Dear Members,

I would like to advise you that Field & Game Australia (FGA) has withdrawn from the Combined Firearms Council of Victoria (CFCV).

FGA chairman Bill Paterson has resigned as chairman of CFCV, and the FGA Board has ratified the decision to formally end our association with the organisation.

CFCV was formed as a united voice representing the views of Victoria’s six major organisations representing firearms owners, shooting sports and hunting.

Recently CFCV was strident in its opposition to legislation to reform political donations and electoral funding for political parties in Victoria; and particularly the role played by the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party.

While FGA shared concerns about the legislation and its impact on our ability to conduct political activities on behalf of members; the CFCV approach was not representative of our views and was published despite our clear objection.

In the circumstances, we indicated immediately that we would withdraw from involvement with CFCV, but delayed making any public statement until after the FGA Board meeting held late last week.

CFCV was never a substitute for FGA’s own political activity, and I assure you that we are always active in representing your interests at a political level.

Richard Light

CEO, Field & Game Australia