British MP puts Ebay UK under the thumb
- updated 29 December 2004.

A UK resident has reported that Ebay UK has imposed a ban on advertising almost anything to do with shooting - with reloading equipment being the main target. The resident alleged that it came about from pressure that a Labor MP put on Ebay to stop selling stuff related to shooting. Searches during the day shows that Ebay UK listed only one item under 'reloading' but has now listed a second. Is this merely a concidence ?

CFCV is thinking about the merits of whether or not to put out a release on this regarding Ebay Australia, and whether or not it should follow it's UK counterpart.

New laws on dealing with children floated
(a MUST READ for all clubs)
- updated 21 December 2004.

The Victorian State Government has just released an 'exposure draft' of laws which will require volunteer organisations (by implication, including shooting clubs) to have their members who coach or deal with juniors, to be accredited to do so.

This is a measure to ensure that they have not been convicted of offences against children (an objective which seems reasonable).

As we all know, 'indictable' offences (ones which carry a jail sentence greater than 6 months) would automatically disqualify shooters from holding a firearms licence in the first place (so could licensed shooters be an 'exemption category' ?).

The document can be downloaded by clicking here.

The CFCV has not had an opportunity to form a view on the proposed laws. Please note this is an exposure draft. The purpose of the exposure draft is to elicit public comment by ** 25 February 2004 **.

So don't complain if the laws come into force and you have not commented !

In the meantime, the CFCV will have its internal discussions to work out exactly what this means for our members (speaking of which - if you are not one, why not ??), so please keep an eye on this page.

Please feel free to alert us to any issues in the exposure draft that could have implications for clubs - such as 'how would coaches from interstate be dealt with under the laws ?' by email at admin@cfcv.org.au.

Duck season announced
- updated 21 December 2004.

The following is news received from Ozhunter (http://www.ozhunting.info/) this morning.

As noted by Ozhunting, the timing of a pre-Christmas announcement does seem to be significant.

Writing to the Minister thanking him for his decision sounds like an *excellent* idea - so please spread that message to any duck hunters you know. In fact you should copy in your local MP so that the importance of duck hunting is not lost within the walls of the major parties.

*****************

As we near the end of the 2004 year, the Hunting Community in Victoria, has just received an early Christmas present.

Today, the Minister responsible for the Environment, Mr. Thwaites, announced the game seasons for the 2005 year.

What is significant about this year's announcement, is the fact that it has been announced almost four weeks earlier than previous years.

In prior meetings, between Government, the Department and the hunting organisations it was rumored that the Minister had almost demanded that the department work more cooperatively with the hunting community and also promised that the seasons would be announced as early as possible prior to Christmas. Whilst most of us were expecting the announcement last Friday, it was good to see that the good news was released this morning, Monday, 20th December.

This gives Manufacturers, Importers, Distributors and Retailers the opportunity to arrange their inventory levels. It also allows the Hunting Organisations and their branches to plan their Duck Fever Nights and Pre Duck Seasons without uncertainty.

Congratulations to the Minister and let's all write to him thanking him for his decision and promptness in making his announcement.

Also, a big thank you to those organisations that were involved in the lobbying.

The Victorian Environment Minister, John Thwaites, today, announced the Duck Season for 2005. The Season will commence on the 3rd weekend of March and conclude on the Monday of the Queens Birthday Weekend.

Bag Limits are:
The Blue Wing Shovellor is not on the 2005 Game List
Opening Weekend - 5 Birds plus 5 Wood Duck
Rest of Season: 5 Duck per day.

Plenty of doe in deer market
- updated 16 December 2004.

The Weekly Times has reported that hunting expeditions to shoot deer on Victorian farms will be permitted from next year.

The proposal will help stem feral deer populations which are reaching unsustainable levels across the state. The paper reports that hunters from America will pay between $5,000 and $10,000 to shoot deer, when the stock they are endangering is worth less. Farmers will be paid according to their involvement and there is a possibility of the plan being extended to selected state parks.

Parks Victoria's Ian Christie said the deer were causing extensive environmental damage and something had to be done to bring the population under control.

Australian Deer Association Branch President, Max Rheese said the plan could easily become a major business, and that steps would be put in place to ensure only a sustainable number of deer were taken.

San Francisco to consider handgun ban
- updated 16 December 2004.

Yahoo has reported that residents of San Francisco will will vote next year on a proposal to deny handguns to everyone except law enforcement officers, members of the military and security guards.

Firearms would be allowed only for police officers, security guards, members of the military, and anyone else "actually employed and engaged in protecting and preserving property or life within the scope of his or her employment".

Gun Owners of California, a Sacramento-based lobbying group, quickly called the ban illegal. Sam Paredes, the group's executive director, said state law bars local governments from usurping the state's authority to regulate firearms.

Washington, D.C., is the only major American city that currently bans handgun possession by private citizens. Andrew Arulanandam, director of public affairs for the National Rifle Association, said San Francisco would be remiss to use that city as a model.

"If gun control worked, Washington, D.C., would be the beacon. However, it's the murder capital of the United States," he said.

AGE article reports Begg's 'sacking'
- updated 1 December 2004.

The Age has carried the story on Dr Robert Beggs standing down as a director of the RSPCA. The story can read by clicking here.

We will be putting out a press release relating to this on Friday.

Begg complaint response received
- updated 24 November 2004.

The CFCV has received its response to its complaint about an alleged conflict of interest relating to a senior public servant. An announcement is expected soon.

Life in Malaysia
- updated 4 November 2004.

This item was taken from two emails received by the CFCV from Lupus, a Malaysian resident.

This is a 'must read' if you want to see what really draconian firearm laws from just over our north borders look like ! This is a reminder of why the CFCV now exists.

Thanks Lupus

Gun crime in handgun free Britain 'at record levels'
- updated 27 October 2004.

Those who think the ban on handguns in the UK and other restrictions means lower crime, should read this article, from the Independent. It shows that gun crime has increased to record levels while the general crime rate has dropped.

CFCV Travel Advisory: Stay away from shooter - unfriendly Northern Territory !
- updated 21 October 2004.

It looks like police in the Northern Territory have a new way of conducting a firearms check. According to this article, the new tactic is that the check must be done at gunpoint !

Police paint different picture on Domaszewicz
- updated 20 October 2004.

The Police have responded to a letter sent to them by the CFCV in May about a story in the Herald Sun in which Greg Domaszewicz claims that Police seized pistols hidden in his home - and that he wants them back - apparently without being charged with firearm offences. The story seemed to imply that Domaszewicz had an interest in Melbourne's underworld which you may recall was dominated by rival killings at the time.

The response says that no firearms were located by police in any of the searches they conducted at premises of Domaszewicz and that in their opinion, his 'previous low level of criminal standing does not support his claims to high profile underworld connections'.

Hmmm ...

Election strategy met CFCV expectations
- updated 11 October 2004.

In its second election campaign, the results from the Australian Electoral Commission show the true impact of the CFCV's election strategy. Every indicator has been achieved. Refer to the main page for more information.

Election strategy an unqualified success
- updated 10 October 2004.

The independent supported by the CFCV has almost outpolled the Green candidate and drawn more than 10% of the total independent vote at the Federal Election.

The CFCV is still analysing the significance of its support in the other three seats which may not be known until counting of the votes is complete. However it is clear that the shooters vote not only propped up those it nominated but its silence in McMillan due to the apathy of the ALP to support shooters has cost the party that seat - CFCV intervention appears likely to have had the ability to swing the seat for the party.

More later.

CFCV election nominee subject of Herald Sun story
- updated 2 October 2004.

The Herald Sun ran an opinion piece by Gerard McManus on the fact that the Greens may have prodded a bit too hard on the forestry issue. Why does this interest the CFCV ? Because as noted in the article, Gippland independent candidate, Peter Kelly, is playing the drums hard on the issue and is one of four candidates we are specifically endorsing for people to vote for.

Kelly had previously told the Herald Sun that the party that became weak-kneed on the forests issue would themselves be 'kneecapped'.

Peter's a tough candidate having ousted an MP for not helping shooters. With CFCV support, we can hope that lightning will stike in the same place twice.

Victoria's "management of gun laws" extends to our courts
- updated 30 September 2004.

You thought our story on the servo gunman who was able to get guns "all over the place" was bad ?

If you wanted to know how well the Bracks Government and the Minister for World Travel were managing firearm laws and the prison system, then just read this. It sets out quite disgracefully that you can be a licensed shooter and punished for being that, or a prisoner with an illegal gun and get off almost scot free by our courts.

Where is our Police Minister ? Bangladesh ?

NSW shooters back Outdoor Recreation Party
- updated 25 September 2004.

Shooters in NSW, disappointed that they will not be able to support the Shooters Party of Australia which has been deregistered because it did not contest an election in the past four years, have thrown their support behind the Outdoor Recreation Party in that state. Click here to see one of the ads they have produced.

Melbourne City Council enters gun debate
- updated 24 September 2004.

The Melbourne City Council has politicised the planning process by apparently flagging via Cr Kate Redwood in the Herald Sun, its intention to oppose the relocation of Victorian Arms, one of the states major gunshops. The article suggests that the opposition comes from the fact it may be located near a playground for children.

Victorian Arms supplies many of the shooting sports including people involved in the Olympic and Commonwealth Games and the Council has provided no evidence of problems in the way the business operates. Vic Arms has put out a release on this and the CFCV will be doing the same in the next couple of days

AIC survey
- updated 24 September 2004.

We have been advised that the Social Research Centre for the Australian Institute of Criminology is undertaking a survey to examine crime and community safety and will feed into the UN Justice Department's ongoing world wide surveys on crime and community safety. We understand that firearms owners will be contacted by letter to ask if theyare willing to participate before anyone rings them with questions. There is a section on firearms and the questions, designed by the AIC to complement the UN survey questions, will include whether or not you own a firearm, what type it is, what it/they are for, are you licensed, is the firearm registered and how it is stored.

The advice we have received is that recipients should not answer any questions from an unauthorised interviewer, especially relating to firearms, unless they have received a letter from the AIC and are willing to participate and convinced the survey is a legitimate survey.

Servo gunman able to get guns "all over the place"
- updated 22 September 2004.

The Herald Sun today ran this story in which a man alleged to have held police at bay had been refused firearm licences in three states, but later told police he was still able to buy gun "all over the place". Amazing when you think the State and Federal Governments made us stand in the rain for hours on end to hand over our longarms then handguns.

Latham on rifle ranges in schools
- updated 20 September 2004.

Mark Latham appeared on the Sunday program on, yes, Sunday (18 Sept), and made the following statement - which describes rifle ranges as a 'dream' for schools:

So as a Labor Party we're about fairness. We believe in opportunity for all. Education funding for the many, not just the few. And these two 300 per cent increases that have gone through to the Kings' School, and you look at their range of facilities, it's just not fair when you see schools that couldn't even dream of having a boat shed or a rifle range.

Outdoor Recreation Party gains strength in NSW
- updated 18 September 2004.

Advice received from the Shooters Party is that it has been deregistered federally because it did not contest an election for 4 years. As the election is expected to be close, preferences will be critical and so shooters in that state have sided with the Outdoor Recreation Party (which as a very similar constituency to the Country Alliance). ORP (ie shooter) preferences could be the critical factor in marginal seats. It is hoped that as a result of an alliance of anti-Green minor parties, they will help keep a Green out of the Senate and result in the election of a 'friendly' candidate. .

Tingle on the election
- updated 18 September 2004.

NSW MP, John Tingle, has given his views on the forthcoming election Melbourne City Council enters gun debate
- updated 24 September 2004.

The Melbourne City Council has politicised the planning process by apparently flagging via Cr Kate Redwood in the Herald Sun, its intention to oppose the relocation of Victorian Arms, one of the states major gunshops. The article suggests that the opposition comes from the fact it may be located near a playground for children.

Victorian Arms supplies many of the shooting sports including people involved in the Olympic and Commonwealth Games and the Council has provided no evidence of problems in the way the business operates. Vic Arms has put out a release on this and the CFCV will be doing the same in the next couple of days

Sykes lashes out at Bracks
- updated 18 September 2004.

Bill Sykes, Member for Benalla (National Party) has come out fighting on the parks issue. Click here to see why he sees Premier Bracks as the 'neighbour from hell and the impact that poor parks management has on feral animals.

Handgun amnesty in Queensland continues
- updated 24 August 2004.

The amnesty on handguns now declared illegal continues in Queensland. This article explains that it continues until the end of December this year.

SA Police charge $4,875 for information that costs $20 in Victoria
- updated 4 August 2004.

One of the fortunate things about living in Victoria, is that the Licensing Services Branch is easy to work and reason with. However that is not the case in South Australia.

You may recall the CFCV obtained information under FOI on the distribution of shooters licences by postcode (which has since been converted into very interesting information for the upcoming Federal election). This cost the CFCV $20 and we do, quite sincerely, acknowledge the assistance of those who provided the response.

Well, it seems an individual who wanted to do the same thing across the border has been advised by SA Police that they will need to write a program which will take 2 weeks to write and cost $4,875 to produce (which they are claiming from the individual).

$4,875 to extract information that a simple 'garden variety' Excel database can do in seconds ? If the database the SA Police use is so difficult and expensive to use then it must be next to useless. Where then, are they spending the licence fees of SA shooters ?

It seems to us that the individual is being jerked around. They have been advised to try and seek a more reasonable response through their local MP.

Victoria's gun laws discrimate against the disabled
- updated 26 July 2004.

If you dissect the legislation governing what competitions count for mandatory attendances for handgun licensing, you will see there is no provision for the disabled whatsoever. CFCV will have more to say about this in the next few days.

Letter to Police Minister Andre Haermeyer (2)
- updated 22 July 2004.

The CFCV has written to Minister Haermeyer seeking his explanation of how, in a brief prepared by the Licensing Services Branch of VicPol, it can be claimed that the Federal Attorney General's Department raised an issue with them relating to the employment of a police officer who lobbies for his sport, when the Department emphatically denied that ever being the case.

Letter to Police Minister Andre Haermeyer (1)
- updated 22 July 2004.

The CFCV has written to Minister Haermeyer congratulating him on his attendances at previous shooting events, and seeking his agreement to require those preparing policy advice for him to do the same. The CFCV is concerned that those who prepare and approve policy advice for the Minister do not themselves have a sufficient understanding of the shooting sports - and in fact it would appear the Minister knows more about the shooting sports than those providing policy advice to him. We can't see any downside to him agreeing with this.

Victorian police want semi automatic pistols
- updated 15 July 2004.

In this article, the police association is demanding that semi-automatic handguns be provided for the force's 11,000 officers "so they can match the firepower of the state's criminals" and as usual, the civil libertarians show they haven't got a clue...

Police Minister tries to mend bridges - but gets his facts wrong
- updated 2 July 2004.

The Police Minister today opened a new office for the SSAA in Box Hill. Yours truly (who is not a member of the SSAA) watched from the back rows. The Minister tried to make it very clear of his efforts to point out that the overwhelming majority of firearm crimes don't involve licensed shooters. Good so far. He then appealed to the SSAA to join the Firearms Consultative Committee as every other shooting organisation had joined. Unfortunately this is not correct (as far as we are aware).

Only one shooting organisation joined - and it did so under protest. If the Minister received this advice from his Department, then it is time he had a good look at who was providing advice to him.

Notwithstanding, those at the opening appreciated his attendance and returned the hopitality in kind. We can only wonder if the Government is going to make a concerted effort to mend bridges. Let's wait and see.

Lake Mokoan to be drained.
- updated 24 June 2004.

The Victorian Government has announce that the popular fishing & hunting wetland, Lake Mokoan will be drained. This was announced yesterday in the Brack's Governments White Paper for State Water Reform. This is extremely bad news for not only Field and Game Australia members but also the fishing & boating community and in particular the loss of the tourist dollar to the Benalla community.

The decision to decommission the lake is at odds with recommendations from the Government's own stakeholder committee. The committee provided recommendations to the government on an alternative management options that would have seen some water savings and at the same time the retention of the lake. Mokoan is recognised by many anglers as the premier golden perch (yellowbelly) fishery in Australia. The lake has also become a favourite area for Victorian duck hunters and in some years up to 100,000 game birds has been counted.

The government has announced that they will commit $1M towards restoring the original Winton Swamps. FGA believes that restoration of the swamps to their original condition could take up to 50 years and certainly will cost more than $1m.

Latest newsletter - with sparks !
- updated 20 June 2004.

The latest newletter from the CFCV reveals more than we intended, and will be distributed wider than originally planned. Things are happening and while this provides a partial view to what is going on, will demonstrate that the CFCV is not sitting on its hands now that the buyback has ended. The Government is still stuffing up, there is a Federal election looming, and we have an eye on the next state election as well. Read on !

File is 2MB in size so please be patient while it downloads (or you can view the newsletter at the website of the Melbourne Gun Club).

Regional policies to determine state election outcome
- updated 15 June 2004.

This article from The Age shows just how tinder dry regional Victoria can be when it comes to eleciotn issues. It states that the importance of regional issues can often be understated by head office strategists.

PNG floats gun ban
- updated 7 June 2004.

The Police Minister, Bire Kimisopa, in PNG seems to have something in common with our very own. He is mooting legislation to ban all guns - legal and illegal (how can you ban an illegal gun?). He is also talking about higher licence fees for gun owners - so how does a ban work if you have higher licence fees?

This article sets out the Minister's rambling thoughts on the matter in the country's quest to get on top of its violence problem.

It was not too long ago a PNG MP was reportedly caught threatening another with a handgun... ironic, eh?

Gun trafficking syndicate exposed
- updated 4 June 2004.

It looks like our enforcement agencies are finally focussing on the trafficking of illegal guns. Read this story about a raid that netted them 20 unlicensed firearms including 11 prohibited firearms. Nice to see the further reporting of the fact these firearms were unlicensed.

Report on firearm being unregistered welcomed
- updated 2 June 2004.

Only of passing interest, but a recent article from The Australian is another example of media reporting on firearm issues and actually commenting on whether the firearm was registered or not. The CFCV maintains that this is important as it helps delinate between sporting shooters like us who comply with our legal requirements, and other people who don't - and cause the problems. Another gold star for The Australian.

Begging for an answer
- updated 25 May 2004.

Remember our complaint about Dr Robert Begg at DSE ? Well, the Ombudsman's office has confirmed that the matter is still open. You may recall we first raised the issue in February which can only make us wonder what the outcome may be.

Commonwealth Games venue announcements
- updated 25 May 2004.

The Bracks Government does something extremely rare - it earned a point for finally announcing the venues for the 2006 Commonwealth Games shooting events. Bidding documentation identified the venues announced today, about 8 years go. With 2 years to go, there is little time to get the ranges ready. However, the announcement hsa been made and the Government is clearly serious about delivering a quality series of events. Melbourne International Shooting Club will host the smallbore / air rifle and pistol events, Wellsford Range will host the fullbore events and Melbourne Gun Club in Lilydale will host the shotgun events. Time is ticking. Let's hope these are great venues which leave a lasting legacy for the shooting sports.

Concern over Haermeyer's legal duty
- updated 22 May 2004.

A reliable informant says that the Police Minister may have not complied with the requirements of the Subordinate Legislation Act, by making regulations which set handgun fees that did not include an assessment of the "economic impact" of the regulations. S10(2) expressly requires this to be done. Further, the Minister would have presumably certified the regulations under s10(4) of the Act that the regulations comply with all the necessary requirements. The informant has requested a copy of the certificate and unsuccessfully sought an explanation from the Minister and his Department how the regulations comply with the requirements. However it is difficult to see how the regulatory impact statement could possibly comply with the legal requirement if the word "economic" doesn't even appear in the document.

3AW's pat on the back
- updated 20 May 2004.

3AW scored a pat on the back today by reporting that a person arrested in the gangland shootings was charged with being a prohibited person possessing an unregistered firearm, and possessing ammunition without a licence. This is an important distinction to report because without it, the assumption is that they are held legally when the opposite is true. Reports on car use often make a similar distinction as to whether the driver was licenced, so why not treat firearem owners in a similar way ? Well done, 3AW. We hope other media outlets will do the same.

'Police Files' FOI turns up a gem
- updated 18 May 2004.

The FOI conducted by the CFCV on the 'police files' matter turned up a gem that the CFCV is following up. It comes in the form of a comment from a person in the Victoria Police who documented the fact he received from the Federal Attorney General's Department relating to the employment status of a person on the CFCV's executive. He states the matter (regarding the person's employment) was raised with him (by the AG's Department).

We have put in an FOI request to his Department seeking access to documents on this matter. What are they saying about him ? Why are they watching him ? Are public resources being used to monitor people whose only crime is to represent their sport ? Time will tell.

Unlicenced pistol saga deepens
- updated 18 May 2004.

The CFCV has written to Chief Commissioner Christine Nixon seeking her advice on whether the matter relating to Greg Domaszewicz is or will be pursued. As you will see from our posting below, Domaszewicz is reported to have been caught with unlicensed pistols, and admitted to having three in his possession - yet he is obviously a free man. The CFCV is also asking Ms Nixon for advice on where the illegal handguns came from.

Cassells and Diamond's shoot off
- updated 18 May 2004.

The Australian has reported that the battle between shooters Michael Diamond and Nathan Cassells for an Olympic berth will head for the Court of Arbitration for Sport on May 25. The hearing should take two days.

Nixon leaves pistol-less Domaszewicz alone
- updated 11 May 2004.

As noted in this article, the man acquitted of the killing of Jaidyn Leskie was not only caught with unlicensed pistols and complained that police would not return them, but Greg Domaszewicz is clearly a free man despite the offence carrying a 4 year term. Why is he not serving time for this? Police Chief Christine Nixon said she would get tough on criminals. Well, here's her chance.

Police lose ammunition
- updated 6 May 2004.

This article is about the police losing 1000 rounds by failing to secure them. Licensed shooters who do the same would be subject to a $6,000 fine or 12 months imprisonment.

Feds to bring in standard firearms training
- updated 22 April 2004.

This is something EVERY shooter should take an interest in. The Feds are now proposing to standardise training in firearms. On the plus side, this could help push us towards mutual recognition of firearm licences. On the negative side, the training is not all that different to the examination given to law students in 3rd year law.

Queensland Liberal leader wants more guns surrendered
- updated 21 April 2004.

It is suggested Qld Liberal leader, Bob Quinn wants fewer guns in the community through more regular buybacks. In short, he wants to see less shooters. Our Queensland colleagues should keep that in mind when casting your vote at the next state election.

Interview on handguns
- updated 16 April 2004.

This link will show you the transcript of an excellent interview on 4BC during April (2004) on the issue of importation of firearms in light of the recent handgun buyback. Worth reading particularly to see Ms Baker in action.

Gun imports outstrip buyback
- updated 14 April 2004.

Papers have reported that the number of firearms imported into Australia in the past three years has outstripped the number destroyed in a taxpayer-funded buyback.

Australia imported 40,939 firearms last year, up from 28,016 in 2001-02 and 30,666 in 2000-01, The Australian reported. Last year, about 65,000 weapons were handed in nationally in the $60 million scheme in which owners were paid up to $7350 to surrender their guns. In Victoria, 15,184 firearms were legally imported last year, while 18,814 were destroyed in the same period in a buyback scheme.

Theophanous challenged over 'misleading' Parliament
- updated 5 April 2004.

Victorian Energy Minister, Theo Theophanous, has been challenged by a shooter over a claim he made in Parliament. Pistol shooter, Des Bosley, said that in introducing amendments to the Firearms Act in 2003, Theophanous misrepresented the intent of the legislation by suggesting that pre 1900 percussion guns were exempted - something Mr Boseley says is untrue.

Mr Boseley wrote to Minister Theophanous on 18 March and circulated his concerns to the Herald Sun, Speaker of the House and Leader of the Opposition. He is yet to correct his earlier statemen

Follow up information suggests Mr Theophanous suggested pre 1900 percussion guns use modern cartridge ammunition...

Levy pops up again
- updated 31 March 2004.

Apparently Laurie Levy has popped up as the 'face' of "Aware" washing powder, presumably to promote an anti-duck shooting message. One of our contributors has suggested that at least they could have photographed him with handcuffs!

Gun Control Lobby's tactics unravel faster than a speeding bullet
- updated 25 March 2004.

The following eyeopener on how the gun control lobby works, comes from a newsletter circulated by NSW Shooters Party MP, John Tingle on the handgun ad saga.

"The great anti-handgun ad-campaign by the National Coalition for Gun Control has apparently evaporated. As reported earlier, the attendance at their Parliament House launch was about 18 people, including 10 or 12 of "them"; several licensed firearm owners, who had sought and got invitations and a handful of others.

Samantha Lee claimed a pro-gun group had sabotaged their launch by issuing a false memo, announcing that the launch had been called off. This was just plain silly. My copy of the cancellation announcement was handed to me by a National Party member of the Upper House, who had received it by fax. Since the "cancellation" was the only thing that got the NCGC any prior media publicity, I reserve the right to have my own suspicions about where it came from.

The next development was a phone call, last Friday, from a journalist from the Sydney Morning Herald, following up a story he had got from the NCGC. That was their proposed TV ad had to be cancelled, because some shooters who had agreed to appear in it with their handguns had been "pressured" not to appear. How daft can you get ? What licensed shooter, or firarms dealer or theatrical armourer would agree, in the first pace, to co-operate in a TV commercial calling for a ban on handguns?

Last Mondya morning, March 22, Mike Jefferys, who does the breakfast programme on 2CC Canberra, interviewed Samantha Lee about the launch. When he asked her who the NCGC actually were, and how many of htem there were, she hedged. When he put it to her that she was the only member, she replied, "Maybe I've just got a loud voice."

Report by Herald Sun proves firearm smuggling is the real problem
- updated 21 March 2004.

This report from the Herald Sun shows yet again that you can ban legal handguns, but this won't stop the illegal importation of handguns - or increasing the demand for them ('clean' ones, that is). As for obtaining an illegal handgun, 'easy as pie' is the phrase they use. Gun control groups will tell you otherwise.

Duck season opens
- updated 21 March 2004.

Duck season opened with fewer hunters gathered where the cameras were. As reported elsewhere, Field and Game Australia's chairman, Russell Bate, said

"Laurie turns up, Laurie gets arrested, then everbody goes home. The only difference this year is the hunters are getting sick of it".

Reports suggest the majority of hunters were in other wetlands.

UK gun crime statistics
- updated 20 March 2004.

Dr Jim Lawson has produced a summary of gun crime statistics in the UK. Interesting reading particularly given the widely reported crime problem they have experienced after banning handguns. Click here to see it.

Gun control group accuses shooters of faking launch advice
- updated 20 March 2004.

Sydney radio station NOVA reported the following in relation to the National Coalition for Gun Control's Samantha Lee:

"Lee says the pro-gun lobby circulated press releases yesterday using the NCGC logo saying the launch had been called off. She says they will not be put off by the pro-gun lobby group's actions."

The launch is relation to the Coalition's latest efforts to seek a ban on all handguns.

Time will tell who is telling porkies here and it certainly wouldn't be NSW MP John Tingle. We are endeavouring to find out more about this.

National Coalition for Gun Control and Saatchi and Saatchi at it again
- updated 18 March 2004.

The NCGC had to cancel the launch of a new ad campaign against handguns due to mistakes in basic facts. As noted by NSW Shooter's Party MP John Tingle, gun control advocates would become a worry for us if they ever got to know something about firearms - and they are still getting it wrong by seeking a ban on types of handguns that are already banned.

In fact the NCGC cancelled the launch of its ad campaign "due to legal advice". However the NCGC will air ads, albeit without specific info on handgun use. The PR firm used is Saatchi & Saatchi. If you do a search on the Internet, you will see reports of them being associated with other anti gun campaigns.

IGA posters printed
- updated 17 March 2004.

A3 size posters promoting the CFCV's participation in the IGA Community Benefits scheme have been printed and are being distributed to various gun clubs and shops.

PM on notice about magazine capacities
- updated 15 March 2004.

Restrictions on magazine capacities are compromising the ability of the IPSC to conduct its National Championships. Basically international competitors are being turned away by Customs. The CFCV wrote to the PM today and will be putting out a media release if this problem is not resolved by the 22nd of this month.

Begging for objectivity
- updated 13 March 2004.

While we wait for the Ombudsman's determination of our complaint into our concern that Dr Robert Begg from DSE has an alleged conflict of interest, let us quote from DSE's site, noting that DSE is a successor NRE (Dept of Natural Resources and Environment) and that this policy is presumably still current:

"All NRE employees are required to act with the utmost integrity and objectivity at all times in all dealings. The Department annually requires key staff to complete a declaration that allows any potential conflicts of interest to be identified and managed appropriately"

By the way, we cannot get an answer out of DSE as to "who" accessed our site 5 times over March 1 and 2. They are cornerning us into lodging yet another FOI - it's only $20 from our end and we were trying to save them a lot of hassle by hoping to avoid it. These are your tax dollars at work.

Federal MPs questionnaire sent out
- updated 11 March 2004.

Today we sent a questionnaire to all Federal MP's seeking their response to several questions in the lead up to the next Federal election. Click here to see it.

CFCV's 'police files' FOI arrives
- updated 11 March 2004.

The long awaited FOI response arrived on Tuesday night. We have been going through the 49 pages provided and have briefed a trusted media outlet. However more analysis will need to be done to determine precisely what the response is telling us.

DSE staff worried
- updated 11 March 2004.

As noted on 2 March, we observed a number of 'hits' on the site by a staff member at DSE at around the same time as a complaint we lodged with the Ombudsman would have surfaced within the Department. 5 hits in two days. Then nothing. Obviously this person read about him or her self on the page and decided to keep track of us via their internet connection at home!

Haermeyer moves to ban swords
- updated 9 March 2004.

This article reports on the Victorian Governments unexpected ban on swords. Anybody with concerns about this should call Chris Shea at the Dept. of Justice (03-9651 6948) or Steve Cusworth at the Police Minister's Office (03-9651 6900) and ask for their advice about what will be required. Victoria - the nanny state.

Union causes duck season risk
- updated 5 March 2004.

This article reports on a work ban placed by a union, the CPSU, that could compromise the opening of this year's duck season. The problem is that the environment officers won't be there and there are accusations that people might get hurt - maybe protesters drowning ?? As noted in the article, an adverse decision by the Minister would not be a good thing politically.

Police Files Cheque sent
- updated 2 March 2004.

Today, the CFCV sent payment of $14.80 to the Victoria Police to produce the 40+ pages of information they will be releasing to us in relation to our police files FOI which has been the subject of three articles in The Age thus far.

Is someone at DSE or DPI worried ?
- updated 2 March 2004.

Following relevations on this site about a potential conflict of interest and subsequent complaint to the Ombudsman, CFCV has noticed that the same person from the former DNRE (and therefore DSE or DPI) has accessed our site on no less than 5 occasions in two days. We would love to speculate who - but won't. Might be worth another FOI - what do you think?

Minister's FOI saga reported yet again
- updated 26 February 2004.

This story is the third instalment from The Age on the CFCV's 'police files' FOI. The FOI is due to arrive in the next couple of days.

FOI response over 100 days unanswered
- updated 20 February 2004.

The CFCV's "police files" FOI request has now gone over 100 days without a response. The Victoria Police have now missed three deadlines provided by statute and themselves. We are speaking with The Age. We understand the handling of our response has involved auditors. Why?

DSE's conflict of interest
- updated 18 February 2004.

The CFCV has complained to the Ombudsman in relation to the Department of Sustainability and Environment being represented on the board of the RSPCA which opposes duck shooting and hunting, while also providing advice to Government on whether or not to allow a duck shooting season. CFCV's view is that this is a stark conflict of interest.

FOI on Geoff Howards office
- updated 12 February 2004.

The CFCV has lodged an FOI request on the office of Geoff Howard, Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture relating to any documents sent to or from him pertaining to the 2003 and 2004 duck seasons.

Gun buyback overshoots mark
- updated 12 February 2004.

There are reports on the handgun buyback resulting in almost twice as many guns as originally intended. Some claim this is a success - however others will claim the buyback went too far. It has already caused one international shooting discipline to be outlawed.

A possible first for News Ltd
- updated 12 February 2004.

The Herald Sun and The Australian may have broken into new territory by publishing a story where each reported at least one person was charged with "unauthorised possession" of a firearm and ammunition. Previously these details were not reported which tarred shooters with the same brush as criminals - hopefully the new type of reporting, which makes this distinction, will become commonplace.

Off Mark On Mark
- updated 12 February 2004.

Gun Control Australia used Australia Day for an un-Australian attack on Olympic champion Russell Mark. They state that Mark sends a poor message to the community, said that shooters are aggressive and that gun laws should be weakened. We note GCA did not seek a response from Mr Mark on the allegations.

Hound ban angers Sykes
- updated 11 February 2004.

The Member for Benalla, Dr Bill Sykes, has criticised the Government for banning the use of fox hounds from April this year. He encouraged people to rally against the ban in Wangaratta (Apex Park 10am) on February 15th. He said the Government should instead focus on policing rogue deer hunters. Thousands of fox hounds are expected to be put down because of the ban.

NSW police lose guns - 'oops'
- updated 6 February 2004.

The NSW police have misplaced a number of handguns while they check and pursue shooters who don't do the same. Click here to read it.

NSW Police Commissioners lack of sincerety for Diamond
- updated 5 February 2004.

NSW Police Commissioner Ken Moroney has stunned us by describing a week's delay between Olympic Shooter Michael Diamond being acquitted of assault charges and reissuing his licence as "immediate". He is also reported as telling The Age that the reissuing of his licence

"will allow him to take up his chosen sport, effective today, if that is his wish,"

If that is his wish ? Mr Moroney's sincerety in this matter - particularly as Diamond is innocent of any wrong doing - appears to be somewhat lacking.

Cordeaux's interview on international experience on gun laws
- updated 3 February 2004.

This utterly stunning interview is worth a read. It is from the Cordeaux program on 5DN. Click here to read it. Gun laws can be useful and put proper controls around their use, but this interview demonstrates the very problem that arises when politicians decide to run with an issue for popularity.

International release goes out
- updated 3 February 2004.

In a first for the CFCV, we are currently distributing this press release for the international audience to countries including UK, USA, Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Vietnam, China, Japan, Poland, India, Syria and so on. If the Federal or State Governments feel uncomfortable with this, then there could be a reason.

In planning ....
- updated 2 February 2004.

The CFCV is preparing a press release for international distribution that will illustrate the treatment provided to shooters over the past few months by our State and Federal Governments. Also under preparation is a brief for MP's in the lead up to the Autumn session of Parliament.

Gun Collectors Win Registration Victory
- updated 29 January 2004.

It has apparently been announced that NSW and ACT will not be registering antique pistols (percussion and pin fire revolvers). We understand the Victorian Minister for Police and Emergency Services and the Superintendent of the Licensing Services Branch have been waiting to see just what the other states would be doing before they decide to backstep on what was a stupid step to take in the first place.

Sydney Morning Herald article
- updated 27 January 2004.

This article provides a good rundown on why shooter numbers have increased in NSW, and the prejudice that shooters receive on a daily basis. Worth a read.

CFCV joins IGA Ritchies scheme
- updated 24 January 2004.

CFCV has joined the Ritchies Community Benefits scheme in which 1% of what you spend goes to the charity of your choice - in our case, us ! This means you don't have to spend anything more - but by changing from shopping at Coles or Safeways and using the number 91698 on your card, you can save your sport ! More info can be found here.

Vic Police renig on prosecutions policy
- updated 17 January 2004.

Attention Blackpowder shooters - the Vic Pol have apparently renigged on a non prosecutions policy with respect to some target pistols. Please contact your club or parent organisation for more information.

Article on Melbourne Gun Club
- updated 17 January 2004.

This article is another example of the sort of publicity shooting clubs should aim for. Its one thing to get on the backfoot to defend what we do, and another to get on the front foot to show the community who we are and what we do - too many reruns of Die Hard can and has led to many think we are suburban Rambos.

Nats pressure Thwaites on duck season
- updated 16 January 2004.

The Nats issued this release calling on the Government to make an announcement on whether or not there will be a duck season this year. The ALP recently decided against a ban on duck shooting

Commonwealth Games preparations in tatters
- updated 11 January 2004.

This article from The Age is an acute embarrassment to a Government that has done nothing to ensure that the 2006 Commonwealth Games will be a success.

2003

3AW's McCallum unmoved on handgun buyback
- updated 31 December 2003.

The handgun buyback finished today, with some media outlets reporting this. Media comments and reporting was generally fair although better coverage of the issues raised by the CFCV would have been nice. Notwithstanding it was fair. 3AW's Nick McCallum opened his show by stating how 'the gun lobby' was 'bleating' about the inability of handgun owners to comply with today's deadline. He interviewed Sebastian Ziccone who was faced with an interviewer whose attitude was that any guns taken out of circulation 'must be a good thing'. One caller tried to put this into context with an analogy but McCallum was unmoved. Another caller explained by fax that the '5 months' buyback consisted of 'a week here and a week there', therefore meaning owners in any one place in fact had very limited opportunity to surrender banned guns. McCallum's response was 'good point, but 5 months is still long enough'.

Firearms (Handgun) Regulations 2003
- updated 23 December 2003.

The above regulations have been made. Click here to see them (select 2003 - Statutory Rules then look up the regulations by name) - it is a PDF file. You will note the Government has not moved on any of the fee issues raised. With respect to the probationary period licence fee, the cost of full licences has increased to offset the reduction in the probationary fee.

Herald Sun gets story context wrong
- updated 21 December 2003.

As noted by a reader after the story was published, the Herald Sun's story titled "Give my boy a gun" (12/12/03) correctly noted (albeit on page 4, a safe distance from the brazen headline on page 1) that a juniors shooters' licence allowed a junior to use firearms, but the context in which the heading and opening paragraphs implied that a junior could own a firearm on a junior shooters licence. This is not correct. A junior shooter's licence only permits the supervised use of firearms by a junior - it does not allow for ownership. As the reader also noted, a juniors licence is a necessary gateway to international competition. The Herald Sun has a history of publishing front page stories on firearms, mostly negative, that have required varying degrees of correction. The Herald Sun's major competitor, The Age, provides more accurate actual and contextual coverage of firearm related issues.

Geoff Howard's popularity dive
- updated 17 December 2003.

As also reported on our Politics Page, the Ballarat Courier ran a poll after the duck shooting saga - Click here for the results. Time to call him "Mr 3%".

Today Tonight draws fire
- updated 17 December 2003.

Seven's Today Tonight featured a story at this site which quoted information that could lead a viewer or reader to think that gun crime is related to legal gun ownership. The story also quotes a gun control advocate without a balancing view from a shooting organisation. This drew a press release which appears in our media page, which has already drawn interest from other parts of the media.

Seven was previously criticised by Target Rifle Victoria over an episode of Home and Away which suggested improper gun ownership and storage was appropriate.

Handgun buyback extended to end of March for dealers
- updated 9 December 2003.

As reported about two thirds of the way through this article, the buyback of handguns has been extended in Victoria to 30 March 2004, and to 30 June in Queensland. However the article does not provide the full story. The extension of the buyback is for dealers only, and even then, only for handguns. Check with the Licensing Services Branch of Victoria Police for more information.

Haermeyer in fresh files claim
- updated 6 December 2003.

This article from The Age reports on how Police Minister Haermeyer made two statements in Parliament that, according to the article, appear to be untrue. The Minister accused CFCV President, Sebastian Ziccone, of saying he was embarrassed about the Police Files FOI and submitted it for attention to another (unnamed) issue - charges which Mr Ziccone has denied.

FGA submission on Labor's duck hunting motion
- updated 3 December 2003.

This message was conveyed today from Field and Game Australia to every ALP MP ahead of this weekends ALP conference. A motion has been proposed to ban duck hunting in Victoria, and this will be a real test for the Bracks Government's commitment to country Victoria.