B.C. Wildlife Federation fish and game clubs open their doors with family-friendly public events across the province this weekend.
Organizations on the Malahat and in North Saanich mark National Range Day with family-friendly events on June 3.
The purpose is to provide opportunities for people who have never seen a range in operation or lawful use of firearms in general, said Doug Bancroft, past-president of the Victoria Fish and Game Protective Association. That group waives the fees for members to bring a friend on Saturday.
“If anybody wanted to go to it, they probably know someone. With 5,000 of us as members … chances are you know somebody who is a member,” Bancroft said.
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North Saanich Rod and Gun Club will host a barbecue – where its 350 members may bring guests.
On its sprawling lands on the Malahat, the Victoria association has hosted provincial and national championships.
“When you’ve got 5,000 people in a range, there are some high-end sport shooters,” said Bancroft, who also chairs the BC Wildlife Federation Recreational Sports Shooting Committee.
More than 2.3 million Canadians are licensed firearms owners. Target ranges around the province are typically operated by local fish and game clubs, many of which are affiliate clubs for the B.C. Wildlife Federation, for the use of their members and often as a practise site for local police departments.