An exciting joint venture between the Queensland Rife Association and the University of Queensland gives students an exclusive opportunity. As part of the curriculum of the bachelor degree of Criminology and Criminal Justice, students can voluntarily participate in an excursion to the Belmont Shooting Complex.

Experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience are there to guide students through the three components of the day. They undergo the practical experience of shooting on a range under Australian rules and regulations, learn about national and international gun laws in the theoretical session, and finally browse the exhibits in Belmont’s unique shooting museum. As part of the one-day event, students complete an online quiz that challenges their newly gained knowledge.

In addition to the program, research is being conducted at the university to evaluate the effect on the participants. Its purpose is to determine the change in attitudes and thoughts regarding firearms, legislation and safety, and to assess how students’ understanding of the responsibilities of firearm owners and the purpose of firearm use has broadened after being exposed to shooting as a sport.

This program initiative originated from the interest of Dr Suzanna Fay, Senior Lecturer in the School of Social Science at UQ, in giving her students real life experience. The project was so successful that it has become embedded in the curriculum, with increasing numbers of students enthusiastically taking part.