Firearms Training for women on the land
These workshops were designed to equip women with the confidence and knowledge to safely use firearms for the humane destruction of pest animals and livestock
Community Participation - LP011-012
The issue
The humane destruction of livestock, animals caught in traps or pest animals on the farm requires qualified, licensed and capable firearms operators. During times of economic depression or emergency, stockowners are faced with the difficult decision of on-farm destruction of their animals. Pest animals also require the use of firearms, in order to prevent the significant impact, they can have through loss and damage to stock and infrastructure, as well as damage to the environment and cultural heritage sites.
While many male landholders hold Firearms Licenses and are confident in the safe handling and storage of their guns, the same is often not the case for females. Yet it is often the female that encounters an animal in need of euthanizing.
The solution
Hay Plains Landcare are aiming to help raise the profile of women in farming, recognising that women are taking a much more active role in day-to-day farming activities. The group hopes to help empower women to use firearms safely for the humane destruction of pest animals and livestock, through a new firearms course being offered to women on the land.
The impact
A total of 20 women, in 4 workshops of 5 participants, were instructed how to use, handle and store firearms safely with Firearms and Safety Officer Brian Doyle with the Firearm Safety and Training Council.
Brian also demonstrated aim points for the humane destruction of animals and discussed what type of rifle and ammunition is most suitable for putting down livestock and pest animals.
The local land services biosecurity officer also came along and discussed the feral animals in the Riverina and the impact these animals are having on the environment and farming.
All participants receive a Statement of Attainment from the Firearm Safety Training Council and are eligible to apply for a firearms licence online through NSW Police Force Firearms Registry.
Key facts
- Hay Plains Landcare are helping raise the profile of women in farming
- 20 women trained in safe use of firearms
- Successful partnership with the Firearm Safety Training Council