FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA
Our Mission: To be the most effective organisation in the promotion of hunting, recreational shooting, and habitat conservation
Who We Are
FGA was established in 1958 by hunters who were concerned about the loss of wetland habitat for the game birds they loved to observe and hunt FGA is now the nation’s most progressive firearm hunting and conservation organisation with six decades of service to the association’s membership, including hunters, target shooters and conservationists
We have passed the incredible milestone of 60 years, and FGA represents more than 15,000 members united by interests in target sports, hunting, and the desire to see Australia’s wetlands preserved for future generations
Our Patrons
PROFESSOR GRAHAME WEBB, BSC (HONS), PhwD
THE HONOURABLE DAVID HAWKER, AO
MR MAX DOWNES, BSC, PGD
Guide to the Annual Report
This is the annual report of Field & Game Australia (FGA) Inc (ABN 79 042 436 123) for the financial year ending June 30, 2025 The report provides information from the Board, branches and stakeholders of FGA about the association’s operations and performance and is presented at the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). FGA cannot be held liable for any printing errors in this document.
Acknowledgements
Contributors: Peter Hawker, David Hawker AO; Glenn Falla, Lucas Cooke, David Anderson
Feedback: We welcome your comments regarding this report Telephone (03) 5799 0960 with your feedback, or email ceo@fieldandgame com au
FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA BOARD
FGA TEAM
Phone: (03) 5799 0960
Email: membership@fieldandgame com au
Dr Hugh Martin MBE (dec)
Ron Bryant (dec)
Doug Hemingway MBE (dec)
Des Thomas OAM (dec)
Phil Brown OAM (dec)
John Foster (dec)
Rex Cambrey
Allan Graham
Ruby Cato (dec)
Geoff Proudfoot
Gary Howard OAM
Albert Chamberlain (dec)
Graham Eames
Ian McLachlan
Ron Danby (dec)
Rick Foster
Russ Bate OAM
Tom Chick
Bill Paterson
FGA CEO‘S REPORT
This past year has been one of steady progress, consolidation, and delivery for Field & Game Australia. It hasn’t been without its challenges, but we’ve continued to grow, strengthen, and position ourselves as the trusted voice for practical conservation and responsible shooting in Australia.
At every level from national office to local branches our people have stayed focused on getting the job done, not talking about it That’s what makes FGA
unique. We are a community that builds, restores, and protects often quietly, but always with purpose.
Growth and Resilience
Membership continued to climb, finishing the membership year well above 16,000 a modest 2.5% growth on the previous year another sign of continued trust and belief in what we stand for. That growth has been driven by stronger engagement, improved communication, and a more consistent experience across the country.
We’re also seeing encouraging shifts in who makes up our membership Female participation continues to rise slowly but steadily across both hunting and clay target activities, and our average age demographic is trending younger clear signs that the next generation of conservation-minded shooters are finding their place within Field & Game Australia. These changes don’t happen by chance; they’re the result of deliberate effort to make our culture welcoming, inclusive, and forward-looking.
It’s equally important to recognise that many of our branches are built around clay target participation and that this community remains a vital part of who we are. Over the past year, we’ve worked hard to ensure their interests are well represented. That has included direct advocacy with regulators around the EPA’s increased scrutiny of shooting ranges, ongoing engagement with DEECA on environmental compliance, and the development of a practical Environmental Management Plan template for branches without one. These initiatives ensure every club has the tools to demonstrate responsible range operation and environmental stewardship
This work might not be the most visible, but it’s critical. It protects access, strengthens credibility, and ensures that both our hunting and clay target members have a secure and respected future.
Delivering on Priorities
A major focus this year has been delivery taking plans from discussion to action. The National Carnival was again a success, despite the usual venue challenges and logistical hurdles. It proved once again that when branches, volunteers, and the national office pull together, there’s nothing this
organisation can’t achieve
The rollout of the Safety Manual is now well underway, creating consistent standards across branches and reinforcing our culture of professionalism and care.
Meanwhile, work has progressed on establishing CPS Training, our Registered Training Organisation. This project will provide members with recognised qualifications in conservation, safety, and practical skills while creating a valuable new income stream that helps strengthen the association’s future
We also advanced the Member Protection and Resilience Trust, a structure designed to provide long-term stability and financial support to branches. This model gives us greater independence and resilience in an increasingly difficult insurance environment
Advocacy and Conservation
Our advocacy has remained strong, fact-based, and consistent FGA continues to represent hunters and shooters in every major policy discussion from the rewrite of the Wildlife (Game) Regulations to the development of the national Animal Welfare Strategy Our input is professional and respected, built on data, experience, and science rather than emotion or politics
This year’s duck season reflected that approach, with positive compliance outcomes and improved public perception The reopening of key wetlands, including Hospital Swamp, was a clear demonstration that persistence and cooperation work
Through the Wetland Environmental Taskforce (WET), our volunteers and partners continued the hands-on conservation work that defines us: building and maintaining nesting structures, managing predators, restoring wetlands, and supporting biodiversity These are not one-off gestures they’re long-term commitments that prove hunting and conservation can, and do, coexist
Our predator management programs, delivered through branches and partnerships, have also gained momentum and visibility, showing once again that FGA members are on the front line of real conservation outcomes
Communication and Public Profile
FGA’s public profile has continued to grow. Our communications team has expanded, building capacity in both digital and traditional media. FGA’s voice is now being heard across the nation in interviews, in print, and increasingly online where we are recognised as balanced, informed, and constructive.
Our magazine, newsletters, and social channels now reach tens of thousands each month, reflecting the diversity of our community from clay target events and youth programs to conservation fieldwork and policy engagement. This visibility reinforces who we are and why we matter. It also builds unity between our hunting and clay target members by celebrating what we all have in common: skill, respect, and a deep love of the outdoors. Challenges and Outlook
The year brought its share of challenges, none greater than insurance. The withdrawal of major insurers from the recreation and shooting sectors has created significant uncertainty for many clubs. FGA is working hard to secure a robust, lasting solution that provides branches with the confidence and coverage they need. The Member Protection and Resilience Trust will form the backbone of that solution a model that gives control and stability back to our members
At the same time, we’ve continued to modernise our governance, digital systems, and financial management ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in everything we do. These improvements support the strong governance direction set by the board and will serve as the foundation for future growth.
Looking ahead, our focus remains on:
Finalising the RTO and launching the first courses under the FGA umbrella;
Strengthening our international partnerships with like-minded organisations worldwide
Continuing to modernise systems and governance to support branches and members; and
Closing Thoughts
This has been a year of visible progress not just in what we’ve achieved, but in how we’ve shown it Across conservation, clay target, and hunting activities alike, Field & Game Australia is being recognised for what it truly is: a professional, unified, and forward-looking organisation that acts with integrity and purpose.
Our strength lies not in our size, but in our people in the branch committees, volunteers, and members who give their time, knowledge, and passion to this cause every week. You are the reason our wetlands thrive, our clubs prosper, and our traditions endure
As we look to the year ahead, I want to thank every one of you for your support, commitment, and belief in what Field & Game Australia stands for You make this organisation what it is and together, we can all be Proud To Belong.
Delivering a secure, sustainable insurance framework that supports our entire network
FGA CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
This year, as against previous years, has seen a significant change in the visibility of what our branches and their volunteers are achieving across the board, and it is a clear demonstration of the momentum that is rising throughout our organisation. Let me explain…
Conservation efforts are moving along at a great rate, partly due to our members sharing more of what they are doing, and partly due to the fact that we are being engaged by decision-makers to participate in forums where Field & Game Australia is recognised as a fact-based, science-driven, nononsense provider of input for what is best for our communities, our native animals, and our future without agendas. We are seeing individual FGA members share the work they are doing on their land to increase wetland expansion and environmental flows. Videos of excavators working on their land at their own expense are appearing because it is the right thing to do for conservation Branch conservation volunteers are out engaging their communities with the planting of trees, repairing flood and water mitigation gates, and installing and maintaining nest boxes in locations that have been left neglected for years, clearly demonstrating the expansion of our footprint in conservation
Conservation has also become more visible in South Australia through increased sharing and the value of having an interstate board member who is a direct link to Field & Game Australia This combination of effort is remarkable and truly a level of dedication not seen elsewhere Congratulations to you all
At branch level, we are seeing our presidents and committees leading the way and setting expectations, particularly in the areas of safety, ASF target compliance, and a more open style of communication. To help explain this further, we are seeing active reporting of incidents to the national office The significance of this is that it allows us to provide support to the individual and to the branch, and we are no longer at risk of being surprised by claims associated with aged incidents This is excellent work by the branches and their respective committees Every year I visit different branches all over Victoria and soon interstate not only to have fun at the shoot but, more importantly, to engage with the committee and get a sense of the temperature of that particular branch while offering our assistance The noticeable change is that the sense of community at branch level is increasing You see this through the club atmosphere, and along with that comes the other noticeable change
in the types of targets, which are increasingly aligned with the ASF requirements we expect. Why is this important? It is important because we support all age ranges and genders, as we are an access-for-all organisation from the first timer to the professional This is our strength, and this is our identity
In relation to hunting, our predator management is also becoming more visible Our volunteers are at the forefront protecting native species, while bringing back accurate removal numbers that further reflect the efforts of FGA members We have always done this work, but now we are lifting the profile and taking the time to make it visible. The efforts of everyone involved with securing the duck season through collaboration with organisations other than FGA, and with the contribution of FGA members being the voice of reason have secured our near-term future. Efforts with obtaining duck counts, well-behaved duck dispatch, and respectful use of firearms have clearly demonstrated that we are a professional organisation. Ultimately, this has led to a further two years of locked-in dates for duck seasons, which brings confidence that science and tradition can work hand in hand.
Behind the scenes are our sub-committees, led by FGA volunteers and board members, who support us all in our endeavours to grow as an organisation Over the past twelve months, significant contributions from our Clay Target Committee, our Conservation Committee, and our Finance Committee have added value in every aspect of what we do and have been a vital part of our success We are moving towards creating additional sub-committees to assist in our growth, as we are rapidly expanding our base beyond our current internal capacity More will come on this as the year unfolds, as we have more to achieve in the coming period
Regarding our financial strength, various revenue streams coupled with strict budget allocations and management have allowed us to be in a position of having over 12 months of operating cash, which we are able to invest into our future. We have mentioned at previous Presidents’ meetings that we are future proofing ourselves by becoming an RTO, developing a strategy to reduce insurance costs at branch level, and investigating options for our Willowmavin asset to generate a valuable cash stream. Additionally, we will be investing capital into our digital systems that support monthly events and daily communication to bring us into the modern world. We cannot remain a leader and stand still.
Over the past 18 months, and as an ongoing process, the board has tightened its application of strong and robust governance across the organisation in everything that we do The board is demonstrating a clear path of accountability, not only for itself but for all members regardless of the role they hold This accountability supports strong leadership and transparency in what we do and sets the tone for the expectations of the professional organisation we are This is something you, as members, should expect from the board every day
Our national office remains a huge focal point for providing support and guidance to branches and members every day While phones are actively working double time to secure new members, the staff are busy in the areas of finance, media, conservation, and support. The feedback surrounding the step change in our sharing of all facets of what is occurring at ground level through our extensive communications strategy to ensure everyone is informed has been very positive and well received. I cannot speak highly enough of the professional approach this team of people brings to the business every day.
In closing, I would like to congratulate our branch presidents, who lead and set the tone for their respective branches and indeed the organisation as a whole; the committees who tirelessly support their branches; and the volunteers who step up every week to support shoot events, conservation activities, predator control, and the numerous other activities that go on behind the scenes It is a credit to you all
To the board of Field & Game Australia: you are not just a board of directors you are a board of active engagement, leading and participating in every aspect of our business Thank you for your ongoing support
David Anderson Field & Game Australia Board Chairman
OPERATING PROFIT $256,023
FOR THE YEAR OF 2024 - 2025
Field & Game Australia announces a net operating profit of $256,023 for the 2024-25 financial year.
2024-25 FGA FINANCIALS
WETLAND ENVIRONMENTAL TASKFORCE TRUST REPORT
Presented by the Chairman of the WET Governors
It is with great pride that I present the 2024–25 Chairman’s Report on behalf of the Wetlands Environmental Taskforce (WET). This year has been one of meaningful progress, impactful conservation outcomes, and strong community and stakeholder engagement
Our mission to conserve and restore wetlands continues to gain momentum, thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, partners, and supporters The highlights outlined below reflect a growing movement in support of wetland preservation, biodiversity, and responsible land stewardship
FUNDRAISING HIGHLIGHTS
Containers for Conservation
The Containers for Conservation initiative has provided the community with a simple, effective way to contribute directly to wetland restoration efforts Participation and awareness continue to grow
Duck Stamp 2025 – Pink-eared Duck
The 2025 Duck Stamp, featuring the Pink-eared Duck by Gayle Newcombe was a resounding success It builds on the legacy of the inaugural 2024 stamp by Paul Sharp (Chestnut Teal).
Combined, these stamp projects have raised over $10,000 for conservation activities.
Collaborations with Cedar Run Decoys
We are pleased to acknowledge the support of Cedar Run Decoys, who extended the Duck Stamp initiative by producing:
Limited-edition hand-carved decoys
Commemorative t-shirts
A travelling decoy in partnership with Ramsey Russell (GetDucks)
The 2026 Duck Stamp theme has been announced: the Blue Winged Shoveler Cedar Run Decoys are also confirmed to return, supporting the future of this important program
If you haven’t yet secured this year’s stamp or related merchandise, we encourage you to do so supporting a unique conservation cause while owning a true collector’s item.
Community Engagement
Our wetland properties have increasingly become vibrant community hubs, valued not only for conservation but also for social, educational, and recreational purposes
Activities & Events
This year, our properties hosted: Australia Day BBQ & Live Music – supported by Garry & Jenny Jones
Educational Programs – involving local schools and youth groups
Community Use – including Rotary events, dog training, photography groups, birdwatching (twitchers), local FGA and ADA clubs, environmental scientists, and families
Diverse Engagement
From birthday parties and Christmas celebrations to weddings and scientific fieldwork, our properties especially the Connewarre Wetland Complex and Heart Morass continue to inspire and serve our communities in remarkable ways
Recognition & Advocacy
The Heart Morass was formally acknowledged during the Victorian Parliament’s Greater National Parks Inquiry Once 819 hectares of degraded farmland, this site has been transformed into a thriving wetland through the efforts of Field & Game Australia, WET, and countless volunteers and donors
Projects & Partnerships
WET continues to expand its partnerships and project footprint across Victoria
Bug Blitz Trust
Again, under the stewardship of John Caldow, Bug Blitz continues to thrive, with promising discussions underway through the Maffra District Landcare Group for future joint projects
Connewarre Wetlands Complex Site Developments
Significant infrastructure and ecological work have been completed, including:
Completion of the Gate Valve Project
Repairs to levee banks
Establishment of a permanent trapping site
Installation of coconut fibre hen houses
Creation of “super sites” for long-term biodiversity monitoring
New Collaborations
Creswick Creek Project – undertaken in partnership with the Dja Dja Wurrung
Merin Merin Swamp – a potential future site pending grant approval undertaken in partnership with the Dja Dja Wurrung
Invasive Species Control – targeting gorse bush and wild rose thorn in vulnerable areas
Corop Wetlands – undertaken in partnership with the Tuangurung Land and Waters Council and other interest groups supporting government departments
Water Management Strategy
As wetlands require periodic inundation to maintain ecological function, WET is preparing to enter the temporary water market to deliver water to key conservation sites
We are investing in:
Site selection frameworks
Water infrastructure planning
Public–private wetland delivery models
This strategic approach ensures that both private and public wetlands receive the hydrological support they need at critical times
Operation NestGuard: Predator Management Initiative
Launched under the NEST (Nesting Ecosystem Support Taskforce) banner, Operation NestGuard aims to boost hollow-nesting species survival through coordinated, targeted predator control during breeding periods
This isn’t a new idea but it’s a renewed focus The survival of waterbird broods depends on more than breeding success alone With your continued support, we are committed to improving both. Stay tuned to our communications as this initiative rolls out.
Vale: Maxwell Crichton Downes
28 October 1927 – 17 October 2024
In October 2024, we mourned the passing of Max Downes a treasured figure in Australian hunting and conservation His contributions, alongside the Downes family, shaped generations of responsible hunters and collectors
WET was honoured to attend the celebration of Max’s life and continues to work with Elizabeth and Malcolm Downes to ensure the preservation of the Australian National Hunting Archive (ANHA) the most extensive collection of hunting history in the country
As we close this financial year, our focus remains clear: Expand restoration and water delivery programs
Strengthen partnerships with Indigenous and regional stakeholders
Increase community education and engagement
Build resilience in wetland ecosystems
I would like to thank all those who have supported us this year, volunteers, donors, artists, landowners, schools, businesses, partner organisations and especially Glenn Falla. Your commitment allows us to grow our impact and continue restoring Australia’s wetland heritage. Together, we are not just protecting wetlands, we are creating a legacy for future generations.
David Hawker AO Wetlands Environmental Trust
Chairman
WETLAND ENVIRONMENTAL TASKFORCE FINANCIALS
BRANCH & MEMBER AWARDS
Since 1958, Field & Game Australia members have been offering dedicated service to the association that has had a positive impact on all facets of the organisation – from hunting to conservation and clay target participation. Each year we seek nominations of deserving members from our branch executives as we seek to recognise both branches and individuals for their outstanding contributions to the success of the organistion. In 2024-25 the board was pleased to receive several nominations.
Blue Wing Trophy
This year’s Blue Wing Award goes to Rushworth Field & Game, a branch leading by example in wetlands conservation and habitat engineering. Their consistent delivery of projects, strong community engagement, and enthusiasm for sharing their progress both in the field and online showcase the spirit of Field & Game at its best With thriving habitat projects, successful nesting houses and parrot boxes, and meaningful collaborations with other branches and local schools, Rushworth F&G continues to set a high standard for conservation in action
Dr Hugh Martin Medal
No nominations were received for this award in 2024-25.
Member
Service Awards
The Member Service Award acknowledges volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their branch and to Field & Game Australia as a whole These members embody the values of dedication, leadership, and community spirit that underpin our organisation.
For the 2024–25 year, four branches put forward nominations, reflecting the strength of volunteer contribution across the network The nominees are:
Graeme Wall – Rushworth Field & Game
Robert Fisk – Colac Field & Game
Terry McCrickard – Colac Field & Game
David Cox – Shepparton Field & Game
Media Award
The Media Award recognises outstanding efforts in promoting Field & Game activities For 2024–25, Rushworth Field & Game earned nominations from multiple branches and members for their exceptional media work.
Despite being a small branch, they have achieved impressive visibility through local newspapers, print media, and social media. Their Facebook group
regularly shares high-quality updates, including nesting box breeding highlights with sugar gliders and possums, community events, and collaborations with local groups and politicians. Pest and Vermin Control Award
The Pest & Vermin Control Award recognises branches that actively organise activities, encourage participation, and work with private landowners and government agencies to manage pests.
For 2024, Grampians Field & Game stands out for their exceptional efforts in all these areas, setting a benchmark for others to follow Congratulations and thank you for your outstanding contributions
HUNTING & GAME MANAGMENT REPORT
The Year of Getting Things Done
If 2023 was about setting the stage, 2024–2025 was about delivering on our promises This has been a year of momentum getting the groundwork right, strengthening our systems, and pushing forward with purpose We’ve worked hard to make sure our efforts are strategic, necessary, and impactful, and the results speak for themselves It finally feels like we’ve secured the future of gamebird hunting, at least for now Southern states have some breathing room, the Northern Territory is heading in the right direction, and internally, we’ve been able to shift gears from playing defence to going on the offensive
From improved structure and processes to stronger communications and more effective reporting, we’ve streamlined how we operate. We’ve unlocked new fundraising opportunities, built better relationships with sister organisations across the globe, and actively added targeted, impactful projects to our portfolio.
POLICY, ADVOCACY & KEY CAMPAIGNS
Holding the Line on Hunting Rights
We continue to face parliamentary inquiries and legislative pressure from all angles. These challenges aren’t going away but we are more focused, better prepared, and stronger than ever. For the first time in years, we’re proactively leading the conversation, not just responding to it.
PFAS – Holding Authorities Accountable
Our advocacy around PFAS contamination at Heart Morass continues. While frustrating, recent developments have given us reason to hope for compensation for this unacceptable loss. We’re staying the course, and we’re not backing down.
Buloke Property – A Strategic Pivot
The WET Governors have agreed to put the FGA Buloke lease on the market, choosing instead to reinvest in a site with reliable water access or environmental water potential. A bold move, but one aligned with long-term sustainability. Port Phillip Branch was approached for a similar decision but declined.
SEASON RECAP – VICTORIA & BEYOND
A Positive Step Forward
Victoria’s season under the Adaptive Harvest
Model (AHM) was a win: a full-length season, ninebird bag limit, and no further species restrictions It wasn’t perfect bag limit announcements were delayed but the outcome reflected sound management and solid advocacy
Bird Flu Response – Quick, Clear, Effective
This season brought a new challenge: avian influenza exclusion zones But thanks to strong communication and good governance, impacted members were informed early, and the disruption was minimal
Compliance – Leading by Example
Once again, hunter compliance was exemplary. According to Game Management Authority data:
0 hunters exceeded their bag limits
36 offences recorded across 606 patrols –most were minor
1,849 licences and 1,649 bags inspected with overwhelming compliance
The few offences recorded were largely technical like not leaving a wing attached or possession of toxic shot. Hunters are leading by example because we understand what's at stake.
In stark contrast, 12 anti-hunting activists were charged For them, breaking the law is part of the plan Unfortunately, leniency in the courts enables this cycle to continue, while lawful hunters face scrutiny at every turn
KEY WINS & PROGRESS
Non-Toxic Shot – Industry Steps Up
The 2025 compulsory switch to non-toxic shot for quail hunting was rushed and caused supply issues just as we warned Despite this, suppliers stepped up to meet demand, and our advocacy ensured a smoother-than-expected transition
Water License Setback
Our application for an Environmental Water Delivery license at CWC was rejected by DEECA even after a successful small trial. We continue to work with departments and ministers to challenge this shortsighted decision.
High ‘n’ Dry Waders – A New Venture
We launched commercial supply of High ‘n’ Dry waders, and demand has soared not just from retail outlets, but also from government departments and commercial fisheries. For the full story, check out Field & Game Magazine, Issue 38.
International Exposure
Our CEO once again visited the Delta Waterfowl EXPO and Ducks Unlimited, strengthening global ties and learning from industry leaders. We also had a strong presence at the ETU Delegates Conference in Melbourne, gaining valuable exposure and making important connections with government and industry.
Duck Stamp Success
Year two of the WET Duck Stamp program was a hit. The Pink-Eared Duck by Gayle Newcombe caught international attention especially in the US, where collaborations with Getducks.com and Cedar Run Decoys led to limited-edition carvings and Tshirts, launched at Delta EXPO.
ANHA Relocation to Geelong
The Australian National Hunting Archive has found its new home in Geelong. A climate-controlled facility now houses the collection, with Elizabeth and Malcolm Downes ensuring the integrity and legacy of their father, the late Maxwell Chrichton Downes, is honoured.
Operation NestGuard – Predator Control Reimagined
We launched NEST, a focused, ethical predator control program targeting invasive species during critical nesting periods (Aug–Dec) Flagship sites like Connewarre Wetland Centre are now seeing benefits. Key components:
Fox drives during duck breeding period
Volunteer predator control teams
Targeted, humane methods
Data collection and public engagement
Joint branding under “Operation NestGuard”
Bug Blitz – A Lasting Legacy
Now under the stewardship of John Caldow, Bug Blitz has engaged over 50,000 participants since 2008 With support from WET, events continue at Heart Morass and Connewarre, bringing education and biodiversity to life
Honouring Commitments – SHAP Projects
Our SHAP commitments remain a priority One standout was the installation of nesting boxes along Creswick Creek, in partnership with Traditional Owners and the Dja Dja Wurrung The day ended with a feast of wild game, shared between cultures and united in conservation
Science in Action – UC Davis Collaboration
In November 2024, Irene Engilis, Collections Manager at UC Davis, reunited waterfowl specimens from Darwin and Connewarre With the help of FGA members and the NT branch, the specimens were carefully transported to California where they’ll now be used in global conservation research and education
This effort proved something we’ve always known that: ethical hunting and scientific conservation are natural allies As Dr Engilis said, “Let’s keep the birds flying ”
LOOKING AHEAD
This year showed what we can achieve when we’re focused, prepared, and united Together, we’ve:
Protected hunting rights
Strengthened internal systems
Elevated conservation efforts
Held our ground in the face of adversity
Built partnerships locally and globally
At Field & Game Australia, we’re proud to protect our heritage, support sustainable hunting, and champion the future of conservation
Let’s keep moving forward together.
Report prepared by Field & Game Australia – 2024/25
PEST CONTROL & OTHER VOLUNTEER HOURS REPORT
A REMARKABLE RISE IN VOLUNTEER IMPACT – AND IT’S JUST THE BEGINNING
If you’ve been paying close attention to our latest volunteer data, you’ll notice something truly exciting: a strong and sustained upward trend in reported volunteer hours across Field & Game Australia. This surge is not just impressive it’s a clear reflection of the passion, commitment, and energy that our members bring to everything we do.
At the National Office, we live and breathe this every day, and we’ve taken great care to check and double-check our figures The data is accurate, and the trends are real So, what’s behind this inspiring increase?
There are several key drivers we’re proud to share:
Better Communication
Our connection with members has never been stronger Weekly newsletters, regular branch updates, and a more responsive team have helped foster stronger engagement and support across the board
A Positive Outlook Breeds Action
Confidence in the future of gamebird hunting and conservation is growing With improved security for seasons across all states and territories, members are stepping up with renewed enthusiasm just as
they have since 1958 More volunteer hours, greater value, and stronger outcomes are the result
Improved Reporting
We’ve strengthened our reporting processes, allowing us to capture more of the incredible work being done. Of course, there’s still room to grow. For example: how many wetlands have you visited, or predators removed from ecosystems, that went unreported? Every action matters and every report helps tell our story.
Unseen but Invaluable Contributions
Our target shooters, club volunteers, and community event organisers those who prepare grounds, manage canteens, and run monthly shoots are doing extraordinary work, often without recognition in our data. That’s changing. We’re now working with our Branch Liaison Officer to build tools to better capture this effort.
The volunteer spirit within Field & Game Australia is thriving. Together, we’re building something special a vibrant, active, and committed community united by purpose and passion
Let’s keep that momentum going. Let’s continue to lead, to inspire, and to protect the natural environments we all cherish.
Every hour counts. Every effort matters. And together, we are making a difference.
MEMBERSHIP REPORT TO MARCH 31, 2025
Field & Game Australia is pleased to report continued and positive membership growth for the 2024–2025 financial year, with total membership reaching 16,126. This result reflects our ongoing trajectory of year-onyear growth and strengthens our position as a leading national organisation representing conservation, hunting and clay target shooting. Our ability to retain members and attract new ones is underpinned by the strong feedback we receive across our branch network. Members consistently tell us they value the work we do to advocate for sustainable hunting, deliver conservation outcomes, and support clay target disciplines at a grassroots and national level. This appreciation is reflected in both renewals and returning members who recognise the benefits of remaining connected to Field & Game Australia
The steady upward trend in membership also demonstrates the effectiveness of our engagement strategies Staff and volunteers continue to reconnect with lapsed members and welcome new participants into our branches, while our advocacy and on-ground initiatives reinforce why membership matters As we move forward, we remain focused on supporting our branches, delivering value to members, and strengthening the key areas of conservation, hunting and clay target sports, the very contributions our members recognise and appreciate most
BRANCH MEMBERSHIP TOTALS AS
CLAY TARGET PARTICIPATION REPORT
FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA