‘Have a Go’ Clay Target Shooting – Victoria (Werribee)

The best part of this Werribee outing is that you get straight into a real clay target session, without needing a shooter’s licence or prior experience. You begin with 10 guided warm-up targets, then take on 20 competition targets, including singles and doubles from five stations. I like the guaranteed hit, which takes the pressure off beginners, and the chance to return free if you score 20 out of 20.

I also like the friendly structure. There are awards for first, second, and third place, yet the instructors keep the focus on learning and safe handling. Adam is praised for his patience, while Stu and Debbie are noted for clear instruction and personal attention. The main consideration is the outdoor setting: poor weather can cancel the session, and no alcohol is allowed before or during the activity.

Key points to know before you book

• No licence or experience needed: You receive practical instruction before shooting.
• A proper first session: The package includes 10 warm-up targets and 20 competition targets.
• Five shooting stations: Singles and doubles keep the competition from feeling repetitive.
• Equipment is supplied: Firearms, ammunition, and specialist safety equipment are included.
• A little extra motivation: Score 20 out of 20 and you can return for free.
• Small-group format: The maximum group size is 24, with spectators welcome.

What the Werribee experience is really like

This is a two-and-a-half-hour introduction to clay target shooting at Werribee Rifle Range, about a 40-minute drive west of central Melbourne, depending on traffic. The activity begins and ends at 1225 Ballan Road, Quandong, and sessions are listed for Saturdays and Sundays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

You are not expected to arrive with specialist clothing, shooting knowledge, or a licence. The supplied equipment removes one of the biggest barriers for a first attempt. You can turn up, listen carefully, and let the instructor guide you through the process.

Go Shooting was formed in 1999 by Olympic and Commonwealth gold medallists Russell and Lauryn Mark. That background helps explain the setup: this is not simply a casual game with a few targets. You get a short, structured introduction to a sport with clear rules, controlled shooting positions, and a proper scoring system.

The tone is intended to be social rather than intimidating. The activity suits a family outing, a gift, a first try for two friends, or a small group looking for something different from the usual Melbourne day out.

Starting with safety and the 10-target warm-up

The first stage is practical instruction and a 10-target warm-up. Safety comes first, so expect the instructor to explain how to handle the firearm, where to stand, and how the shooting sequence works before the competition starts.

This opening matters. Clay target shooting can look simple from a distance, but timing, stance, sighting, and concentration all matter. The warm-up gives you a chance to get used to the equipment and the sound of the range before your score counts.

The instructors are a major part of the experience. Adam receives particular praise for being patient and making the activity approachable for first-time shooters. One family session included a teenager with autism who found the recoil difficult, and the instruction helped make the day manageable. That does not mean the activity will suit every person with sensory concerns, but it does show that the teaching can be adapted to individual needs.

Recoil is worth considering before you book. It is a normal part of using a shotgun, and it may feel stronger than expected for some people. The instructors can offer technique advice, but you should be comfortable following their directions and telling them if you need help.

The promise that you will hit at least one target is useful for beginners. You do not have to worry about spending the whole session missing every clay. The warm-up is designed to give you a fair chance to learn the rhythm of calling for the target, tracking it, and firing at the right moment.

Five stations and a 20-target competition

After the warm-up, the session moves into a 20-target competition. The targets come from five different stations, with a mixture of singles and doubles. That variety gives the second part of the activity a clear purpose. You are not simply repeating one shot over and over.

A single target lets you concentrate on one moving clay. Doubles ask you to react again quickly, adding a little pressure and making the competition more interesting. You might find that your score changes from station to station as you adjust to the different target patterns.

The format is competitive, but it is not presented as a serious championship. First, second, and third-place awards add a bit of fun for groups, while the instructor continues to help people improve. I like this balance. You can chase a score if that appeals to you, or treat the competition as a series of practice shots with a friendly result at the end.

Clear instruction is especially important here. Debbie is praised for paying attention to each person while keeping the group moving, and Adam and Stu are noted for giving useful technique tips. That combination should suit mixed groups, where one person may have handled a firearm before and another may be trying the sport for the first time.

The top 20 scores of the year go onto a leaderboard. You do not need to be a serious shooter to enjoy that extra challenge, but it gives regular participants a reason to return and try to improve their result.

The free return and what it means for value

The price is $135.56 per person. That is not a bargain-basement activity, but the fee covers the parts that can make clay shooting expensive or difficult to arrange on your own: shooting time, firearms, ammunition, safety equipment, specialist gear, instruction, and access to the range.

You also receive 30 targets in total, including the 10-target warm-up and the 20-target contest. The awards are included, and a perfect 20 out of 20 gives you a free return visit. The free return is unlikely to be the main reason you book, but it gives confident shooters an appealing bonus.

The value is strongest if you want a guided first experience rather than a casual look at a range. You are paying for a controlled introduction, instructor support, and a complete activity that fills roughly two and a half hours. If you already shoot regularly and own your equipment, you may find less value here. For a beginner, the all-inclusive setup is easier than arranging each part separately.

Alcoholic drinks can be bought after the activity, but you cannot drink before or during the session. That rule is sensible and firm. Plan to treat this as a focused sporting activity, not a drinks-based outing.

Who will enjoy this most

I would recommend the session to adults, families with suitable older children, couples, and small groups who want a hands-on activity near Melbourne. It works particularly well as a gift. A first-time shooter can participate without obtaining a licence or buying equipment, and the competition gives the session more shape than a short demonstration.

It also suits people who feel nervous about trying a firearm for the first time. The instruction is designed for beginners, and the guaranteed hit helps reduce the fear of complete failure. You still need to take safety seriously, listen closely, and accept that recoil may be uncomfortable.

The activity may also suit a person who wants to explore clay shooting as a possible sport. The session gives you a basic feel for the equipment, the target timing, the station format, and the satisfaction of improving through instruction. If you enjoy it, you can ask about returning or joining a club, though club membership is not part of this package.

Spectators are welcome, and service animals are allowed. Most people can participate, with no stated fitness requirement. If anyone in your group has sensory needs or concerns about recoil, contact the provider before booking so you can discuss the situation clearly.

Practical timing, group size, and meeting point

Allow about two hours and 30 minutes for the whole experience. The published operating days are Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The session begins and ends at Werribee Rifle Range, so there is no separate drop-off point or transfer included.

The maximum group size is 24. That is large enough for a social outing but still gives the instructor a clear structure to manage. Your exact amount of individual attention can depend on the group, though the teaching feedback points to instructors who keep an eye on different ability levels.

You receive confirmation when you book, and the ticket is mobile, so you can show it on your phone. Bring enough time to reach Quandong without rushing. The supplied equipment means you do not need to transport specialist shooting gear.

Wear something that lets you stand comfortably and follow safety instructions. The range is outdoors, and weather can affect the session. The provider may offer another date or a full refund if poor weather forces a cancellation.

How this compares with a standard Melbourne attraction

This is not a sightseeing stop where you spend most of the time listening to a guide. You take an active role from the start. The appeal is the combination of instruction, concentration, and a little friendly competition.

It also feels more substantial than a quick introductory shot. The 10 warm-up targets help you learn the basics, then the 20-target competition gives you a proper chance to use them. Five stations and the mix of singles and doubles prevent the session from becoming a single repeated exercise.

The trade-off is that the experience is tied to the range. You will not see a long list of Melbourne landmarks, and public transport details are not provided. You need to make your own way to Ballan Road in Quandong, and the outdoor format means plans can change with the weather.

For someone who wants an active half-day near Melbourne, that is a reasonable trade. For someone with only a few hours in the city and no interest in shooting, it may not be the best use of time.

Safety, confidence, and the instructor’s role

The strongest feature is the way the activity removes uncertainty without making the sport feel weightless. You do not need a licence or experience, but you do need to listen, handle the firearm properly, and follow instructions every time.

The instructors set the tone. Adam is described as patient and reassuring, especially with nervous first-timers. Stu is also noted for giving technique advice, while Debbie is praised for balancing personal attention with steady progress through the session.

That matters more than flashy prizes. A first attempt can be spoiled by rushed explanations or an instructor who assumes everyone understands the basics. Here, the teaching is designed to help you hit a target, then improve your timing and confidence.

Still, this is a shooting activity, not a harmless arcade game. You should book only if you are comfortable with firearms, noise, and recoil. The provider supplies safety equipment and works in a controlled setting, but your attention remains an important part of the safety system.

Cancellation and weather details

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Changes made less than 24 hours in advance are not accepted, and cancellations inside that window are not refunded.

Weather deserves special attention because the activity requires good conditions. If the provider cancels because of poor weather, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. I would avoid building a tightly timed weekend around this session if a weather forecast looks uncertain.

Should you book the Werribee clay shooting session?

Book it if you want a well-organized first taste of clay target shooting, especially if your group includes people with no licence or experience. The supplied equipment, patient instruction, guaranteed hit, and 30-target format make the $135.56 fee easier to justify.

I would be especially comfortable recommending it as a gift or family activity for people who are curious but nervous. Adam, Stu, and Debbie are associated with the kind of calm instruction beginners need, and the competition gives confident shooters something to aim for.

Think twice if you dislike recoil, loud sporting activities, or outdoor plans that can be changed by weather. Also check the travel time to Quandong before booking. For everyone else, this is a practical, friendly introduction to a sport you may want to try again, particularly if that perfect 20 out of 20 brings a free return visit.

FAQ

Do I need a shooter’s licence?

No. A shooter’s licence is not required for this experience.

Do I need previous shooting experience?

No. The session is designed for beginners and includes instruction from an experienced shooter or instructor.

What is included in the package?

The package includes a 10-target practical warm-up, a 20-target competition, firearms, safety equipment, and other specialist shooting equipment. Awards for first, second, and third place are also included.

How long does the activity last?

The experience lasts approximately two hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the experience take place?

It begins and ends at Werribee Rifle Range, 1225 Ballan Road, Quandong, Victoria 3030.

Can I drink alcohol before the session?

No. Alcohol cannot be consumed before or during the activity. Alcoholic beverages may be purchased after the experience.

What happens if bad weather cancels the session?

If poor weather causes a cancellation, you will be offered another date or a full refund. You can also cancel yourself for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the start time.