Frequently asked questions
If we've missed anything you would like to know in the below FAQs, please pop into the club on a Saturday or Sunday between the hours of 10am to 4pm and we can answer any questions you may have.
Do you have to be a hunter to join?
No, all archers are welcome at Grange Bowmen. We offer a variety of ABA targets, IFAA targets and 3D targets on shoot event days.
ABA targets provide a hunting style target practice, through life-size photographs of animals. IFAA targets are black and white circular targets or animal targets (similar to ABA). 3D foam targets are life-sized animals, which are set up for our shoot event days. All targets at Grange Bowmen are marked with target zones for scoring.
Can I use PayPal without a PayPal account?
Yes, you can use PayPal without an account by using the Guest Checkout feature to pay with a credit or debit card on our website.
I don't have a PayPal account, how can I pay?
PayPal Check out as a Guest.
When the PayPal login screen appears, choose the "Pay with a Card" option.
PayPal will then ask for your Email address to use as the one-time guest account. Click Continue to Payment.
You will be taken to a secure page where you can enter your credit or debit card details to complete the purchase.
This is a one-time payment, and you will not need to create a PayPal account for the transaction.
What are the 3 boxes on my probationary membership card?
These are to be signed off by an instructor or coach when competence is demonstrated.
The first box corresponds to the 30 yard and 50 yard practice ranges.
The second box refers to Range 1.
The third box refers to Range 2.
It is not required to be cleared on the practice ranges and 2 field ranges to become a club member.
What equipment should I buy?
The choice of equipment is highly personal. The most economical option would be to purchase either a Longbow or Recurve bow. An entry-level Longbow/Recurve setup typically starts at approximately $300, which includes the bow, arrows, and glove/finger tab.
Entry-level compound bows generally start from $500-600 due to the additional items that may need to be purchased, such as sights, release aids, stabilisers, and their overall complexity. Consider RTS (ready to shoot) or RTH (ready to hunt) packages. These are advantageous for beginners as they often include 3 arrows, sight, quiver, and release aid. It is imperative that the bow feels comfortable, and the poundage is manageable. Consult other members or coaches/instructors regarding their equipment.
How much should I spend?
Spend only what is within your budget. Remember, quality correlates with price. Prices will vary depending on the components from which the equipment is made. For instance, wooden/fibreglass limbs are less expensive than full carbon fibre ones. Wooden recurves are typically more affordable than carbon ones.
If I have my own equipment, what next?
Please bring your equipment for a safety check, including any new equipment. Ensure that your arrows (excluding wooden arrows) have a clear and appropriate spine rating marked on them corresponding to your bow. Arrows without spine rating are prohibited from use at the club.
Where can I buy archery equipment?
There are many local and online stores. While we don't recommend specific ones, coaches, instructors, and club members can share their personal experience.
What happens after my probationary period?
After your 3 months probationary membership, and you wish to become a full member, you must join the Australian Bowhunters Association (ABA). This is your insurance.
To become a member of Grange Bowmen or any other club, insurance is compulsory. We suggest joining ABA 3-4 weeks before your probation ends, which you can do online.
Refer to our Membership & Fees page.
Probationary members are eligible for pro-rata membership to Grange Bowmen, as our fees are based on the calendar year (January to December).
What does ABA stand for?
ABA stands for Australian Bowhunters Association.
Do I have to join ABA?
Yes! Membership with ABA is a requirement. This is your Public Liability Insurance.
Why are there Grange Bowmen Fees?
General day to day running of the club’s maintenance and upkeep.
What are the benefits of becoming a full member?
Full members enjoy free access to all field and practice ranges, and a well-equipped bow room.
Members are encouraged to join away shoots at Branch, State, and National events to connect with other archers.
Participating and voting on club issues at the AGM each year.
Members can also hold committee positions or become instructors/coaches.
What membership discounts do you offer at Grange Bowmen?
Participate in working bees to get a membership discount next year if you decide to become a full member.
Check the club calendar on the website for dates.
Can I attend a Club shoot?
We welcome all new members to join our club shoots. Experienced archers will guide you.
Check our website calendar or follow us on Facebook/Instagram for upcoming events.
What ranges does Grange Bowmen have on offer?
Grange Bowmen's facilities includes 4 practice ranges (10 yard, 20 yard, 30 yard and 60 yard) and 2 field ranges. Grange Bowmen's field ranges are located within the club's adjoining bushland, a scenic walk containing 20 targets set at various distances.
Probationary Members have restricted access to ranges during their 3-month membership. Probationary Archers are required to be range cleared by an accredited archery instructor on the practices ranges, prior to gaining access to field ranges. This is to ensure the safety of all archers when out on our ranges.
When can I access the clubhouse?
Grange Bowmen's clubhouse is open to all members on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm. While the clubhouse is open you will be able to access the following facilities:
- Bow and arrow hire
- Canteen
- Tea and coffee station
- Toilets and showers
- Purchase merchandise
Grange Bowmen is volunteer run by its members. Grange Bowmen's Clubhouse is closed on weekdays. Members can access all ranges from dusk to dawn 7 days a week. The clubhouse is open Wednesday's 9am-12pm for our Social group. Please note hire of equipment is NOT available during these hours.
How much is Bow and arrow hire?
Bow and arrow hire is $8 all day, capped at $20 for Families.
Are Grange Bowmen Inc facilities accessible to people with health conditions or impairments?
Yes, Grange Bowmen's facilities are accessible.
We provide concrete ramp access to all our practice ranges and clubhouse facilities. We also have an accessible toilet and shower facility, two disabled parking spaces and a taxi rank to ensure access to our club is easy for everyone.
Please note that our field ranges are situated in a natural bushland setting and do not have formalised pathways and ramps.
What supervision is required for children under 18 at the range?
Children under 18 must be supervised by a parent or guardian. This includes walking the field ranges with them. (Cubs 12 years and under; Juniors 13–17 years).
What clothing and foot wear is required when shooting at Grange Bowmen?
Fully enclosed shoes are required when shooting at Grange Bowmen. No thongs, crocs, sandal or open toe footwear is permitted at any time.
We recommend not wearing any loose fitting jumpers or jackets. Loose-fitting clothing can at times restrict the proper use of bows and equipment, impacting your shooting.
Can I camoflage clothing at the range?
Only one piece of camouflage clothing is permitted at any given time, either a shirt or a pair of pants. This practice is discouraged on the ranges for safety reasons.
What password setting is required for my account?
When you create your membership or event account, you will need to create a password. The minimum requirement is:
- 12 characters long
- at least 1 LOWER case letter
- at least 1 UPPER case letter
- at least 1 NUMBER
Ok, I'm keen to try archery, Where to from here?
Begin your archery journey by booking an introductory session with us today.
Participating in an introductory session is the quickest and safest way to determine if archery is the sport for you. As a participant in our introductory sessions, you will enjoy three months of exclusive access to Grange Bowmen, enabling you to delve deeper into the sport and potentially develop a passion for it."