Sharpshooters on target at historic comp

The oldest shooting competition in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of the oldest in the world, the Simpson Trophy, took place in October at the Murray Bridge Training Area, South Australia.

CAPTION: A soldier fires his weapon during the Simpson Trophy shooting competition, held at the Murray Bridge Training Area, South Australia. Story by Captain Peter March. Photos by Private Jack Kleinig.

Hosted by 10th/27th Battalion, the Royal South Australia Regiment (10/27RSAR), teams from across the 9th Brigade, as well as Adelaide Universities Regiment, 6th/13th Light Battery, Royal Australian Artillery, and Royal Australian Navy sailors from HMAS Encounter competed for the title.

Commanding Officer 10/27RSAR Lieutenant Colonel Aaron Jackson said he was proud of how his unit was able to maintain the historic event.

“Standards were very high and the competition fiercely contested,” Lieutenant Colonel Jackson said.

“The first competition was held in 1890, sponsored by The Honourable Alfred Muller Simpson MLC, to help bolster South Australia’s colonial defences.

“One hundred and thirty-four years later, not only is the competition still running but the Simpson family are still involved, donating the prizes each year. This is a great competition, and a great link to the South Australian community.

“Each and every one of today’s competitors demonstrated a commitment to maintaining and executing a critical combat capability while respecting and upholding the spirit of this competition in its 134th year.”

CAPTION: Soldiers from 10th/27th Battalion, the Royal South Australia Regiment, compete in the Simpson Trophy shooting competition.

10/27RSAR claimed overall team honours, while Trooper Matthew Beelitz, of 3rd/9th Light Horse (South Australian Mounted Rifles), 1st Armoured Regiment, won best individual shot.

Winning team member Private Kain McKenzie said he was humbled to take part in such a prestigious event.

“It’s an honour and privilege. I understand that it’s one of the oldest shooting competitions in the world, dating back to 1890; not many people can say they’ve participated in such an event,” Private McKenzie said.

“Everyone was competing at a high standard, as they do every year, which put the pressure on our infantry team to make sure we delivered.

“I see it as a great way to put our shooting skills to the test. We have been lucky enough to have the opportunity to train regularly. It shows that time on the tools pays dividends.”

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