SSAA NSW

Introducing SSAA NSW Boorowa Branch The NSW Shooter recently caught up with the President of the new SSAA NSW Boorowa Branch – Mike Crockford. "We are very keen on covering as many aspects of the sport as we can, so that we can cater to as many different people as possible." Located 100km north of Canberra between the towns of Yass, Young and Cowra lies the town of Boorowa in the South West Slopes. Well known as one of the State's finest wool growing regions, it is now also home to the newest SSAA NSW Branch. And there's even a chance, down the road, of a new range. "We've already passed a couple of hurdles with Boorowa Council and we're working closely with SSAA NSW on draft plans so the search is definitely on for suitable land." On his own shooting background Mike says: "In 1967 I inherited my Dad's Remington .22 semi-auto which I used to use to shoot rabbits at Marulan. It was here I learned about the importance of firearm safety. I also used to travel to Brewarrina hunting feral pigs. I loved spending time in the fresh air getting some exercise and enjoying camping and campfires. In 1997 I decided to move from Campbelltown to Boorowa and needed a firearm for feral animal control, and when my son got involved in a Western Action Club I joined a local rifle club as well." One of the drivers behind the new Branch is Mike Crockford. "In September 2012 a group of locals decided to form a shooting club in Boorowa. When it came time to look at issues like insurance we got in touch with SSAA NSW and that was how we got started. We started with 12 members, but more than 40 came along to our inaugural meeting attended by SSAA NSW Executive Director Diana Melham." "I've just recently received my Probationary Pistol Licence and enjoy the challenge of always improving my scores. I also enjoy shooting Benchrest and I've just started re-loading which I'm finding both soothing and addictive." Of the meeting Diana says: "There was a lot of excitement about finally having a local Branch, and it was great to be able to visit Boorowa and speak with some of the local shooters who were eager to get their own Branch." "SSAA NSW Boorowa Branch now takes us to 49 Member Branches throughout the State, meaning that anyone who is looking to get involved in the safe, fun and unique range of shooting sports, doesn't have to look far." As the first SSAA NSW Boorowa Branch President, Mike is keen to see the Branch cater for as many shooters as possible. Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (NSW) Inc. SSAA NSW wishes Mike and the rest of the SSAA NSW Boorowa Branch every success. Tim Horan SSAA NSW Media & Communication Manager 5

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