The Hunting Shed

14/05/2026

Please see another letter to the pollies from Barry - if you're going past please call in and sign the petition we have on the shop counter.
Firearm Legislation, Hunting, and Its Impact on the Community
Long-Term Consequences of Political Decisions
Once a politician retires and returns to everyday life, the effects of their decisions remain. It is crucial to make informed choices while in office, as the outcomes persist. There is ongoing opposition from certain groups, such as environmentalists and those on the political left, who often object to measures that align with practical common sense.
The Role of Recreational Hunters in Supporting Farmers
Recreational hunters play a significant part in assisting farmers by controlling populations of pests such as wallabies, kangaroos, rabbits, and deer. These animals can severely damage crops and fences, and farmers typically do not have the time to address these issues daily. From a business perspective, reducing pest numbers results in less crop damage, which in turn allows for increased production of sheep, cattle, vegetables, and other goods for human consumption.
Firearm Restrictions and Public Safety
Imposing limits on the number of fi****ms a shooter may own is seen as a reactionary measure that does not enhance public safety. Since individuals can only operate one firearm at a time, such restrictions are unlikely to make a meaningful difference.
Fi****ms as Tools with Specific Purposes
Fi****ms are tools, and each calibre serves a distinct purpose. Smaller rifles are suited for smaller animals, while larger calibres are necessary for bigger targets. The choice of calibre also depends on the terrain and environment, making it essential to have a variety to address different needs.
Issues with Helicopter Culling
The helicopter culling program was costly and ineffective. Evidence surfaced of deer carcasses riddled with multiple bullet wounds, as well as distressing footage of wounded animals struggling after being shot. Some carcasses were found in waterways, indicating animals dragged themselves to die. This approach was both inhumane and expensive, and its ex*****on is considered a disgrace.
Impact of Legislation on the Hunting Industry
Decisions to restrict fi****ms have affected legitimate businesses. Owners of hunting shops, which sell rifles, ammunition, and related accessories, comply with strict regulations, as do their customers. These measures are among the toughest in the world. However, there has been a noticeable decline in trade following government reactions to events such as the Bondi massacre. The perpetrators involved should never have been granted licences or access to fi****ms if regulations had been properly enforced. This points to failures within government departments rather than weaknesses in firearm legislation itself.
Economic Effects and Compensation Concerns
The hunting and shooting industry supports a wide array of businesses, including firearm dealers and those who sell associated products like ATVs. Decisions that negatively impact this sector could cause widespread harm. According to a survey conducted in 2025, the industry contributes approximately $133 million annually. Further information can be found via the following link: https://www.ssaatas.com.au/news/.
Historical Perspective
Finally, it is important to remember the sacrifices of Australian soldiers who defended the country from foreign threats. Their efforts should not be forgotten, and they would be dismayed by actions perceived as undermining the freedoms they fought to protect.

23/03/2026

Nineteen-year-old Kane “T-Dog”, no last name given, sat on the curb of a dusty cul-de-sac in Rokeby, looking like a man who had lost his last winnie blue. Behind him leaned his prized possession: a 2021 Kawasaki dirt bike with the VIN filed down so smooth it felt like silk.

In front of him stood a weary reporter from The Hobart Mockery, holding a notepad and trying to avoid stepping in a patch of scorched asphalt.

"It’s a bloody human rights violation, mate," Kane said, gesturing wildly at the bike. "Look at her. She’s parched. Bone dry. I haven't heard that engine scream in two weeks."

The reporter, Dave, scribbled 'Subject claims emotional distress' before looking up. "And you're saying the issue isn't that you can't afford petrol, it's that... nobody else can?"

"Ex-bloody-actly," Kane spat. "Usually, I just do a quick rounds at night, yeah? A bit of garden hose magic, a five-litre jerry can, and I’m doing mono's down Tollard Drive by sunrise. But these days? I’m sucking air. I hit six Commodores and a HiAce last night, and I didn't even get enough to quarter fill a lawnmower."

Kane explained that the "cost of fuel crisis" had hit the local siphoning industry harder than the 2008 crash. With petrol prices hovering at record highs, his neighbours were living "vapour to vapour."

"People are guarding their fuel flaps like it’s the Crown Jewels," Tyson lamented. "I saw a bloke in Knopwood Street had put a padlock on his tank. A padlock! In this community? Where’s the trust gone?"

A Call for Government Intervention

When asked what he thought the solution was, Kane didn't hesitate. He’d clearly given this a lot of thought while walking—actually walking—to the chemist earlier that day, for his dad's methadone.

Fuel Subsidies for Youth: "The government gives out vouchers for back-to-school gear, right? Why not back-to-riding gear? I need a Fuel Card that isn't linked to a name."

"The council should leave a couple of unlocked drums behind the Skate Park. For the 'disadvantaged athletes' of the area."

"The Only Victim Here is Me"

As the interview wrapped up, Kane patted the seat of the Kawasaki. He ignored the fact that the bike technically belonged to a confused dental hygienist in Sandy Bay.

"I’m just a young entrepreneur being stifled by the economy," he said, staring off toward the Tasman Bridge with a look of faux-profound sadness. "If Albo or the Premier don't step in soon, I might have to do the unthinkable."

Dave paused his pen. "What’s that, Kane? Get a job?"

Kane looked at him with genuine horror. "No, mate. I'll have to steal a mountain bike. Do you know how hard it is to look 'fully sick' while pedaling? It’s undignified."

16/03/2026

Just a word or two from Barry

I’m a licensed firearm owner of over 30 years, a hunter for more than 55 years, a small business owner, and a conservationist.
My family has a long history of service to Australia. My father served during wartime, and my wife, daughter, and son in law have also served. We believe in contributing through service, hard work, and respect for the law.
I fully support strong firearm regulation, including licensing, police background checks, and secure storage. I comply with all requirements and have gone beyond them with multiple C class safes and a monitored alarm system. Law abiding licence holders are not the source of criminal misuse, yet increasingly we are treated as if we are.
I’ve operated small businesses for over four decades, including a firearm retail and manufacturing related business for more than 13 years. Like many regional businesses, mine has been hit hard, with sales down around 70%. This affects not just retailers, but Australian manufacturers, stock makers, exporters, and skilled regional jobs.
Firearm related industries support conservation outcomes, feral animal control, farmers, and food security. Farmers rely on trusted, licensed shooters to manage pests humanely and responsibly. I only harvest animals for food and never waste what is taken.
I’m not asking for special treatment — only fair, evidence based policy that clearly separates lawful ownership from criminal behaviour, and that considers the real economic and regional impacts of further restrictions.
Australians who have complied with the law for decades deserve to be heard, not blamed.

Barry Cu***ng

13/03/2026

Take Action Against Proposed Firearm Ownership Caps

The Labor Party and the Greens are trying to cap the number of fi****ms you can own for no good reason!

It’s time to take action to protect your sport.

If you’re a TAS resident — member or non-member — this is your opportunity to support a fair, balanced and evidence-driven approach.

Petition closes 1 May 2026

Sign the petition:

• Fail to address criminal misuse of fi****ms, -involving illegally obtained fi****ms rather than those owned by licenced individuals;