Farmers want guns
Sunday Times, Page: 21. Sunday, 8 March, 2009
Farmers want to carry handguns to shoot charging animals they fear could kill them.
The WA Farmers Federation says it is ludicrous that pastoralists and graziers have to reach for their rifles when they are driving motorbikes or on horseback to protect themselves from charging bulls and cows.
They want the law changed so that they can carry handguns instead of rifles to protect themselves.
“If you find yourself with a tonne of savage bull looking at you, there isn’t time to pull out a rifle. It’s ludicrous to even contemplate that on a motorbike,” federation chief executive Andy McMillan said.
The farmers have an ally in North-West Labor MP Vince Catania, who is lobbying the State Government on the issue.
Be is organising a petition to change the law, saying people who work the land need handguns for protection.
“The reforms to the Firearms Act and regulations that prohibit the use of handguns have severely hindered the pastoralists ‘and graziers ‘ ability to safely and effectively go about their business,” Mr Catania said.
“An urgent review is required and the Act must be changed to show an exemption for pastoralists and graziers, which will enable them to carry handguns while working.
“Not having a handgun hinders pastoralists ability to safely and effectively go about their business.”
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