Mr Rogan took the opportunity to address council at the start of its May meeting, saying field archery catered to a wide range of ages and could even become a school-based sport.

He said there was already a considerable level of interest in the community, and the initiative could support some positive social outcomes.

He plans to liaise with local schools and groups to build familiarity with the sport, and is also proposing come-and-try days for the general public should the facility eventuate.

There is a national network of field archery clubs under Traditional Archery Australia, to which the new club is affiliated, making inter-club meets a possibility to bring people to town. 

“There are long-term benefits to families, keeping families together socially,” Mr Rogan said.

The newly-incorporated Tenterfield Traditional Archers would undertake to clear trails on the leased land of trip hazards and to eventually construct a lock-up for equipment and a shade shelter and toilets.

Impact on neighbours would be minimal, and Mr Rogan sees the sport as a good fit for the community.

“It’s another great social opportunity,” he said.

Acting Strategic Planning & Environmental Services director David Stewart’s report on the leasing query said that a development application would be required to change the use of the land and to ensure that all legislative requirements are met, but that there would be very minimal or no environmental impact on the site.

Cr Garry Verri said Stanthorpe has had a similar club for years which continues to be successful, Cr Michael Petrie considered it a great use for idle land and Cr John Macnish encouraged council to avoid putting too many hurdles in the fledgling club’s way.

Councillors unanimously supported the report’s recommendation of a five-year lease at a peppercorn rate of $10 a year, with the option of a further five years.