March Editorial from The Report

In the wake of the Bondi Islamic extremist terrorist attack on the Jewish community, we are left with a confusion of rushed and bizarre federal laws that will only impact the lawful firearm owner. While the NSW State Government was quick to rehash its own firearm laws in response, other states have been more cautious, and Queensland’s Government has pointed out the lunacy of making laws that only effect the law-abiding firearms owner. Premier David Crisafulli and Police Minster Dan Purdie have, at the time of writing, rejected a firearms buyback and refused to copy the NSW Government in creating new laws that do nothing to prevent criminal misuse of firearms. Increasing punishment for deliberate harm with a firearm is in their sights, not curtailing the freedoms of us, the sporting and recreational shooters. 

We have met with the Police Minster’s Office and are in regular contact and so far, can optimistically say they are being practical and honest. Full marks to them. The majority of laws that impact firearm use come from the state not federal government so their response is crucial. 

So far, the embarrassment of the goings on in the ‘Canberra bubble’ thankfully have not crossed the Queensland border and we thank our members who have contacted their politicians to say we will not be blamed for the acts of terrorists or made a scapegoat by a federal government looking to cover up its own failings. 

Ironically, our first magazine for the year, the February The Report issue, was a ‘junior shooter’ special, featuring stories about our youngsters getting into target sports and hunting. While these are the very people the antis would like to ban taking up our sport, we are proud to see them learn the skills and take on the responsibilities of firearms handling and marksmanship. It is cliché to say they are the future of our sport, but it is true, and we will be as an association going to new and great lengths to increase our junior membership. You can do your part in bringing your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews to the range or hunting grounds and we will be there to support you all. 

Jeff Ross 

SSAA Queensland President