At every SSAA NSW range, behind the firing lines and well-used benches, you’ll find some of the unsung heroes of our sport — our Range Officers. These individuals are more than just safety supervisors. They’re mentors, communicators, educators, and ambassadors for everything that makes shooting sports safe, enjoyable, and comfortable.
From ensuring compliance with range procedures to helping new shooters feel confident and welcome, Range Officers play a crucial role in upholding our shared SSAA NSW standards. Whether it’s a quiet weekday session or a full-capacity competition day, our Range Officers are the people ensuring that our ranges stay safe and visitors leave with a positive experience.
We will be introducing you to these dedicated individuals who keep our ranges running smoothly and our members supported in future issues of our newsletter and this month we’d like to introduce you to Sam Ng, from the SSAA NSW Auburn Shooting Centre.
Sam became a Range Officer at SSAA NSW Auburn in February 2025, but he’s been part of the shooting community since 2012. Bringing with him years of passion for the sport and a background in customer service, Sam has hit the ground running.
“I’ve always had a passion for target shooting. Becoming a Range Officer lets me share that passion and help others enjoy the sport safely.”
Sam has a particular interest in clay target shooting and dynamic pistol shooting, drawn to the blend of speed and accuracy. But more than that, he values the chance to support people entering the sport and to create a safe, welcoming environment for shooters of all levels.
Sam is excited to be part of SSAA NSW Auburn Shooting Centre’s journey and watching it grow. He is a strong believer in leading by example, so he aims to balance approachability with a focus on safety.
“We need to greet people with respect, communicate clearly, and never compromise on safety.”
His advice to anyone thinking about becoming a Range Officer?
“Take the time to learn your responsibilities, get familiar with a wide range of firearms, and lead by example. The best way to promote safety is to model it — others will follow your lead.”
For Sam, being part of SSAA NSW is a commitment to the sport’s future.
“We represent the sport every time we put on the vest. The way we act and communicate can shape someone’s entire impression of the shooting sports.”
Nathan Henwood | President of the SSAA (NSW) Mudgee & District Branch
Nathan’s journey began with a simple desire—to help his club—and quickly turned into a deeply rewarding role.
For two years now, Nathan has been instrumental in setting up the range, coordinating sign-ins, and supervising participants—including guiding newcomers through their P650 requirements.
His approachable nature, calm patience, and unwavering commitment to safety are just some of the qualities that make him a standout Range Officer.
Every day on the range brings something new, whether mentoring shooters across disciplines like CSD (Combined Services Discipline), Pioneer, pistol, rifle, or 5-Stand, or sharing camaraderie with like-minded enthusiasts. He cherishes the joy of creating positive shooting experiences and feels a profound sense of fulfilment being a part of the SSAA NSW community.
Meet Tony Capra | Range Officer at the SSAA NSW Auburn Shooting Centre
A safe and enjoyable day is thanks to the commitment of SSAA NSW Range Officers.
These volunteers share their knowledge, guide visitors, and create a welcoming environment for everyone, from first-time shooters to experienced members.
This month, we’d like to introduce you to Tony Capra, from the SSAA NSW Auburn Shooting Centre.
Drawn to the role through a love of pistol shooting and a passion for helping people, Tony enjoys interacting with shooters, answering questions, and supporting others as they learn about the sport.
For Tony, a typical day on the range involves “instructing people on range safety, welcoming people to the range, and helping with queries about pistol and rifle matters.”
Tony believed that a great Range Officer is someone who not only knows their craft, but can also “convey their message efficiently and effectively, making people enjoy their experience at the range.”
One of his most rewarding experiences has been helping new pistol shooters, ensuring their questions are answered clearly and in a way they can understand. It’s all part of Tony’s philosophy that safety comes first, paired with a friendly and approachable attitude.
When asked what advice Tony would give to someone interested in becoming a Range Officer, he offers a simple but powerful rule: “Treat people as you would want them to treat your Mum.”
As for favourite firearms, Tony says he can’t choose: “No favourites — they are like children and are all different.”
To Tony, being part of SSAA NSW is about teamwork, community, and growing the sport he loves.
We thank Tony for his commitment and the positive energy he brings to the SSAA NSW Auburn Shooting Centre.
Meet Tom Wensrich | Range Officer at the SSAA NSW Mudgee Branch
With more than 20 years of experience as a Range Officer, Tom Wensrich has been a steady hand in keeping SSAA NSW ranges safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for shooters of all levels.
Tom first stepped into the role to “help the ranges get a start” and thoroughly enjoys helping new shooters.
When asked what makes a great Range Officer, Tom’s answer is simple but powerful: “Patience and common sense.” He believes these qualities, along with watchfulness, are the keys to both safety and a positive experience on the range.
For Tom, being part of SSAA NSW is about more than just the shooting. It’s the “social interaction with like-minded people” and helping sustain a pastime he has enjoyed for over 50 years.
His advice to anyone considering becoming a Range Officer? Becoming a Range Officer is, in Tim’s view, “Good for your sport and for yourself because you get to help people.”
We thank Tom for his decades of service and dedication to our community.
Want to become a Range Officer?
If you’re passionate about shooting sports, safety-focused, and enjoy helping others, get in touch by contacting your Branch Committee or emailing admin@nsw.ssaa.org.au
