GENERAL FAQ'S
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
GIVE IT A SHOT
A fantastic time outdoors! Our qualified instructors will take you on a journey of exciting exercises with heaps of support.
Each event has its own unique elements, providing fun for all. If you are a total beginner or have shot before, this is the event for you. Bring your family and friends along and share the joy.
We shoot with different rifles at different distances, based on the event of your choice. You will shoot the prone position, laying on mats. If you have a condition that doesn’t allow you to do so, we can organise alternative options. After you book you’ll receive specific information on where to be and what to wear.
These events are not open range sessions where you walk in, shoot a few rounds and go home. These are organised events with activities, prizes, and fun competitions.
All you have to do is to bring your photo ID and we look after the rest!
To participate in shooting in Queensland you do have to be at least 11 years of age. There is no upper age limit, so bring your parents and grandparents for some fun.
Handy to know is that you don’t need a Firearm Licence to be able to join these events. It is actually a great way to try shooting first.
On arrival, you will complete the required documentation. If you are unlicenced, this includes a document to state that you are eligible to shoot. You will receive this prior to the event, which gives you enough time to get in touch if you have any concerns.
Pre-booking is required for these events as there are limited spots available and organisational preparations are made a few days prior to the start. If you don’t want to miss out, be on time with your booking.
We recommend checking the Terms and Conditions first.
We recommend wearing long pants and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket as well as a hat or cap, as you will be in the outdoors. Covered footwear is mandatory. We discourage the wearing of camouflaged outfits as there are specific rules concerning what is allowed on the range and what is not.
Only program rifles will be used for the #GIVEITASHOT events. If you have own equipment like earmuffs, you can bring them at your own discretion. However, this is not necessary as the program provides all equipment needed.
Do you have your own long range rifles you want to shoot and you are keen to become a club member? Let us know and we will put you in contact with a club to discuss the possibilities.
Be aware, not all kind of rifles can be used on every range. Ranges have specific rules.
There are certainly options available. You won’t be the first to join in the fun!
As long as you comply with the specific government shooting rules valid for all participants, we are happy to accommodate you where we can. Depending on your circumstances, you might need a letter from your health care practitioner to comply with the rules, though feel free to check with us first as this is only needed in rare cases.
Have a chat with us to find out what options there are. This allows us to organise a great shooting experience for all.
Yes, you can. In our experience, most parents and guardians end up wanting to join in when they see the fun they could have together. If this sounds like you, make sure to include yourself in the booking.
Too scared to try? Come and watch and see that it isn’t scary at all. Our instructors will put you at ease. The events are designed for everyone to have fun. We find that kids appreciate it when their mum, dad, uncle, aunty, brother, sister or other friend or family member joins them.
Give it a shot!
It doesn’t matter which one you choose to do. They can be done in any order, or just as a single event. Some people come back to do the same event, while others want to try a different one.
It depends a bit on what you are looking for which event to choose first.
If you prefer a rifle without recoil or a bang, start with the Starter Class. As a bonus, you do get the chance to shoot a similar rifle to that used during the LongShot event.
If you prefer to shoot with a bigger rifle with recoil and a loud bang straight away, then the LongShot event is the way to go. These rifles are used for the longer distances.
Depending on the shooting experience you have and your main reason for joining the event, the following suggestions might help you to make your choice.
If you have been shooting with .22s and are after the bigger calibre rifles for the long range, go with a LongShot event. You will be able to try a .308 peep sight and a .308 scope rifle and will be shooting on the electronic target system. It is possible to follow your shooting live via the website. If you choose to become a club member your scores will be captured, which allows you to compete against yourself or others.
You might have shot the sport of Fullbore previously and want to join a club straight away. This is possible too. We are happy to introduce you to a club of choice.
A starter class can still be a great option for the experienced shooter. It allows to go back to basics, improving skills, and to bring family and friends that haven’t shot before. Great fun!
Either way could work. Some people start with a Firearm Safety Course and go to the events while waiting for their licence application to come through. Others want to try a shoot first to get to know the sport before undergoing the process of getting their licence.
Most of the #GIVEITASHOT instructors are also Firearm Safety Course instructors, which is handy if questions pop up during the events.
Yes, we are happy to accommodate group bookings for regular #GIVEITASHOT events, at a discounted rate.
If you have a group of 4 or more enthusiasts, we can offer a 10% discount when paid in full up front. You will be required to supply all the details of the attendees at time of booking.
Check with the office for any specific Terms and Conditions.
Gift vouchers are not part of this deal.
You can book as many people into an event as there are spots available.
Each event has its own maximum number of participants, ranging from 12 to 16. Bookings are basically made on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. At time of booking, full payment is required. There is no option to reserve a spot.
If you have a group of 6 or more people and there are not enough spots left, we can look into opening an additional regular event on another suitable date.
Would you rather organise a private session? Check the Private Events and Functions page for private options.
FIREARMS SAFETY COURSES
To participate in a Firearms Safety Course, all requirements of Queensland’s Weapons Act 1990 must be met. All participants must be 11+ years of age and must meet all fit & proper person requirements as stated in the Weapons Act 1990 and Weapons Regulations 2016.
Unlicensed persons must sign the ‘declaration by unlicensed person to possess a weapon at an approved range’, which will be provided upon arrival at the course. With this, the participant declares that the information given is true and correct in every detail.
Minors (11-18 years) can enrol in the course, but can only apply for a minor’s licence, with the option to apply for a full licence when turning 18.
Contact the QRA to discuss your situation if you have any concerns regarding your ability to meet the weapons licensing requirements or to participate in the theory component or practical component of the course. This includes participants with disabilities of any kind. Our qualified instructors can give advice on which arrangements can be made for your safe participation in the course.
Go to the calendar to find the prices and booking information for QRA’s AB and ABH courses at Belmont Shooting Complex. Prices for all other categories are available on request.
The fees for regional course options can differ due to additional organisational costs. Use this form to get in touch with an instructor in the area of your choice. They can provide you with information regarding the costs, location and available dates.
The course will cover the important points of Queensland’s Weapons Act 1990 and Weapons Regulations 2016.
During the theory component you will learn about the laws governing firearm ownership in Queensland, different types of firearms and their basic operation, along with range procedures, safety rules and hunting ethics. Storage of firearms and licence application requirements will also be discussed, and many other topics.
The practical session covers the basics of accurate and safe shooting techniques, firing a few rounds and a discussion of maintenance procedures.
All categories have multiple choice open book written examinations and a practical component, with a 100% pass requirement.
A Certificate of Attainment is issued upon successful completion of the course.
During the course you will learn how to handle a firearm safely, though this will be a very basic exercise. If you would like to learn the fundamentals of shooting, the ‘Learn2Shoot’ event is a great option. This is a one-off event and is part of QRA’s signature program #GIVEITASHOT. To participate in this event, a firearms licence is not required.
Although there is no prior knowledge required for the course, we do ask you to read the following documents before attending the course:
The Course Handbook
This is a preparation handbook and will also be provided during the course.
Declaration by an unlicensed person to possess a weapon at an approved range.
This declaration will be provided during the course and must be signed to enable you to participate in the practical component of the course.
The Student Handbook
This covers the course rules and regulations and provides information regarding complaints and appeals.
Also, before commencing the course, you will need to apply for a Unique Student Identification (USI) number if you don’t already have one. This can be obtained from www.usi.gov.au.
Prior to the course, information will be sent out with the specific requirements to bring to the course. The following will give you an idea of what this contains.
It is essential to bring a valid photo ID to the course. This could be a driver’s licence, passport, or other current photo ID. This also applies to minors.
Do not forget your USI number, which you can obtain through www.usi.gov.au.
Covered footwear is mandatory for the practical component of the course, with long pants recommended (skirts not advised). Depending on the category, this component takes place in the prone or standing position. Hearing protection will be provided and must be worn.
Furthermore, it is handy to bring a pen and notepad, some food for lunch, and a water bottle.
Individuals, companies, and groups can get in touch with the QRA office to check for private course options. Depending on availability, these can be held during weekdays or weekends for the categories of choice.
Be aware, there are restrictions regarding some licence categories, with additional weapon licensing requirements.
If you wish to book for six or more participants, get in touch and we can investigate the option of organising a training session by appointment, without additional costs.
Pre-booking is required for all Firearm Safety Courses.
Regular sessions at the QRA Belmont shooting complex are to be found on the calendar.
If you would like to renew, maintain, or cancel your firearms licence, it is best to visit the Queensland Police Service Weapons Licensing Branch website. You will find information there which will answer your firearms licensing enquiries.
If you need support in applying for your licence, there is the option to use the QRA’s application support service.
To make it easier to find all the documentation and forms related to the Firearms Safety Course and licensing, we have summarised below.
If you cannot find the document or form you are after, please contact the QRA office and we are happy to help you further.
SAFETY COURSE & LICENCE - RELATED DOCUMENTS
FIREARMS RELATED SERVICES
Is my firearm insured while in storage?
Queensland Rifle Association Inc carries no insurance cover for stored firearms. If insurance is required, make sure this is arranged.
Can I store my firearm for less than 6 months?
Yes, you can store firearms for less than 6 months. Fees paid for unused months will be refunded per whole calendar month. Be aware, administration fees are non-refundable.
Can I use this storage instead of having my own storage?
Unfortunately, this service is not a regular storage facility. It is a service created to support people in need. Feel free to check in with the QRA office if you are not quite sure of your eligibility in this regard.
When do I have to pay for the service?
There is an upfront fee of 6 months’ storage and an administration fee required at time of organising the service. For periods longer than six months, a monthly invoice, to be paid upfront, will be supplied.
Can I make use of this service if I am not a QRA member?
Yes, you can. You do not have to be a QRA member, though QRA members with a full membership do receive a 50% discount on storage fees. Find out more about memberships.
Membership
Most clubs have equipment that you can use at the start. This way you can get a better understanding of what kind of equipment would work best for the discipline you have chosen. Not everything for sale is suitable, so check with your teammates first for advice on what to purchase before you end up with equipment you cannot use.
As long as you comply with the specific government shooting rules, target shooting is open to all persons. You won’t be the first to join in the fun! Depending on your disability, provision can be made to allow you to shoot.
You don’t need a firearms licence first. There is the option to start shooting under supervision with a club. The club can supply the documentation needed to make use of this option.
Becoming a member of a club can serve as your genuine reason for applying for a licence.
No experience is necessary. The club members will help you to get started. There are also programs available for new shooters, which teach you basic shooting techniques.
Anyone can become a volunteer to help out. Membership is not a requirement. It might be beneficial to become a member if you would like to make use of the extra benefits.
Either way is possible. If you become a QSC member first, this allows you to start your firearms licence process without being bound to a specific club. This is especially handy if there are multiple clubs in your area and you would like to get to know them first.
You can also become a full member straightaway and enjoy the membership benefits.
If you are a QSC member and would like to upgrade to a full membership, you can organise this through the club of your choice. Make sure to let them know that you are a QSC member to make use of the pro rata deduction. Please contact the QRA office if you have any questions related to this.
There are some great offers available for junior members and new members. Check the member fees for the most recent information.
For QRA club members, discounts are available on selected products at the Q-Store, QRA’s accommodation bookings and selected QRA services.
You don’t have to become a full member if you don’t want to use the benefits of a full membership. A QSC membership is handy if you want to use the membership for your firearms licence. If you do want to start shooting on the club’s ranges, then a club membership is needed.
It is important to understand that being part of the state and national organisations enables the sport to exist. Through your membership fee, these organisations can liaise at state, national and international level on behalf of the members, and put the spotlight on the sport of shooting.
Entries & Nominations
Nomination Process State Teams
Nomination will take place according to the QRA Team Policies.
Team nominations are normally called between 12 to 18 months before a competition. The National Rifle Association of Australia has a calendar of events and team events are scheduled 10 years in advance.
The following steps will give you an insight into the process of team nominations. After nominations have been received for team captain, the Selection Committee recommends the appointment of this person to the Board for approval. This is followed by an announcement of the team captain, who then appoints a team manager, and nominations open for shooters and wind coaches. Trials are conducted and the squad is shortlisted. The team captain selects the team shooters and wind coaches, and submits their names to the Board for approval. The final step is the announcement of the team.
State Team Eligibility
As a current QRA member with full membership you are eligible to apply for a team.
For the Open teams and F Class teams you would be expected to be shooting in the top 20% of your grade. Under 25 and Ladies teams are seen as introductory teams, with shooters wanting to experience the team environment and progress to the Open teams. The Veterans teams are made up of experienced and new shooters.
As a team member you must comply with the QRA constitution, by-laws, regulations and any reasonable direction from the QRA, the anti-doping policy of the NRAA Ltd, NRAA Standard Shooting Rules and the rules of the competition. You will be required to sign a team member agreement. You are required to provide your own rifle, ammunition and equipment, and maintain your equipment to the highest standards of accuracy and reliability for the duration of the team agreement.
State Team Roles & Expectations
A team consist out of the following team members:
- Shooters – Team players, able to fire a good shot under direction of a wind coach, committed to upkeep of their equipment.
- Wind Coaches – Able to read weather conditions, communicate well with shooters, other wind coaches and the captain and work under direction.
- Manager – A good organiser, able to communicate well, and can commit to the time involved to excel in this role.
- Captain – A person with leadership skills and excellent in communication.
Expected commitment:
- Practice – You will be expected to attend the majority of team practices, and commit to your own training between team practices.
- Time – This will depend on the team captain and the number of practices and the commitment to attend the event.
- Costs – There is some QRA funding available for teams, but this will not cover your expenses. You are responsible for all your own ammunition, equipment upkeep and travel expenses to practices and events. QRA supports some expenses to attend practice, such as accommodation, target costs etc.
- Equipment – You will be required to maintain all your equipment to the highest standards whilst part of the team.
State Team Travel & Logistics
Being part of a team allows you to participate in the national team events and shoot against competitors from other states. At times QRA will send goodwill teams to international events.
You will be expected to attend the majority of team practices and also maintain your own training program to ensure you are shooting at your best for the team event.
Depending on the location of the team event, sometimes travel is coordinated by the team manager to ensure all team members arrive for the event. If the event is local, then the team is given a date of arrival, and it is your own responsibility to arrive within this timeframe, ensuring you communicate with the team captain and manager regarding your travel plans.
At times it will be necessary to organise permits to travel with firearms. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure they have all the required paperwork to allow them to compete in the state/territory or country where the event is hosted.
Representing Queensland
Being part of a QRA state team means you are representing the sport of Target Shooting.
As an official team member, you will be provided with the uniform items as set out in the QRA Team Policy document. You will be responsible for purchasing your own blazer and trousers, skirt and shirt and shoes for your official team “walk out” uniform. You will be expected to purchase team polo shirts to wear during the competition.
You don’t have to be in a team to make a difference. You can help make it possible for members to perform and represent Queensland. This could either be through cheering the squad as a spectator, contributing to the purchase of equipment, or volunteering during practises. Together we are ONE TEAM.
Let us know how you would like to get involved.
Entering a competition
There are many different competitions that can be entered. Learn more about the different competition events organised in Queensland and find out which one you can enter.
Each competition has its own organiser, competition structure and sign-up process. You will be able to find these competitions in the calendar with all the necessary information.
A larger competition event may have an online entry form where you can enter your details and pay online, while smaller competition events will be ‘enter on the day’.
For large events, knowing your SID (Shooter Identification Number) is important. Your score card will usually have your SID as a barcode, to streamline the data entry requirements.
The most important thing is to be well organised. Have a checklist on hand of everything required on the day.
If in doubt contact the event organiser, who will be happy to answer any queries you may have regarding the event.
It is essential to understand the rules of the competition as described in the information provided, including all the requirements regarding equipment and ammunition allowed. Be conversant as well with the relevant sections in the Standard Shooting Rules (SSR’s) to be found on the website of the NRAA.
Participating in an event
When you are booked into the competition and ready to attend, you will need to register upon arrival on the day. You will be asked to sign the range register and can pick up your score cards.
At the start of the day you will attend a pre-event briefing to ensure you are up to date with all the ‘on the day requirements’. Part of this is understanding the sequence of events, so you will be ready to shoot when required. During the competition you must obey all directions given by the competition officials.
Usually there will be a post-competition presentation which you can attend, where the competition results are presented and a social get-together takes place, to catch up and congratulate the winners.
Some competitions are held over a number of days. Most competition locations give you the option to stay onsite, and some organisers arrange meal options or alternative stays. In the competition event information you will find what is on offer.
Spectators and cheer squad
If you just want to be a spectator or maybe see how an event is conducted with a view to participating next time around, you are more than welcome.
As with participating in the competition event, you will need to comply with all the safety requirements and obey all directions given by competition officials.
If it is your first time on the range, make sure to contact the competition organiser prior to the event and let them know you would like to come and visit beforehand. This way they can ensure you have a safe and memorable experience.
Sponsoring and contributions
With the large number of volunteers makes the competitions possible, there are always costs involved in organising these events. Competition entry fees do not always cover the total costs and some events rely on sponsorships, contributions and gifts. Any type of contribution is very much appreciated.
If you think you may be in a position to be a sponsor, contact the QRA office or competition event organiser directly, to discuss how a sponsorship might be of mutual benefit.
News & Updates
Check the news and updates page for the latest information regarding competition events and state teams. Find out about upcoming event and the competition results, when team nominations are open, and any social media updates.
We look forward to seeing you on the range.
ACCOMMODATION
CHECK IN 2 PM – CHECK OUT 10 AM
On booking you will receive an email with information regarding the pick up and return of keys. Special arrangements can be made if you are arriving or departing outside office hours.
Enquiries and bookings can be made through the QRA office.
Check with the office to see if there are vacancies. At certain times of the year, particularly in June and August, there are major events taking place on the complex or at surrounding venues, with a high chance of accommodation being fully booked. With reservations accepted a year in advance, make sure to book early.
While the accommodation is not open to the public, visitors attending activities at the Belmont Shooting Complex or at nearby venues such as the Sleeman Sports Complex are welcome to book. If you would like to book a private event on the complex and add the option of a short term stay, check the Private Events options the QRA has to offer.
We do take group bookings. However, please be advised that accommodation for large groups may not be available due to popular events taking place. To make sure that your group can be accommodated, check with the office to find out what is on the agenda.
QRA members are entitled to a 10% discount on all types of accommodation.
Pensioner discount, Seniors discount, or other types of discount are not available.
With one motel unit especially equipped with a shower and toilet for the disabled, the QRA can offer accommodation for guests with a disability. Toilets and showers for the disabled can also be found at the administration block and cafe area, and these are open at all hours. Please give us a call and we can discuss your needs.
The QRA has multiple amenities blocks, with separate toilets and showers for males, females, and the disabled. For those camping on the complex, there is no dump point for sewage on the complex.
The laundry area, with tubs and coin-operated washers and dryers, is situated near the QRA office.
Also located here is a public phone and a vending machine for drinks and snacks.
Available to all guests is the BBQ area, equipped with a sink, tables and seating, and a gas barbecue provided at no charge.
Access to the QRA ranges is only for those who are booked through the QRA office to attend an event, but guests are welcome to use the outdoor space around the camping areas.
Extra linen and an additional bed can be supplied for the family suites at a one-off charge of $15.
Washing powder and soap can be purchased, and coins for the washers and dryers can be obtained during QRA office hours.
Pets are allowed on the camping grounds, but must be kept on a leash at all times. They are not permitted in the rooms.
On the complex you will be surrounded by local wildlife. With wallabies, koalas and other very special species living here, we ask you to be careful on the roads and respect them while sharing their space.
With natural bushland all around you, and so close to Brisbane city, the bay, the airport, and major shopping centres like Westfield Carindale, you’ll enjoy your stay in this unique location. All accommodation and camping grounds are situated in the same area, giving you privacy, but making it easy to catch up with your group.
Quick Links
Our Location
Belmont Shooting Complex
- 1485 Old Cleveland Road, Belmont Qld, 4153
- PO Box 38, CARINA QLD 4152
- 07 3398 4309
- qra@qldrifle.com
- Duncan Range Standing Orders - Refer to the office
- Covid-19 Information
- GIVEITASHOT & FSC registration is via RevolutioniseSport management
Quick Links
About Us
The Queensland Rifle Association fosters target rifle shooting and firearms training through our clubs. Different classes of rifle shooting are conducted by our Clubs under the Standard Shooting Rules (SSRs) of the National Rifle Association of Australia (NRAA).
NRAA Quicklinks
Our Location
Belmont Shooting Complex
- 1485 Old Cleveland Road, Belmont Qld, 4153
- PO Box 38, CARINA QLD 4152
- 07 3398 4309
- qra@qldrifle.com
- Duncan Range Standing Orders - Refer to the office
- Covid-19 Information
- GIVEITASHOT & FSC registration is via RevolutioniseSport management
Queensland Rifle Association acknowledges the support of the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport. Through this financial support QRA is able to deliver a number of programs designed to meet the goals of Queensland Government’s Activate! Queensland Strategy.
