Since September, Shoalhaven archers have been stranded without a place to practice their sport.
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The grounds they used to train at have been taken over by new owners, who have re-purposed the site.
The Shoalhaven City Archers hoped to move to land at Bernie Regan Sports Complex in North Nowra, however, community opposition has stalled their application with Shoalhaven City Council.
“We were led to believe it would be fine,” president Wayne Hanley said.
“We’re in limbo because of a small, vocal minority of residents who lodged a complaint.
“They have safety concerns, all of which are unfounded.”
Once the community engagement period is over after Christmas, the decision will go to a vote at an ordinary meeting.
Mr Hanley is concerned the longer they’re without a site, the harder it will be to rebuild once a site is approved.
“A club without facilities dies,” he said.
“I’m worried we might lose members.”
The club inherited funds from a Sports Capital Works Partnership Program, $15,328.50 to establish a new site.
Mr Hanley isn’t sure if the funds are conditional – they may not see the funds if they are required to set up at a different location.
Though the grant will help, they will need to raise much more to clear the land, and ensure the site is set up for archery.
And with fewer members, it’s going to be a tall order.
Until then, closest archery ranges are at Mt Keira and at the Southern Highlands, and local archers will have to travel more than an hour to shoot.