Update on mentoring program. Over two championships the QLD 4 gun and NSW 4 gun two shooters have produced a win Jason Edwards in Millmerran and Rob Evans in NSW both won events within a field of HOF shooters. It is always a strong sign when shooters assist new shooters to win at matches they are actually at. 

There was no end to  the assistance for both shooters, HOF members and top end shooters offering assistance to these shooters even though they were leading the field. 

I would encourage anyone who is thinking about being competitive to seek out HOF shooters and be involved, the information that HOF shooters provide doesn't put you in the winners podium straight away but it is building blocks to better scores and information, skills for success. 

Over the next  few weeks I will be posting Articles in this space for all to see. HOF members may comment or provide their take on the topic and choice of information is always strong. As a shooter you should seek out information try it yourself and add it to your shooting toolbox. 

Cheers and good shooting to all

Kind regards 

Les Fraser  

Hi all

i think this is a great idea for the folks wanting to have crack at short range .

I have been lucky enough to have had 3 HOF shooters in my corner over the years.
The late Steve Sori first helped me out a lot. John Babic has been big influence and also Micheal Heubner has also helped me out

I can always call them with any questions and that’s really helped .

Fortunately they give great advice but leave it to me to absorb and ultimately make my own decisions based on that advice, I think that’s important. 

I couldn’t imagine starting out in this particular discipline without the guidance of HOF shooters and all I can say is get them in your corner . Cheers 

Hi all just an update new shooter coming over to short range to give it a real go Mark Welsh, a shooter from other disciplines and looking to take on the challenge of short range Benchrest. He is the 2nd shooter to take on and become a part of the mentoring program. First meeting Via Ms teams covered in detail bench set up, rifle accuracy facts, scope lapping and alignment which are the building blocks for the next lesson in a few weeks time. Other HOF shooters who are mentoring new SR shooters please provide some updates on this thread. It will encourage others to become part of the program and hopefully generate interest in this high precision sport. 

Many shooters are watching this thread I have had full bore, F class, rimfire, fly shooters all comment on the mentoring program so I would like to open this even further in time to Q&A options. 

Welcome aboard Mark your first match at Australia Day will be rewarding and a great learning experience, this match in particular signals the start of the Benchrest match year and gives the shooters the kickoff to get their gear in tune for the matches ahead. 

Looking forward to hearing from other HOF shooters who are mentoring and those who would like to join the program. 

Good shooting to all

Kind regards 

Les Fraser

HOF36

Thanks Les, the mentoring program is an excellent initiative, its a pity other shooting sports haven't embraced it yet. Not only does the mentoring program impart important knowledge, it feeds a new shooter's enthusiasm, I'm really looking forward to my first  match in January!!

Cheers,

Mark Welsh

Update 10/12/2025 This coming Benchrest season will see three shooters who are in the mentoring program compete at the Australia Day Match held in Canberra Majura range. 

During the practice time will be spent with the mentor competitors going over their bench set up and a final check off before competition. If time permits after the shoot has finalised, I will be hosting some topics for these competitors feel free to come along and join in. These open forums will become an integral part of the sport and promote what we do best being the keepers of super accurate rifles delivering shot after shot precision. 

Looking forward to seeing you all there.....

Good Shooting to all

Kind Regards 

Les Fraser 

HOF 36.