Mr Athol Carle formed The SSAA (SA) Goolwa Pistol and Shooting Club in 1976 and was its first president. At that time, the club had about 80 members. The club itself was built on a rifle range which dates back to the 1850s.

Currently, the club comprises a clubhouse and kitchen, a 25m Rapidfire range, a 25/50m Precision range and an Air Pistol/Rifle indoor shooting range. Metallic Silhouettes at 25m are also part of the programme, as are Clay Targets for Shotgun.

The club also offers its members an attendance the Monarto Range monthly. The longer ranges and higher velocities add to the challenge.

A BBQ lunch usually rounds off the day.

A lot of the newer club and committee members are new to the Fleurieu region as well. This has brought in many new ideas. Compliance with newer laws, rules and regulations, however, is still vital to the club and the shooting sports.

There is friendly competitive rivalry among members within the various disciplines. Disciplines shot are Centrefire, Centrefire Sport, 50m Rimfire, 25m Precision, Standard Gun, Rapidfire, Air Pistol/Rifle, Centrefire Rifle (cast bullets only), Rimfire Rifle, BP Pistol and Rifle.

Benchrest Pistol competition has recently been included in our programme and is proving popular. All up, the club runs about twenty competitions.

Knowledge and advice is freely shared between all members, and you don’t have to achieve at any level other than that which you wish. There are some members who are literally aiming to achieve higher levels in their sport and while this is certainly respected and encouraged, the club finds that most members simply enjoy the club atmosphere and friendship of other members.