Issue link: http://ssaansw.uberflip.com/i/436457
Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (NSW) Inc. 8 HuntFest 2015 has been approved to sell fi rearms and ammunition as well as host SSAA NSW's Mobile Air Rifl e Range (MARR) after the Eurobodalla Shire Council voted in favour of an amendment to the festival's fi rearms permit. The application, passed by a majority of fi ve to two, is a signifi cant decision for HuntFest organisers, hunting enthusiasts and sporting shooters and has come after months of hard work and lobbying. South Coast Hunters Club President and HuntFest organiser, Dan Field, says the decision will give the Narooma community and surrounding businesses an important boost and help the sport and its shooters in the area. "The biggest win is for the local community, it's a huge win and now every year in the quiet season they can expect a million dollar injection of funds. It keeps businesses alive, the kids here and helps us showcase our sport," Mr Field said. "It [the decision] showed that a small rural club can take on a huge organisation like the Greens and win, we never lied, and we were always truthful and always forthcoming. The misinformation, lies and the harassment of our committee and families was unbelievable and we beat it." SSAA NSW Executive Director, Diana Melham, congratulated the organisers of HuntFest and the South Coast Hunters Club on the landmark decision and praised their hard work and dedication to making the festival even better in 2015. "It's a great decision and I applaud the organisers for their efforts. HuntFest 2015 will be one of the biggest events next year and we cannot wait to be a part of HuntFest again next year and this time with our Mobile Air Rifl e Range." Mr Field said getting approval for the MARR is one of the most exciting and signfi ciant additions to next year's HuntFest. "The Air Rifl e Range for us was just as big as having fi rearms and ammunition for sale. Families who aren't into the sport can come along and see how things work and importantly see the safety aspect and the kids get to experience it as well." Narooma HuntFest 2015 will be held on Saturday 6 June and Sunday 7 June 2015 at the Narooma Sport and Leisure Centre, corner of Princes Highway and Bluewater Drive Narooma. Entry fee will be $10 (per day). If you would like to exhibit at the festival or fi nd out more, visit www.huntfest.com.au or email huntfest@ optusnet.com.au. Big Win for Huntfest 2015 Council approves sale of fi rearms and mobile air rifl e range HuntFest 2014 attracted more than 2600 visitors Organisers Alan Millar (left) and Dan Field (right) welcome everyone to HuntFest 2014