
Frequently Asked Questions
This page brings together answers to the most common questions we receive about getting started with archery at Warringah Archers. It covers beginner sessions, membership, equipment, juniors, and what to expect as you progress. If you’re new to the sport, this is a good place to start. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
Quick Links
- Getting Started
- Membership
- Equipment & Buying Advice
- Repairs & Servicing
- Lessons & Coaching
- Juniors & Gift Enquiries
- Visitors & Practice Sessions
- House Rules & On-Range Behaviour
Getting Started
Do I need experience to try archery?
No experience is required. Our Come N Try sessions are designed for complete beginners and include instruction, supervision, and all equipment.
What is the best first step if I want to continue after a Come N Try?
The next step is enrolling in a structured beginner program such as AdBow or one of our scheduled beginner courses. These focus on safety, technique, and consistency over multiple sessions.
Can I enrol in more than one beginner program at the same time?
We generally recommend completing one beginner program at a time. This allows you to focus on building fundamentals before progressing further.
Membership
I completed beginner training – how do I become a member?
All membership information, steps, and requirements are outlined on our Becoming a Member page. You don’t need to wait for a separate email to proceed.
Is there a deadline to register after completing beginner training?
You’re encouraged to register within the recommended timeframe outlined on the membership page, but if you’re unsure, just get in touch and we can confirm your eligibility.
Equipment & Buying Advice
Can you recommend a bow and arrows for a beginner?
Yes we can but this depends on several factors including the archer’s height, draw length, strength, experience, and preferred bow type (recurve, compound, barebow). Because of this, we don’t recommend buying equipment before completing a beginner program at a minimum.
Why can’t I just buy a beginner bow online?
Incorrectly matched equipment – particularly arrows – can be unsafe and frustrating to use. Arrow selection depends on the bow’s draw weight, draw length, and the shooting discipline (such as recurve, compound, barebow, or longbow). Using arrows that are too weak or too stiff for the bow can lead to poor performance, inconsistent grouping, or in some cases equipment failure.
Similarly, different bow types require different setups and accessories, and what suits one discipline may be completely unsuitable for another. Trying equipment under supervision allows beginners to experience different bow styles, learn correct form, and ensure equipment is appropriately matched before committing to a purchase, helping to avoid unnecessary expense and incorrect early habits.
Repairs & Servicing
Do you repair or service bows?
No – we don’t offer bow repairs or servicing on site, particularly for compound bows. These require specialist tools and experience. Some members of the club may be able to advise but we recommend an experienced bowyer or supplier to assist with your requirements.
What should I do if I’ve been given a used or damaged bow?
We strongly recommend having it inspected by a dedicated archery pro shop before attempting to use it. Damaged compound bows in particular can be dangerous.
Lessons & Coaching
Do I need to be a member to attend beginner sessions?
No. Beginner and Come N Try sessions are open to the public and don’t require membership.
Do you offer private lessons?
Structured beginner programs are the recommended starting point. Coaching and progression options can be discussed after completing a beginner course.
Juniors & Gift Enquiries
What is the minimum age to try archery?
We accept juniors from 6 years of age for Come N Try sessions, with all equipment provided.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
We don’t currently offer formal gift vouchers, although this is planned as part of our new website and booking system. In the meantime, many people choose to print the Come N Try information from our website and present it as a gift, or purchase a session on behalf of someone else once bookings are open.
How do I book a Come N Try session as a gift?
Come N Try sessions are booked online via our website. When booking, you can register on behalf of a child or family member and include their name in the booking details. You don’t need the recipient to book it themselves.
How often do Come N Try sessions run?
Sessions are scheduled regularly and published on our website calendar. If a listed date doesn’t suit, upcoming sessions for the following months are typically added in advance. We recommend checking the events page for the latest dates.
Visitors & Practice Sessions
Can visitors from other clubs shoot at Warringah?
Yes. Visiting archers affiliated with another recognised club may shoot as visitors, provided a Warringah Archers member is present and the visitor signs in and pays the applicable fee.
When can members practise?
Practice times vary depending on the day and whether an event or tournament is being held. Details are posted on the club calendar.
House Rules & On-Range Behaviour
Do I need to sign in when I attend the club?
Yes. All members, visitors, and beginners must sign the attendance register every time they attend the club, whether shooting or not.
Are there specific safety rules while shooting?
Yes. All shooting follows Archery Australia safety rules and club house rules. This includes obeying the Director of Shooting, not crossing the shooting line without instruction, and remaining alert at all times.
Can I use my phone or wear headphones while shooting?
No. Mobile phones must not be used and headphones or ear coverings are not permitted on the shooting line or field of play, as they reduce situational awareness.
What should I do if I lose an arrow?
If an arrow is lost, it must be reported immediately with details of where it was last seen and its identifying features. Every effort must be made to locate it for safety reasons.
Are there rules around behaviour and conduct?
Yes. Members and visitors are expected to behave respectfully and safely at all times. Alcohol, illegal drugs, and unsafe behaviour are strictly prohibited.
