Shooting.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 661, 10 February 1909, Page 6

Shooting.

The invitation, of tlio piesideut of the National Rifld Association of America for au Australian tine team to visit America is regarded by the Commonwealth Couucil of Riflo Assoc iations of Australi i as u very important event, following as it does so closely lfter the visit of tho United States Atlantic Fleet to their shores. Major •J J. Paine, houaiary secretary of tlie Commonwealth Council, h>s addressed a c iniuimication to the Prime Minister of Australia, urging the importance of enabling tho Commonwealth Couiicil to iccept the invitation. The Commonwealth Government, have already voted .£I,OOO towards the cost of sending an Australian rifle team to England this year, but could not see their way to increase the grant, and it was thought, therefore, the project would have to be abandoned this year, with the hore that the sum voted, with an additional £IOOO, would be available next year. The invitation that has now come from America must, it is considered, appeal stroDgly to tne Commonwealth Government, and it is urged that an additional £I,OOOO might now be placed on the Supplementary Estimates. Parliament, it is thought, would readily acquiesce in a proposal which would be the means of furthering the friendly feeling existing netween Australia and America. It is pointed out that the matches at Bisley take place in July, and that ifter shooting there the team could then proceed to America, and take part in the competitions, returning home by that route. The Palma trophy is without doubt the finest in connection with international rifle competitions. Should Australia compete and- be fortunate enough to win, America would send a team as early as possible to endeavor to. regain the coveted honor.