The announcement that the local shooter’s club would receive $4,200 of a total $268,000 secured in PRMF support for the Northern Tablelands followed a visit from local MP Adam Marshall on Saturday, August 9.

“Public reserves are wonderful assets that are highly valued by local communities so I’m pleased to assist the Glen Innes Pistol Club with its pest control program.

“The fox population on the reserve is high and the club is aiming to reduce predation impact on the neighbouring properties – it’s very much about being good neighbours, while maintain the integrity of the club’s ranges and other facilities.”

Mr Marshall said the club would also spend around $1,200 on herbicide to help control the blackberry, St John’s Wort and privet infestations on the reserve.

“The club wants to reduce the density and distribution of these weeds to minimise incursions onto properties downstream – it’s an important management strategy and I’d like to commend them on their proactive approach to pest control,” he said.

Glen Innes Pistol Club President Rick Bowen welcomed the NSW Government’s commitment to provide funding for pest and weeds control and thanked Mr Marshall for his support.

“We’ve had a lot of trouble with St John’s Wort over the years and as managers of the reserve we are obliged to look after the property and act in the best interests of our neighbours,” Mr Bowen said.

While onsite Mr Marshall was briefed on plans the club has to upgrade two of its three ranges to secure a national classification rating.

“This will mean the club can host higher standard competition which will attract more top-class shooters from across the country to Glen Innes,” he said. “I look forward to working with the club to secure funding for these projects.”