By JOHN KING
THE Euroa Clay Target Club's beginnings date back to May 1955 in Brien’s Paddock, behind the Euroa Cemetery, where a single mechanical target-throwing machine was installed.
After several years, progress was made with a move to the Flat Rock site, where a clubhouse was constructed.
The original mechanical trap was replaced by two electric traps.
Continued development saw the purchase of two fully automatic traps, along with the construction of skeet and tower layouts.
In 2012, the club lost its use of the Flat Rock ground.
Following an invitation from the Euroa Central District Rifle Association, the club established a new base at the Violet Town Range.
Initially operating out of a freight container as an office, the club resumed competition in 2014.
Since then, significant progress has been made.
In partnership with the Rifle Association, a magnificent clubroom has been built.
Clay target shooters now enjoy two fully automatic traps and occasional tower events.
The weather was perfect for the day’s celebrations.
Perhaps the weight of the occasion affected competitors, as scores were generally lower than expected.
From 10 squads, only evergreen Tony Rohrlach and Cosgrove’s Cameron Ford managed the perfect 25/25.
The resulting shoot-off lasted only seven targets before Tony missed, crowning Cameron as the Double Barrel Champion.
A break from competition followed, with President Laurie Fitzpatrick inviting attendees into the clubroom.
Two life memberships were awarded to Paul McKendrick and Tony Rohrlach, both stalwarts of the club.
Special guest Rickkie-Lee Tyrrell MLC assisted with the presentations.
Paul and Tony then cut the birthday cake before competition resumed.
The next event, the Point Score Championship, was won in fine style by Sebastopol’s Niel Haydon, who scored an impressive 80/81.
Mansfield shooter Steven Wilson was runner-up.
Niel is a long-time member of the Benalla Club.
Finally, the handicap event went to Melbourne Gun Club member Michael Engel, who was the only shooter to achieve 20/20.
It was delightful to see many familiar faces, including Reg Walker and others who have contributed to the club’s ongoing success.
Full Results:
25-target 70th Anniversary Double Barrel Championship
Sponsored by President Laurie Fitzpatrick
1st AA and Overall – C. Ford (Cosgrove) 32/32.
2nd AA – A. Rohrlach (Euroa) 31/32.
1st A grade – A. Kidd (Mansfield) 25/26.
2nd A grade – S. Wilson (Mansfield) 24/26.
1st B grade – E. Brown (Bendigo) 29/31.
2nd B grade – G. Pronk (Mt Bogong) 28/31.
1st C grade – A. Laureano (WVCTA) 23/25.
2nd C grade – I. Larner (Alexandra) 25/29.
25-target 70th Anniversary Point Score Championship
Sponsored by Secretary Scott Towers
1st A and Overall – N. Haydon (Sebastopol) 80/81.
2nd A – S. Wilson (Mansfield) 77/81.
1st AA grade – L. Fitzgerald (Colbinabbin) 73/78.
2nd AA – A. Rohrlach (Euroa) 72/75.
1st B grade – R. Fynch (Kyneton) 90/96.
2nd B – C. Stokes (Colbinabbin) 87/96.
1st C grade – A. Laureano (WVCTA) 68/75.
2nd C – P. Ferrari (St James) 65/75.
20-target 70th Anniversary Trophy Handicap.
1st – M. Engel (Melbourne) 20/20.
2nd – S. Makin (Euroa) 31/32.
3rd – A. Laureano (WVCTA) 30/32.
4th – P. Elward (Alexandra) 22/24.
Benchmark – Z. Felmingham (Cosgrove) 19/20.
High-Gun Championships.
Sponsored by Tamleugh Park
Open High-Gun Champion – S. Wilson (Mansfield) 114/120.
Ladies High-Gun Champion – Carol Stokes (Cosgrove) 106/120.
Junior High-Gun Champion – O. Spencer (Euroa) 91/120.
Veteran High-Gun Champion – A. Rohrlach (Euroa) 111/120.
The Euroa Clay Target Club committee extends thanks to all who attended and contributed to the success of the celebration.
The next competition shoot will be held on Sunday, 8 May with the Benalla Championships headlining the program.