Matt Latta
by Media Officer Rachael Andrews
SSAA junior member Matthew Latta may have only been shooting for a little more than 12 months, but he knows what he enjoys. The 15-year-old is so keen on hunting that he would go spotlighting every night if his mother Narelle would allow him.
Matt’s introduction to hunting came during a visit to his uncle’s farm in Victoria about three years ago. He had the chance to shoot an air rifle with his cousin, and went with his uncle and watched him hunt foxes. Narelle said it was from this moment on that he decided that this was what he wanted to do.
Once his parents would allow, Matt joined the Ulladulla Pistol Club, an affiliated SSAA club located on the South Coast of New South Wales. Both Matt and his mother are active members of the Ulladulla club, competing mainly in pistol competitions. Much to his delight, Matt is the proud owner of a Hammerli SP20 standard pistol, which is held on the club licence until he turns 18.
Since starting at the club, Matt has received some valuable training in both pistol and rifle shooting from club trainer Peter Smith. Matt is one of about 10 junior members at the club and is starting to take home many medals, along with the Junior Sports and Junior Air Rifle trophies last year.
Living on a property at Milton has enlightened Matt as to the damaging effects some feral animals have on stock and crops, and his enthusiasm is shifting towards hunting.
“He is now more interested in shooting rabbits and foxes. We go spotlighting often, especially now he has a taste for hunting foxes,” Narelle said.
“Each year, traditionally during the June and July period when the goats kid, 20 to 30 of the newborns are taken by foxes, but not this year!
“Matt also hunts in the bush at night with his bow and arrow and often comes home with a rabbit or two.”
With the first peak breeding season under his belt, Narelle said Matt was looking to improve his hunting skills and also work on his scores at the club. She said he was looking forward to reaching the age of 18 when he can get his full licence. But until then, she said “his next quest is to own a .222, as he would love to go pig and deer hunting when he gets the opportunity.”
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