Community
24 October, 2025
Friendly fire among friends
IF you think you have an eye for clay target shooting, or would just like to ‘give it a go’ among new friends, the rifle range in Allansford is the place to visit.
The range is home to several rifle clubs, as well as an archery club, and included among those is the North Warrnambool 5 Stand Sporting Clays group.
This group of “friendly gents” meets at the range every Friday for a few hours of target shooting – and a lot of chatter.
“It’s really just a social group, abit like a men’s shed with an emphasis on clay target shooting,” member Dave Charles said.
“We have a lot of fun. Our club currently has about 24 members and we shoot each Friday between 10am and 3pm – if the red flag is out then we’re here and the shed is open.
“Our targets include an overhead target as well as simulated field targets which is great for people wanting to practice shooting for rabbits that type of thing.
“People who don’t yet have their own equipment are welcome to visit up to three times before they are expected to join – and each session is always under the direction of a qualified shooter.”
While people of all ages are welcome (those from 12 years and above with a junior firearm licence are welcome) the club’s current eldest member is a sprightly 95 years old.
Ted Henry, who lives in Warrnambool and regularly drives himself to the Allansford range, says it’s the companionship he now enjoys most about the club.
“I handed in my license years ago; I think I was about 80 when I shot for the last time,” he said.
“My eye sight isn’t that great these days which makes it hard to see the targets. But I still really enjoy my Fridays with the boys out here.”
