Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions and their Answers
- Q: What if I just want to try the sport to see if I like it?
- A: Come along to the club on Wednesday afternoons or 3rd. Saturday each month- the club has a gun you can use. You will need to complete a form and provide proof of identity, (a drivers licence will do). Gun hire, 25 targets & 25 shotshells cost only $20. (special offer)
- Q: Is Clay Target Shooting a safe sport?
- A: Yes. Clay Target Shooting is very safe . Comprehensive safety rules are conspicuously displayed & strictly applied. View Safety Video
- Q: Is the sport well regulated and controlled?
- A: Yes. Clay Target Shooting is regulated by its National organisation and controlled by its State body, its zones and the individual Clubs.
- Q: Is clay target shooting recognized internationally?
- A: Yes. Practically every country in the world participates in the sport. It is a major Olympic sport.
- Q: How many different types of shooting are there?
- A: They are called shooting disciplines and there are quite a number. Trap, Skeet, Tower, Sporting Clays to name a few. These will become more apparent as you progress in the sport. Competition and practice is available in any or all those disciplines.
- Q: How often can I shoot at my club?
- A: We usually have one Trap, & one Skeet plus Sporting competition each month and the club is available for practice anytime. The club is looking to install machines that accept tokens to allow anyone to practice or have a competition, anytime.
- Q: What if I feel nervous when I first start?
- A: Everyone feels a little apprehensive at the start. We will stand next to you and remain until you feel fully confident.
- Q: Are there handicaps and grades?
- A: Yes. You will always be handicapped and graded according to your ability. Grades are AA, A, B & C. There is also a Junior grade for shooters under 18yrs. Handicaps are based on measured distances from the trap.
- Q: Can I get coaching & what does it cost?
- A: Yes. coaching is always available and includes instruction on gun safety and handling. This service is free.
- Q: What sort of equipment do I need?
- A: Start with a 12 gauge shotgun which normally is of the 'under & Over' type, we recommend that new shooters borrow & try many different shotguns before purchasing their own. The club will loan you a shotgun if you haven't one. Ear and eye protection are required. A shooting jacket is optional.
- Q: Where can I purchase Ammunition?
- A: Ammunition is available from the Club or from sporting stores in your town.
- Q: What sort of Police Firearms Licence do I need?
- A: Category 'A' firearms license is all that is necessary. You must belong to a clay target club or have another genuine use for a shotgun. Follow these three simple steps... [ I ]: Join our club. [ 2 ] Apply for a shooters license. (we will help you) [ 3 ] Come on out & enjoy!
- Club membership is only $35 per year, ACTA affiliation fee is $110 (less for juniors & veterans) QTCA fee is $10.00. The Safety Course fee is approx $100. The Weapons Licence Fee is presently about $80. for 5 years.
- Q: Is there a dress code for Clay Target Shooting?
- A: There most certainly is. You will require closed shoes, joggers or boots. (no thongs) casual dress but no singlets and no camouflaged apparel of any kind.
- Q: What facilities can I expect to find at a Club?
- A: All Clubs provide basic facilities. Most have various forms of refreshment and food facilities available.
- Q: Will I be able to compete at other Clubs in Australia?
- A: Most certainly. This is one of the most rewarding parts of our sport. The friendship and social interaction on these occasions is one of the sport's most enjoyable features.
- Q: What is the highest level I could achieve?
- A: Many competitors such as Michael Diamond, Russell Mark & Desiree Baynes have reached Olympic standard and have won Gold, Silver, and/or Bronze. Others have become Zone, State, or National champions. Many achieve a warm satisfaction from simply competing or just being part of a great activity with a group of fine sportsmen & women.
- Q: Am I covered by Insurance?
- A: There is a basic Insurance Cover for loss of income & against injury whilst on the grounds.
- Q: Can I shoot other than clay targets whilst at the club?
- A: Absolutely not! It is an offence to shoot at any thing other than targets or pattern board, including all wildlife on our grounds. Any activity of this sort will result in expulsion & may mean loss of license.
