Volunteer Rob stays on target despite setbacks in life

HAVING A BLAST: Rob Loricco instructs a shooter at Little River's run range. Picture: TATJANA PLITT

By Luke Voogt

A serious work accident, a stroke and blindess have failed to stop Rob Loricco shooting.
Right-handed Rob learned to shoot 52 years ago, aged 14, despite a childhood accident blinding his right eye.
“I learnt to shoot a rifle left-handed,” he said.
“I’ll never be up there with the best marksman but that doesn’t stop me from doing what I love.”
When Rob retired about three years ago he decided to give back to the sport. He has volunteered at Eagle Park Shooting Range in Little River since.
Rob’s patience with his shooting helped make him popular among new experienced shooters, fellow instructors said.
“If I’m spending two hours at the range and I hit the bullseye I’m stoked,” he said.
“I just want everyone to enjoy their time as much as I do.”
Rob monitors shooters’ scores on weekends.
“We show them the safest way to use that firearm,” he said.
Rob fought his way back from a stroke in 1994 and a work accident in 1979. After three back operations doctors told him he would never work or play sport again.
“I proved them all wrong,” he said.