Club History

The Colac Rifle Club was established in 1878 and is one of the oldest organizations in Colac. Initially operating to bring together shooters and hunters from around the Western District to practise and perfect shooting techniques, the club found its footing throughout the late 1800s.
Serving as a meeting point for its members and the wider public, the club operated a variety of local competitions with members attending other ranges in Birregurra, Beeac, Lismore, Pomborneit and surrounding areas. 

Following the First World War, the club grew exponentially to around 70 members and continued its growth consistently into the commencement of the Second World War. The outbreak of war created both opportunity and challenges to the club with members enlisting once again to sacrifice their lives in defence of their nation and the empire. In 1916, the Colac Rifle Club had  22 members in active service with at least 5 being killed in action. 

Colac Herald Excerpt - 15 July 1915

"Of our members, eight, viz., Privates R. A. Basset, I. K. Forbes, A. Sanson, II. Collatz, H. Floyd, D. F. Love, A. F. Sitlington, and H. Lowry, are at the Front and have assisted in making history for Australia at the Dardanelles, one of whom, Private Sitlington, has been sorely wounded, but who, we are pleased to hear, is improving."

The Club holds a variety of trophies, some of which are still competed for annually which serve as ongoing tribute to the past membership and serve as a reminder of the importance of the comeraderie and mateship that echoes around the club and amongst its members.

Coming up to 150 years of operation, the Colac Rifle Club is indebted to its members and their passion and dedication to ensure the continued growth of the Club.