Our story so far...
The “Association” was founded in 1991 by Greg Moldenhauer, Mike Wienk, Neil Lieberum and Derrick Petzer, with the first chairman being Allan Radloff under the original name of East Cape Conservation and Hunting Association (ECCHA)
The first official mass meeting was arranged by Mike Wienk through Major Patrick Stephenson of Gately Commando, where the members were hosted for the first year.
ECCHA amalgamated with the DVK German Club in 1995. Both clubs benefitted from this in that ECCHA gained a venue and the German Club gained much needed members.
The AMATOLA HUNTERS name...
1998 brought about a name change to Amatola Hunters and Conservation Association as it was felt to be more region specific.
There were a few hiccups during the formative years, but the Association has set its course and through its educational and training policies, it became known as a home for the genuine ethical hunter.
Membership, progressive and well informed...
At the end of 2016, our membership stood at 345 having grown from 140 in 2014. During 2016, the Association grew by 101 new members. Monthly open meetings are currently held at Buffs Club and are well attended. Topical matters pertaining to hunting are discussed such as legislation, hunting ethics, and feedback from CHASA meetings and of course epic hunting stories shared around the braai after the meeting. Guest speakers such as the CHASA CEO Stephen Palos, addressed the members at one of our monthly meetings.
Members are kept well informed by e-mail, text messages and three newsletters distributed throughout the year. Our newsletter has a wide variety of articles of interest including current legislation, activities and shoots. Members are encouraged to share photographs and submit articles on their personal hunting experiences. Delicious venison recipes are included for those who love to cook.
Training...
We view the training of members both senior and junior as vitally important. This takes place in the form of Senior Hunter Proficiency training, SA Horn Measurers Junior hunter training is done in a manner encompassing the full outdoor experience and this would include camping, firearm safety, shot placement, shooting, bass fishing, night drives, orientation and general bush lore etc.
CHASA shoots are held regularly. Our shooting range is in the process of being upgraded so that we can offer our members a top class facility. The Range is second to none and offers shooting benches and reaches out to 500 metres. Rimfire rifle shoots have also become popular.
The standard of shooting has improved enormously since the inception of the new range. In the CHASA National rankings for rimfire rifle.
Highlights...
The highlight of the years’ activities is the annual dinner dance and prize giving where numerous trophies and certificates are awarded. This function involves all our members and their families and is enjoyed by all.
Although our numbers may be small, we are a close- knit family group and happily assist and advise one another. In this way we are certain Amatola Hunters will grow from strength to strength.
