MINIATURE RIFLES.

Timaru Herald, Volume XCVIII, Issue 18084, 10 June 1924, Page 9

MINIATURE RIFLES.

TIMARU CLUB’S NEW RANGE. The Timaru Miniature Rifle Club is now established in its new range, and the formal opening by the Mayor, which was held on May 31st, marked an epoch in the history of the club. The function took the form of a social evening, and members of the Defence Forces and outside clubs were among the guests. A telegram was received from Major Rowe, expressing regret at not being present, but wishing the club a successful future. „ ' The president (Mr W. Jones) gave an outline of the club’s working since it was started about nine years earlier. The club, from the start, had many difficulties to overcome. Having no permanent range, ■ they had been compelled 'to make many shifts, and consequently had decided to make an effort to have a range of their own, and he was proud to say that this had been accomplished, and the club had now one of the finest ranges in the Dominion. Mr Jones made reference to the kind support the public had given to the movement, and said it was due to this that the club was in such a sound position to-day. Mr Jones also spoke of the advantages of rifle-shooting as a national pastime, and said that was fully demonstrated in the late war. Addresses were also given by Captain McHugh (Defence Department), Mr Thomson (Fire Brigade), Mr Duncan ( Willowbridge), Mr Toneycliffe (senior), and Captain Lewis (Timaru), after which the president called on the Mayor to open the range. Mr Wallace said that he looked upon rille shooting as a pastime to be encouraged. A young man to be efficient must lead a clean life, and be moderate in all things. Ho was pleased to know that the club had had many difficulties to contend with, as it showed that the British spirit was still dominant in overcoming all obstacles. He also impressed on the members the wisdom of aiming straight in life, and by so doing making good citizens. The Mayor fired the first shot, and amid applause declared the range open.

Refreshments were then dispensed, during which Mr Tate gave a display of balancing, showing wonderful control.

During the evening a triangular match was fired between the Defence, Outside Clubs and the Timaru Cl nD.

The range is built on up-to-date lines, of corrugated iron, the office and shooting compartment being well lined to ensure comfort. Electric light has boon installed, and the lighting on the targets has been carefully thought out to give the best results. A pit six feet deep has been made for th 6 marksmen, safety being the keynote, right through. The range is 105 _ feet, long and 18 feet wide, and will accommodate six men at a time. • This has been a long-felt, want in Timaru. and the Timaru Club are to-be congratulated on its achievement.