Flinders guns fire up

Victoria’s West Head gunnery range held an Open Day recently which produced a big bang for the crowds.

Photo: ABPH Gavin Hainsworth

The West Head Gunnery range recently held their annual open day to show off their array of weapons and to thank the local public in Flinders, Victoria for their support over the years.

The open day included displays of military vehicles, historic photos of the gunnery range, small arms and ammunition.

The firings culminated in an explosive display ending with all weapons systems firing at once and shooting down their target.

Staff from the gunnery school and HMAS Cerberus took part in the day’s events along with the Navy band who provided musical entertainment for the crowd.

OIC of the Gunnery School LEUT Adam Shortis, said that the open day was a great success this year, attracting more than 1000 people to look at the different weapons on display.

“Some of the weapons we were able to demonstrate by firing against both air and surface targets included a 12.7mm machine gun, 40/60 Bofors currently fitted to the Patrol Boats and a 76mm gun used on our Frigates,” LEUT Shortis said.

“It was a great chance for us to show the people in this area what we do and give something back to the community.”

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