November 2010 PRESIDENTS RAMBLE

With the tragic shooting accident that occurred at labour weekend it is timely that we all reflect on our responsibilities as firearms owners and hunters with regard to observing the basic firearms safety rules and also particularly with regard to the circumstances around the accidental shooting, the ethics that we as hunters observe when out hunting. The issue of spotlighting off public roads in public areas and close to public facilities is a behaviour that I would expect NZDA members to condone and not participate in. Unfortunately because NZDA has such a "public" presence the members of the NZDA are tarred with the actions of a number of totally irresponsible "hunters".

As we move into the spring period where hunting activities increase let us all think about this tragic accident and the devastating personal consequenses and focus on our responsibilities as firearms owners and ethical hunters. So follow the rules and enjoy the outdoors.

October's social night had us all gathered at the Hunting & Fishing store in Te Rapa, where Gary, Shane and Richard gave us a run down on whats needed to successfully hunt geese and also bring us up with the latest fishing techniques using soft baits and slow jigs. Plenty of bargains available and with Xmass coming up a couple of "prezzies" such as a new fishing rod/reel for the wife certainly goes down a treat.

Spring hunting and fishing is certainly full on at the moment and with the recent run of fine weather many of us are certainly taking advantage of it and getting out there and doing it, so plenty of stories for the newsletter.

Hot Barrels and Tight Lines.

John