field & game australia 2014–2015€¦ · 4 fie ustralia annual report 2014–15 the...

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA2014–2015

Annual Report

1Field & Game Australia

ANNUAL REPORT 2014–15

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA


CONTENTSThe Organisation ...................................................... 4

Board and Staff ......................................................... 5

Appointments ........................................................... 6

From the Chairman ................................................... 7

General Manager’s Report ........................................ 9

Director of Policy & External Relations ................... 11

2014–15 Financial Report .........................................13

Membership .............................................................16

Member and Branch Awards ...................................17

Clay Target Shooting ................................................21

Wetlands Environmental Taskforce ....................... 24

Hunting and Game Management .......................... 25

Milestones ............................................................... 27

Contact Field & Game Australia Inc.In person: 65 Anzac Avenue, Seymour 3660By post: PO Box 464, Seymour 3661Email: [email protected]: (03) 5799 0960Fax: (03) 5799 0961Web: www.fga.net.auTwitter: www.twitter.com/fieldandgameFacebook: www.facebook.com/fieldandgame



GUIDE TO ANNUAL REPORTThis is the annual report of Field & Game Australia Inc. for the financial year ending June 30, 2015. The report provides information from the Board, branches and stakeholders of Field & Game Australia Inc. about the organisation’s operations and performance; and is presented at the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). Field & Game Australia Inc. cannot be held liable for any printing errors in this document.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSContributors:Rachel Berry; Tom Chick; Rod Drew; Jim Godden; David Hawker, AO; Kym Makin; David McNabb; Alison O’Connor; Bill Paterson; Noreen Sloan; Daryl Snowdon; Robert Treble.

Printed by:Willprint, Shepparton.

Feedback:We welcome your comments regarding this report. Send your feedback through to [email protected], or phone (03) 5799 0960.



FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA

OUR MISSIONTo be the most effective organisation in the promotion of hunting, recreational shooting and habitat conservation.

OUR VALUESThe purpose for which the Association is formed is to:

ʠ Specifically sustain, enhance, and nurture responsible activities of members.

ʠ Encourage, promote and practice the active conservation of game and habitat, and to undertake education and training of members to achieve that goal.

ʠ Cooperate with government agencies and landholders in the promotion of game hunting in an orderly and accepted manner, and to respect the privilege of gun ownership.

ʠ Promote public understanding and acceptance of our activities and to cooperate with other bodies which may have similar objectives.

ʠ Unite field sportsmen in the respect of game and habitat, to promote good sportsmanship through supervised shooting ranges, target shooting and, where appropriate, to conduct local, state and national events to encourage the sport and stimulate participants to excel in their chosen pastime.

WHO WE ARE

Field & Game Australia was established in 1958 by hunters who were concerned at the loss of wetland habitat for the game birds they loved to observe and hunt. Field & Game Australia is now the nation’s most progressive firearm, hunting

and conservation organisation, with over 50 years of service to hunters, target shooters and conservation projects. It represents over 17,000 members, with members of the Association still united by their interest in shooting and their desire to see Australia’s wetlands preserved for future generations.

OUR PATRONSThe Right Honourable Malcolm Fraser, AC, CH, GCL, Prime Minister of Australia (Dec).

Professor Grahame Webb, BSc (Hons), PhD.

The Honourable David Hawker, AO.



THE ORGANISATION

OUR BRANCHESVictoriaArarat/StawellBairnsdaleBallaratBar-rookBenallaBendigoCastertonClunesClunesCobramColacColeraineCranbourneDarlingtonDonaldDunollyEchuca-MoamaFrankston

GeelongGrampiansGreenvaleKyabramMallacootaMCC Clay Target ClubMelbourneMetropolitanMinyipMoeMorningtonMorwellMount WycheproofNatimukOrbostPinegrovePort PhillipPortland/HeywoodRushworthRutherglen

SaleSeymourSheppartonSouth GippslandSunraysiaSwan HillTimboonTraralgonWarrnamboolWesternportWodonga/Albury

New South WalesBalranaldDeniliquinGoulburn WorkersWagga Wagga

TasmaniaDorsetFurneaux

HuonSouth-East

QueenslandBurdekinCapricorniaQueensland

South AustraliaBarmera–MoorookKeithKingston South-East

Northern TerritoryNorthern Territory

Australian Capital TerritoryCanberra

Western AustraliaBroome

NATIONAL OFFICE STAFF David McNabb Rod Drew Daryl Snowdon Noreen Sloan Lauri Rowe Shelley Gough Kirsty Smith Alison O’Connor Rachel Berry

THE BOARDChairman Bill Paterson

Vice Chairman Tom Chick

Board Members Mark Daley (co-opted in November, 2014) Rick Foster Manny Giapitzakis Peter Hawker Robert Treble

Board Meeting Attendance

Board Member Meetings Held Meetings AttendedBill Paterson 6 6

Tom Chick 6 6

Mark Daley 2 2

Rick Foster 6 4

Manny Giapitzakis 6 4

Peter Hawker 6 4

Robert Treble 6 5



Bill Paterson

Tom

Chick

Rick Foster

Rob Treble

Manny

Giapitzakis

Peter Haw

ker

Mark D

aley

David M

cNabb

Rod Drew

Dary

l Snowdon

Noreen Sloan

Lauri Rowe

Shelley G

ough

Kirsty

Smith

Alison O

’Connor

Rachel BerryBOARD AND STAFF

Chairman Second year of a second 3-year term.

Vice Chairman First year of a second 3-year term.

Board Member Up for nomination at 2015 AGM.

Board Member First year of his second 3-year term.

Board Member Second year of a second 3-year term.

Board Member Up for nomination at 2015 AGM.

Board Member Co-opted for 1 year.

National Office General Manager

National Office Director of Policy & External Relations

National Office Development Manager

National Office Operations and Finance Administrator

National Office Membership Officer



National Office Communications Officer

National Office Communications Officer



APPOINTMENTS

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIAAuditor Brian McCleary & Co.Australian Environment Foundation Rod DrewCampaspe Environmental Water Advisory Group John HoweCombined Firearms Council of Victoria Bill Paterson (Chair) Peter HawkerEmergency Closures Advisory Committee (Victoria) David McNabbGame Management Authority (GMA) (Victoria) Rod Drew Mark LittleGMA Stakeholder Group (Victoria) David McNabb Bill PatersonFirearm Consultative Committee (Victoria) Rick Foster Bill PatersonFirearms User Group (Victoria) Peter HawkerGunbower Island Stakeholders Group and Tom ChickGunbower Creek Community Reference Group Tom ChickKerang Environmental Water Advisory Group Mark DaleyLoddon Environmental Water Advisory Group Mark DaleyNorthern Territory Firearms Council George HennessyShepparton Irrigation Regional Wetlands Committee Tom ChickTasmanian Game Management Liaison Committee Adam ChurchillVictorian Firearm Safety Council Russ Bate, OAM (Chair) Bill Paterson

WETLANDS ENVIRONMENTAL TASKFORCE TRUST COMMITTEESHeart Morass Committee of Governors David Hawker, AO Bill Paterson Rod DrewHeart Morass Project Implementation Committee Gary Howard Rick FosterAustralian National Hunting Archive Max Downes Bill Paterson David McNabbConnewarre Wetland Centre Committee Ian McLachlan Rod Drew Peter Anderson

LIFE MEMBERSDr Hugh Martin, MBE (Dec)Ron Bryant (Dec)Doug Hemingway, MBE (Dec)Des Thomas, OAM (Dec)Phil Brown, OAM

John Foster (Dec)Rex CambreyAllan GrahamRuby Cato (Dec)Geoff Proudfoot

Gary HowardAlbert Chamberlain (Dec)Graham EamesIan McLachlanRon Danby

Rick FosterRuss Bate, OAM



FROM THE CHAIRMAN

It has been another year of growth and intense activity for Field & Game Australia. Membership continues to grow year on year and we have now reached 17,000 members. The Board is very aware of the challenge to keep our members engaged and seeing value for money in their membership, and service to members continues to be our

prime focus.

Communication is key to good member service and I’m pleased to be able to confirm that Field & Game Australia has completed a tender process for a completely new communications platform, which will position us for the new digital age. This will see a complete relaunch of our magazine, website, newsletters and our whole approach to communicating with our members.

As with any major change, there will be some business relationships which will come to an end. This will be the case with Black Duck, the publisher of our current magazine Feathers & Fur. The proprietors of Black Duck, Graham and Julie Eames, have done a fantastic job over many years, bringing the Field & Game message to our members and prospective members. The Board would like to recognise and thank Graham and Julie for their contribution over this period, and to recognise that Feathers & Fur has played a major part in the success of Field & Game Australia.

A major acquisition was made last year with the support of the Victorian Government’s Shooting Sports Facilities Program. Field & Game Australia has purchased the property on which the Greenvale Field & Game shooting ground is located. This property is located near Kilmore and within an hour’s drive of Melbourne, with an area

of around 500 acres, which gives enough buffer from neighbours to ensure our ability to operate there for many years to come.

If we ever do have to move, then we have an asset which we can sell and use the proceeds to purchase a replacement shooting ground. This is a tremendous outcome and gives us a great base which will improve our ability to host competitions, as well as utilise our conservation expertise.

We have seen a change in the Victorian state government after the elections in November. The GMA has had its Action Plan progress, with the assistance of the Andrews Labor government, and we hope to see the official release sometime in 2015. Once this is complete, I would expect the GMA to start the extensive work which the Plan outlines. I think it is fair to say that we were not impressed with the process undertaken last year by the GMA to decide on the 2015 Victorian Duck Season.

The GMA deemed it appropriate to invite not only hunting organisations, but also the RSPCA, Birds Australia and another animal welfare group. The logic for this was that we were all ‘stakeholders’. I disputed this, pointing out that a ‘stakeholder’ is someone interested in the success of an activity, not someone committed to its abolition.Above: Just a slice of the wonderful Willowmavin property.



Not surprisingly, the outcome was that no-one was happy. Hunters saw the reduced bag limits as ineffective and many decided not to go out; and the animal welfare groups wanted no season at all. If the ducks are scarce, then most hunters will not get their bag, and again the research data confirms this. There is no

evidence which shows a benefit to duck numbers by reducing bag limits to low numbers, but hunters are less inclined to put the effort into waterfowl hunting if they are restricted on their bag. This is despite the fact that, in lean years, they are unlikely to get anywhere near 10 birds for the table. All hunters believe they are good enough to get a full bag in a poor season.

The logical thing to do for the GMA is to simply follow the legislated season dates and 10-bird bag, and stop fiddling with them. There is no benefit to duck population, which is overwhelmingly influenced by water availability, while reducing seasons and bag limits effects the amount hunters spend in the rural economy.

One initiative of the GMA which has been landed is the Shotgunning Education Program (SEP). The equipment has been delivered to Field & Game Australia and several courses have run already. This is an excellent program which improves hunter’s skills, particularly in achieving clean kills.

On the simulated field clay target front, we have had another successful year, the highlight of which was our National Carnival at Seymour. Again, we had to limit the numbers to 500 competitors, and it was a great event with a lot of very good feedback from our members. The 2015 National Carnival will be hosted by the Pinegrove Branch.

Our branch ‘Come and Try’ days continue to be very popular, with increased participation, and they provide another channel for new members.

Our staff continue to provide great member service and we have welcomed to the team Daryl Snowdon as Development Manager. Daryl has a long family history with Field & Game Australia, from the old days when we had ‘trap boys’; to the present, which sees him in the role of President of the Port Phillip branch, and last

year’s recipient of the Hugh Martin Medal. Daryl has the responsibility for the Field & Game Australia SEP program.

I would like to thank our hard-working office staff and my dedicated fellow Board members for their commitment and perseverance.

Bill Paterson, Chairman

Above: The SEP has proven popular – hands-on workshops by hunters, for hunters.



GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT

Hard to believe that a year and more has passed since I penned the report for 2014. Hunting seasons have come and gone, as have state elections, events, expos; and branches have continued to run their busy calendar of events – thanks to our incredibly passionate members. Earlier this year, the Board and management met

to define our key areas for focus in 2015. This planning ensures we have good alignment of our strategic objectives with our financial performance. The areas for focus identified are conservation; communications; and our structure (including our constitution); while continuing to maintain service delivery to members and branches; provide advocacy on firearms, hunting, and environment to achieve good policy outcomes; and develop plans for the exciting Willowmavin property purchase.

Achieving the objectives set for the Association in these areas of focus are only possible from the work by many volunteers, your Board, and the Field & Game Australia team. This variety of objectives demonstrates the compelling need for regular, up-to-date communications which keep our members and stakeholders informed. I’m sure you have noticed the uplift in frequency and content with the communications you’re receiving. The increased use of social media across the branch network is another sign of how much effort and resource goes into keeping our members connected with our branches and our Association.

This has created exciting opportunities to redesign our entire communication platforms. These changes are designed to allow us to use current technology and tools to better inform, educate, and entertain our members. Our members are our ambassadors and it’s vital to keep members informed. By the time this report is read, we will be announcing a number of exciting developments.

The 2014–15 year contained the certainty of continual change. Throughout this, we have endured change from a favourable Coalition government in Victoria, game bird hunting in three states and one territory, a varied approach by government agencies to bag limits across states, in spite of similar conditions, and science-led decision making which increased quail hunting opportunities in South Australia.

Hunting

One of the constants was the opening weekend experiences around Australia. Families and friends gathering yet again at favourite wetlands

to participate in the cultural traditions of hunting. The excitement before season opening was palpable and fantastic to be a part of, with good numbers attending Field & Game Australia’s Duck Fever nights in Victoria.

Regrettably, in Victoria the opening weekend meant the usual circus by those opposed to our lawful pursuit of hunting. This continues to tie up a huge number of police and government agencies to manage a small number of people on a handful of wetlands. There is a better way to do this.

This year we extended our waterfowl research efforts, making this initiative more public, with Associate Professor Graham Hall and PhD student Alison Cash joining Field & Game Australia at the Victorian opening weekend, near Kerang. This allowed for the collection of valuable research data, helping also the Westmead Hospital with their research into mosquitoes and Ross River virus. There was fantastic interest from hunters and media in the Field & Game Australia research and, interestingly, there was also some begrudging interest by protesters.

Quail hunting around Australia again presented challenges for many keen hunters. The scarcity of good habitat (and, therefore, quail) demonstrates the critical need to manage habitat for our wildlife. It’s reinforced how habitat surveys allow us to better benchmark and assess conditions for hunting prospects, and complements our regular waterfowl surveys to assist with season recommendations.



Conservation

Our conservation credentials differentiate our Association from many others. The relationship between conservation and hunting is a critical message to share with the communities in which we live and work. Our Wetlands Environmental Taskforce (WET) Trust projects such as the Heart Morass, Connewarre Wetland

Centre, and Australian National Hunting Archive showcase the diverse role of conservation.

Education

Hunter education is an enormously important service, and I was delighted to see the SEP launched in February. I must take the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication by many members who contributed to the program development over several years. This is a fantastic program, suitable for both novice and

experienced hunters; providing world class, practical skills to improve your hunting. I commend SEP to every member: at the very least go along and have a look at a SEP workshop being run by or near your branch.

Working gundogs have allowed us to combine events and hunter education. Members have access to some of Australia’s leading gundog trainers, many of whom are Field & Game Australia members and active hunters. A well-trained gundog complements the skills honed in SEP workshops, resulting in a better hunting experience and recovery of game.

Events

The year has been very active with events; this allows members and the public to connect with our team. We also get to tell the Field & Game Australia story to prospective members. This includes the 2014 Politicians’ Clay Target competition, a very successful event which continues to grow each year.

Events for members include the extremely active calendar of clay target shooting events held each weekend around the country. These are hugely important as access to land and the ability to shoot becomes more difficult; and they also provide competition, connection with other recreational shooters, skills development, and safe firearms instruction for novices and students. The school competition shooting programs across the branch network saw almost 2,000 students enjoying the safe use of firearms.

The 2014 National Carnival, hosted by Seymour branch, attracted over 500 competitors and delivered another great event which invested over $300,000 into the local economy. Preparations for the 2015 National Carnival at Pinegrove have been rigorous – again, over 500 competitors are looking forward to another fantastic weekend of simulated field clay target sports.

Membership continues to grow steadily and our members remain our greatest asset. We continue to focus on delivering value for our members, through regular communications, insurances, access to Australia’s fastest growing shooting sports, and hunter education.

We are in an exciting time for conservation, hunting, and the clay target sports. We also continue to face many challenges. The demand for the

resources necessary to achieve our objectives has created a great collaborative relationship with other hunting and recreational shooting organisations. This unites and coordinates our efforts, achieving better outcomes for all hunters and shooters.

David McNabb, General Manager

Above: The Nationals took out first place at the 2014 Politician’s Clay Target Competition. L-R, John Cobb MP, Senator Nigel Scullion and Senator Bridget McKenzie.



DIRECTOR OF POLICY & EXTERNAL RELATIONS

The 2014–15 year will go down as an outstanding year of achievement for Field & Game Australia. Starting July 1, a new statutory authority, the GMA commenced operations. Field & Game Australia had been actively lobbying both sides of government for a game authority in Victoria for almost 20 years – it was the Coalition government

who finally delivered the GMA, and for this, we thank the former Agriculture Minister, Peter Walsh, for his leadership and commitment to finally make it happen. This is a fantastic achievement, and will help to cement the future of sustainable game management and hunting in Victoria. Minister Walsh appointed a board of nine, chaired by the Hon. Roger Hallam to manage the GMA for the next 3 years.

Government relations continues to be an important focus for Field & Game Australia, and this year was no exception: many politicians were visited throughout the year. Educating politicians, their staff, and public servants about the incredible history and ongoing contribution that our members make to the environment, economy and social fabric of Australian society is so important, particularly in a changing world where the divide between urban and rural people continues to grow.

The launch of the ‘Parliamentary Friends of Shooting’ group in the Federal Parliament in Canberra this year was a milestone event for the shooting sports. A bipartisan group of federal politicians were instrumental in making this happen. The group will run a small number of shooting events each year to introduce politicians and their staff to the sport. They will also be holding a day for the National Press Club later this year.

The Victorian Government launched a grant funding program, the Shooting Sports Facilities Program. Field & Game Australia were successful in their application for funds to purchase the Weybury family property at Willowmavin, where the Greenvale branch have been based for the last 15 years. The Association has recognised for some time that security of tenure is paramount if the target shooting sports are to survive. The location of this property and the terrain is ideal for Field & Game Australia to establish a world-class shooting complex in the future.

Left: Members of Greenvale Field & Game, the Weybury family, Minister Damian Drum, the Nationals’ Steph Ryan and Field & Game Australia’s Rod Drew at the announcement of the Willowmavin grant.Right: Rob Nioa, Luca Scribani-Rossi, Bridget McKenzie, Clive Pugh, Josh Raymond and Danny Galea at the Parliamentary Friends of Shooting group launch.



On February 11, the National Parliament in Canberra was the venue for the launch of the Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia (SIFA) (Ltd.). SIFA has been established by the five major Australian firearm industry wholesalers, and its purposes are:

ʠ to inform and educate governments, political parties, regulatory and statutory authorities, and the community about the impact of legislation, regulation, and government policies on sporting and recreational shooting, and the shooting industry;

ʠ to represent, promote and advocate the interests of sporting and recreational shooters, hunters, and the shooting industry to governments, political parties, parliamentary and regulatory bodies, and the community;

ʠ to inform and educate the community about firearms and their use, and the benefits of sporting and recreational shooting, and hunting to the community; and

ʠ to promote the safe and proficient use of firearms.

A highlight for the Association during the year was the Geelong branch 50th Anniversary celebrations. Field & Game Australia’s Chairman and staff attended, along with over 150 guests, including life members and nine past presidents.

The November election in Victoria saw the Andrews Labor government elected for the next 4 years. Although Labor went to the election without a hunting policy, new Minister Jaala Pulford expressed strong support for the continuation of the newly established GMA, and signalled no radical changes when she met for the first time with hunting stakeholders in January 2015.

Over the last 18 months, a number of clubs in South Australia have expressed interest in affiliating with Field & Game Australia. During the reporting period, we visited a number of these clubs, and secured affiliation for both the Keith and Barmera–Moorook branches. Both these branches are welcome additions to the Field &

Game Australia branch network. The Barmera–Moorook branch have a proud history of conservation through their custodianship of the Loveday wetland complex; and the Keith branch have established a target range and run regular

monthly shoots.

The board has engaged a consultant to undertake a comprehensive review of the Association’s Constitution. The current constitution was adopted in 2002 and now needs to be modernised to reflect legislative changes that have occurred in recent years, and changes in technology.

A draft constitution will be circulated to branches for consideration before going to Council for decision in 2016.

Rod Drew, Director of Policy & External Relations

Above: The Geelong Field & Game 50th Anniversary Dinner.



2014–15 FINANCIAL REPORT

It is with great pleasure that I present this year’s report on the financial affairs of the Association. The following graphic report is a snapshot of the operating results and financial position. Audited, detailed financial statements are provided to branches.

Once again, an operating surplus of $68,553 has been achieved. Over past years modest surpluses have been targeted and have resulted in significant cash holding.

At June 30, 2015, Field & Game Australia held $930,674 in cash accounts. It is important to have and to build cash holdings in order to take advantages of opportunities such as the Shooting Sports Facilities Program, to secure strategic investments for the future. It is also vital to maintain holdings to protect members’ rights against challenges that may arise, regarding firearm ownership, hunting access and continuity, as well as threats to clay target ranges.

Membership income has risen due to overall membership growth in the 2014–15 year.

Membership-related expenditure, postage, communications, and branch rebates have also increased in proportion to the increase in membership numbers. The year also saw an increase in staffing costs, due to staffing changes over the past 2 years.

As a general summary, the year has been a financial success and Field & Game Australia remains in a sound financial position.

The focus for the future is to enhance member benefits. The Board is committed to providing ongoing advocacy, communication, insurance and education for members. In addition, Field & Game Australia is building a strong foundation to attract future generations of shotgunners to become members and contributors to branch activities.

Thomas Chick, Deputy Chairman

0

300,000

600,000

900,000

1,200,000

1,500,000

Membership Income

Total Expenditure

Branch Rebates Paid

2014

-15

2013

-14

2012

-13

2011

-12

2010

-11

5-Year Comparison: Expenditure , Income and Branch Rebates

$68,553OPERATING SURPLUS

2014–15FINANCIAL YEAR



Membership $1,427,743

Interest $24,358

Target $73,390

Range Levy $23,637

Other $10,592

Merchandise $30,794

$35,509 Professional Fees

$25,923 Merchandise

$59,002 Target Expenses

$489,697 Wages/Staff

$52,834 Insurance

$344,916 Magazine/Mail House

$328,892 Other Expenses

$68,553 Operating Surplus

Branch Rebates$185,188TOTA

L IN

COM

E $1

,590

,514

TOTA

L EXP

END

ITUR

E $1

,521

,961

INCOME EXPENDITURE

ADDITIONAL INCOME

$750,000Shooting Sports Facilities Program grant for Willowmavin property.

WETLANDS ENVIRONMENTAL TASKFORCE FINANCIAL SUMMARY

IncomeHeart Morass key sales $24,090Donations $82,059Trust for Nature $176,505Other $4,642Total Income $287,296

ExpenditureTrust for Nature $26,067Maintenance and repairs $10,513Other $30,716Total Expenditure $67,296

LiabilitiesTrade and payables $14,896Field & Game Australia $418,727Total Liabilities $433,623

AssetsCash and receivables $152,985Property, plant, equipment $2,343,922Total Assets $2,503,928

Property, plant and equipment assets includes the Connewarre property at a value of:

$187,369

WET SURPLUS$220,000



Investment Account $797,644

Cheque Account $9,631

Other Cash Holdings $5,191

Holding Account $118,208

Cash Asset Breakdown

TOTAL ASSETS$2,858,641

In 2015 the Association was the recipient of a Major Capital Grant under the Shooting Sports Facilities Program. Combined

with some of the cash holding, this enabled Field & Game Australia to purchase land at Willowmavin, securing Greenvale Field & Game’s future..

This is seen as a significant asset for the Association, as the property has existing range orders and has potential

for many other Field & Game Australia activities. The strategic benefits of land within an hour of Melbourne is priceless.

LIABILITIESMembership in advance $864,779Staff leave provisions $76,430Other liabilities $44,078$985,287

TOTAL LIABILITIES

Property, plant and equipment assets includes the Connewarre property at a value of:

$187,369

WET SURPLUS$220,000

ASSETSCash $930,674Receivables $224,533Stock (merchandise) $26,100Other $32,221

NON-CURRENT ASSETSWillowmavin property $1,108,087Plant and equipment $118,299WET loan owing $418,727



MEMBERSHIPMembership has continued to grow at a steady rate, following the average trend of approximately 3% growth per membership year.

Membership statistics are based on the 12-month period from April 1 to March 31 the following year. Members listed as ‘Other’ are Honorary Association or Life members.

15,000

2013-14 2014-15

Augu

st

Mar

ch

Febr

uary

Janu

ary

Dec

embe

r

Nov

embe

r

Octo

ber

Sept

embe

r

July

June

May

April

12,000

13,000

14,000

16,000

17,000

18,000

Comparative Monthly Membership for 2013–14 and 2014–15

Adult 13,501

Pensioner 1,665

Family 1,605

Super Junior 284

Other 229

Junior 221

Student 43

Membership Types , March 2015

2007 13,9222006 13,719

14,045200814,5072009

15,011201015,4722011

15,738201216,5502013

17,099201417,5482015

10,000 15,000 20,000

Membership Growth, 2006–15

17,548ON MARCH 31, 2015MEMBERS



MEMBER AND BRANCH AWARDS

HUGH MARTIN MEDAL

Daryl Snowdon, Port Phil l ip

Daryl has been an active Field & Game Australia member since he was a junior, and has vast experience in both hunting and clay target shooting. He has been a member of Frankston and Port Phillip branches and has served on the committees of each. Daryl was elected President of Port Phillip branch in 2010 and continues to hold this

position. Since Daryl’s election as President, the Port Phillip branch has increased both membership and attendance at regular shoots.

Daryl has been instrumental in Port Phillip’s ‘Juniors Shoot Free’ program, where Juniors are offered free nominations at every shoot. He also runs the Come and Try day, has been involved with the training of students at the SEP pilot at Seymour, and plays a major role in the program as a trainer and instructor, as well as running Waterfowl Identification Test courses at various locations and branches. Daryl also serves as Chairman of the Long Point Reserve User’s Group (Port Phillip’s grounds), sources new tenants to operate and maintain Seacombe Lodge, and has supported the nest box program at Melbourne Water’s Western Treatment Plant (Lake Borrie).

Daryl is always the first to offer to take new shooters for their first round of clays and has spent many hours coaching juniors and inexperienced shooters, in turn passing on his passion and enthusiasm for the shooting sports. He has immersed himself in all parts of the shooting sports and always promotes hunting, clay target shooting, and the ideals of Field & Game Australia to both members and the wider community alike.

Left: Daryl Snowdon has played an important role in the development and delivery of the SEP.Right: Bill Paterson presenting Daryl with the Hugh Martin Medal for 2014.



MEMBER SERVICE AWARDS

Barry Harrison, Bairnsdale

A member of Bairnsdale Field & Game since 1968, Barry has already been honoured as a Life Member of the Bairnsdale branch in 2013. As well as soliciting sponsorship for Bairnsdale Field & Game every year, he is a keen supporter of the environmental aspects of Field & Game Australia. Barry has been actively involved

in ground development, working bees and is ‘hands-on’ in all areas of the branch. He is responsible for instigating Bairnsdale Field & Game’s highly-successful practice shoots, and continues to run this event.

A passionate and committed member, Barry has served as President for 3 years and has been the Grounds Development Officer for a much longer period. Barry’s ability to attract sponsorship and support, and his vision of how Bairnsdale branch’s grounds should function, are the reason why this Field & Game Australia branch is in the strong position it currently enjoys today.

Graham Kemp, Warrnambool

Graham has held the position of Secretary at Warrnambool Field & Game since 2003, with a dual role as President/Secretary during 2007–2008. His passion for the three pillars of Field & Game Australia – clay target shooting, hunting, and conservation – make him a unique individual. His ability to promote a culture of

camaraderie within the club, both at home and when competing elsewhere, is without question.

Graham has helped raise funds for Warrnambool Field & Game and organises group attendance at the National Carnival every year. He is a regular conservationist and game hunter, and constantly strives to achieve the Association’s goals. Graham’s ability to build relationships with people both within the Field & Game Australia community and the wider community is a testament to his character, personality, and honesty.

Left: Chairman Bill Paterson presents Bairnsdale’s Barry Harrison with his award.Centre: Graham Kemp was all smiles with his Member Service Award.Right: Northern Territory’s Bart Irwin (L) and Bendigo’s Mark Daley (C) accepting the 2014 Media Award from Bill Paterson (R).



Geoff Glass , Sale

Geoff has devoted countless hours of his time supporting the activities of Sale Field & Game. He is an active participant in working bees, nest box servicing, fox drives, tree planting and other conservation works. Geoff helps both set-up and clear the range for shoots, and has spent many hours teaching Juniors and novice

shooters at practice and at Come and Try days. More recently, he has become involved in the School Shoots program, coaching students in the different clay target disciplines.

Having been a member of Sale branch since the early 1980s, Geoff has served as Range Safety Officer for 9 years and Conservation Officer for 4 years; during his time as Conservation Officer, the Sale branch was awarded the Blue Wing trophy a number of times.

A bricklayer by trade, Geoff has contributed to most of the branch’s building and infrastructure projects over the past 30 years. He is a respected member of Sale Field & Game and his efforts over the years are appreciated by all Sale Field & Game members.

VERMIN CONTROL AWARDThis award is given in recognition of pest animal control performed by Field & Game Australia Branches. The 2014 Vermin Control Award was awarded to Seymour Field & Game, for their outstanding commitment to protecting native fauna by reducing fox and rabbit numbers.

MEDIA AWARDThis award recognises the contribution made by branches to advancing the Field & Game Australia story on various media platforms. 2014 saw the award shared by two branches, Bendigo and Northern Territory.



2014 BLUE WING TROPHY RECIPIENTS

Sale

Sale Field & Game are one of the hardest-working branches when it comes to conservation. In 2014, members of the Sale branch conducted waterfowl and wetland surveys; track repair and maintenance at State Game Reserves; nest box construction and installation; and fox drives.

In addition, they worked with the local community and surrounding schools on Bug Blitz days, educating and informing the next generation about wetland and waterfowl conservation, and have partnered with Yarram Secondary School on a program to manufacture and install nest boxes.

Sale are proactive and positive when it comes to conservation work. Whether it’s planting trees, repairing eroded river banks or speaking with government representatives on environmental issues, they show their commitment to preserving and enhancing Australia’s wetlands for the future.

Bendigo

Bendigo Field & Game were busy in 2014. In conjunction with the North Central Catchment Management Authority, Bendigo branch organised fox drives, as well as working with the Department of Environment and Primary Industries to stock Lake Eppalock with young cod ‘fingerlings’ earlier in 2014.

Their first fox drive was held to help protect Brolgas nesting at the Tang Tang swamp. The second was to stop foxes from eating native turtle eggs and hatchlings on Gunbower Island. Minister Peter Walsh was at the Gunbower Island Fox Drive to speak to Bendigo branch members, and was so impressed with their level of commitment that he spoke about it in Victorian parliament.

The cod fingerling release was brought about by the efforts of the Bendigo branch – members had fundraised to purchase the fish, which the result of around 15% of the new cod fingerlings being stocked at the popular fishing location courtesy of the Bendigo branch. Bendigo Field & Game members are happy to contribute and support local conservation efforts and protect native wildlife in a very active way.

Metropolitan

Metropolitan branch have kept up their installation, maintenance and repair of nest boxes at several sites in and

around South Morang, including Hawkstowe Park and Plenty Gorge Park. While located in the suburbs, the wetlands and natural environment that Metropolitan Field & Game are working to improve is no less important – with more land being cleared for suburban expansion and housing, many natural nesting sites such as tree hollows have been lost.

Metropolitan’s members realise that nest boxes are a great benefit to wildlife in areas of human habitation where these natural nesting sites have been removed. Metropolitan branch continue to do their part to celebrate the value of wetlands: informing, educating and promoting partnerships and alliances with people and groups from all walks of life.

Bill Paterson presents Sale’s John Hirt with their Blue Wing Trophy prize.



CLAY TARGET SHOOTINGClay Target Participation, 2014–2015 Financial Year

BranchCategory

Participants Targets Total TargetsOpen Ladies Junior Sub-Junior Veterans

Bairnsdale 814 80 42 88 90 1,114 1,125 131,800Ballarat 807 22 35 30 82 976 675 75,875Balranald 142 15 16 6 13 192 375 27,450Bar-rook 597 27 119 138 102 983 1,185 98,460Benalla 677 63 59 45 60 904 830 68,145Bendigo 924 43 47 0 118 1,132 875 88,975Canberra 294 12 6 0 16 328 800 32,800Capricornia 96 18 4 0 0 118 425 7,850Casterton 368 7 30 0 43 448 750 40,150Clunes 963 49 35 28 180 1,255 1,050 127,300Coleraine 284 20 49 0 42 395 600 39,500Cranbourne 728 28 37 0 65 858 800 69,750Deniliquin 76 3 9 5 7 100 150 7,500Donald 398 33 31 11 67 540 600 37,800Dorset 417 13 2 0 1 433 1,046 38,160Dunolly 296 18 11 22 64 411 525 23,450Echuca-Moama 971 51 34 47 99 1,202 870 88,435Frankston 363 11 19 0 94 487 450 36,525Furneaux 233 0 87 0 0 320 925 27,050Grampians 293 17 7 1 54 372 725 25,100Greenvale 998 16 36 25 39 1,114 900 110,700Huon 204 1 1 14 32 252 860 19,340Keith 21 0 2 2 4 29 175 1,450Kingston South-East 470 39 17 13 61 600 875 47,325Mallacoota 95 16 20 1 6 138 475 11,250Melbourne 648 28 43 17 62 798 525 59,850Metropolitan 1,021 23 13 23 111 1,191 1,025 144,000Minyip 616 41 46 50 104 857 750 56,775Moe 208 22 10 31 34 305 325 24,850Mornington 438 19 8 0 0 465 600 26,550Morwell 437 36 12 47 80 612 725 55,150Mt Wycheproof 295 13 18 0 23 349 550 28,050Natimuk 920 65 78 62 116 1,241 828 94,875Pinegrove 928 46 52 70 103 1,199 900 89,925Port Phillip 1,006 34 31 51 110 1,232 1,150 147,475Portland/Heywood 100 6 22 0 32 160 225 12,000Sale 1,127 145 100 101 154 1,627 525 84,350Seymour 227 14 20 20 19 300 225 22,500Shepparton 6 0 0 0 2 8 50 400South East 14 0 0 0 1 15 150 1,125South Gippsland 566 73 50 0 71 760 780 50,180Sunraysia 918 24 52 0 46 1,040 1,126 131,717Traralgon 413 24 16 57 66 576 825 43,500Wagga Wagga 480 20 47 3 0 550 925 42,625Warrnambool 542 18 81 2 76 719 905 62,085Westernport 509 54 20 22 72 677 700 76,800Wodonga/Albury 529 50 36 21 59 695 1,053 69,587Total 23,477 1,357 1,510 1,053 2,680 30,077 32,933 2,606,509

Unlisted branches either do not have grounds or hold target shoots, or have not returned their participation forms to the National Office.



2014 NATIONAL CARNIVAL

Getting up early on a Saturday may seem like the wrong idea for some, but on November 1, 2014 it was the perfect idea for over 500 clay target shooters making their way to the 2014 National Carnival. Held at the Seymour Field & Game range in the picturesque rolling hills outside Avenel, any initial concerns about dust from the unsealed

roads were dampened – literally – by a wet morning. The wet and early start was softened by the great breakfast menu offered from the canteen by the tireless volunteers.

Ballarat’s John Younger was the one to beat on Saturday, with a perfect score of 50 off his first two rounds. Younger was in fine form, having won the Warrnambool Beretta Grand Prix a few weeks earlier. The close of Saturday’s competition saw John Younger and Robert Hall in a shoot-off for first place. Younger was too good for Hall during the shoot-off, hitting seven targets to Hall’s five. A handshake and congratulations from Hall to Younger afterwards showed that good sportsmanship is alive and well in the shooting sports.

Robert Hall was also a contender in Saturday’s Beretta Classic; however, the prize was taken by A-grader Frank Cefai who had an off-the-gun score of 71 for the day. Other shooters of note on Day 1 were Junior Alex Kalogerakis, who clinched a perfect score on the Beretta ground, and 2013 National Champion Anthony Panetta with another perfect 25 on the same ground.

Sponsors put on some great displays and deals for our National Carnival attendees. Beretta, Winchester, Into Shooting, GB Corsivia, Miroku, Outdoor Sporting Agencies, and Raytrade; along with local sponsors Seymour Tata Motors, The Seymour Club, Polaris and Aus Sharp Knife Sharpening Services; all contributed to a great carnival atmosphere, along with our friends from the Australian Deer Association and Swarovski Optik.

Sunday arrived with clear skies and no rain, but the unpredictable wind made some of the targets even more evasive. Nonetheless, there were a few perfect rounds. Adam Backman, Sox Pilipasidis, Mark Reynolds and Jeremy Paglia scored 25’s on Day 2. Jeremy Paglia won the Beretta Classic in 2012 as a Junior, and has entered

adult competition as an AA-grader: a great demonstration of the merits of starting young.

2014 saw the introduction of a new digital scoring system, accessible via smart phone or the internet. Those who were absent but interested could see the results over the course of the weekend, as well as allowing people to see how their mates were faring without having to stand vigil at the clubhouse scoreboards.

After a long day, the final score sheets came in and there was a nervous wait for the contenders while the scores were confirmed and checked. The early signs of good form for John Younger stayed true, with his off-the-gun score of 138 topping the scores for the weekend, and Younger claimed the 2014 Field & Game Australia National Championship title. Younger was quick to thank all of the hard-working volunteers and helpers who gave time over the weekend and praised Seymour branch for all their efforts in hosting another fantastic National Carnival.



2014 National Carnival ChampionsHigh Gun John Younger (138)

AA-Grade1st: Sox Pilipisadis (Glenroy) (137)2nd: Jeremy Kent (137)3rd: Jeremy Paglia (133) and Mathew Libbis (133)

A-Grade1st: Frank Cefai (135)2nd: Simon Hore (126)3rd: Mark Gibbs (124)

B-Grade1st: Bill Murray (111)2nd: Larry Lambrou (105)3rd: John Clark (105)

C-Grade1st: Ricky Crawford (98)2nd: Gavin Lovelock (84)3rd: Carla Zammit (81)

Juniors1st: Alex Kalogerakis (118)2nd: Ryan Leman (110)3rd: Nick Towns (108)

Ladies1st: Renae Birgan (131)2nd: Kelly Norris (122)3rd: Brittany Cole (121)

Sub-Juniors1st: Bryce Paglia (108)2nd: Brayden Baker (101)3rd: Mark Du Rose (100)

Veterans1st: Eddie Magee (126)2nd: Lionel Bradley (121)3rd: Malcolm Whitehead (120)

Left: While it was getting late in the evening, a large crowd stuck around to watch the shoot-offs on Saturday.Top: 2014 Field & Game Australia National Champion John Younger, during the shoot-offs.Right: Field & Game Australia were glad to see talented young clay target athletes competing in the Nationals.



WETLANDS ENVIRONMENTAL TASKFORCE

Field & Game Australia has much to be praised for with the Heart Morass continuing to be a nationally leading light for practical wetland conservation led by hunters. Through the WET Trust, strongly supported by the Hugh Williamson Foundation, Field & Game Australia members have an outstanding asset which not only provides

excellent recreational hunting opportunities, it plays a key role in introducing young students to the wonderful world of nature studies through Bug Blitz.

During the year we saw the retirement of Denis Tricks, AM, from the Committee of Governors of the Heart Morass. Denis was a founding member and a driving force in the Williamson Foundation. His staunch support and wise counsel will be sorely missed. We wish Denis all the best for the future. Chairmanship of the Williamson Foundation has now transferred to Martin Carlson, whose enthusiasm and support for the Heart Morass project and the opportunities it has provided will ensure the Heart remains an important and well-respected environmental asset for generations to come.

Matt Bowler continues to do marvellous work in his role as Project Delivery Team Leader with the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA). Matt has stated that the Heart property is looking very good with a small flood event this year contributing to keeping water levels high, and a variety of bird life including spoonbills, waders, snipe, and sea eagles. WGCMA have also completed a number of recent studies, such as the location and design of environmental watering infrastructure, and bi-annual flora and fauna studies. Gary Howard and Sale Field & Game members have also been active in continuing to keep on top of weeds, fence repairs and track maintenance.

The Bug Blitz Program (‘Where Science, Art, Language, Technology, Maths and Civics collide’), continues to do marvellous work around Victoria, introducing students to nature studies and biodiversity. The Heart Morass is a major site for these studies and has already seen more than 10 visits this year, involving over 500 young people and teachers, including university students. Great credit goes to Martin Carlson for his continuing enthusiasm and John Caldow for organising the visits.

The Heart Morass ‘Wasteland to Wetland’ brochure is complete and gives insight to the foresight and achievements of the WET Trust. New signs have been erected detailing all the partners of the Heart Restoration Project, and work is also proceeding on having a community event on-site.

A special thanks to all participants, Field & Game Australia, the Hugh Williamson Foundation, Bug Blitz Trust, the WGMCA, Watermark Inc., and Trust for Nature for continuing to so enthusiastically support this great project.

The other major WET project is the Connewarre wetland project at Geelong. After a lengthy (2-year) planning process, all approvals have now

been granted so Stage 1 works can proceed. The first priority is the relocation of the former Marine Discovery Centre building to the Lake Road site. The building was dismantled and moved to the site in April but work stalled when wet conditions made it impossible to complete the foundations. This will now be completed

in Spring. The Geelong Field & Game members, along with the WET Trust, have contributed significant funds and many hundreds of hours of voluntary labour to this project; when completed, it will allow Field & Game Australia to showcase its long history of wetland conservation and for the Geelong branch in particular, their commitment to managing the habitat in the Connewarre wetlands.

David Hawker, AO

Above: Denis Tricks, AM, with Chairman Bill Paterson.



HUNTING AND GAME MANAGEMENT

The 2015 Waterfowl seasons in Australia have an estimated 34,000 participants in three states and one territory. In addition, the indigenous community enjoy traditional waterfowl hunting year-round in the Northern Territory – a valuable food resource. Generally, the seasons went well, with Tasmania, South Australia, and the

Northern Territory having timely announcements and transparent decision-making processes. On the other hand, the decision process for Victoria’s 2015 season was, at best, poor. Field & Game Australia were disappointed, and have lobbied both the GMA and government for improved, timely, and transparent proceedings for the 2016 season.

The seasons in South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory commenced without disruption or hindrance. The same cannot be said for Victoria: two events marred the Victorian waterfowl season – one prior to, and the other during the 2015 season.

The first was the decision by North Central Catchment Management Authority (NCCMA) personnel to alter the watering plan for Hird Swamp, near Kerang, allowing the wetland to go dry prior to the completion of the planned watering regime. This was done without consultation to the stakeholders (including Field & Game Australia), nor the approval of the Environmental Water Holder. Field & Game Australia made enquiries on the altered watering, and lobbied to have watering commence earlier than planned at Johnson Swamp to compensate for the lost waterfowl habitat. As Hird Swamp is a popular destination for waterfowl hunters, the drying of the wetland just prior to the waterfowl season would have had an impact on the local Gannawarra Shire in lost tourism. Field & Game Australia is endeavouring to work more closely with the NCCMA and remains a member of the stakeholder consultation group for this region. We continue to lobby for water for wetlands, to ensure positive environmental, biodiversity, recreational, community, and economical benefits to the region.

The second is the escalation of protester activity, particularly in the Geelong area, where a small number of protesters have become so radicalised, they are using terror tactics: intimidation and damaging vehicles by slashing tyres. This is of serious concern to Field & Game Australia and the entire hunting community. The GMA and Police provided limited support to prevent these attacks occurring over a number of weekends, forcing Field & Game Australia to hire private security personnel.

Field & Game Australia has continued to lobby government on this issue for increased penalties for the illegal activities of these protesters – which has occurred – and an increased presence of officers to enforce the laws covering hunting and to stop this continuing harassment of law-abiding citizens.

The Association continues to support the RESPECT campaign along with other industry stakeholders, as the continuing education about and promotion of ethical hunting is vital to our future. Field & Game Australia has promoted the campaign through our branch network and Duck Fever events.

Above: A familiar scene – opening morning 2015.



Field & Game Australia is now conducting regular SEP sessions around Victoria and in South Australia. This is an excellent program which improves hunters’ skills through improved marksmanship techniques, shot size and choke selection, and ethical hunting practices. These sessions are coordinated by the Field & Game Australia

National Office and led by Field & Game Australia staff with the support of trained SEP instructors.

Robert Treble

November 2014 and February 2015 Waterfowl Count Summary

SpeciesRegion

TotalGippsland North-East North-West Port Phillip South-West

Australian Shelduck 1,576 276 864 5,089 10,418 18,223Broods 0 0 3 24 0 27Pacific Black Duck 3,962 1,628 2,630 1,811 3,695 13,726Broods 0 0 0 70 29 99Grey Teal 67,776 4,914 21,970 8,031 14,357 117,048Broods 1 0 0 0 100 101Chestnut Teal 17,146 1,850 3,934 4,287 1,910 29,127Broods 0 0 0 18 0 18Australian Shoveller 226 155 161 310 594 1,446Broods 0 0 0 0 2 2Pink-eared Duck 10,526 1,105 5,450 2,000 25,170 44,251Broods 0 0 0 0 0 0Hardhead 9,851 554 804 64 403 11,676Broods 0 0 0 0 1 1Australian Wood Duck 3,465 2,480 1131 420 258 7,754Broods 5 0 2 50 9 66Total Game 114,528 12,962 36,944 22,012 56,805 243,251Freckled Duck 651 46 29 9 50 785Broods 0 0 0 0 0 0Total Protected 651 46 29 9 50 785

Pest and Vermin Reports

Branch

Species Taken Travel Time

(Hours)

Hunting Time

(Hours)Expenses

Total Man Hours ($15

per hour plus expenses )

Fox Feral Cat Rabbit Feral

DogFeral

PigFeral Goat Hare Other

Benalla 324 4 117 0 0 0 16 174 635 1,435 $1,130.00 $32,180.00 Capricornia 3 5 10 0 68 0 0 0 50 100 $900.00 $3,150.00 Colac 165 0 2 0 0 0 14 0 350 1,772 $1,520.00 $33,342.50 Grampians 16 0 3 0 0 30 12 0 366 470 $1,260.00 $13,800.00 Huon 0 8 19 0 0 0 0 1,553 89 112 $1,730.00 $4,745.00 Moe 144 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 189 2,160 $3,060.00 $38,295.00 Mornington 50 1 191 0 0 0 0 0 136 554 $2,200.00 $12,550.00 Rushworth 69 0 1 0 0 0 15 0 20 40 $- $900.00 Sale 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 180 2,015 $650.00 $33,575.00 Seymour 29 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 148 180 $900.00 $5,820.00 South East 7 1 9 0 0 0 0 518 299 212 $8,800.00 $16,465.00 South Gippsland 47 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 119 336 $1,200.00 $8,025.00 Warrnambool 254 2 14 0 0 0 21 0 325 1,551 $6,615.00 $34,755.00 Total 1,119 23 366 0 68 30 78 2,245 2,906 10,937 $29,965.00 $237,602.50



MILESTONESNew Branch: KeithKeith Field & Game were welcomed to the Field & Game Australia network in December 2014, becoming our second South Australian branch. The club was formed in 1975 by individuals with a common interest in hunting for the table and for conservation. The passion for great game food and good hunting has carried through, with today’s Keith members assisting local government and government departments with the duck season decision-making process with research, consultation and recommendations.

Clay target shooting has featured highly throughout the club’s history, with their grounds in a former disused quarry. Members have spent many hours beautifying the site, planting over 2,000 trees, landscaping, and other improvements. The trap towers are a highlight, giving the ability to produce targets at world-class levels. Keith have previously hosted State Titles, as well as holding regular target shoots; and work with their community, with nearby schools including target shooting in their physical education program, local service group shoots, and Come and Try days.

New Branch: Barmera–MoorookFormed in 1967, Barmera–Moorook Field & Game is a hunting and conservation branch dedicated to the management and conservation of the Loveday wetlands complex, located in the Riverland region of South Australia, for the purposes of ethical waterfowl hunting. Barmera–Moorook’s enthusiastic members know that wetlands management is paramount for waterfowl hunting to continue, and having held the lease on the Loveday wetland since 1983, they have a solid history of habitat conservation.

In an era when hunting appears to be out of favour with the general public, the members of Barmera–Moorook identified the need for support from a professional organisation with resources, strategies and political relationships. Barmera–Moorook decided that Field & Game Australia was the only organisation that could provide that support, and joined the Field & Game Australia network in January 2015.

Above: Just a glimpse – a small part of the Loveday wetlands complex.



MALCOLM FRASER 1930–2015

Malcolm Fraser was Prime Minister of Australia for seven years from 1975 to 1983. Malcolm was also a

patron of Field & Game Australia, having a love of the bush and the Australian tradition of hunting.

While the Fraser government was in office, the Australian Institute of Sport, the Great Barrier Reef marine park, and the Special Broadcasting Service (or SBS) were all established.

Field & Game Australia were shocked and saddened to hear of his passing in March, 2015. Malcolm’s patronage of

Field & Game Australia was, and remains, a point of pride for the organisation; he will be missed.

field & game australia 2014–2015€¦ · 4 fie ustralia annual report 2014–15 the...

Documents