Shooting 150 years ago

150 years ago, a popular reason for gentlemen to visit Manly was to take part in shooting contests. In March 1861 there was held a grand rifle match with a silver cup valued at 12 guineas the prize for the best shot. The trophy was presented by Mr Spencer H Wilson, one of the owners of the Phantom steamer.

There was a practice-ground set up under the lesseeship of a Mr Taylor, and great care was taken to prevent any possibility of an accident. Members of shooting clubs from all over Sydney came to the inaugural contest, on 30 March 1861, including members of the Newtown Company of Volunteers and the Sydney Rifle Club.

Each man took a total of nine shots, at targets at distances of 200, 300 and 400 yards, with a bull's eye counting as three points, an inner as two points, and an outer as one point. The peace of the Saturday afternoon was regularly shattered as competitors peppered the targets. The standard was not high, however. Until late in the day the scores were tied between a Mr Rodwell from Newtown, and Mr William Bagnall from Manly (pictured), each with eight points. However some late arrivals on the afternoon ferry were eager to take part, and one of them, a Mr Bishop, carried off the cup.

The enthusiasm for the contest led to regular competitions at Taylor's Rifle Butts, with prizes such as pipes and tobacco, an Enfield rifle, and silver medals on offer. Ferry advertisements began to mention the shooting contests as one of the attractions of Manly Beach.

William Bagnall was later the licensee of the Square and Compass Hotel on the Corso, between 1877 and 1885. He was an early developer in the Brookvale district.