SSAA NSW

From Diana's Desk Branch Visits Since my last column I have had the opportunity to visit or speak with a number of our Branches to find out about the great ways that they are promoting the safe, fun and unique range of shooting sports in their local community. Recently I visited Greg Hannon and his team in Wagga Wagga for a new SSAA NSW initiative. Working with the local Council, SSAA NSW set up our Mobile Air Rifle Range in Bolton Park on Thursday and Friday and encouraged local residents to come and try the sport for themselves (you can find the full story on Page 4-5). Initially we were unsure of what kind of numbers to expect, but almost 100 people came and tried the Range for themselves over the two days. Then, on Saturday morning, SSAA NSW Wagga Branch held a Try Shooting Day out at the Big Springs Range which was attended by another 50 new shooters eager to have a go. I have just returned from SSAA NSW Dubbo Branch who held a Fun Shoot over the weekend to encourage members who may not use the Range regularly to come and participate in the social event and meet fellow members. Thanks to Steven Pope, Warren Charlton and Steve Ellis from SSAA NSW Dubbo Branch for the invitation to attend your Fun Shoot. MOBILE AIR RIFLE RANGE – PENRITH GUN SHOW SSAA NSW has recently introduced a $5 range fee for those members who use the Range to complete a target attendance at the Penrith Gun Show in order to comply with their obligations under the Firearms Regulation 2006. This decision was taken to bring the use of this SSAA NSW range into line with all others throughout the State where a member visits a range to complete an attendance is required to pay a range fee to offset the running costs of that range. SSAA NSW at AgQuip Later this month SSAA NSW will be attending AgQuip in Gunnedah, looking to spread a positive message about shooting, hunting and our Association. AgQuip is the largest Agricultural event held in Australia, and will be a great opportunity for SSAA NSW to speak with people from around the State. SSAA NSW staff will be joined by volunteers from the Narrabri and Gunnedah Branches. Look out for a full report in a future edition of the NSW Shooter. 50,000 Members This Month We brought you an update last month on the progress of our membership drive, and it is worth updating again. SSAA NSW now expects to pass the 50,000 member mark this month. Almost 5 full months ahead of schedule. Many of our members – particularly our hunters – don't regularly visit a Range, but events like the Dubbo Fun Shoot are a great opportunity for members to get together and have a lot of fun. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (NSW) Inc. Check the September NSW Shooter for more information about our lucky 50,000th member! Diana Melham Executive Director - SSAA (NSW) Inc. 3

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