SSAA Victoria is looking forward to a big year in 2016, with a Federal Election, the National Firearms Technical Review and the Great Forest National Park proposal all coming to a head. The Board, State Office and ranges staff have all hit the ground running, with many projects already under way and due for completion during the year.
First, we want to acknowledge last year’s successes as many projects from 2015 helped build the foundations for a more successful 2016. Last year saw huge changes at SSAA Victoria. Some of the projects undertaken were:
- Extending the Springvale Range trading days from three days to five per week
- -Introducing the five stand range at Eagle Park
- Developing new range rules for Springvale and Eagle Park in consultation with sub-clubs and user groups
- Implementing Springvale Range’s new range rules
- Introducing the Gold Membership – $25,000 worth of insurance for firearms and fixed accessories for just $25 – at a State level
- Introducing the Eye and Ear Protection Policy
- Hosting the successful 2015 SHOT Expo
- Re-introducing R-licence testing at the State Office
- Employing a Marketing and Communications Manager to co-ordinate the website, events and member correspondence
- Revamping the Victorian Shooter bi-monthly electronic magazine
- Developing and testing a new Range Officer training course
- Helping undertake the Wilsons Promontory Hog Deer Trial
- Assisting Parks Victoria with our CPM program across the State
In 2016, just some of the projects SSAA Victoria will focus on include:
- The roll-out of a revamped Conservation and Pest Management Accreditation course
- Re-validation for all CPM accredited operators
- The roll-out of the new Range Officer training course
- Re-validation for all Range Officers (December)
- A redesign of the website incorporating responsiveness and modern features
- Capital works projects at the Springvale Range, supported by Government grants. These include:
- Revamping of ranges three and four
- A potential redevelopment of front entry and office space
- A lead-removal project
- Numerous minor upgrades
- Projects earmarked for Eagle Park include
- Repairs to the aging main range roof
- Employment of a new Assistant Manager
- Implementing new range rules (January 2)
- Certification of a 200m centrefire range at Cobaw
- Attendance at the Wild Deer Expo, the National 4X4 show, Elmore Field Days and the Melbourne Arms and Militaria Fair
- Ongoing work with politicians, key industry partners, government and police, to ensure our members’ voices are heard
Members will be kept up to date with all the major issues and projects through regular e-newsletters, breaking news alerts, the Victorian Shooter, the website and social media channels.
All of the above projects have been made possible through the ongoing support and loyalty of our 36,000 members – so thank you. We look forward to servicing your needs throughout 2016.
In order to continue improving member experiences, SSAA Victoria would appreciate your taking the time to complete this online survey. The results will assist us in shaping our plans for 2016.