The Bairnsdale Pistol Club will shortly celebrate 60 years of shooting, with celebrations planned for October 12.
To mark the occasion, the club will be holding an open day to showcase the sport of pistol target shooting, inviting all current and past members and the general public to come along for an opportunity to participate in a trial shoot.
First formed in 1964, the Bairnsdale Pistol Club has occupied the same site at the aerodrome precinct since 1965, where it was formally opened by three-time Olympic free pistol shooter Rodney Johnson.
A lot has changed since then and a lot has been achieved over this time, from upgrading shooting ranges and facilities for members, to introducing new shooting disciplines and encouraging new members, young and old to improve their skills in competitive pistol target shooting.
Currently the club has 78 members and provides a family friendly environment for members to both socialise and share their challenges, while gaining enjoyment from target pistol shooting.
On October 12, the range will be open from 10am to 2pm, with a $10 fee to cover costs.
Visitors will be given one on one instruction, with five shots in multiple disciplines including air pistol, .22 rim fire standard pistol, western action cowboy shooting using an old west six shooter and modern centre fire semi-auto pistols shooting at steel targets.
To secure a spot, interested visitors should pre-register with the club secretary to ensure sufficient time and instructors are available.
To participate in a trial shoot there is are legislative requirements to complete a notice of receiving instruction form, available at the club, and bring two forms of identification.
The minimum age of participation is 12 years.
A members car boot sale will run through the day along with a sausage sizzle and tea and coffee available.
