75
Leo Cao 38/75 C:
Clayton Peterson 39/75
Vern Porter 26/75
Ladies:
Renae Birgan 53/75 Veterans:
John Floquet 49/75 Kerrod Kay 45/75
Junior:
Tyrone Power 51/75

3rd Selection Shoot – Brisbane

Well it was time for the new areas that Dennis Bullimore has created for the Nationals in October to be tested and tested they were. Not one complaint reached my ears.
Well done Dennis.
High Gun:
Rodney Stin 62/75
AA:
Craig Brown 55/75
Paul McDonald 53/75
A:
Greg Mitchell 61/75
Paul Collingwood 60/75
Scott O’Brien 55/75
B:
Anthory Searle 55/75
John Rollo 50/75
Merv Rye (count bk) 49/75
C:
Clayton Peterson 43/75
Ian Kirkwood 39/75
Lyell Pettman 31/75
Veterans:
Kerrod Kay 51/75
Ian Clisdell 45/75
Jim Hollands 45/75
Juniors:
Tyron Power 52/75
Brodie Grant 33/75

28 GRAM LOADS

The question concerning 28grm loads coming into force for Australian competitions is still open for debate. From the action of Qld members the response is mixed from the small number of members who have made comment.
The majority response is in favour of the 28grm shot load. This is the crux of the matter. The question of this shot load will be coming up at the next AGM. The reason for my continued raising of this issue is to give adequate response time to you, the member. Lack of response will be assumed as a "don't really care factor". I therefore repeat the question, who will accept (or otherwise reject) 28grm loads as maximum in Australian Sporting Clays competition ?????.

It is up to you as the member to respond. Do not complain to me if you do not make an informed decision on this matter & the vote at the target shooting commitee meeting for 28grms goes against your views. This question has been more than raised. Remember this item will come up for action at the AGM in mid October 2004.
By the time you receive the next newsletter this issue will have been voted on by the Target Shooting Directors either for or against. Each State will have one vote
On this matter with the democratic majority having the sway. LET YOUR CONSTUCTIVE THOUGHTS BE KNOWN

By the time you receive this Newsletter the Australian team will be contesting the 26th World FITASC Titles in Signes, France, 17 to 20 June 2004. The team this year should present a strong front & they will hopefully continue with the success from the previous outings & continue to bring home the medals. A full report of this event will be posted in the Next Newsletter.

Until the next time.
Glen Rider
QLD Clay Target Director

WESTERN AUSTRALIA
(Nothing supplied)

Dates for rest of 2004

FIELD & GAME FEDERATION OF AUSTRALIA.
October: Fri 8, 7th ENGLISH SPORTING NATIONALS, Brisbane
Sat 9, Sun 10, 28th AUST. SPORTING NATIONALS, Brisbane

SS = State Team Selection shoot

QUEENSLAND
July: Sun 18, Gympie 75t, SS
September: Sat 13/14 Brisbane State Championships 150t

NEW SOUTH WALES
August: Sat 14/15, Sydney State Championship 200tgt

VICTORIA
July: Sat 17 Geelong 75t, SS
Sat 25 Little River 75t, SS
August: Sat 28/29 Laang State Championships 150t

TASMANIA
July: Sun 25, Nth Midlands 75t, SS
August: Sat 14/15 Derwent Valley State Championships 150t

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
July: Sun 11, Waikerie 75t, SS
August: Sun 1, Central 75t, SS
Sun 15, Lake Bonney 50t, SS
September: Sat 25/26, Loxton State Championships 150t

WESTERN AUSTRALIA
August: Sun 14 Wannamal, SS
Sun 15 Wannamal State Championships