Why I Belong: The Value of Hunting Clubs in a Modern World
- AussieJohn
- Jul 22
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 23
By JR Hossack
Hunting has taken me from the deserts of Australia to the Rocky Mountains of North America — from water buffalo in the Top End to Coues deer in Arizona. But no matter where I go, one thing stays the same: hunting is better when shared with like-minded people.
That’s why I proudly belong to several hunting clubs & organisations: Game Hunters Association Australia (GHAA), Shooters Union Australia, SSAA, and Safari Club International (SCI) and R-Lic NSW.
Each plays a unique role in promoting the values I hold dear — respect for wildlife, ethical hunting, firearm safety, and the simple love of the hunt.
More Than Just a Hunting Club
Joining a hunting club isn’t just about access to a rifle range or ballots. It’s about being part of a community that understands the lifestyle — early mornings, long walks through tough country, and the quiet satisfaction of doing things the right way.
Whether you’re a bowhunter, rifle shooter, dogger or weekend bush stalker, there’s a place for you in Australia’s hunting community.
Mateship & Mentorship
Some of the best mates I’ve made have come from club meetings, shared hunts, and campfire conversations. Hunting clubs bring together people who genuinely understand the bush and the bond that forms out there.
For newcomers, clubs are a great place to learn. For those of us with more miles behind us, it’s a chance to pass on knowledge and help ensure the next generation of hunters carries the torch with pride.
Learning New Skills
Every club offers something unique. GHAA runs safe, family-friendly hunts. Shooters Union fights to protect our rights and offers educational resources. SSAA supports sports shooting and club competitions. SCI connects us to global conservation and hunting opportunities.
From bush safety and firearms handling to skinning, butchering, gear set-up and ballistics — there’s always something new to learn. Being in a club means you’re never hunting alone in terms of knowledge.
GHAA Hunter Ed Course & Access to Club Properties
One of the standout features of GHAA is their Hunter Education course — a practical, safety-focused program designed to ensure all members hunt ethically and responsibly.
Once you’ve completed the course, you gain access to GHAA-organised hunts on private properties across several regions. (fee involved)
The club regularly hosts meetings on the Gold Coast in Queensland, training weekends, club events, and group hunts amongst members, making it easier for members to stay connected and get out in the field. These aren’t just tick-the-box events — they’re genuine opportunities to build skills, form friendships, and access hunting grounds you wouldn’t find on your own.
Trade Nights, Trophy Shows & Club Events
Hunting clubs know how to bring people together. Trade nights, gear swaps, wild game dinners, trophy scorings and expo displays — they’re all part of the experience.
These aren’t just social outings. They’re where stories are shared, gear is tested, young hunters are encouraged, and old friendships are strengthened. They help keep our culture alive and relevant.
Staying Legal and Ethical
Let’s be honest — Australia’s firearms laws and hunting regulations are complex and constantly evolving. Being part of a club helps you stay informed and compliant, whether it’s understanding seasonal rules, calibre restrictions, firearms storage laws, or tagging systems.
Groups like GHAA, SSAA and Shooters Union keep their members updated and, more importantly, advocate on our behalf. Without them, we risk losing our rights through silence or misunderstanding.
Hunter Education Courses & Certifications
Over the years, I’ve undertaken and been certified in a wide range of hunter education courses across Australia and the United States. These include:
Colorado Hunter Education
Arizona Hunter Education
South Dakota Archery Hunter Education
New Mexico Lion Hunter Education
NSW R Licence (Restricted Game Hunting Licence)
GHAA Hunter Education Course (Game Hunters Association Australia)
Victorian Game Licence & Hunter Education
Victorian Duck Hunting Licence & Waterfowl Identification Test
These certifications reflect my long-term commitment to ethical, legal, and safe hunting practices. Whether bowhunting for whitetail, pursuing mountain lions with hounds, or stalking game across Australia’s varied terrain, I’ve always made hunter education a priority.
New Friends, New Properties, New Adventures
Through my memberships, I’ve found private land access, ballot hunts, and group trips interstate and overseas I’d never have discovered otherwise. You’ll meet hunters chasing goats in western New South Wales, pigs in Queensland, or reds in Victoria — and many will invite you along.
The next big adventure is often just one handshake away.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Being part of hunting clubs doesn’t just make me a better hunter — it makes me part of something bigger. It’s about conservation, camaraderie, and community. It’s about protecting our lifestyle, sharing knowledge, and ensuring our voices are heard in the halls of power.
If you’re serious about hunting — or even just getting started — I can’t recommend it enough: join a club. Better yet, join a few. Support those who support us.
And the next time you’re out under the stars with a fire going and a beer in hand, raise a glass to the hunting clubs that keep our way of life alive, respected, and thriving.
Want to get involved? Start here:
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