SSAA Mildura Branch

Victoria Club Profile

The first meeting of the SSAA Mildura Branch was held on March 22, 1988 and consisted of a mere 20 members. By 2002, the branch boasted 588 members.

Originally, the shooting complex was leased by the Mildura and Red Cliffs rifle clubs. It was only when the two clubs chose to move to the Yatpool Range, that the SSAA was allowed to lease the 352.8 hectares of land.

Once the range was secured, the then club president, Paul Cohrs, established a number of 'working bees', which were used to set up 100m, 300m and 600m mounds. Members also volunteered their time to install fences, sign posts, benches, undercover concrete bays, plant trees and build toilet blocks. The money needed to complete these tasks was raised by picking grapes in the sweltering heat and pruning vines during cold winter days.

The Mildura range is also home to the Military Rifle and Pistol Club, the Field Hunters and Conservation Club, Sporting Rifle Club, Sunraysia Pistol Club, and the Arms and Miliaria Guild and it is not uncommon to see police groups, the Department of Natural Resources, scouts and Ventures Club utilising the range.

Due to the diversity of shooting on the range, the club chose to install baffles rather then restrict activities. The cost of doing so depleted the club's funds and thus plans to build a new clubhouse were postponed. While somewhat disappointing, comments made by Dennis Tocock of the Victorian Police Firearms Licensing Services regarding the baffling have helped ease the pain. In a letter to the Branch, Mr Tocock said, "Every person involved...should be commended on their efforts, which resulted in the best set of baffles I have seen during the inspection of the firearm ranges in this state."

For more information contact: president Norv Appleby on 03 5023 3417 or secretary Kaylene Gregg on 03 5025 7171, or email mildura@ssaavic.com.au