Thanks to all those who attended over the previous weekend, the weekend was well attended, and it was good to see everyone out participating safely in the sport.
Although the NI Executive did announce changes to the 2m social distance rule, SportsNI has since confirmed that these changes do not alter the conditions under which sports clubs must currently operate. Therefore, amongst the various restrictions, the overall site maximum occupancy set in Stage 2 of the Return to Sport Framework still applies.
On the social end, the committee has decided that the bar should remain closed throughout July pending a further assessment and discussion at the end of July.
Currently, the opening of indoor areas in pubs is only permitted where food is sold. Pubs may open outdoor areas for table service only but would need to define and manage numbers on-site in addition to all the other required measures, such as screening off areas, frequent and regular cleaning of high traffic areas, etc. Given the increased costs and initial outlay of operating under those stipulations, the decision was made to remain closed throughout July. We realize this will be unwelcome news to many, and we thank members for their continued patience.
We hope you have all been keeping safe and well during the period of extended lock down. The committee realise that the isolation period has, and will continue, to take its toll on our physical, general and mental wellbeing. It’s now, more than ever, that we realise the importance of sport for our wellbeing and we know that you, like us, can’t wait to get back. We hope that those of you who are not currently shielding, or isolating, have been able to enjoy some of the additional freedom that Step One of the Pathway to Recovery has returned to us. On that note, we’d like to share some other ‘pathway to recovery’ news.
As you may now be aware, Sport NI publicly released their ‘Return to Sport’ framework on Saturday. Until now, there has been no solid timeline or framework available to clubs outlining the expectations required should they choose to re-open during the COVID restriction period. We’re happy to see that the sport of shooting and shooting ranges have been specifically addressed in this release, giving us some very clear expectations to meet and guidelines to follow.
The committee met on Sunday to discuss the new guidance and are now working toward an ‘amber phase’ re-opening. Amber phase is the most heavily controlled and specified phase of this guidance. It is also the stage following red phase (complete lockdown). It therefore stands to reason that it is the most complex and costly to implement and run. It is also the stage where, if not implemented correctly, could place members at the biggest risk. For these reasons, the committee have decided not to target or publish an exact date for re-opening, but rather to complete amber phase implementation and readiness before announcing a date for recommencement. It’s our duty to make the club ready for all members who might choose to attend. It’s also our duty as a club to run the amber phase in a way that all members can feel safe in attending. We won’t re-open our ranges until that time.
Just before lockdown and after the NI Executives’ Step 1 announcement, club facilities have undergone various upgrade works.
On the 50m-100yd range, right side, the pathway from the firing point to the 50m targetry has been resurfaced and extended to reach the 100yd targetry. Additionally, on the left-hand side, a new path was created and finished to the same standard. These two paths are now linked across the front of the 50m and 100yard targetry. This upgrade work will allow all smallbore rifle shooting members to be able to access the targetry in all but the most unpleasant weather conditions. We hope the work will appreciated by all.
New pathways have been implemented
At the 20yd to 30m range, the paths between the targetry and firing point have had the same treatment. Ensuring a consistent experience throughout the facility.
Pistol range path upgrades
The 50m targetry was found to be at a standard where failure would be expected within a year. The work to replace this is due to start this week.
For those who appreciate just how much work is involved in keeping the grass at the site under control, this has been carried out, whilst observing all social distancing measures, by Gary Duff and Alan Lyons.
The range complex looking pristine!
To finish off, we are completing the CCTV Installation at both Railway Street and Ballygraffan. Our Policy documentation is being updated accordingly.
The Committee would like to thank those of us who have adhered Government and club rules to date, and additionally, would like to remind all members that all of the club’s facilities remain closed at this time. If you do not have express permission from Rowan Conway (Chairperson), Jeff Getty (Secretary) or Gary Duff (Committee responsible for maintenance at Ballygraffan), you should not be at the facility.
Keep safe, we hope to see you all again in the near future.
Just a gentle reminder that all facilities remain closed until further notice.
Appointed members of the committee are periodically performing the required checks and maintenance at both Ballygraffan and Railway Street. Unless specifically asked by Rowan Conway or Gary Duff, you should not visit the facilities. If anyone requires access, they need to let the Secretary, Gary and Rowan know, so that it can be coordinated and communicated.
If you still need to post/deliver your membership form and payment, the postbox at Railway Street is being monitored. The last pickup for this years postal memberships is Sat 25 April.
We all know what’s at stake and the government advice. Please spread the word.
I know it’s a tough stance but it’s got to be done.
I’m sure most of you will have heard the new measures announced during tonight’s ministerial speech. It should, therefore, go without saying that we must announce the complete closure of all our facilities.
Although technology has made the widespread instant dissemination of information possible, this post will only reach those who have access to email and the web. I am therefore urging those of you with family, friends and acquaintances in the club, who may not be as confident with technology, to reach out via text and telephone to ensure that the message is heard by all.
Further to the committee’s previous update, and in keeping with new government advice, both the bar and indoor range facilities at Railway Street will be closed with immediate effect.
The facilities at Ballygraffan will remain open. The use of these facilitates is subject to current government advice on ‘social distancing’. In adherence with this advice we require that all those attending the range do so while observing the following:
Do not attend if you have experienced any cold or flu like symptoms or dry cough in the past 14 days
Observe a 2m separation distance from other members
Do not congregate indoors
Occupy every other lane
While the above might seem stringent, it is necessary to ask all members to take these steps in order to protect ourselves and others. They are also essential for keeping our facilities operational for those that may seek a break and wish to clear their mind.
We realise these are uncertain times, but the committee are committed to keeping the club intact for when normal service resumes.
We urge all members to stay safe and practice good personal hygiene, social distancing and isolation where applicable.
Comber Rifle Club 