Gun post a real win

IT is obvious to see Senator Sam McMahon has not put the cue in the rack following not winning preselection for the Country Liberal senate ticket in next year’s federal election.

Some months ago when first FedEx/ Toll and then Northline pulled out of firearms freight I contacted Senator McMahon and mentioned the dilemma.

She leapt at the opportunity to assist firearm owners and businesses.

She and Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie are keen field and game clay target shooters.

I have shot targets at the NT Field and Game range with the senators and even hunted magpie geese with Senator McKenzie.

They recognised the value of hunting, shooting and firearms within society and that this move could cripple farmers, vets, rangers, police, the Indigenous community, hunters, shooters and business in the Territory.

The Nationals have facilitated a solution to ensure the safe transportation of firearms, after a decision by some commercial carriers left dealers and wholesalers without options to ship their goods.

Senator McKenzie and Senator McMahon hosted a meeting with Australia Post and national firearms industry representatives in August, with the objective to find solutions.

“Australia Post has thrown a valuable lifeline to all those involved in the industry by offering parcel post, express post, secure accept and collect, Startrack express and Startrack special services to ensure the safe, secure and reliable transportation of firearms” Senator McKenzie said.

Senator McMahon said it was a positive outcome for rural and regional Australians.

“Viable freight options are necessary so these goods can be safely transported from port to wholesalers and dealers, particularly in places like the NT where we have the additional tyranny of distance compared with places such as Sydney and Melbourne,” she said.

“This resolution means farmers and graziers who need a firearm for pest management or veterinarians who use firearms for humane animal welfare will continue to have access to those products because dealers can now have their stock delivered.

“It also means sporting and social groups who rely on the safe and secure transportation of firearms will continue to enjoy their chosen activity.”