Frequently asked Questions
Can I do a trial session?
Our classes are very popular and are frequently booked out. As such, we are unable to reserve places for people to do a trial session.
Our Beginner Archery League runs as an 8 week curriculum where each week archers learn new skills and techniques.
As the course builds on skills from week to week, it is not appropriate to join in half way through a block of lessons, as this would affect the rest of our students.
You’re very welcome to pop in during one of our class times to observe and say hello, and also keep an eye out for our School Holiday Programs and other regular one off courses!
Can I bring my own equipment?
Not if you are a beginner.
At our beginner programs we insist that you use our gear. We provide everything that you need.
This way we can ensure that the equipment is properly maintained and safe, and that everyone is on the same playing field.
Can I book a casual session to shoot some arrows?
No.
To get into archery, you are required to complete a beginner course or induction program which is universal at almost all archery clubs and ranges across Australia.
Safety is at the forefront of everything we do so due to the safety protocols, it’s not suitable for casual archery sessions.
Do you offer compound bows?
We currently specialise in recurve target archery.
Wherever you go, you will always be taught to shoot a recurve bow first. This is for a couple of reasons:
Compound bows are difficult to set up for beginners. They have a fixed draw length, and as such, you can’t just pick up a compound and shoot it. The bow needs to be set up specifically for the archer, and this makes it difficult to run for beginners.
The basic shooting form learnt on a recurve bow translates very well to all other disciplines. If you learn on a recurve, you’ll have no problems taking up compound, or barebow, or traditional archery later, but this doesn’t necessarily work the other way around. Because of the mechanical advantages offered by a compound bow, it’s very easy to develop bad habits. It’s a bit like if you learn how to drive a manual car first, you can drive an automatic car no worries at all, but if you learn an automatic first, you’ll struggle with a manual, and it’s the same for recurve and compound.
If you want to get into compound, then once you’re a member of a club, there are opportunities to try out different bow styles, and take it from there!
Do you accept hunting bows?
No, Aspire Archery is a target archery club. As a subsidiary of Archery Australia and World Archery, we accept the following bow types: Recurve, Target Compound, Barebow recurve, Longbow. All equipment used at Aspire Archery must be compliant with the Archery Australia Rules. The following equipment is strictly prohibited:
Bows over 60 pounds
Broadheads of any kind
- Hunting compound set-ups
If you are interested in the hunting discipline of archery, there are many fantastic associations and clubs that will be better suited to you. We recommend you get in touch with your local ABA or 3DAAA club.
What if it rains?
We operate outdoors and as such are subject to the weather!
If there are passing showers or just a sprinkle of rain, we will usually still operate however, if the rain is steady or storms are forecast we will cancel.
In these instances, we will monitor the weather closely, and make a final decision at least 1 hour prior to the start time of any class.
If a class is cancelled, we will notify by email and if there is enough notice, or post it on our facebook page.
For unforeseen cancellations, we will do our best to offer a make up class, or otherwise credit you towards future lessons.
What is the minimum age?
The minimum age is 10 years old.
Our equipment and course format is not suited for small children.
This is basically the same for all archery ranges and clubs around Australia.
Are your classes mostly kids or adults?
Our classes are for all ages, and so we generally have a good mix of age groups in our classes.
We provide all appropriate equipment during our beginner classes.
Can you cater for special needs?
Archery is an inclusive sport that is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, and we strive to accommodate and make a positive experience for everyone!
Our coaches have extensive experience with archers who have special needs, including competitive para-archers.
In many cases, archery is an empowering activity, and often has therapeutic benefits for people with mild psychological disorders.
If you’re able to participate in a group environment, then it will almost certainly be fine. Ensure you advise us of any special needs when you book your course so that we can best accommodate you.
There are some cases that require more 1 on 1 attention, such as extreme social anxiety or a major physical impairment. In these instances, a large group setting may not be the most appropriate environment, so please contact us to see how we can best accommodate your needs!
How do I know if this program is for me?
If you’re not sure if this program is for you, then please give us a call for a quick chat.
We can discuss your experience level and goals to ensure that you’re in the right program. We can also arrange a trial session.
You are also welcome to come down to the range at any time we are shooting. Our club members are friendly and can point you in the direction of a coach or committee member who can talk through our programmes.
Do I need equipment for the Rookie Archer Program?
We do have equipment available, so there is no need to rush out and buy gear immediately.
There are some essentials that are required, such as a finger tab, quiver, arm guard and finger sling which can be purchased at a small cost from the club.
The expectation is that you’ll eventually be getting your own equipment and we can assist you with this as part of the program.
We do offer a video providing guidance on purchasing your first recurve bow here – Recurve Buyers Guide – Aspire Archery
Does this program include compound bows?
No.
We are recurve specialists and have no compound program at this time.