Toowoomba-based gel blaster enthusiasts backing changes to replica firearm legislation

Toowoomba-based experts are backing changes to gel blaster laws. Here’s everything you need to know about those changes to Queensland’s replica firearm legislation and how it will affect you.

BLAST FROM THE PAST: Both Jason Miller, owner of Skirmish Toowoomba HQ (left) and Ben Acworth, manager of Command Elite Hobbies Toowoomba (right) say they agree 100 per cent with the changes about to come into place as part of

Changes to replica firearm legislation will help protect the public and keep the growing sport of gel blasting alive, according to Toowoomba industry experts.

As of February 1, replica firearms like gel blasters will not require a licence or need to be registered with Weapons Licensing.

But when not in use they must be stored securely, for example, in a locked cupboard or a bag, but not necessarily in a gun safe and when being transported the gel blaster must be out of sight.

Anyone owning a gel blaster must also have a reasonable excuse for having one, for example, being a collector of replica weapons or a member of a club that uses them recreationally.

Command Elite Hobbies Toowoomba is a new gel blaster supply and modification store on Ruthven St.

The store’s manager Ben Acworth said the new rules would help clear up a lot of grey areas when it comes to gel blaster possession and storage.

“These new legislations are already practised by 99 per cent of the gel blaster community and are all part of the education we provide owners with when they enter out store,” he said.

“The changes are simply for the one per cent of the population who don’t use their common sense and have subsequently posed a risk to the population by causing unnecessary panic when they haven’t stored and transported their gel blaster appropriately.”

Ben Acworth, manager of Command Elite Hobbies Toowoomba said the new legislations are a great way to keep the sport alive and well in Queensland.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Brian Connors said since 2018, more than 100 people had been charged with misusing a gel blaster.

Owner of Skirmish Toowoomba HQ, Jason Miller said Queensland was fortunate to be one of the few states in Australia where gel blasters aren’t considered to be illegal.

“We’re glad these legislations have been brought into place and it’s in everyone’s best interest to respect the changes so that gel blasting can continue to be a sport for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy here in Queensland,” he said.

“It really is a great sport and activity for the whole family, we get children as young as six and blokes as old as 85 coming down to the range and when used properly with the right protective employment, everyone has a fantastic time.”