The Eurobodalla Shire Council is accepting submissions (until October 8) on a proposed amendment, to the Huntfest Event licence, that will allow the organisers to apply for an unrestricted Arms Fair Permit.
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If the amendment is approved by Council, and the Police give their permission, this will clear the way for the display and sale of guns at Huntfest 2015.
The Council has advised they will accept submissions from non-residents.
The Shooters & Fishers Party stall has been a prominent feature at Huntfest events in 2013 and 2014.
It is worth noting that their current leadership is on the public record as saying that gun laws in Australia are not appropriate, and that they wish the National Rifle Association (NRA) were over here, presumably to make Australia more like the United States.
In that country action to reduce the annual slaughter of citizens in firearm related incidents, around 30,000 deaths per annum, is stymied by the political power of groups like the NRA.
The processes by which the US got to where it is today are clearly evident at Huntfest- the promotion of gun ownership and the promotion of politicians who will weaken gun laws if given the opportunity.
There needs to be a statewide inquiry into these matters.
Where is the policy research on promotion of gun ownership that backs up the decision making by Police? Where is the risk assessment on approval of Arms Fairs across the state?
And for those who claim that opposing guns is the province of the "extreme greens", I submit to readers these comments from that well known lefty, ex-PM John Howard, who said:
"We do not want the American disease imported into Australia. I think guns have become a blight on American society. We do not have the same gun culture as the Americans and we should strenuously resist any slide into the gun culture of the United States." (The Age, Apr 18, 2002)
The sale of guns at Huntfest is just another step towards putting more guns into our community.
If you think that is undesirable, I would encourage you to make a submission opposing the amendment.
While you are at it, write to the Premier and ask for an inquiry into the approval of Arms Fairs across the state.
Doug Reckord, president
Far South Coast Branch of the National Parks Association NSW
Kalaru