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FIELD and GAME FEDERATION of AUSTRALIA Inc. |
Volume 5
Issue 2
June 2005
CONTENT:
From the National President
Clay Target News
Oceania 2005
Accident Insurance
Australian Team 2005
Hunting & Habitat
NO Duck Season Qld
Favourite Recipes
Sporting Clay Nationals
Nomination Form
SA Championships
State News
Queensland
New South Wales
Victoria
Tasmania
South Australia
Western Australia
How has your duck season progressed? I know Queensland missed out on a duck season all together despite there being good numbers of birds. Here in Tasmania, hunters have in general had a good season. My husband has certainly provided some nice meals with the help of our little Spanador retriever, Chance.
Those of you who are regular readers of this column will know that we lost our old dog one week into duck season last year. Chance came into our life and has proven to be an absolute joy and a great hunting companion.
Our Australian team will be off overseas in July. They are, as usual, strong medal contenders although I understand that the overseas competitions are becoming more and more difficult. Notwithstanding this, I know our team will make us extremely proud.
I have to confess that I tend to put my competition firearm away a little bit during winter. Whilst Tasmania is a lovely place to live, it can be quite cold on the range. I have decided that I am getting too old to shoot in those conditions. I can just hear all the sporting shooters saying ‘if you gave up DTL and shot sporting where you have to walk a bit more you would not feel the cold so much’. You are probably right!
At the moment I am reading Gene Hill’s book “A Listening Walk ....and other stories”. It is full of interesting anecdotes and stories about field and competition shooting. I particularly liked the chapter “Dog Hair in your Drink” which is about ‘the bird hunter’s wife’ and her attributes. Hill respectfully refers to his wife as “The Chairman”. I guess most of us girls can relate to that. The book is quite old – my husband won it in 1985 – but if you can find a copy it is well worth a read.
Have you introduced a new member this year? If you have, thank you for continuing to support this wonderful organisation. If not, talk to your work colleagues or neighbours. Their response just might surprise you.
Some of you will be aware that I am also the Mayor of our local Council (Shire). In the early days of my tenure, there was often quite surprised looks from colleagues in local and State government when they found out the (female) Mayor toted a 12 gauge shotgun! These days I am quite often asked by State Ministers how my shooting is going. It is that sort of interest that we need to foster if we are to keep our firearms and our sport intact.
Till next time..........
Cheryl Arnol
PRESIDENT.
FITASC
Australian Grand Prix
Venue: Geelong Sporting Clays
Date: 9th and 10th April
Full results available on website but here are the winners of each category.
Senior:
Damien Birgan 171
John Younger 165
Brenton Irons 163
Ladies:
Cherie Neilson 142
Renae Birgan 135
Maree Birgan 126
Veterans:
Barry Jane 145
John Torresan 142
Malcom Whitehead 136
Super-veterans:
Jake Johns 138
Frank Schultz 118
Gerard Berger 106
Junior:
Blake Nankervis 149
Robert Hall 144
James Clancy 129
FITASC
12th Compak Nationals
Venue: Geelong Sporting Clays
Date: 28th and 29th May
Well what a surprise it was Saturday and the start of the Compak Nationals and only a light breeze was blowing. What a difference a month makes.
Four Compak Layouts each with
six traps provided all the angles and trajectories needed for a great event.
The only sad part was the lack of entries as only 55 shooters entered.
But as usual the shooters who were there had a great time.
At the end of the 1st one hundred
targets Colin MacPherson was the leader on 91/100 closely followed by John
Younger on 90/100 and Terry Scicluna 86/100
In the Ladies Tania Scicluna was leading with 71/100 from Cherie Neilson
68/100.
Veterans leader was Malcolm Whitehead 77/100, Keith Cruickshank 75/100 and
Barry Jane 73/100
Junior leaders were Robert Hall and Blake Nankervis both with 82/100 and
James Clancy 76/100
With the small field shooting was over by 2-30 and we were able to go around and fill the traps, change all the menus and alter some targets for Sunday.
Ranges were set a little more
difficult for the Sunday and full use was made of the seven travel towers
that were used.
The Battue Tower on Ground 1 was lifted to full height and a bit more spring
was used.
The Super Mini Tower on Ground 2 was elevated and a number of other targets
were subtly altered.
Shooting again finished at 2-30 and we waited for the results.
The Top Four Shooters Overall then shot a 25 target final on Ground 1
John Younger was the leader on 178/200 followed by Colin MacPherson 174/200,
Sox 172/200 and Colin Johns 170/200
John shot a great 22/25 to be the eventual winner, Sox 20/25 to Colin Mac’s
18/25 saw a sudden death shoot-off for second, this was eventually won by
Sox, Colin MacPherson 3rd and Colin Johns 4th.
The other shoot-off was for 3rd place in A Grade between Cherie Neilson and Barry Jane. Barry missed his 1st bird out and Cherie cleaned the stand, on the second stand Cherie blitzed the 3 single and then missed the pair, Barry showed that women have earned equal rights, he showed no mercy and shot the stand clean and took out A Grade 3rd.
Results
Open:
John Younger 200/225
Socrates Pilipasidis 192/225 Colin Mac Pherson 192/225 Colin Johns 190/225
Ladies:
Cherie Neilson 147/200
Tania Scicluna 136/200
Juniors:
Blake Nankervis 167/200
Robert Hall 158/200
James Clancy 150/200
Veterans:
Barry Jane 147/200,
Equal 2nd Ray McFarlane and Ken Triffitt 144/200
A Grade
Robert Hall 158/200
James Clancy 150/200
Barry Jane 147/200
B Grade
Bob Brown 146/200
Ray McFarlane 144/200
? 140/200
C Grade
Dieter Neimann 122/200
Geoff Boyd 96/200
Arthur Rawlinson 95/200
At Geelong we are renowned for setting grounds that provide a challenge,
long targets, curling targets, incomers, upside down and driven battues,
midi’s and super mini’s.
We have a total of 37 Auto Traps with 14 of them placed in our 11 towers
of which 7 are hydraulically operated.
All traps are released by remote control.
This allows us to provide all the necessary angles and trajectories to conduct
International standard events.
Hopefully next years Compak Nationals will be better attended wherever they
may be.
OCEANIA 2005 - NOUMEA, NEW CALEDONIA
Although slightly old news from the event at Easter, it still warrants a report, this being an International event that attracts members from all over the Oceania region.
The event for this year was one of the best attended in Noumea with all Oceania countries in a strong presence & a welcome return of New Zealand who have been absence in recent years. Under the direction of Ian Swale the Kiwis seem to have a renewed vigour for Sporting Clays.
The two hundred targets were conducted over three days with eight separate layouts of Old style FITASC. With the weather generally kind with the heat & only a full drenching couple of hours of rain on the second day.
The event had an unexpected guest from France, Veronique Allard-Girardet , who came all guns blazing to set an early pace & leading the score board on the first day in the open O/A category with Peter Tobin in second place & Damien Birgan in third & Darryl Braun in fourth spot.
Day two left the score board in much the same situation with Veronique leading the field & looking like causing a real upset to the competition the other placing’s also stayed as the first day.
The ladies team event was being
dominated by the Australian team, along with the teams in the Open &
Veterans classes. The junior class was in a different position, with the
Australians dominating this class for many years it made a change to see
some talent from New Zealand rise to the top & take the lead position
from the Australian's & all credit to them for their efforts.
The last day & the final 50 targets saw Veronique (172) slip to third
position O/A, allowing Damien Birgan (178) to take High Gun & Peter
Tobin (174) second spot, Darryl Braun (170) in fourth was the highest placed
Kiwi.
In the Juniors, Rohan Lay (153) took top spot , one target ahead of New
Zealand Junior Brian Deadman (152) & Adam Hanson (148) from New Zealand
in third
The Ladies saw Veronique head the ladies, but not being a resident of Oceania
saw her recognised as lady Champion but not Oceania Lady Champion, this
title fell to Queenslander Renae Birgan (160) followed by Maree Birgan (146)
& Marion Whyte (119) from New Zealand.
The Veterans positions, Ken Triffett (159) from Tasmania, Gordon McPhee
(146) N.Z & Jim Musin (119) N.Z.
Super Veterans, Gerard Berger (135) New Caledonia, J-Marc Tricot (129 )
New Caledonia & Gordon Clark (122) N.Z
The Australian team members for
this event.
Open : Damien Birgan - Chris Brown - Mike Birgan - Terry Scicluna - Team
Gold
Ladies : Renae Birgan - Maree Birgan - Karen Rider - Team Gold
Juniors : Rohan Lay - Robert Hall - James Clancy - Team Silver
Veterans : Ken Triffett - Barry Jane - Ray McFarlane - Team Gold
As usual a full list of placing’s is available on the website: www.sportingclays.org.au
A few new names in the team to represent Australia, once again proving the depth of talent in Sporting Clays.
Another great event was over
& one I was pleased to participate in, in good company with good targets,
what more could you want?
So to the event next year which will be held in the North Island of New
Zealand at the Thames Valley Gun Club over the period 2nd to 4th March 2006.
I understand that during the week prior to the Oceania Championships, New
Zealand will be having two other competitions, ensuring anyone travelling
over will be more than entertained with more targets than ever to keep you
entertained & making the distance to travel across the Tasman worth
while. Start planning now for the 2006 Oceania event, you will not be disappointed.
Glen Rider.
Once again in 2005 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
WORLD TITLES 2009
Application from States are being sought for the hosting of the 2009 FITASC World Championships.
A decision on the venue will be finalised at the Federation Meeting after the Nationals at Berri/Renmark.
FITASC 2005 World Championships
Date: 14 to 17 July 2005
Country : England
Venue: Southern Counties Shooting Grounds.
Address: Wardon Hill - Evershot - Near Dorchester - Dorset
Australian Teams:
Seniors:
John Younger
Colin Johns
Damien Birgan
Brenton Irons
Veterans:
John Torresan
Barry Jane
Ken Triffitt
Lady:
Cherie Neilson
Renae Birgan
Maree Birgan
Juniors:
Robert Hall
Blake Nankervis
James Clancy
Best of luck to you all
HUNTING and HABITAT
By Peter A Teakle
(Incorporating Hunting, Fishing, Conservation & Research)
Bool Lagoon:
The attempt to have Bool Lagoon open for duck hunting for a few days this
season has created a lot of debate in all sectors. Surprising opposition
has come from an adjoining landholder and of course - the anti everything
brigades! Bool Lagoon is a Ramsar site and with the effort to have it open
for the 2005 season; the Department and Minister were most uncomfortable
with the pressure from all sides. There’s no simple solution at this point,
the last thing we want is the delisting of its Game Reserve status, a “Pontius
Pilot” act by the Minister would surely signify a win for the anti’s!
The Minister has now made a final
decision on Bool Lagoon for 2005 - part extract:
“Subsequent to my earlier decision to allow hunting at Bool Lagoon, the
Department conducted a pre-hunting survey of Bool Lagoon in early March
which showed that the wetland had not dried out as anticipated and that
higher than predicted numbers of threatened water birds were present. This
increased the potential for adverse impacts of hunting on nature conservation
values of this significant wetland. As a consequence, I postponed any hunting
at Bool Lagoon.
A further survey undertaken in April 2005 as part of the ongoing monitoring
of the site to determine its suitability for hunting during 2005 found high
numbers of Freckled Duck, Magpie Geese, Brolga and Australasian Shoveler
(all threatened species). There were also high numbers of other protected
birds such as Black Swans.
It was concluded that, although
conditions remain good in the Bool Lagoon wetlands, environmental conditions
elsewhere in Australia, and particularly in the Murray-Darling Basin region
have forced large numbers of game and non-game waterbirds to seek refuge
at Bool Lagoon. The retention of Freckled Duck and concentration of Grey
Teal at Bool Lagoon are good indicators of very dry conditions elsewhere.
Consequently, the decision has now been taken that hunting will not be permitted
in Bool Lagoon in 2005.”
Overall reports from around the state indicate that its been an excellent
duck season with plenty of birds still around. Queensland will not have
the luxury of an open season for duck and quail this year.
What a lot of Bull: Duck Shooting
poses danger for rangers:
The Public Service Association has successfully argued that duck shooting
at Bool Lagoon poses an occupational risk to NP&WS rangers. The annual
duck-hunting season has been delayed whike discussions continue between
the PSA and the NPWS over improved safety for rangers who are expected to
retrieve injured birds and monitor hunting activities.
PSA General Secretary Jan McMahon said rangers were being asked to be in
the water while shooting of ducks was occurring. ”PSA members who are rangers
have advised the PSA that they do not feel safe walking around Bool Lagoon
while duck hunters are firing their weapons” “Nor do they always feel safe
when they have to approach hunters who are carrying fully loaded shotguns
which they can’t put down on the ground because they are standing in water
and they will get wet” Ms McMahon said the PSA would continue to seek improved
safety for the rangers. “PSA has been told by NPWS members that it is only
a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or possibly killed
while performing their duties at Bool Lagoon” she said.
Further to this pathetic statement,
what Ms McMahan doesn’t realize is that many PSA members also shoot ducks
and it maybe time the Minister/Department to have a serious look at those
in compliance who are not up to their duties and or don’t want to get their
feet wet!
Omission in last Newsletter:
Some may wonder what was left out in my report in the last Newsletter, the
article “Tons of Ducks” was considered its’ contents would excite the anti’s
should they procure a copy of it.
Marine scale fishery:
Finally, the State Government after much debate, has moved to protect the
state’s valuable marine scalefish fishery, action was urgently needed to
protect marine scalefish stocks, (garfish, King George whiting, Tommy Ruff,
Calamari and Snook). There - are116 net license holders in the commercial
fishery who can tap into the $3.5 million buyback. SARFAC will be closely
monitoring the issue should there be potential impact on the recreational
fishery. All net fishing is now under the spotlight worldwide. The Government
have now extended the buyback figure to $6 million All buyback must be finalized
by the end of June 2005.
Another issue of major concern to the recreational sector apart from restrictive access to jetties is the introduction of Marine National Parks (especially Victor Harbour). Trying to get departmental information on the expansion for more marine National Parks in South Australian waters seems to be hidden in “Fort Knox”
Murray’s Lock 8 Fishway Experiencing Heavy Traffic
In August, the Australian Minister
for the Environment, the Hon. Ian Campbell officially opened recently completed
fishways and navigable passes at Locks 7 and 8 on the Murray River.
Under the umbrella of the Native Fish Strategy established by the Murray-Darling
Basin Commission (MDBC) a program has been developed to provide 2,300 kilometres
of fish passage from the sea to Hume Lake along the Murray River.
$6.6million works have been undertaken through the MDBC with financial contributions
from the Australian Government and the States of NSW, Victoria and South
Australia. A team consisting of researchers from South Australia, NSW and
Victoria are currently undertaking monitoring of the new fishways. The fishway
situated at Lock 8 near the South Australian border has now been in operation
for the last 15 months, and is already experiencing large amount of fish
traffic moving through.
A total of 29,500 fish have been recorded to pass through the fishway in a 55-day period. Resulting in an average of over 500 fish using the fishway per day. These fish range from small smelt around 30mm in length to large Murray cod in excess of 900mm. Over 2000 Golden Perch have passed through with some of the tagged individuals being recorded migrating more than 400km up stream.
These early results help provide valuable information into the design program for future fishways as well as providing improved knowledge of the species and help ensure future success of the Murray-Darling Basin fisheries. The fishway is the first of the new “fish ladders” that will allow a broader size range of fish to migrate through the structures. The structure will help populations of native fish resume their natural migration patterns upstream to breed and feed.
Peter Teakle
NO Duck and Quail Recreational Harvest Season for
Queensland in 2005
Earlier this year the Duck and Quail Management Advisory Committee (D&QMAC) met to determine if a recreational harvest season would/should be declared this year.
The committee comes to a non voting consensus after determining data from various sources such as:
Harvest Return Data which includes
total take of waterfowl and quail from previous year/s.
Rainfall and Water Storages figures
Current Drought Situation
Longe Range Weather Forecast.
Eastern Australian Waterbird Survey.
Reports from Stakeholders (such as F&G Fed Aust).
Regional Reports from QNPWS.
The environmental situation
this year has been pretty grim although to most people visually duck numbers
may appear to have increased due to their concentration to any water that
exists. Every year the same indicators are used to determine if a season
is recommended. The four pro hunting groups (SSAA, F&G Federation of
Aust, F&G Aust and Canine Control Council) have being trying to alter
these indicators to more accurately report if a season is sustainable.
Some interesting information arose from the data presented to the committee,
which include:
1. 93% harvest data return rate by hunters.
2. 12370 total ducks taken in 2004, including those taken by Damage Mitigation
Permits (DMP’s).
3. 40 Quail licenses issued in 2004, to take 3002 quail.
4. The number of quail taken in 2004 had risen approx.100% on any other
season on record.
5. Water storages across the state in February were above average.
6. In February 2005 50%of Queensland was drought declared as opposed to
66.5% in 2004.
7. Dr. Kingsford’s Eastern Waterbird survey revealed some of the lowest
waterfowl numbers sighted on record.
8. All pro hunting groups stated that it was dry!, but requested reduced
bag numbers and the reduction of hunted species for season 2005.
9. QNPWS regional reports had recommended against a season due to climatic
conditions and dramatic reductions in waterfowl numbers.
The committee summary was split
in half for the pro hunting groups who requested ½ bag numbers and
reduced hunted species, and the anti hunting groups obviously requested
no season due to drought conditions and cruelty issues.
Subsequently Minister for Environment Ms Desley Boyle announced in Parliament
that Queensland would not declare a duck and quail recreational harvest
season for 2005 due to the ravages of the current drought, and poor medium
to long term rainfall forecasts.
Other Pending Influences on Recreational Duck and Quail Harvest Seasons
There a few very important pending issues that will heavily influence if
QLD may ever retain its ability to recreationally hunt either duck or quail
in the future, which include:
1. Animal Welfare concerns relating
to cruelty issues.
2. The implementation of a further 5 year management plan for duck and quail
in QLD.
3. The dramatic reduction of licensed hunters of duck and quail in QLD.
The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee met recently to investigate wether or not hunting duck and duck met cruelty guidelines. The committee was requested to present their recommendations to the Minister for Primary Industries. The previous Minister for Environment Mr. Micklin requested the enquiry in 2004.
I have spoken to the Department of Primary Industries, who advised that the report had not been released for public comment, but suggested that the recommendations were not what they considered “unduly cruel”. When the AWAC recommendations are given to the Minister for Environment, Ms Desley Boyle may in her discretion, either use the information to request possible changes to hunting codes of conduct, the legislation or disallow further recreational harvest seasons based on cruelty issues. The outcome of decisions made by the Minister is paramount to the longevity of our recreational pursuit.
The second issue of concern relates the implementation of a successive Duck and Quail Management Plan from 2005-2010. Legislation requires a current management plan to be in place if a recreational harvest period is to exist. The current management plan expires in September 2005, and a meeting has been organised for August 2005 to ensure continuity of the management plan. We envisage some alterations to the plan particularly in the areas relating to hunters code of conduct and animal welfare issues.
Probably the most disturbing issue is the drastic drop in licensed hunter numbers across the state. This decline has been in free fall since the mid 1980’s. Recent regulations or requirements have made bigger imposts on hunters, and the number of licensed duck hunters in QLD is now in the high 300’s. We need to seriously lift these numbers if we want government to listen to our ”votes”.
I would be pleased if anyone
wishes to contact me regarding any of the issues above, or those relating
to Duck and Quail in Queensland. All figure, facts and minutes of meetings
can be emailed to you on request.
stevem@gil.com.au
0419 724565
Steve Matthews
Hunting and Habitat
QLD Branch
ROAST DUCK IN CAMP OVEN.
Ingredients:
2 black duck dressed and filled with stuffing, trussed for roasting. Small
amount of oil or fat
Method:
With oil, brown ducks all over and remove from oven.
Mix 1/4 cup red wine and 1/2 cup water and put in oven, return ducks to oven and cook until tender. approx. 40 minutes over medium heat, top up with water and add potatoes, onions and pumpkin ? cook until tender.
DUCK AND MACARONI SALAD
2 ducks, cooked until tender
in pressure cooker with bay leaf, salt to taste and breasts lightly sprinkled
with bitters.
Remove breasts and meat from ducks, chop into bite size lumps. (reserve
frames for stock or soup)
Cook short twisted macaroni and reserve (4 cups) Celery cut in short lengths, small salad tomatoes cut in halves, onion sliced in rings and separated 6 black olives quartered sweet red pepper cut in segments 1/2 cup green peas cooked salt and pepper to taste
Mix all together and serve in a bowl with fresh bread sticks, crusty bread and a good white wine. Excellent for a lunch or picnic.
STATE NEWS
I’m happy to inform the members that the State Assoc. has recently purchased
three new Promatic traps, two standards and one battue.
Promatic trap at Fraser Coast
One standard trap was presented
to Fraser Coast club the other to the Gympie club and the battue to the
Brisbane club. The traps are to be used as coaching aids for the betterment
of Sporting Clays shooting.
The Fraser Coast selection shoot, over the Queens Birthday weekend was the
prefect place to trial the new traps and they all worked like a charm.
The traps will remain the property of the State Assoc. but housed at the
clubs until the clubs do not require them anymore. The committee hopes that
these traps will relieve some of the pressure on members and make the sport
more enjoyable for all.
The State Assoc also purchased
a tandem trailer so the transportation of traps to selection shoots can
be achieved with little fuss.
In early June I had the opportunity to front the Association at the Toowoomba
Farmfest.
Mark Farrow fronts QSC at Farmfest
I must thank Col and the crew from Oakey Oil & Batteries for allowing me to setup inside his tent, it was a great two days.
I believe the exercise was a
success as a few membership forms were taken and local people seem to warm
to a club being on the Downs.
We had one strong lead of the person who may have some land to offer to
start a range in the area, lets cross our fingers.
The State committee is planning a all day meeting on the 25th September to plan the years ahead so I hope all interested parties attend.
Congratulations to Damien, Renae
and Maree Birgan for their selection in the Australian Team for the World
Titles in the UK. If it was not for the success of the these Queensland
shooters as part of the Australian Team last year this Association could
not do half the things that have been done this year.
The Government will pay for winning Gold medals where shooter won’t.
Great shooting to all
Mark Farrow
QSC President
QUEENSLAND TARGET REPORT JUNE 2005
The season is progressing well with three of the State Eliminations completed out of the five series. The Competition series has been well attended so far with the Queensland members chasing the points to make the cut for team selection, maybe the enthusiasm from last years Nationals has renewed the vigour in our State. The last two Eliminations at Gympie & Fraser coast have shown the increased complexity of target presentation which has elevated these clubs to a higher level & congratulations goes out to the Ground staff & target setters in providing value for the competitors coming to these events.
Open Top Ten:
Damien Birgan 30 points
Mike Birgan 26.5 points
Craig Brown 20 points
Peter Tobin 14.5 points
Renae Birgan 13 points
Glen Rider 12.5 points
Denis Dinte 12 points
Dale Whiting 6.5 points
Ian Grant 4 points
Mark Farrow 4 points
Veterans Selection
Les Power 5.5 points
Dennis Bullimore 4 points
Kerrod Kay 3.5 points
Bob Ross 2.5 points
Ian Clisdell 2 points
We have two Selections left in the series , 4th Selection at Brisbane on the 14th August & the State Titles on the 10th- 11th September also at Brisbane. See you there.
History has a way of repeating
itself & if we stay around long enough we can learn to speak French
& visit "Deja vu". The cycle of complaints from a very small
number of members always seem to turn full circle over time & as usual
it is the "Bash the Qld State" time again. "What does the
State do for me?". Well apart from the obvious that most take for granted......
providing the members with a legitimate reason to own a firearm. Through
the process & affiliations set up, the States provides a genuine reason
to possess a firearm...... COMPETITION SHOOTING. Whether you follow Competition
shooting or NOT, we all shoot at clay target on the club range & this
process allows a genuine reason for you to follow your sport & own a
firearm. This in it's own right should give the State some credence with
their efforts at State & National level in promoting your right as a
member of Queensland Sporting Clays to own a firearm.
The State Executive does NOT make decisions. The Individual Club Executives
attending vote on proposals at State meetings that are put forward in the
agendas presented for these meetings. It is the requests put forward by
the clubs that make up the State Agenda for that meeting. Is your club Executive
putting forward items for discussion? Are the Clubs attending the State
meetings? If your club executive does not make itself available for the
State meetings how can they vote? If you do not have input, how can you
get anything out? It isn’t rocket science, but at least with a QLD State
body your club gets the option of a say in what happens in Queensland &
at a National level.
You may also have noted the new
Clay target machines that have been purchased by the STATE & allocated
to each club in QLD for their use throughout the year in club competitions
& practise. The new State trailer that will be used to transport Traps
from the other clubs to State Selection Shoots & provide assistance
to the clubs that do not have a large supply of automatic traps & have
to rely on manual traps for these events. This is the State working for
the member with something that is not lost in paperwork & can be physically
seen.
The Scenario always comes to mind in the Monty Python movie "The life
of Brian", when the locals are up in arms against the Romans, "What
have the Romans ever done for us" they complain....enough said ???
Next time you are on the range & the old "whinge" chestnut
raises it's head have the gumption to tell the perpetrator to pull their
head in. If you have something constructive (instead of destructive) to
say let your State executive know & how you can assist them in improving
our sport & help out with an action, not by adding to their burden.
They are only to happy to have a helping hand.
Just for clarification, I am not on the State executive, but I certainly appreciate the extraordinary amount of voluntary time the Executive put into our sport that allows all of us the right to own a firearm.
Until next time
Glen Rider
QLD SHOOTS 2005
Selection Shoot – Brisbane 75 targets – 14th August
State Titles – Brisbane 150 targets – 10-11th September
Introducing for 2005
State Titles – Compak – Brisbane 100 targets – 2nd October
State Titles – English Sporting – Brisbane 100 targets – 31st July
Hi everyone there has been flurry
of activity within NSW on the shooting front since our last issue. With
selection shoots in Cooma and Dubbo, the two day Express Open in Sydney
and the Mudgee two day charity shoot all completed. With a selection shoot
in Sydney (3rd July) and the championship at Mudgee on the 10th/11th September
positions in the state team are still up for grabs and will probably go
down to the last target.
The Adrian Hayes team’s event it seems is no longer guaranteed to remain
in the hands of the Mudgee branch for 2005? So far this year there has been
a different branch taking the victory at each selection.
Don’t forget the Ardlethan-Beckom Grand opening shoot (golden cans &
clays) on the16/17th July for more information contact
Errol Foster 0269782310
Brad Richens 0269782362
A strange phenomenon regarding
postal nominations at NSW shoots has come to my attention. It seems 99%
of NSW shooters can not fill in a postal nomination form, WHY ?????. Only
they know.
Shoot organisers spend a lot of their own valuable time to ensure your shooting
days are enjoyable and also profitable for your sport. For some events,
eg Old Style FITASC, large shoots etc. postal noms are crucial to there
success. Mudgee’s resent charity shoot only received a handful of postal
noms yet over eighty shooters attended each day this makes catering tough
as well as organising ground staff. Sydney has an old style FITASC shoot
5th June postal nom, as of 20th May we have received four noms. As soon
as word went out the shoot would be cancelled the phone started to ring,
with the, oh but we were coming. So next time you see a postal nom shoot
form fill it in. It is for your benefit no one else’s. Special thanks to
the 1% who already make the effort.
VALE:
Howard James (Mick) SMITH
7 July, 1915 – 14 May, 2005
It is with much sadness we announce the passing of Mick Smith, proprietor of Mick Smiths Gun Shop at 777 George Street, Sydney.
Mick left us on Sunday morning, 14 May, 2005 after a short illness. Mick was known throughout Australia as the icon of shooting. In his prime he was an outstanding trap shooter, reaching International status in 1952, 1953, 1954 and 1956. He was selected for trial to compete in the Australian Trap team for the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. His mentors and mates included such legends as the great Newton Thomas.
However Micks’ passion was his business, the gun shop he opened in 1944 which remains at the same location and which up until his death he worked almost every day. At one time the business supplied to over 800 gun and sports stores throughout Australia.
Even at almost 90 years of age Mick still strongly supported shooting and the shooter. He was still an active sponsor of club competitions, particularly focussing his attention on Sporting Clays events due to its ever increasing popularity. He strongly supported events at Sydney Field and Game Club at Menai. The Mick Smith Shield, donated by Mick himself, stands proudly in the club rooms at Menai and I’m sure will be now even further hotly contested for during the annual event he so proudly sponsored.
With Micks’ passing the business will remain much the same with his sons Michael and Howard now running rhe business. Mick is survived by his two sons, his wife Beth, daughter in law Belinda and Granddaughter Cian. He will be sadly missed.
Terry Dawson
Mick Smiths Gun Shop.
Sydney
27 May 2005
Saturday 26th March Sydney’s postponed State Selection Shoot off, venue
Cooma.
Saturday afternoon the long awaited shoot off that was postponed from 20th
February between Barti Briganti, Brian McClelland and Bruce Wilesmith. Before
we started the shoot off the referee insisted all shooters complied with
the compulsory eye and ear protection. Unfortunately, one of the shooters
never wears eye protection. He did comply with the rules and was probably
at some disadvantage having never worn glasses before. (This rule is for
all persons entering the shooting range, spectators, referees, trappers
and shooters) After the next ten targets, Brian and Barti were left to continue
with sudden death on a long fast and rising going away bird. Brian shot
first and turned three birds to dust leaving Barti under extreme pressure
to match him. In the end, one bird kept flying leaving Brian as High Gun,
Barti AA 1st and Bruce AA 2nd. Congratulations to all.
Cooma Easter weekend.
Once again the Cooma branch started Easter with the State 20 gauge championship
on Good Friday, Saturday Sunday 200tgt event. Sundays 100 target State Selection
was held in crisp mountain weather, which warmed up as the day progressed.
Both A and B ranges presented a vast variety of targets to meet the interest
of the 100 plus shooters entered. Most NSW branches were well represented
with Sydney fielding over 20 entrants. The majority of shooters were happy
with the targets but struggled to bring in consistent rounds. Only one 25
was shot on the day. I had the honour of refereeing the Vets shoot off for
the two-day event on Sunday evening, between Alec Ceccato and Vaughan Ruddick,
these two shooters put on an impressive demonstration of shooting in the
failing light, (most targets were shot into the setting sun). Which went
down to the wire with Alec prevailing 10/10 to Vaughan’s 9/10.Vaughan had
some revenge however by taking out the Vets in the State Selection 100tgt
event. Shoot offs were held to decide the winners in AA A and HG. HG was
decided over the first 10 targets with Chris Davies the victor. That just
left Steve Payne and Peter Hall to continue with sudden death to establish
places in AA. This took 4 forty-yard crossers, 2 singles and simultaneous
pair per shooter, all of which were smashed convincingly. Then on to the
3 close rabbits only 10 yards. This stand broke the deadlock and ended a
fantastic exhibition of concentration from all involved (well done). As
State Referee and Target Director, it is unfortunate that over the weekend
I had to continually remind shooters of the then 3-month-old rule of compulsory
eye and ear protection.
PS since this report it has been confirmed that eye and ear protection is compulsory for everyone on the range shooters, trappers, spectators, refs etc. I’m pleased to report compliance is now 100% at all shoots I’ve attended recently.
State Selection Cooma results
S/OFF
HG
Chris Davis 88 98/111
AA
Steve Payne 88 105/119
Peter Hall 88 104/119
Chris Brown 87
A
Petter Passorni 91/111
Lee Cunningham 89/111
Gary Georgiou 88/111
B
Craig Kurtz 89/111
Mick Quinlan 86/111
Brett Hall 75/111
C
Doug Murray 72
Robert Edwards 70
Matt Leighton 65
Ladies.
Jenny Nichols 83
K Harris-Spencer 61
Rebecca Wilesmith 55
Vets
Vaughan Ruddick 84
Alec Ceccato 80
Ken Moore 74
Super Vets
Graham Rouse 65
B Brooks 64
R Sands 63
Jnr
Sid Thompson 73
J Drakos 64
T Findlow 49
Sub Jnr
J Passorni 81
A Brooks 65
Emma Neil 54
MUDGEE SPORTING CLAYS inc.
Charity Shoot was held on the 10th & 11th of April 2005
The Mudgee Club & its Members held a very successful two-Day Charity
Shoot for Westwead Hospital.
The proceeds going to
1- Millenium Institute
2 - Casuarina Lodge
The weather could not have been ordered any better with brilliant sun shine
each day with 80 plus shooters each day. Which was a bit disappointing for
all the effort we put in sending out flyers putting adds in shooting magazines
& some Radio advertising as well we put up $5000.00 worth of prizes
for the two days competition it is hard to know what else we have to do
to attract shooters to support clubs who try to put in the effort to help
worth while courses.
The Mudgee Club would like to thank all the people who made the effort to
help make this weekend as successful as it was with the great bidding at
the auction Saturday afternoon also the Calcutta Sunday and a big thanks
to all the sponsorship that was given in support of this Charity
The Mudgee Sporting Clays Club Raised $15,700.00 for the Charity
“Well done to all”
Suzy Balogh was the main attraction for the weekend all the shooters and
their family’s met & talked to Suzy. She stopped and had photos taken
with all the children, she gave them her gold medal put it around their
necks, put her arms around them and had photo after photo taken. The adults
also got the same response and the cameras started clicking again. Suzy
signed clays for all that wanted them which was everyone, she said $5.00
a clay that I sign and it goes to the charity then caps shooting jackets
gun cases came from every wear to be signed. Some one sang out sing us a
song and we’ll give even more so she then broke into an Abba song in front
of about 100 people which raised more for the charity “great stuff”
SUZY BALOGH is a real ambassador for shooting one of the best ambassadors
Australia has seen in our opinion.
The results are as follows
SATURDAY:
HIGH GUN
STEVE PAYNE 102 / 104
AA
BRAD HANSALL 96 /104
KEITH CAMRON 95 / 104
DARREN BALL 95 / 104
A
DAVID JACKSON 89 / 104
JAMES BYRNES 89 / 104
SAM SWEENY 89 / 104
INTERMEDIATE HIGH GUN SAM KOUDSY 75 / 104
B
AMANDA CONDRON 74 / 104
MICK THOMPSON 74 / 104
HEATH JONES 74 / 104
C
RENO MORGANTI 60 / 104
JIM CLARK 60 / 104
DINO SACCO 59 / 104
D
LIZ RUSSELL 48 / 104
MICK CLARK 34 / 104
SUNDAY RESULTS
OVERALL HIGH GUN KEITH CAMRON 100 / 104
AA
PETER KAY 97 /104
STEVE PAYNE 97 / 104
LEE CUNNINGHAM 95 / 104
A
ROB MURRY 90 / 104
BRETT HALL 89 / 104
JENNY NICHOLS 89 / 104
INTERMEDIATE HIGH GUN MICK THOMPSON 78 / 104
B
MATT LEIGHTION 70 / 104
J BAJAOA 70 / 104
SUZY BALOGH 69 / 104
C
LIONEL GORRIE 60 / 104
JAN WARD 59 / 104
JOSH THOMAS
D
MICK CLARK 50 / 104
Dubbo State Selection 15th May
High gun Steve Payne
AA
Brian McLelland 78
Greg Robinson 74
Scott O’Brien 72
A
David Mills S/O 74
Peter Kay S/O 74
Charlie Cudmore 73
B
Tas Touvras 68
Neville Owen 67
Allan Kentwell 65
C
John Dickey 60
George Kassiano 53
Matt Leighton 52
Vets
Alex Ceccato `73
Gordon Clark 72
Denis Coaker 64
Super Vets
Nick Nichols
Laurie Shaw
Ray Gordon
Jnr
Sid Thompson 59
Jake Cross 49
Sun Jnr
Emma Neal 48
Ladies
Jenny Nichols
Rebecca Wilesmith
Adrian Hayes
1st Sydney
2nd Dubbo
3rd Mudgee
See you round the traps
Paul Smidt
So far it has been a good year
with all clubs showing good attendances.
All VSCA Clubs have embarked on a Auto Trap purchase program and all shoots
in Victoria are now conducted using only Auto Traps.
This certainly helps with the financial side of things as we do not have
to pay trappers, nor do we have the worry of trapper injuries to deal with.
Our Junior Program is bearing fruit with Robert Hall and Blake Nankervis
both 15 years old being number 1 and 2 in the Australian Junior Team.
Membership is slowly increasing each year
Eight VSCA members have been chosen to represent Australia at the FITASC World Championships in England and we wish them well in their endeavours.
Open: John Younger, Brenton Irons
and Colin Johns
Ladies : Cherie Neilson
Juniors: Robert Hall, Blake Nankervis and James Clancy
Veterans: Barry Jane
Major Events - 2005
31st July - 100 Targets Old style
FITASC, Little River
24th-25th September - VSCA State Championships, Little River
14th-16th October - Federation 3 Day Nationals Carnival, Berri/ Renmark
President’s Report including
Hunting & Conservation
Last weekend Field & Game had a stand at Agfest for the 4th year and
it was by far the most productive. It would be reasonable to assume that
our membership will be increased as a result. It also created a good opportunity
for both the target and field divisions to work together for a common goal.
The atmosphere was a friendly one, both between ourselves and visitors to
our site. Thanks go to Loone’s Rural (agents for Polaris ATVs) and Gerald
Schnitzhofer with his “Possums with Attitude”, for their support. Also thanks
once again to Nathan Britton for his assistance in setting up the site.
To those members who contributed in making the venture a success, well done.
Northern Midlands has called for assistance from clubs to help run the Oceania and World titles if their application to host these events in 2007 and 2009 is successful. It is imperative that all clubs support this venture. The profile it would give to our organisation is huge. It also allows us to show a unified front to the community.
The Game Management Liaison Committee met this week. It was one of the better and most productive meetings yet. The new General Manager of the Nature Conservation Branch, John Whittington, has shown a willingness to listen and act on the wishes of the committee. This has given the group new confidence. It is proposed that a booklet be produced on the Code of Practice for Duck Hunting. The TFGA is proposing hunter training courses designed to combat the lack of young hunters. Field and Game has called for the opening of quail hunting for the whole state, not just the north.
The duck season has varied throughout the state. In the lower areas many dams have lost water. Therefore ducks have naturally moved to places like the lakes area and the rivers. Wood duck are still about in high numbers.
Many farmers are becoming concerned with high deer numbers. This has resulted in many properties being issued with crop protection permits. A number of hunters seem reluctant to harvest does which is quoted as a major reason for this population increase.
It is very pleasing to note that some field clubs are getting together for combined club shoots. This can only mean greater unity within our organisation. It is much easier for the target shooters to move from club to club because of the uniformity of rules. If they do not already do so, field clubs are urged to adopt the use of high visibility clothing eg blaze orange. UHF radios are also a great safety tool. These are becoming inexpensive. Safety must be the same for the field clubs as it is for the target clubs.
Thanks to Robert Anders for submitting material to the Federation newsletter. Support for him is very poor. Those who do not submit reports have no room for complaint.
All in all, the organisation is going forward but we need all clubs performing at the highest level. Recent media has suggested Field & Game is the number one organisation. Our standing with Government bodies is excellent. Let us keep our sights on being well regarded by all sections of the community.
Peter Darke,
State President
Branch News
Northern Midlands
Things are plodding along nicely at Northern Midlands. Our third tower is
now in place and ready to use. Our 3 new automatic traps are now available
and will be in use next shoot, making us fully automatic for normal club
events. It will be a great relief to not have the worry of trapper injuries
etc in the future.
We have been holding practice days the week before our usual club shoot
this year and these have been well attended and shooters’ scores are beginning
to improve as a result. We have also had a bit of interest from new young
shooters which is always welcome.
The 4th State qualifying shoot
was held at our range last week and so far the team positions are quite
open and will probably come down to the final event before the four open
members are clarified.
Some members have been having fun travelling to Oceania and Geelong for
major events. From all reports the boys enjoyed their time in New Caledonia.
We have quite a few members planning to attend the Nationals this year.
Hope to see lots of old faces and some new ones this year in Renmark.
We will once again host a 2 day
old style FITASC shoot in November (26th & 27th) so if you have nothing
planned for later in the year, give this some thought. Come to sunny Tasmania,
where the weather is beautiful one day, perfect the next !! You will be
most welcome.
Best wishes to all the National team members and shooters attending the
World Championships in the UK in July.
Stumpy.
Well duck season is almost over and we have not seen a protester.
A few months back it looked like we were going to get Bool Lagoon open and the A.L.M. started to assemble their forces but a few Freckled Duck flew in and the decision to open was rescinded.
If you shoot the Riverland or lakes it is hard to understand why the South East boys persist with the Bool.
These shooters and their fathers spent thousands of hours caring for and nurturing a crappy old swamp, now considered a wetland of world significance.
This fame has resulted in a stage for anti hunting protests and while taking the heat off other hunting areas, has unfairly cast the creators of this wetland as the villains.
When hunters and other people with a vested interest in their environment and the ability to recognise an impending problem no longer frequent these and other remote backwaters preventable problems will go undetected and fester resulting in the destruction of flora and fauna that will make duck hunting pale into insignificance.
State Titles at Mt Gambier.
Masters Games at Southern.
Nationals at Renmark.
The State Titles this year are
at Burrungle Park at the Mount and if you were around for the World Titles
you would have fond memories of this ground.
If you are travelling from interstate for the Nationals at Renmark, the
State Titles are two weeks before and the Masters Games are on at the Southern
Branch at Monarto the weekend between the States and the Nationals.
The State Title Nomination form is in this publication and you can get more
information on the Masters Games on the net.
Southern Branch News.
A little update on Monarto.
The sale of land at Monarto is proceeding slowly with council and E.P.A.
issues holding up settlement on the front paddock.
We had hoped to have it settled to provide new facilities for the Masters
Games but it just won’t happen
The committee has divided views on how much of the proceeds should be spent
on clubrooms and how much on new plant and equipment for the range and feel
the Southern members should be consulted.
If you have a view on this subject please make your feeling be known to
one or more of the committee members.
Congratulations to the Harvey club who on the 8th of May 2005 celebrated its 21st birthday. On the day the club hosted members from most other local WAFGA clubs and a number of past members including a strong contingent of the clubs founding members. It was great to see some of the old faces around the traps. A pleasant 75 target competition was enjoyed by all. Thanks to all the club members who provided support not only on the day but over the years. Their efforts have built the club to what it is today.
WA's 4th state team selection
event was held over a 75 targets at Wannamal club on the 15th of May. Some
new equipment ( traps ) recently purchased by the club as well some fantastic
ground which has not before been exploited as well as it was on this occasion,
set a foundation for a great shoot.
Congratulations to Wannamal. The efforts of the club is appreciated by all
shooters. A reminder to all shooters that the Western Australian Sporting
Clay Challenge will be held at the Wannamal Club on the weekend of the 13th
and 14th of August 2005. This is an open event shot over 150 targets with
over $10,000 worth of prizes on offer.
For further details contact Ray Moore at work on
(08) 9345 1611 or A/H on (08) 9447 6394
4th State Team Selection Shoot Results
HG
Tony Trainor
AA
Jon Dyas
A
Gary Turley
Damon Brown
B
Steve Bastow
Brendan Howard
Reno Brickhill
C
Bill Clarke
Matt Howard
Dave Walker
LADIES
Sarah Linn
Helen Godfrey
VETS
Roy Mayo
Norm Hancock
JUNIORS
Jason Gravenall
Rhys Howard
S/JUNIORS
Aaron Howe
Andrew Mansfield
State Qualifying shoots 2005
3rd July 75 tgs – Wanneroo
24th July 100 tgs Compak State Championships – Wannamal
7th August 100 tgs Sporting State Championships – Harvey
Australia's Major Shoots
for 2005
July:
3rd NSW – Selection Shoot
Sydney
3rd WA – Selection Shoot
Wanneroo
10th SA – Selection Shoot
Waikerie
14th-17th World Titles
England
August:
7th SA – Selection Shoot
Central
7th WA – State Titles
Harvey
7th Tas – Selection Shoot
South East
14th Qld – Selection Shoot
Brisbane
20th Vic – Selection Shoot
Geelong
21st SA – Selection Shoot
Lake Bonney
September:
10th- 11th Qld – State Titles
Brisbane
10th-11th NSW – State Titles
Mudgee
10th-11th Tas – State Titles
Penguin
18th SA – Selection Shoot
Southern
24th-25th Vic – State Titles
Little River
October:
2nd SA – State Titles
South East
14th English Sporting Nat
Renmark-Berri
15th Aust Sporting Nat
Renmark-Berri
16th Aust Sporting Nat
Renmark-Berri
November:
26th Vic – Selection Shoot
Port Phillip