Field & Game Australia (FGA) welcomed new Board members, celebrated outstanding volunteer achievements and reflected on a positive year at its Annual General Meeting, held in Melbourne on Saturday 24 October.

The AGM attracted record attendance, with members and Branch representatives joining in person and online from across Australia. The change of venue helped make the meeting more accessible, providing a valuable opportunity for Branches to come together, share ideas and contribute to discussions about the future of the organisation.

Board confirmed for 2026–27

David Anderson was re-elected Chair, with Trent Leen continuing as Deputy Chair and Vicki Norris appointed Treasurer.

Vicki moves from her previous appointed position to become an elected Director, while Scott Templeton joins the Board for the first time.

A member of Sale Field & Game, Scott has been involved with FGA for almost 50 years, contributing to hunting, clay target shooting and conservation activities throughout that time. His extensive experience and longstanding involvement will be a valuable addition to the Board.

Adam Carson and Paul Sharp continue as Directors, while Rob Tigani was reappointed Minutes Secretary.

The AGM also provided an opportunity to acknowledge outgoing Directors Glenda Anderson and Michaela Shirley.

FGA sincerely thanks both for their dedication, commitment and contribution during their time on the Board. In particular, Glenda's involvement in the FGA magazine, clay target shooting and improvements to shooting rules and guidance has been greatly valued.

The 2026–27 FGA Board comprises:

• David Anderson – Chair

• Trent Leen – Deputy Chair

• Vicki Norris – Treasurer

• Adam Carson – Director

• Paul Sharp – Director

• Scott Templeton – Director

Rob Tigani continues as Minutes Secretary.

Positive financial performance and continued advocacy

Members received an update on FGA's financial performance, with the Association recording a positive operating result of approximately $123,000 for the 2025–26 financial year.

The independent auditor also confirmed that both FGA and the Wetlands Environmental Taskforce (WET) received unqualified audit opinions, representing an improvement on the previous year.

Chair David Anderson reflected on the organisation's achievements, including continued advocacy with government and political representatives, stronger engagement with Branches and members, and ongoing investment in governance, safety and organisational systems.

These priorities remain important as FGA continues working to represent members' interests and strengthen the organisation for the future.

Celebrating our Branches and volunteers

One of the highlights of the AGM was the presentation of FGA's annual awards, recognising the exceptional contributions made by Branches and individual members.

Sale Field & Game received first place in the Blue Wing Trophy for its outstanding commitment to wetland conservation. Its achievements included approximately 780 volunteer hours at Buckland Swamp and the monitoring and maintenance of more than 400 nest boxes.

Rushworth Field & Game was awarded second place in the Blue Wing Trophy and also received the Media Award for its efforts in promoting conservation activities and sharing the work of its volunteers with the wider community.

In the Pest and Vermin Control Awards, Benalla Field & Game received first place, reporting 908 pest animals removed, including an impressive 872 foxes. Warrnambool Field & Game received second place, with Geelong Field & Game taking third.

The Member Service Award was presented to Russell Brimblecombe of Warrnambool Field & Game, recognising more than 40 years of membership and 31 years serving on the Branch executive. Russell's longstanding dedication and practical contribution to his Branch are a wonderful example of the volunteer commitment that underpins FGA.

Congratulations to all award recipients, and thank you to the many volunteers whose efforts continue to make a difference in their local communities.

Members helping shape FGA's future

The AGM provided an opportunity for open and constructive discussions on matters important to members and Branches, including firearms licensing, public land access, insurance, conservation, junior participation and the future of hunting and shooting sports.

Representatives from the Northern Territory shared their plans to strengthen their Branch and develop new conservation opportunities, while the Victorian Fox Hunters Branch outlined its commitment to responsible pest management, community participation and introducing younger generations to hunting traditions.

A consistent theme throughout the discussions was the importance of supporting Branch volunteers, encouraging participation and ensuring the broader community understands the valuable conservation and community work undertaken by FGA members.

Attendees also heard from guest speaker Dr John Leeder, who generously shared his time, knowledge and insights with members.

Looking ahead

With a refreshed Board, a sound financial position and dedicated volunteers across the country, FGA enters 2026–27 focused on strengthening Branches, growing membership and continuing to advocate for conservation, hunting and clay target shooting.

Thank you to everyone who attended the AGM, whether in person or online, and contributed to the discussions. The record attendance and level of participation were particularly encouraging and reflect the commitment of our members and Branches to the future of Field & Game Australia.

We look forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead.