Frequently asked questions
We used to offer trial sessions at Rogue Archery, however, these days 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 is also an 8 week curriculum, and each week archers learn new skills and techniques. It's not approporiate 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 one off courses!
P.S. We've never had someone who did a trial and then didn't sign up!
No. 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.
No. To get into archery, you are required to complete some form of beginner course or induction program, and this is pretty much universal at all archery clubs and ranges across Australia.
I know, I know... wouldn't it be great if archery was set up like a golf driving range where you could come and sling arrows to your hearts content for a few dollars?
Unfortunately, archery doesn't work like this, and due to the safety protocols, it's not suitable for casual archery sessions.
At Rogue Archery we 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 compund 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!
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 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.
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.
Most of our classes are all ages, and so we generally have a good mix of age groups in our classes.
It varies from class to class, but it's usually about 50:50.
Archery is an inclusive sport that is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, and we strive to accomodate and make a positive experience for everyone!
At Rogue Archery 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 theraputic 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 accomodate 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 accomodate your needs!
No, our Rookie Archer Program is open to intermediate level archers who align with the program objectives. If you've done a beginner program elsewhere, or are a member of a club, you are very welcome to join our Rookie Archer Program.
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.
We do have equipment available, so there is no need to rush out and buy gear immediately. However, the expectation is that you'll be getting your own equipment, and we can assist you with this as part of the program.
There are some essentials that are required, such as a finger tab, quiver, armguard and finger sling.
No. At Rogue Archery we are recurve specialists and have no compound program at this time.