The Grey Company holds regular fighter training sessions for members as well as workshops for the production of weapons, armour, costumes etc. We also organise banquets, picnics, and other social events.
Although The Grey Company was originally formed with the aims of recreating Dark Ages combat for public display and personal enjoyment, we have since expanded our interests to include many non-combat activities including costuming, craftwork and music. We also re-enact other periods in history although we always keep the Dark Ages theme central to the group. New members are encouraged to assemble and maintain a Dark Ages costume before venturing into other historical periods.
Group Structure:
The Grey Company (inc.) is an incorporated body and the official organisation, by-laws etc can be found in the constitution. The Grey Company is led by a Captain and to help run the group, he has an Administrator, Steward and Chief Marshall. All are elected from within the Ordinary and Associate memberships.
Membership:
Members of the group fall into two broad categories. The largest category is the fighting members, who actually train and put on displays of their combat skills. Our other type of member is the non-fighting or supporting person.
All fighters must be over 18 years of age and join as Ordinary Members. Non-fighting members may join as Associate Members. Both are eligible to vote at group meetings and hold positions within the group administration.
Those persons interested in the group but under 18 years may join as Affiliate Members. They cannot vote or hold office but may enjoy other benefits of membership. Grey Company is a family friendly group but Junior members need to be supervised at club events.
Fees:
The Grey Company is an Incorporated body, and has fees which must be paid per year to be a member.
Ordinary - $25.00 per annum
Associate - $15.00 per annum
Affiliate - $10.00 per annum
Family Membership - $40.00 per annum
The fees must be paid prior to commencing of any combat training.
Waivers:
In order to be an Ordinary or Associate member, the applicant must complete the Waiver form provided. This is effectively a guarantee between members that any accidents will not have legal action taken over them.
Newsletter:
To keep members up do date with new information, rules changes and upcoming events we publish a bi-monthly newsletter. This is done by the Administrator and distributed at normal Sunday training. Newsletters will be posted out to members who fail to receive a copy at training. An electronic version is also available for those with email.
Combat:
Simulated Combat in the Grey Company involves the use of blunted weapons wielded in a "soft contact" manner. The fighting style of the Grey Company focuses on Safety at all times. Combat revolves around the concept of being able to deliver what looks like a deadly blow without actually injuring the opponent. This is achieved by `pulling' back the blow before it connects the target, with only a light contact felt by the recipient. Armour is often worn but mostly for presentation not protection although basic protective gear (helmet, gloves)is essential.
Grey Company is NOT a Martial Art. We train and fight only to entertain ourselves and our audience. The combat is deliberately designed to be as safe as possible whilst appearing to be `real' to the public.
More detailed information for combatant hopefuls can be found in the Grey Company Fighters Handbook.
