Colourful Plan to Keep Our Targets Going
Some of you may have noticed some strange yellow and pink spots appearing on the front edge of our target butts. Before anyone asks, no, Banksy has not paid us a late-night visit, and Steve has not been left unsupervised with a spray can… Well, not entirely.
The coloured spots are part of our new target butt rotation plan. Each butt will be marked with either a yellow or pink spot, with the active colour changing from month to month. When setting up the range, members will be asked to use the colour nominated for that month so we can keep the targets moving through regular use rather than having the same butts cop the punishment week after week.
We are also hearing early reports that Alyssa will only be shooting on the weeks where the pink side of the targets is in use, as pink is apparently non-negotiable. While we admire the commitment to colour coordination, the rest of us will need to follow the rotation regardless of personal preference.
This is a simple change, but it matters. Our target butts take a lot of arrows, and keeping them in working order takes time, materials and a fair bit of unglamorous labour. By following the rotation system, members can help extend the life of the repaired butts and reduce how often major repair work is needed.
Members are also asked to keep an eye out for damaged butts when setting up or packing away. If a butt is badly worn, falling apart, or clearly needs attention, please do not quietly put it back and leave it for the next person. Let a committee member or club official know so it can be repaired before it reaches the point where it has to be thrown out. A quick word at the right time can save the club time, money and unnecessary waste.
A very big thank you goes to Anton, Steve, Alyson, Jack and Colleen (among others) for the volunteered time and effort they have put into repairing and maintaining the target butts. It is the sort of behind-the-scenes work that keeps the club running properly, even if it does not always get noticed until something is broken, missing or falling apart.
So, when you see the coloured spots, please play along. Follow the colour of the month, rotate the butts as requested, and help us keep the range in good shape for everyone. The targets may now look slightly more artistic, but the real goal is simple: spread the wear, protect the repairs, report damage early, and make the hard work last.