The Sporting Shooters’ Association of Australia (SSAA National) held its 60th Annual General Meeting in Melbourne in May, the first SSAA National AGM in a face-to-face setting since 2019. Delegates from all state and territory branches were happy to be able to attend in person and reflect on the Association’s successes and challenges of the past 12 months as the pandemic continues to impact many facets of our lives.
Lance Miller was re-elected unopposed to the position of SSAA National President as was Senior Vice-President Denis Moroney, Treasurer Alf Bastian and Secretary Kaye McIntyre. David Handyside was elected Junior Vice-President and Jennifer Martens accepted the position of Public Officer.
Mr Miller addressed the meeting and talked of how the Association has continued to prosper despite the one-in-100-year pandemic. Association CEO Tim Bannister also addressed the meeting and particularly thanked SSAA National staff for rising to the challenge in difficult times.
Delegates welcomed Winchester Australia Managing Director Clive Pugh and Victorian Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie to address the meeting and dinner respectively. Mr Pugh gave an insight into how the firearm wholesaler has adapted to supply chains, transport and fluctuating service prices which impacted countless industries around the world during the pandemic. Senator McKenzie has been a strong supporter of recreational shooters and hunters in Australia for many years and always brings with her great conversation and insight.