Townsville’s Bowhunters can keep their eyes on their targets thanks to a new 10-year lease with Townsville City Council.
Community and Cultural Development Committee Chair Cr Colleen Doyle said the lease was another example of Council’s support for local clubs.
“Council has shown its commitment to local sport by approving several peppercorn leases in recent weeks,” Cr Doyle said.
“Council’s support is crucial for clubs and these leases ensure they can continue to operate.
“We want to promote a fit and active community.”
Cr Doyle said bowhunting and field archery are becoming more popular in Townsville.
“There has been a 15 per cent increase in membership and the club is developing a new range for the first time in 20 years,” Cr Doyle said.
“It is a challenging sport and the club has accredited coaches for beginners and more experienced archers.”
Local Councillor Mark Molachino said the peppercorn lease recognises the importance of Townsville District Bowhunters.
“It was the first Australian Bowhunters Association club in the country. The national association was founded here in Townsville,” Cr Molachino said.
“It is a family friendly sport that caters for all skill levels.”
The club has been based at its current location in Condon since it started in 1971.
Cr Molachino said bowhunting and field archery are separate disciplines to target archery.
“Bowhunters and field archers don’t shoot at known distances,” Cr Molachino said
“Their targets are put up anywhere between 5.6 metres and 48 metres so they have to estimate the range accurately when they shoot their bows.”
The targets can be three dimensional in the shape of an animal or vinyl targets that feature a picture of introduced feral species. Practice targets are left up on the site during the week so members can continue to practice their shooting between competitions.
Townsville District Bowhunters meet every fortnight and hold competitions once a month. Members can practice at the facility throughout the week.
