A WORD OF THANKS.
From Geoff Linthorne VK2GL
A few words of thanks to all the loyal members who attended the briefings and assisted with West Lakes displays on Australia Day at Speers Point Park.
They ignored the nay-sayers, braved the weather, dealt with questions from the public ranging in age from 14 to 70 plus, provided excellent tucker, transported and erected gazebos, set up and manned the display tables, erected antennas, provided batteries and 240VAC supplies.
There were displays of antique radios such as AR88 and Collins transceivers, CW demonstrations both live and also on computers, on air demos on HF equipment, home brewed equipment such as cipher wheels circa 1790, WW11 transceiver, morse keys some from German U-Boat service and many other items. We began the day at 0630 and finished at approximately 1600.
The day could be considered a success several members say we should repeat next year. We certainly informed many people who had no idea who West Lakes Radio Club is or what they do. I hope that some of the enquiries turn into new members.
N.B. I have since attended the debrief and conveyed our thoughts on the site situation and transport accommodation. They were noted. I am assured these will be addressed next year.
Thanks Team for your support.
While at the Speers Point Park the club used the special callsign of AX2ATZ. How many contacts were made? No many people were around on the bands so from a rough count about 6. Did anyone else use the special callsign. Richard VK2FRKO using AX2FRKO made 10 contacts and also reported that contacts were few and far between.
You have most probably found out by now that our repeater has been off the air and is still off the air. This repeater is a backup repeater located at Peter's QTH. A telephone call Peter VK2ZTV was made to advise him of the problem. Not to sure what the problem is or was so hopefully the problem will be sorted out soon.
Last weeks raffle winner Leigh VK2KAL was at the club to pick out of the ticket tumbler this weeks winner. This weeks winner was Norm VK2ZG. Congratulations. Enjoy the meat tray.
The sun is currently undergoing its strongest radiation storm since 2005 and charged particles are expected to blast towards Earth The eruption happened at 22:59 EST last Sunday night, that’s 03:59 GMT Monday and the massive solar flare that spewed from sunspot 1402 was caught by NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, according to spaceweather.com as reported by Fox News. Space Weather Prediction Center experts reckon that the impact from this latest solar flare will hit Earth at approximately 9:00 am EST last (Tuesday), that’s 14:00 GMT. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has confirmed that this is the most powerful radiation storm since 2005 and because of this it’s likely that some polar flights on Earth tomorrow will be re-routed over the next hours as a precaution. The geomagnetic storms also usually bring more intense northern and southern light displays, or auroras and can also interfere with communications, satellites and other electronic infrastructures. An alert has been issued by spaceweather.com saying, “There is little doubt that the cloud is heading in the general direction of Earth. A preliminary inspection of SOHO/STEREO imagery suggests that the CME (coronal mass ejection) will deliver a strong glancing blow to Earth’s magnetic field on Jan. 24-25 as it sails mostly north of our planet.” The site also tells high-latitude skywatcher to be ready for the increased chance of auroras. This latest solar flare is an M-9 class, which is close to the edge of being an X-flare, the strongest type. Last week’s solar flare was an M-2 class and the increased solar activity is part of an 11-year cycle expected to peak in 2013. If you have any thoughts about the effects of the solar expected to impact Earth tomorrow then do send us your comments.
CCARC Field Day at Wyong.
Who’s 55 years old and showing no sign of retiring?
The CCARC Field Day at Wyong, that’s who! The 26th of February, 2012, marks the 55th year of Australia’s largest gathering of ham radio enthusiasts. And every year just gets better and better! From the flea market, to the major suppliers of Amateur Radio equipment, the various AR clubs and exhibitors, the Field day is packed with plenty to interest the Amateur Radio fraternity And what would the Field day be without our usual lecture program, which promises yet again, to be a highlight of the day’s activities.
This year’s topics span the years, starting with Vintage Radio Repair, Radar before the Magnetron , right up to the new National Broadband Network. For our final lecture, we are very pleased to have a presentation from Hellenic Amateur Radio Assoc. Of Australia on the 2011 DXpedition to Lord Howe Island which included a member of our own CCARC. Please check the fieldday.org.au website for more information regarding the lecture program and times.
So grab your calendar, mark the date and we’ll see you at CCARC Field Day at Wyong – 26th February, 2012
Record set at Winter Hill.
The Port Lincoln Times reports that Rex Moncur VK7MO acheived an Australian amateur radio 10 GHz record last week of 843 kilometres by using aircraft reflections.
The newspaper reports: Amateur radio enthusiast Rex Moncur set an Australian record last week, sending microwaves 843 kilometres from Port Lincoln's Winter Hill lookout to Mount Macedon north of Melbourne [David VK3HZ] with the help of an aircraft. Normally microwaves only travel "line of sight" but the distance can be extended by reflecting them off an aircraft between two points. Using a pay TV dish with a rifle scope attached for accuracy the Hobart-based retiree waited for the perfect moment to be able to make contact. The connection only lasted for about two minutes but it was enough for Mr Moncur to break the previous record, also set by him, of 828 kilometres, between White Cliffs in New South Wales and Mount Macedon.
Well that's all the news I have this week. Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Saturday, December 17, 2011
NEWS BROADCAST FOR SUNDAY 18th DECEMBER 2011
The last gathering at Westlakes for 2011 was held yesterday with a surprisingly good attendance for this time of the year. It was Gloria Brown’s final day in charge of the canteen and she presented “the last supper” for all who were there. Steve VK2LW made a small presentation to Gloria in appreciation of her six years of work in the canteen which was acknowledged by applause. Gloria has left her apron on the door knob and it seems like a perfect fit for Barry VK2BZ.
The last meat tray raffle of the year was drawn by Bianca, the small daughter of Adam VK2YK. The ticket belonged to “Stella”, the proof-reader of Westlakes Monthly Magazine. Bianca scored a free chocolate-coated ice cream from the canteen for her effort. We are not sure who was the happiest; Stella or Bianca.
If you were thinking of purchasing a 2012 Callbook from the club, please be advised there are none left. The last one was sold yesterday afternoon.
Several members watched a miraculous repair of an old crystal-locked 2 metre radio in the club’s Activity Room yesterday. The radio had “taken-off” making a horrible howling noise that could not be stopped. Everything was tried from removing and replacing all the crystals, poking the components, and the big thump test. Nothing could stop the howl. Time for an expert. Herb VK2ZVF was called and cured the problem in 1 second. “I just turned the volume up – done that many times before”, he said. It’s easy when you know how. Good one Herb.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you an early riser? Why not join the Stone the Crows net at 6 am on 3.588KHz each Saturday morning. Everyone is most welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au For those people who miss the WIA broadcast, after our broadcast you can look up the news on the WIA webpage. Some articles are a good read. While speaking of broadcasts this is Westlakes last news broadcast for 2011. Our next broadcast will be on Sunday 8th January 2012.
Richard would like to thank everyone who have sent in articles for the weekly broadcasts on Sunday. Richard has also asked that if you would like any other topics covered in our weekly broadcasts please email Richard at vk2frko@tpg.com.au Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our listeners.
Have you one of the latest Android phones? Why not check out the application for receiving Morse Code. Download the application, sit your phone down near you receiver and watch the morse code be decoded in front of your eyes. The application even tells you the speed in which it is being sent. While searching for applications why not check the many others that are available. All I want for Christmas is a new phone.
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO:
FCC adopts rules to control loudness of commercials The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today took a major step toward eliminating one of the most persistent problems of the television age – loud commercials. The Commission adopted a Report and Order that implements the 2010 Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act (the CALM Act), in which Congress gave the Commission, for the first time, authority to address the problem of excessive commercial loudness.
The rules adopted today require that commercials have the same average volume as the programmes they accompany. The rules also establish simple, practical ways for stations and multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) to demonstrate their compliance with the rules. They carry out Congress’ mandate to give viewers relief from overloud commercials while avoiding unnecessary burdens on television stations and MVPDs.As the CALM Act requires, the rules will become effective one year after the date of their adoption, or 13 December, 2012. This gives stations and MVPDs until this date to be in full compliance. Equally important, it provides ample time for programmers and networks to provide their distributors with certifications stating the commercials that accompany their programming are fully compliant with these rules. These certifications, though not mandatory, will simplify the safe harbour process for all stations and MVPDs. Maybe someone from the ACMA may take note and follow the same.
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Thank you for listening. Good morning all.
Seasons Greetings.
The last meat tray raffle of the year was drawn by Bianca, the small daughter of Adam VK2YK. The ticket belonged to “Stella”, the proof-reader of Westlakes Monthly Magazine. Bianca scored a free chocolate-coated ice cream from the canteen for her effort. We are not sure who was the happiest; Stella or Bianca.
If you were thinking of purchasing a 2012 Callbook from the club, please be advised there are none left. The last one was sold yesterday afternoon.
Several members watched a miraculous repair of an old crystal-locked 2 metre radio in the club’s Activity Room yesterday. The radio had “taken-off” making a horrible howling noise that could not be stopped. Everything was tried from removing and replacing all the crystals, poking the components, and the big thump test. Nothing could stop the howl. Time for an expert. Herb VK2ZVF was called and cured the problem in 1 second. “I just turned the volume up – done that many times before”, he said. It’s easy when you know how. Good one Herb.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you an early riser? Why not join the Stone the Crows net at 6 am on 3.588KHz each Saturday morning. Everyone is most welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au For those people who miss the WIA broadcast, after our broadcast you can look up the news on the WIA webpage. Some articles are a good read. While speaking of broadcasts this is Westlakes last news broadcast for 2011. Our next broadcast will be on Sunday 8th January 2012.
Richard would like to thank everyone who have sent in articles for the weekly broadcasts on Sunday. Richard has also asked that if you would like any other topics covered in our weekly broadcasts please email Richard at vk2frko@tpg.com.au Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our listeners.
Have you one of the latest Android phones? Why not check out the application for receiving Morse Code. Download the application, sit your phone down near you receiver and watch the morse code be decoded in front of your eyes. The application even tells you the speed in which it is being sent. While searching for applications why not check the many others that are available. All I want for Christmas is a new phone.
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO:
FCC adopts rules to control loudness of commercials The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today took a major step toward eliminating one of the most persistent problems of the television age – loud commercials. The Commission adopted a Report and Order that implements the 2010 Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Act (the CALM Act), in which Congress gave the Commission, for the first time, authority to address the problem of excessive commercial loudness.
The rules adopted today require that commercials have the same average volume as the programmes they accompany. The rules also establish simple, practical ways for stations and multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) to demonstrate their compliance with the rules. They carry out Congress’ mandate to give viewers relief from overloud commercials while avoiding unnecessary burdens on television stations and MVPDs.As the CALM Act requires, the rules will become effective one year after the date of their adoption, or 13 December, 2012. This gives stations and MVPDs until this date to be in full compliance. Equally important, it provides ample time for programmers and networks to provide their distributors with certifications stating the commercials that accompany their programming are fully compliant with these rules. These certifications, though not mandatory, will simplify the safe harbour process for all stations and MVPDs. Maybe someone from the ACMA may take note and follow the same.
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Thank you for listening. Good morning all.
Seasons Greetings.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
WESTLAKES NEWS BROADCAST FOR DECEMBER 11th 2011
Well last weeks official meat tray winner, Ted VK2UI was at the club to pick out of the ticket tumbler. This weeks lucky meat tray winner was Diane VK2FDNE. Enjoy Diane and that’s your last for 2011.
Next Saturday the 17th December is Gloria's last day of doing the canteen. She wishes to thank those who have supported the canteen over the last 6 years whilst she has run it. We will need volunteers to run the canteen starting the first Saturday in January. If you are willing please speak to a committee member or catch up with Gloria next Saturday and she will only be too happy to show you the ropes.
It was all HO HO HO at the club yesterday with a number of members enjoying the Xmas party. Around 35 members and there wives/partners attended the club yesterday for the Xmas party. It was a great day with Alex VK2ZM bringing out the second BBQ as he thought it was going to rain. It didn't happen Alex. The sausages and steak were cooked to perfection but some of the onions were crispy. The salad was equally as good. Many thanks to the ladies who looked after the salad dept.
Now for a 1st and you can say it ONLY happens at Westlakes. The Archery contest. Everyone, or I should say most of everyone there had a go at shooting the target. VK2CW made the arrows ( I think they were made to go around corners ) and had an old bow. Now the arrows had sponge on the end with red paint so those who were lucky enough to hit the target had a red mark. Some arrows fell short of the target and some went over the target and ended up almost in the swamp. I am pleased announce the winners of the contest. In the ladies division 1st prize went to Denise ( who won 20 sausages ) and 2nd prize went to Penny. In the mens division 1st prize went to Steve VK2LW and 2nd prize went to Geoff VK2EO. However, there could be a protest going in as VK2LW does archery on some of his weekends off. We will just wait and see what transpires in the next week or two. It was great fun.
Next Sunday I believe will be the last broadcast for 2011 so listen out in January when the broadcasts will commence. There may be a special announcement by Santa. HO HO HO.
Do you like to waffle? Why noy join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
NEWS FROM THE WIA
Program gives fillip to amateur radio. Tech Talk Radio is a IT and technology show with a listening audience of thousands of technology enthusiasts and professionals, it is aired weekly across a network of over twenty broadcast stations Australia wide. This weeks show featured an interview with Robert Broomhead VK3DN talking about amateur radio. Want to know more ? Go to the WIA website and look for news. Next years 2012 conference -Register today to attend the 2012 WIA Annual Conference and Weekend of Activities Mildura, May 25th, 26th and 27th
NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
Are you interested in MultiPSK. ALE-400 tutorial video Tony K2MO has made available a tutorial video on the Multipsk digital mode ALE-400-FAE-ARQ. You can obtain a copy of Quick Tutorial on ALE400. The link to watch his video is http://www.southgatearc.org/news/december2011/ale400_tutorial_video.htm The software can be obtained from tp://f6cte.free.fr/index_anglais.htm
Rotuma solar-powered operation Antoine, 3D2AG, will be on a Christmas holiday with his family and plans to do small 'green' radio operation as 3D2AG/p from Rotuma (OC-060) between December 9th and January 9th, 2012. It is reported that this will be a "small ecological barefoot activity on all bands (80-6m) except 160m, sponsored by the French company 'TOTAL' within the framework of the sustainable development of the insular communities of the Pacific (supply of the batteries, the 3 solar panels of 50 watts and QSLs)". His station will be 100w, using all modes (SSB/CW) with an ICOM 706, FT-757GX and Kenwood TS-440S, into a Spiderbeam 5 band antenna, a 5 element yagi for the 6m and doublets for the 40/60/80 meters.
This station will be fed only by batteries and solar panels.A special QSL will be printed on recycled paper to confirm the contacts. QSL via his home callsign, direct only (QRZ.com address).
70cm to help paralyzed patients ?
Bloomberg report on the FCC approval for dedical devices designed to help paralyzed patients by using 426-432 MHz and 438-444 MHz for transmitting signals to incapacitated limbs.
Read the Bloomberg article - Medical Devices That Help Paralyzed Move Will Get Radio Spectrum http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-05/medical-devices-
that-help-paralyzed-move-will-get-radio-spectrum.html
ARRL - FCC Grants Secondary Service Allocation to Wireless Broadband Medical Micropower Networks http://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-grants-secondary-service-allocation-
to-wireless-broadband-medical-micropower-networks
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Next Saturday the 17th December is Gloria's last day of doing the canteen. She wishes to thank those who have supported the canteen over the last 6 years whilst she has run it. We will need volunteers to run the canteen starting the first Saturday in January. If you are willing please speak to a committee member or catch up with Gloria next Saturday and she will only be too happy to show you the ropes.
It was all HO HO HO at the club yesterday with a number of members enjoying the Xmas party. Around 35 members and there wives/partners attended the club yesterday for the Xmas party. It was a great day with Alex VK2ZM bringing out the second BBQ as he thought it was going to rain. It didn't happen Alex. The sausages and steak were cooked to perfection but some of the onions were crispy. The salad was equally as good. Many thanks to the ladies who looked after the salad dept.
Now for a 1st and you can say it ONLY happens at Westlakes. The Archery contest. Everyone, or I should say most of everyone there had a go at shooting the target. VK2CW made the arrows ( I think they were made to go around corners ) and had an old bow. Now the arrows had sponge on the end with red paint so those who were lucky enough to hit the target had a red mark. Some arrows fell short of the target and some went over the target and ended up almost in the swamp. I am pleased announce the winners of the contest. In the ladies division 1st prize went to Denise ( who won 20 sausages ) and 2nd prize went to Penny. In the mens division 1st prize went to Steve VK2LW and 2nd prize went to Geoff VK2EO. However, there could be a protest going in as VK2LW does archery on some of his weekends off. We will just wait and see what transpires in the next week or two. It was great fun.
Next Sunday I believe will be the last broadcast for 2011 so listen out in January when the broadcasts will commence. There may be a special announcement by Santa. HO HO HO.
Do you like to waffle? Why noy join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not send an email to Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
NEWS FROM THE WIA
Program gives fillip to amateur radio. Tech Talk Radio is a IT and technology show with a listening audience of thousands of technology enthusiasts and professionals, it is aired weekly across a network of over twenty broadcast stations Australia wide. This weeks show featured an interview with Robert Broomhead VK3DN talking about amateur radio. Want to know more ? Go to the WIA website and look for news. Next years 2012 conference -Register today to attend the 2012 WIA Annual Conference and Weekend of Activities Mildura, May 25th, 26th and 27th
NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
Are you interested in MultiPSK. ALE-400 tutorial video Tony K2MO has made available a tutorial video on the Multipsk digital mode ALE-400-FAE-ARQ. You can obtain a copy of Quick Tutorial on ALE400. The link to watch his video is http://www.southgatearc.org/news/december2011/ale400_tutorial_video.htm The software can be obtained from tp://f6cte.free.fr/index_anglais.htm
Rotuma solar-powered operation Antoine, 3D2AG, will be on a Christmas holiday with his family and plans to do small 'green' radio operation as 3D2AG/p from Rotuma (OC-060) between December 9th and January 9th, 2012. It is reported that this will be a "small ecological barefoot activity on all bands (80-6m) except 160m, sponsored by the French company 'TOTAL' within the framework of the sustainable development of the insular communities of the Pacific (supply of the batteries, the 3 solar panels of 50 watts and QSLs)". His station will be 100w, using all modes (SSB/CW) with an ICOM 706, FT-757GX and Kenwood TS-440S, into a Spiderbeam 5 band antenna, a 5 element yagi for the 6m and doublets for the 40/60/80 meters.
This station will be fed only by batteries and solar panels.A special QSL will be printed on recycled paper to confirm the contacts. QSL via his home callsign, direct only (QRZ.com address).
70cm to help paralyzed patients ?
Bloomberg report on the FCC approval for dedical devices designed to help paralyzed patients by using 426-432 MHz and 438-444 MHz for transmitting signals to incapacitated limbs.
Read the Bloomberg article - Medical Devices That Help Paralyzed Move Will Get Radio Spectrum http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-12-05/medical-devices-
that-help-paralyzed-move-will-get-radio-spectrum.html
ARRL - FCC Grants Secondary Service Allocation to Wireless Broadband Medical Micropower Networks http://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-grants-secondary-service-allocation-
to-wireless-broadband-medical-micropower-networks
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR SUNDAY THE 4TH DEC 2011
It would not be a complete Sunday News without the result of the meat tray raffle. Herb VK2ZVF drew the ticket and it belonged to Ted VK2UI. But the story does not end there. Ted donated it back to either Barrie VK2BXD or Greg VK2CW. A toss of the coin was made to decide the eventual winner. In a “rigged” toss with a two-tailed coin, Barrie took home the bacon. But the story does not end there. A second prize of a bag of buns was drawn from the barrel. The winner was Leonie VK2FHRK. She had left for home so a re-draw was called for. The re-draw was again Leonie VK2FHRK. A third re-draw was held and finally Peter VK2GFE was handed the buns.
The lack of involvement by members in club affairs was raised at yesterday’s monthly meeting. Well, here is your chance to get “involved”. The Westlakes Club grounds are to be mowed next Tuesday morning at 9 am. We have plenty of mowers, trimmers, blowers – all that we lack are workers, so how about it?
Michael VK2CCW was already at it yesterday after having learnt how to operate the ride-on mower. Such was his effort that the mowing job is already half done. Good for you Michael.
At yesterday’s meeting, the club’s Contest Coordinator, Dave VK2RD, presented the winner’s trophy and certificate to Leonie VK2FHRK for first place (Foundation Section) in the 2011 Westlakes Cup Contest. Another cup for Leonie’s sideboard – Congratulations.
Two welcome faces, not seen for some time, visited yesterday. They belonged to Les VK2RJ who has moved from Muswellbrook to Newcastle and Ken VK2IBT who is on an extended holiday from the Philippines and is touring Australia foe a few months. It was good to see you both.
Next Saturday at 12 noon the 2011 Christmas Gathering and Archery Shoot will be held in the club grounds. It’s a free barbecue with the works for all members, their friends and family. Prizes for the winners and some of the losers. The bow and arrows are ready – only the target is in doubt. We will be calling for a volunteer to be target on the day – it will probably be the safest place to stand. All you need to bring is a seat, your drinks. A suit of armour is optional. All food for the barbecue is provided.
A few 2012 Call books are still available. They cost $22 complete with the accompanying CD. See the Treasurer next Saturday before he is struck by an arrow.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not give email Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
AO-51 End of Mission
AMSAT-NA VP Operations, Drew Glasbrenner KO4MA, reports that the amateur radio satellite AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.It is with a heavy heart I report that AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.
The last telemetry data indicated that the third of six batteries was approaching failure to short, and observations indicate the voltage from three cells is insufficient to power the UHF transmitters. The IHU may continue to be operative. Initial tests with the S band transmitter were also not positive, although more attempts are in order. We have tried leaving the satellite in an expected state where if voltages climb high enough, the 435.150 transmitter may possibly be heard.The command team will regularly attempt communications with the satellite over the coming months (and years). There is always the possibility that a cell will open and we could once again talk to our friends while illuminated.Thanks to all who helped fund, design, build, launch, command, and operate AO-51. It's 7 year mission has been extraordinary.
Radio Afghanistan on 7200 kHz On the IARU-R1 website, Uli Bihlmayer DJ9KR reports that Radio Afghanistan is operating in the Amateur Radio 40m band.On November 28, "National Radio of Afghanistan" is again on 7200 kHz.I have heard it at 1530 UTC. It is still on at 1620 UTC, and certainly as yesterday, will s/off at 1630 UTC. The signal is S9+15dB with my dipole. At 1530 UTC it announces "This is National Radio of Afghanistan" with a frequency of 6100 kHz. However this frequency is NOT active. National Radio of AFG is really transmitting on 7200 kHz (carrier) and covering 7195 - 7205 kHz.
Amateur Radio used in medical evacuation
The United States Coast Guard report that amateur radio was used when a man experienced signs of a heart attack aboard his sailboat 170 miles southwest of Bermuda. Read the report at https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/651/1246651/
Top 10 viruses in November 2011 as reported by Sophos Antivirus. Be very careful when searching on the web.
1 Troj/Invo-Zip
2 W32/Netsky
3 Mal/EncPk-EI
4 Troj/Pushdo-Gen
5 Troj/Agent-HFU
6 Mal/Iframe-E
7 Troj/Mdrop-BTV
8 Troj/Mdrop-BUF
9 Troj/Agent-HFZ
10 Troj/Agent-HGT
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
The lack of involvement by members in club affairs was raised at yesterday’s monthly meeting. Well, here is your chance to get “involved”. The Westlakes Club grounds are to be mowed next Tuesday morning at 9 am. We have plenty of mowers, trimmers, blowers – all that we lack are workers, so how about it?
Michael VK2CCW was already at it yesterday after having learnt how to operate the ride-on mower. Such was his effort that the mowing job is already half done. Good for you Michael.
At yesterday’s meeting, the club’s Contest Coordinator, Dave VK2RD, presented the winner’s trophy and certificate to Leonie VK2FHRK for first place (Foundation Section) in the 2011 Westlakes Cup Contest. Another cup for Leonie’s sideboard – Congratulations.
Two welcome faces, not seen for some time, visited yesterday. They belonged to Les VK2RJ who has moved from Muswellbrook to Newcastle and Ken VK2IBT who is on an extended holiday from the Philippines and is touring Australia foe a few months. It was good to see you both.
Next Saturday at 12 noon the 2011 Christmas Gathering and Archery Shoot will be held in the club grounds. It’s a free barbecue with the works for all members, their friends and family. Prizes for the winners and some of the losers. The bow and arrows are ready – only the target is in doubt. We will be calling for a volunteer to be target on the day – it will probably be the safest place to stand. All you need to bring is a seat, your drinks. A suit of armour is optional. All food for the barbecue is provided.
A few 2012 Call books are still available. They cost $22 complete with the accompanying CD. See the Treasurer next Saturday before he is struck by an arrow.
Do you like to waffle? Why not join the wafller's net every Wednesday night on simplex 2 meter frequency 146.525 MHz commencing at 1900 hrs. Listen out for Robert VK2MF on that frequency. All welcome.
Are you a shortwave listener who has always wanted to be a amateur radio operator. The club is once again able to conduct Foundation,Standard and Advanced class examinations so why not give email Michael VK2OI at vk2oi@wia.org.au
WORLD NEWS FROM SOUTHGATE AMATEUR RADIO
AO-51 End of Mission
AMSAT-NA VP Operations, Drew Glasbrenner KO4MA, reports that the amateur radio satellite AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.It is with a heavy heart I report that AO-51 has ceased transmission and is not responding to commands.
The last telemetry data indicated that the third of six batteries was approaching failure to short, and observations indicate the voltage from three cells is insufficient to power the UHF transmitters. The IHU may continue to be operative. Initial tests with the S band transmitter were also not positive, although more attempts are in order. We have tried leaving the satellite in an expected state where if voltages climb high enough, the 435.150 transmitter may possibly be heard.The command team will regularly attempt communications with the satellite over the coming months (and years). There is always the possibility that a cell will open and we could once again talk to our friends while illuminated.Thanks to all who helped fund, design, build, launch, command, and operate AO-51. It's 7 year mission has been extraordinary.
Radio Afghanistan on 7200 kHz On the IARU-R1 website, Uli Bihlmayer DJ9KR reports that Radio Afghanistan is operating in the Amateur Radio 40m band.On November 28, "National Radio of Afghanistan" is again on 7200 kHz.I have heard it at 1530 UTC. It is still on at 1620 UTC, and certainly as yesterday, will s/off at 1630 UTC. The signal is S9+15dB with my dipole. At 1530 UTC it announces "This is National Radio of Afghanistan" with a frequency of 6100 kHz. However this frequency is NOT active. National Radio of AFG is really transmitting on 7200 kHz (carrier) and covering 7195 - 7205 kHz.
Amateur Radio used in medical evacuation
The United States Coast Guard report that amateur radio was used when a man experienced signs of a heart attack aboard his sailboat 170 miles southwest of Bermuda. Read the report at https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/651/1246651/
Top 10 viruses in November 2011 as reported by Sophos Antivirus. Be very careful when searching on the web.
1 Troj/Invo-Zip
2 W32/Netsky
3 Mal/EncPk-EI
4 Troj/Pushdo-Gen
5 Troj/Agent-HFU
6 Mal/Iframe-E
7 Troj/Mdrop-BTV
8 Troj/Mdrop-BUF
9 Troj/Agent-HFZ
10 Troj/Agent-HGT
Well that's all the news I have this week.
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR 30TH OCTOBER 2011
The club meat yesterday was carefully choosen from the barrel by Alex VK2ZM. The winner of this weeks meat tray was Diane VK2FDNE. Yes,Diane does smile. Congratulations Diane.
Gloria was busy in the kitchen preparing salads for lunch. Its good to see members eating healthy.
Well the activity room was busy with Norm vk2knc checking over Richards (vk2frko )FT 301. Barrie vk2bxd was also there assisting. From richard - Thanks guys for your help.
This weekend saw a number of members take part in the CQ WORLDWIDE DX CONTEST. On hand was Dave vk2rd,Richard vk2frko, Allan vk2jed and Michael vk2ccw, Steve vk2lw and Leonie vk2fhrk. The weekend was intended to show new commers how contesting is done,show how propagation works on different bands and generally get Westlakes ARC back on the air again. The contest runs for 48 hrs and started 1000 am Saturday morning and to finish at 1000 Monday morning.
Wafflers net is progressing well on Wednesday nights. Operating frequency is 146.525 MHz simplex and commences at 1900 hrs. All welcome.
Licence upgrades are now once again available from the Westlakes A.R.C. at Teralba. Those budding amateurs wishing to obtain their
Foundation licence or those current Foundation licence holders wishing to upgrade to Standard or Advanced Licence please contact
Michael via email vk2oi@wia.org.au Its a great hobby to get involved in. You meet and talk to so many people locally and Worldwide.
News from Southgate Amatuer radio.
Titanic Wireless Operator - Yesterday Channel Oct 27-28
Radio Amateur David Barlow G3PLE may appear briefly with a relative of Titanic wireless operator Harold Bride in the Yesterday Channel show 'Find My Past'.In the show the relatives of wireless operator Harold Bride, a passenger and a steward discover how their lives intertwined in April 1912, when the 'unsinkable' Titanic capsized.David G3PLE says "Part of it is about a relative of Harold Bride. The film crew came to the Lizard Wireless Station and I may appear in the programme talking to her and demonstrating the spark transmitter."
The show will be first broadcast on SKY channel 537; Virgin Media 203, Freeview 12 at 9pm Thursday, October 27 and will be repeated at 12am on Friday, October 28 (or 1pm on yesterday+1 SKY channel 538).Harold Bride http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Sydney_Bride
Lizard Wireless Station http://lizardwireless.org/
K4E - Special Event Station 500 years of Coat of Arms of Puerto Rico Puerto Rico's Coat of Arms was granted by the Spanish Crown in 1511, which makes it the oldest currently used in the Americas.This coat of arms was officially recognized by King Fernando of Spain on November 5th 1511 and was officially granted to the government of Puerto Rico in November 11, 1511.The Puerto Rico Amateur Radio League (PRARL) will be operating a special event station celebrating the 500th aniversary of our Coat of Arms. This special event station will be operated by several stations in Puerto Rico from November 5th to November 19th.The Puerto Rico Amateur Radio League will send a special QSL to those who submit their QSL card in a SASE and appear in our log.
Please QSL via KP4ES to: “PRARL-K4E – PO Box 191917 – San Juan, PR 00919-1917"
More infromation on www.prarl.org
Code-Breakers: Bletchley Park's Lost Heroes The BBC 2 TV documentary about the WW2 codebreaking at Bletchley Park is now available on the web.The BBC description says: Documentary that reveals the secret story behind one of the greatest intellectual feats of World War II, a feat that gave birth to the digital age.In 1943, a 24-year-old maths student and a GPO engineer combined to hack into Hitler's personal super-code machine - not Enigma but an even tougher system, which he called his 'secrets writer'. Their break turned the Battle of Kursk, powered the D-day landings and orchestrated the end of the conflict in Europe. But it was also to be used during the Cold War - which meant both men's achievements were hushed up and never officially recognised. It can be seen on the web by those in the UK or elsewhere if a suitable proxy server is used. Watch BBC 2 TV 'Code-Breakers: Bletchley Park's Lost Heroes' at
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b016ltm0
Expat Shield (DM-232.exe) is software that reportedly enables people overseas to watch BBC TV
http://www.ExpatShield.com/
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Gloria was busy in the kitchen preparing salads for lunch. Its good to see members eating healthy.
Well the activity room was busy with Norm vk2knc checking over Richards (vk2frko )FT 301. Barrie vk2bxd was also there assisting. From richard - Thanks guys for your help.
This weekend saw a number of members take part in the CQ WORLDWIDE DX CONTEST. On hand was Dave vk2rd,Richard vk2frko, Allan vk2jed and Michael vk2ccw, Steve vk2lw and Leonie vk2fhrk. The weekend was intended to show new commers how contesting is done,show how propagation works on different bands and generally get Westlakes ARC back on the air again. The contest runs for 48 hrs and started 1000 am Saturday morning and to finish at 1000 Monday morning.
Wafflers net is progressing well on Wednesday nights. Operating frequency is 146.525 MHz simplex and commences at 1900 hrs. All welcome.
Licence upgrades are now once again available from the Westlakes A.R.C. at Teralba. Those budding amateurs wishing to obtain their
Foundation licence or those current Foundation licence holders wishing to upgrade to Standard or Advanced Licence please contact
Michael via email vk2oi@wia.org.au Its a great hobby to get involved in. You meet and talk to so many people locally and Worldwide.
News from Southgate Amatuer radio.
Titanic Wireless Operator - Yesterday Channel Oct 27-28
Radio Amateur David Barlow G3PLE may appear briefly with a relative of Titanic wireless operator Harold Bride in the Yesterday Channel show 'Find My Past'.In the show the relatives of wireless operator Harold Bride, a passenger and a steward discover how their lives intertwined in April 1912, when the 'unsinkable' Titanic capsized.David G3PLE says "Part of it is about a relative of Harold Bride. The film crew came to the Lizard Wireless Station and I may appear in the programme talking to her and demonstrating the spark transmitter."
The show will be first broadcast on SKY channel 537; Virgin Media 203, Freeview 12 at 9pm Thursday, October 27 and will be repeated at 12am on Friday, October 28 (or 1pm on yesterday+1 SKY channel 538).Harold Bride http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Sydney_Bride
Lizard Wireless Station http://lizardwireless.org/
K4E - Special Event Station 500 years of Coat of Arms of Puerto Rico Puerto Rico's Coat of Arms was granted by the Spanish Crown in 1511, which makes it the oldest currently used in the Americas.This coat of arms was officially recognized by King Fernando of Spain on November 5th 1511 and was officially granted to the government of Puerto Rico in November 11, 1511.The Puerto Rico Amateur Radio League (PRARL) will be operating a special event station celebrating the 500th aniversary of our Coat of Arms. This special event station will be operated by several stations in Puerto Rico from November 5th to November 19th.The Puerto Rico Amateur Radio League will send a special QSL to those who submit their QSL card in a SASE and appear in our log.
Please QSL via KP4ES to: “PRARL-K4E – PO Box 191917 – San Juan, PR 00919-1917"
More infromation on www.prarl.org
Code-Breakers: Bletchley Park's Lost Heroes The BBC 2 TV documentary about the WW2 codebreaking at Bletchley Park is now available on the web.The BBC description says: Documentary that reveals the secret story behind one of the greatest intellectual feats of World War II, a feat that gave birth to the digital age.In 1943, a 24-year-old maths student and a GPO engineer combined to hack into Hitler's personal super-code machine - not Enigma but an even tougher system, which he called his 'secrets writer'. Their break turned the Battle of Kursk, powered the D-day landings and orchestrated the end of the conflict in Europe. But it was also to be used during the Cold War - which meant both men's achievements were hushed up and never officially recognised. It can be seen on the web by those in the UK or elsewhere if a suitable proxy server is used. Watch BBC 2 TV 'Code-Breakers: Bletchley Park's Lost Heroes' at
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b016ltm0
Expat Shield (DM-232.exe) is software that reportedly enables people overseas to watch BBC TV
http://www.ExpatShield.com/
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
WESTLAKES NEWS FOR OCTOBER 23RD 2011
Well yesterdays meat was won by Alec who managed to find his own ticket in the barrel. What can we all say When your hot your hot Congratulations and enjoy the meat tray.
The Hunter Valley Electric Vehicle Show. This show will be held at Spears Point Park on the 19th November and will be open for business at 0800 and finish around 3 pm. Write this date on your calender before you forget about it.
Australia Day 2012. Also write this down on your calender for next year. Westlakes A.R.C. plan to have a display at Spears Point park. Australia Day next year will be January 26th. We will be setting up at 0800 for a 1000 am start. Members are required to man the stand until the day is finished. A full program of events or happenings by Westlakes Club will be broadcasted in future broadcasts.
Next weekend volunteers are required to help out with the Oceania Worldwide DX competition. Anyone wishing to learn about contesting is also welcome to come along. Please contact Dave VK2RD if you can assist. All classes of licences can assist.
Yesterday, Dave VK2RD was busy on the ride on mower mowing the grounds of the club and yes the grounds do look very nice. Remember, if you can help in maintaining the grounds to a standard that everyone is accustomed to please contact Dave VK2RD or tell a committee member. Any assistance is better than none at all.
Well did you know our President Geoff VK2EO is now engaged to Denise. Keith Vk2PKT advised that he read it on Facebook. We wish you all the best Geoff.
Do you remember David Sopher VK2CDA when he was a member of Westlakes? Well on Friday nights David has a job as a DJ on local station 89.5 FM at Peakhurst. You can listen to Dave live as he puts it out live via the internet. You also can contact Dave via Facebook and request a song. Keith said he and Gloria had a great time last Friday night. So listen from 7 pm onwards. Any problems in finding David please contact keith VK2PKT.
Yesterday, Gloria on her 1st day back after 5 long weeks of holidays made a delicious mixed salad and ham which was enloyed by a table members. There was silence once more. Someone should of taken a photograph to see all people eating healthy. Job well done Gloria - whats on next weeks menu?
The secretary is once again ordering caps and t shirts. Orders must be placed at the end of the broadcast this morning. Listen for Barrie VK2BXD.
The Port Stephens ARC is once again holding a Foundation licence coarse and examination next weekend at Lemon Tree Passage. Also if you wish to upgrade to either Standard or Advanced please contact the following via email Richard VK2FRKO-vk2frko@tpg.com.au, Leigh VK2KAL vk2kal@gmail.com or Michael vk2oi@wia.org.au before Thursday next week.
While talking about the Port Stephens ARC they are looking for a 9db gain UHF vertical collinear for their 70cm repeater. Have you got one laying in your garage collecting dust. Contact Richard vk2frko.
Centenary VK100ARV goes on air
For the month of November 2011 the special callsign VK100ARV will be well sought after and qualifies toward the Amateur Radio Centenary Award. For images visit QRZ.COM This year is the 100th anniversary of the Amateur Wireless Society of Victoria, formed in 1911, quickly changing its name to the Wireless Institute of Victoria, and today is known as Amateur Radio Victoria. A special QSL card is on offer for contact with VK100ARV. On the front it features defining words capturing the spirit of the founding of the organisation and a gallery of Presidents and the information panel on the back. The Amateur Radio Centenary Award certificate has a montage of the organisation over the decades. Both the QSL card and certificate are worth obtaining for display and will show the Centenary logo. Valid contacts with VK100ARV earn ten bonus points towards the Award. Contact with VK3WI during the Remembrance Day Contest, International Lighthouse and Lightship Week, and the Oceania DX Phone Contest October 1 & 2, and the Oceania DX CW Contest October 8-9 also gained bonus points. For Australian stations a total of 100 points are required and DX stations 25 points. Valid contacts with members during the celebratory period August 1 to November 30, 2011, earns two points towards the award. Also in the celebration are stations set up in Victorian National Parks operating under the Keith Roget Memorial National Parks Award (KRMNPA) rules, on November Friday 18 through to Sunday 20. The Award Manager Tony Hambling VK3VTH vk3vth@amateurradio.com.au thanks all who have so registered for VK100ARV or the extended weekend focused on the KRMNPA. A roster for VK100ARV will appear on the website www.amateurradio.com.au and a list of National Parks and times also. The Centenary has already featured the successful world’s first DATV QSO Party from the digital amateur television repeater VK3RTV. Peter Cossins VK3BFG gave a presentation of the highlights, which by all accounts went extremely well.
World News from Southgate Amateur Radio.
DX News from the ARRL until the end of the month.
21 October, 2011
This week's bulletin was made possible with information provided by NC1L, NN1N, UV5EKU, the OPDX Bulletin, 425 DX News, The Daily DX, DXNL, The Weekly DX, Contest Corral from QST and the ARRL Contest Calendar and WA7BNM web sites. Thanks to all.
ROTUMA ISLAND, 3D2.
The new Rotuma Island High School Club station 3D2RI has been QRV on 20 meters using SSB between 0400 and 0600z. QSL via KH6CG.
GUINEA, 3X.
A group of operators are QRV as 3XY1D until November 1. Activity is on 160 to 6 meters using CW, SSB and various digital modes with several stations active. QSL via DL7DF.
BHUTAN, A5.
Beginning October 25, look for W8AEF, UA3AB, K0IR, W0BM and W0GJ to be QRV as A52PP, A52AB, A52IR, A52PC and A51B, respectively. Activity will be on the HF bands using CW, SSB and RTTY. This includes an entry in the upcoming CQ WW DX Phone contest. QSL to home calls.
CHINA, BY.
David, BA4DW is QRV as BA4DW/7 from Weizhou Island, IOTA AS-139, until October 24. Activity is on the HF bands. QSL direct to home call.
NAURU, C2.
Joe, LA5UF is QRV as C21UF until October 24. Activity is on the HF bands using CW and PSK31. QSL to home call.
ANGOLA, D2.
Valery, UA0QV is QRV as D2QV from Vila Catoca, Province Lunda Sul-Saurimo until July 8, 2012.
Activity is currently on 40 to 10 meters using CW, SSB and RTTY. He might eventually be active on 80 meters as well. QSL via UT0EA.
SOUTH COOK ISLANDS, E5.
Bill, N7OU is QRV as E51NOU from Rarotonga, IOTA OC-013, until November 7. Activity is on 80 to 10 meters. QSL to home call.
CANARY ISLANDS, EA8.
Members of the Teide DX Group plan to be QRV as EG8FBN from the Buenavista del Norte Lighthouse on Tenerife on October 22 and 23. Activity will be on the HF, and V/UHF bands using CW, SSB and various digital modes. QSL direct via EA8NQ.
ARGENTINA, LU.
Members of the Radio Club Argentino are QRV as L90AA until October 31 in celebration of the club's 90th anniversary. Activity is on all HF bands using CW, SSB and various digital modes. QSL via LU4AA.
SABA, ST. EUSTATIUS, PJ5.
Members of the Prairie DX Group will be QRV as PJ6T from Saba from October 26 to November 1. Activity will be on 160 to 10 meters. This includes an entry in the upcoming CQ WW DX Phone contest. QSL via N9PD.
MEXICO, XE.
A group of operators are QRV using special event call sign 4C1JPG until October 30 in celebration of the 2011 and XVI Pan American Games in Guadalajara. Activity is on 160 to 6 meters, including various satellites, using CW, SSB, RTTY and PSK. QSL via bureau.
VIET NAM, XV.
Stations XV2FM, XV2JP and XV2LU are QRV at various times from Vung Tau until October 25. Activity is on 20, 15, 10 and 6 meters. This includes using FM on 10 and 6 meters. QSL via operators' instructions.
ALBANIA, ZA.
To commemorate the 1991 ZA1QA DXpedition, look for special call sign ZA20QA to be QRV from October 25 to November 1. Activity will be on 160 to 2 meters using CW, SSB and RTTY. QSL via HA0NAR.
NIUE, ZK2.
Chris, GM3WOJ and Keith, GM4YXI will be QRV as ZK2V and possibly ZK2X, respectively, until December 20. Activity will be on all HF bands, including various upcoming contests. They plan to be active on 160 meters the first several weeks of their operation. QSL via N3SL.
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN. Co-leader of the ST0R operation Antonio, EA5RM, reports, "As you may know, the distribution of ST0R QSL cards has begun. The Republic of South Sudan was recently added to the DXCC entities list, so each QSO confirmed by our manager will be the confirmation of a new one. The DXCC Desk has expressed the concern that they may be overwhelmed by thousands of applications to credit the new entity. Consequently, we have decided to make an exception, and upload to the LOTW all the individual donor QSOs and OQRS ones, by November 1st."
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Thank you for listening. Good morning all.
The Hunter Valley Electric Vehicle Show. This show will be held at Spears Point Park on the 19th November and will be open for business at 0800 and finish around 3 pm. Write this date on your calender before you forget about it.
Australia Day 2012. Also write this down on your calender for next year. Westlakes A.R.C. plan to have a display at Spears Point park. Australia Day next year will be January 26th. We will be setting up at 0800 for a 1000 am start. Members are required to man the stand until the day is finished. A full program of events or happenings by Westlakes Club will be broadcasted in future broadcasts.
Next weekend volunteers are required to help out with the Oceania Worldwide DX competition. Anyone wishing to learn about contesting is also welcome to come along. Please contact Dave VK2RD if you can assist. All classes of licences can assist.
Yesterday, Dave VK2RD was busy on the ride on mower mowing the grounds of the club and yes the grounds do look very nice. Remember, if you can help in maintaining the grounds to a standard that everyone is accustomed to please contact Dave VK2RD or tell a committee member. Any assistance is better than none at all.
Well did you know our President Geoff VK2EO is now engaged to Denise. Keith Vk2PKT advised that he read it on Facebook. We wish you all the best Geoff.
Do you remember David Sopher VK2CDA when he was a member of Westlakes? Well on Friday nights David has a job as a DJ on local station 89.5 FM at Peakhurst. You can listen to Dave live as he puts it out live via the internet. You also can contact Dave via Facebook and request a song. Keith said he and Gloria had a great time last Friday night. So listen from 7 pm onwards. Any problems in finding David please contact keith VK2PKT.
Yesterday, Gloria on her 1st day back after 5 long weeks of holidays made a delicious mixed salad and ham which was enloyed by a table members. There was silence once more. Someone should of taken a photograph to see all people eating healthy. Job well done Gloria - whats on next weeks menu?
The secretary is once again ordering caps and t shirts. Orders must be placed at the end of the broadcast this morning. Listen for Barrie VK2BXD.
The Port Stephens ARC is once again holding a Foundation licence coarse and examination next weekend at Lemon Tree Passage. Also if you wish to upgrade to either Standard or Advanced please contact the following via email Richard VK2FRKO-vk2frko@tpg.com.au, Leigh VK2KAL vk2kal@gmail.com or Michael vk2oi@wia.org.au before Thursday next week.
While talking about the Port Stephens ARC they are looking for a 9db gain UHF vertical collinear for their 70cm repeater. Have you got one laying in your garage collecting dust. Contact Richard vk2frko.
Centenary VK100ARV goes on air
For the month of November 2011 the special callsign VK100ARV will be well sought after and qualifies toward the Amateur Radio Centenary Award. For images visit QRZ.COM This year is the 100th anniversary of the Amateur Wireless Society of Victoria, formed in 1911, quickly changing its name to the Wireless Institute of Victoria, and today is known as Amateur Radio Victoria. A special QSL card is on offer for contact with VK100ARV. On the front it features defining words capturing the spirit of the founding of the organisation and a gallery of Presidents and the information panel on the back. The Amateur Radio Centenary Award certificate has a montage of the organisation over the decades. Both the QSL card and certificate are worth obtaining for display and will show the Centenary logo. Valid contacts with VK100ARV earn ten bonus points towards the Award. Contact with VK3WI during the Remembrance Day Contest, International Lighthouse and Lightship Week, and the Oceania DX Phone Contest October 1 & 2, and the Oceania DX CW Contest October 8-9 also gained bonus points. For Australian stations a total of 100 points are required and DX stations 25 points. Valid contacts with members during the celebratory period August 1 to November 30, 2011, earns two points towards the award. Also in the celebration are stations set up in Victorian National Parks operating under the Keith Roget Memorial National Parks Award (KRMNPA) rules, on November Friday 18 through to Sunday 20. The Award Manager Tony Hambling VK3VTH vk3vth@amateurradio.com.au thanks all who have so registered for VK100ARV or the extended weekend focused on the KRMNPA. A roster for VK100ARV will appear on the website www.amateurradio.com.au and a list of National Parks and times also. The Centenary has already featured the successful world’s first DATV QSO Party from the digital amateur television repeater VK3RTV. Peter Cossins VK3BFG gave a presentation of the highlights, which by all accounts went extremely well.
World News from Southgate Amateur Radio.
DX News from the ARRL until the end of the month.
21 October, 2011
This week's bulletin was made possible with information provided by NC1L, NN1N, UV5EKU, the OPDX Bulletin, 425 DX News, The Daily DX, DXNL, The Weekly DX, Contest Corral from QST and the ARRL Contest Calendar and WA7BNM web sites. Thanks to all.
ROTUMA ISLAND, 3D2.
The new Rotuma Island High School Club station 3D2RI has been QRV on 20 meters using SSB between 0400 and 0600z. QSL via KH6CG.
GUINEA, 3X.
A group of operators are QRV as 3XY1D until November 1. Activity is on 160 to 6 meters using CW, SSB and various digital modes with several stations active. QSL via DL7DF.
BHUTAN, A5.
Beginning October 25, look for W8AEF, UA3AB, K0IR, W0BM and W0GJ to be QRV as A52PP, A52AB, A52IR, A52PC and A51B, respectively. Activity will be on the HF bands using CW, SSB and RTTY. This includes an entry in the upcoming CQ WW DX Phone contest. QSL to home calls.
CHINA, BY.
David, BA4DW is QRV as BA4DW/7 from Weizhou Island, IOTA AS-139, until October 24. Activity is on the HF bands. QSL direct to home call.
NAURU, C2.
Joe, LA5UF is QRV as C21UF until October 24. Activity is on the HF bands using CW and PSK31. QSL to home call.
ANGOLA, D2.
Valery, UA0QV is QRV as D2QV from Vila Catoca, Province Lunda Sul-Saurimo until July 8, 2012.
Activity is currently on 40 to 10 meters using CW, SSB and RTTY. He might eventually be active on 80 meters as well. QSL via UT0EA.
SOUTH COOK ISLANDS, E5.
Bill, N7OU is QRV as E51NOU from Rarotonga, IOTA OC-013, until November 7. Activity is on 80 to 10 meters. QSL to home call.
CANARY ISLANDS, EA8.
Members of the Teide DX Group plan to be QRV as EG8FBN from the Buenavista del Norte Lighthouse on Tenerife on October 22 and 23. Activity will be on the HF, and V/UHF bands using CW, SSB and various digital modes. QSL direct via EA8NQ.
ARGENTINA, LU.
Members of the Radio Club Argentino are QRV as L90AA until October 31 in celebration of the club's 90th anniversary. Activity is on all HF bands using CW, SSB and various digital modes. QSL via LU4AA.
SABA, ST. EUSTATIUS, PJ5.
Members of the Prairie DX Group will be QRV as PJ6T from Saba from October 26 to November 1. Activity will be on 160 to 10 meters. This includes an entry in the upcoming CQ WW DX Phone contest. QSL via N9PD.
MEXICO, XE.
A group of operators are QRV using special event call sign 4C1JPG until October 30 in celebration of the 2011 and XVI Pan American Games in Guadalajara. Activity is on 160 to 6 meters, including various satellites, using CW, SSB, RTTY and PSK. QSL via bureau.
VIET NAM, XV.
Stations XV2FM, XV2JP and XV2LU are QRV at various times from Vung Tau until October 25. Activity is on 20, 15, 10 and 6 meters. This includes using FM on 10 and 6 meters. QSL via operators' instructions.
ALBANIA, ZA.
To commemorate the 1991 ZA1QA DXpedition, look for special call sign ZA20QA to be QRV from October 25 to November 1. Activity will be on 160 to 2 meters using CW, SSB and RTTY. QSL via HA0NAR.
NIUE, ZK2.
Chris, GM3WOJ and Keith, GM4YXI will be QRV as ZK2V and possibly ZK2X, respectively, until December 20. Activity will be on all HF bands, including various upcoming contests. They plan to be active on 160 meters the first several weeks of their operation. QSL via N3SL.
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH SUDAN. Co-leader of the ST0R operation Antonio, EA5RM, reports, "As you may know, the distribution of ST0R QSL cards has begun. The Republic of South Sudan was recently added to the DXCC entities list, so each QSO confirmed by our manager will be the confirmation of a new one. The DXCC Desk has expressed the concern that they may be overwhelmed by thousands of applications to credit the new entity. Consequently, we have decided to make an exception, and upload to the LOTW all the individual donor QSOs and OQRS ones, by November 1st."
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are alway welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
Thank you for listening. Good morning all.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
WARC NEWS FOR THE 11th SEPTEMBER 2011
A new load of 12 volt batteries have arrived at the club and are now available from the store. There are about 30 in total. The cost is $15 each.
These are quality batteries ranging up to 55 amp/hour capacity. They will be on sale at the field day next Sunday and will not last long.
Check them out next Saturday and take your pick.
While on batteries, the club still welcomes old car and motorcycle batteries. Last Tuesday, a trailer load was taken to the scrap metal dealers at Teralba.
The sale resulted in $270 for the club. So please keep those old batteries coming.
All the action was outside yesterday including selling of the meat tray tickets. Greg VK2CW left all the tickets and and ticket tumbler in the hands of Mal VK2VON. Mal sold a few extra tickets. The clock went ding and it was time to for last weeks winner Greg to reach in the ticket tumbler and grab a ticket. On the ticket read Sorry Greg,Michael and Steve the winner is DIANE VK2FDNE. Yippee Diane said About time.
Next Sunday will be the our field day, Rain, hail or shine. Should it rain Lee Andrews will be in the Common room inside the club and the auction table will at the bottom end of the awning.
We will need all hands available to assist with the setting up so can you be at the club by 7 am please. We will also need your help at the end of the day to help pack up.
Don't forget about the second offer to Westlakes club members. It is a FT7900 2m/70cm dual band transceiver and comes with full warranty.
When you get your club magazine and some of you will get them separately in the mail. The book of 10 tickets at $2 a ticket.You can buy 10 or one or none - the choice is yours.
The entire proceeds of this raffle help fund the operations of your club. The draw will take place at the Westlakes Field day on Sunday 18th September 2011 at 12 noon.
News from Southgate Amateur Radio.
Special Rugby World Cup ham radio callsigns
Look for some New Zealand amateur radio operators to replace their ZL prefix with a ZM prefix throughout September and October, in celebration of the Rugby World Cup
(September 9th-October 23rd). Additional special event stations will be and are already on air.
Look for ZL4RUGBY (QSL Manager/Operator Paul/ZL4PW) to be on the air through October 31st.
Also, look for ZL6RWC, which is operated by various members and friends of the Papakura Radio Club, to be on the through October 31st.
QSL ZL6RWC via ZL1VK, direct, by the Bureau or LoTW. Check QRZ.com for more details about both stations.
STRONG SOLAR ACTIVITY: On Sept. 6th, active sunspot 1283 produced two major eruptions including an impulsive X2-class solar flare.
The blasts hurled a pair of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) toward Earth, which could spark geomagnetic activity when they arrive on Sept. 8-10. High-latitude
sky watchers should be alert for auroras in the nights ahead. Check http://spaceweather.com/ for images and updates.
ARE YOU CHASING DX
Pacific DXpedition tour.
Bill, VK4FW, co-leader of the upcoming DXpedition to Fiji (3D2) and Nauru (C2), reports that Eric, VK4NEF, has now committed to join the DXpedition.
The operators now are Jay K4ZLE, Art NJ7N, Tim NL8F, Eddie VK4AN, Eric VK4NEF, Bill VK4FW and Julian/W5SL.
Bill states (edited), "All is on track for the operation to begin late on October 25th, from Fiji until November 8th, followed by Nauru from November 10th through to December 6th.
"The 'Online QSL Service' is set up at www.vk4fw.com/oqrs-php. However, it is important that people do not use it before we get back so as not to overload the system causing mailbox failure.
"We would like to thank those who have already supported us and remind all that donations no matter how big or small can be sent via paypal to dxpedition@westnet.com.au"
4W6A Timor-Leste DXpedition
This is the sixth and final press release before the 4W6A DXpedition.
The bulk of the equipment, including the linear amplifiers, the Titanex V160E vertical, Hexbeam and other antennas, left Darwin, Australia, on 6 September.
It has all arrived safely in Dili, Timor-Leste, and is now awaiting the arrival of the team next week.
9M6DXX and 9M6XRO leave Malaysia on 12 September for a transit stop in Bali, from where they plan to be active 'holiday style' as YB9/G4JVG and YB9/GM3OOK respectively.
Unfortunately, due to a late change of airline timetable, they will not now arrive in Dili before the afternoon of Friday 16 September. The chartered boat taking the team and the equipment to Atauro Island has therefore been rescheduled to later that afternoon. It is likely that only one or two stations will be on the air that day as the team will run out of daylight before all the antennas can be erected. The remainder of the antenna work will commence at first light the following morning (approximately 2115UTC on 16 September) and 4W6A should be fully operational by the morning (UTC) of 17 September. 4W6A will be QRV on all bands 10 to 160 metres, using CW, SSB and RTTY with up to four stations simultaneously. It is hoped that log search will be available, thanks to the Clublog facility (go to www.4w6a.com/qsl-information/log-search), but this is dependent on a reliable Internet connection being available on the island.
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO BROADCAST NEXT WEEK DUE TO FIELD DAY ACTIVITIES.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are always welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
These are quality batteries ranging up to 55 amp/hour capacity. They will be on sale at the field day next Sunday and will not last long.
Check them out next Saturday and take your pick.
While on batteries, the club still welcomes old car and motorcycle batteries. Last Tuesday, a trailer load was taken to the scrap metal dealers at Teralba.
The sale resulted in $270 for the club. So please keep those old batteries coming.
All the action was outside yesterday including selling of the meat tray tickets. Greg VK2CW left all the tickets and and ticket tumbler in the hands of Mal VK2VON. Mal sold a few extra tickets. The clock went ding and it was time to for last weeks winner Greg to reach in the ticket tumbler and grab a ticket. On the ticket read Sorry Greg,Michael and Steve the winner is DIANE VK2FDNE. Yippee Diane said About time.
Next Sunday will be the our field day, Rain, hail or shine. Should it rain Lee Andrews will be in the Common room inside the club and the auction table will at the bottom end of the awning.
We will need all hands available to assist with the setting up so can you be at the club by 7 am please. We will also need your help at the end of the day to help pack up.
Don't forget about the second offer to Westlakes club members. It is a FT7900 2m/70cm dual band transceiver and comes with full warranty.
When you get your club magazine and some of you will get them separately in the mail. The book of 10 tickets at $2 a ticket.You can buy 10 or one or none - the choice is yours.
The entire proceeds of this raffle help fund the operations of your club. The draw will take place at the Westlakes Field day on Sunday 18th September 2011 at 12 noon.
News from Southgate Amateur Radio.
Special Rugby World Cup ham radio callsigns
Look for some New Zealand amateur radio operators to replace their ZL prefix with a ZM prefix throughout September and October, in celebration of the Rugby World Cup
(September 9th-October 23rd). Additional special event stations will be and are already on air.
Look for ZL4RUGBY (QSL Manager/Operator Paul/ZL4PW) to be on the air through October 31st.
Also, look for ZL6RWC, which is operated by various members and friends of the Papakura Radio Club, to be on the through October 31st.
QSL ZL6RWC via ZL1VK, direct, by the Bureau or LoTW. Check QRZ.com for more details about both stations.
STRONG SOLAR ACTIVITY: On Sept. 6th, active sunspot 1283 produced two major eruptions including an impulsive X2-class solar flare.
The blasts hurled a pair of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) toward Earth, which could spark geomagnetic activity when they arrive on Sept. 8-10. High-latitude
sky watchers should be alert for auroras in the nights ahead. Check http://spaceweather.com/ for images and updates.
ARE YOU CHASING DX
Pacific DXpedition tour.
Bill, VK4FW, co-leader of the upcoming DXpedition to Fiji (3D2) and Nauru (C2), reports that Eric, VK4NEF, has now committed to join the DXpedition.
The operators now are Jay K4ZLE, Art NJ7N, Tim NL8F, Eddie VK4AN, Eric VK4NEF, Bill VK4FW and Julian/W5SL.
Bill states (edited), "All is on track for the operation to begin late on October 25th, from Fiji until November 8th, followed by Nauru from November 10th through to December 6th.
"The 'Online QSL Service' is set up at www.vk4fw.com/oqrs-php. However, it is important that people do not use it before we get back so as not to overload the system causing mailbox failure.
"We would like to thank those who have already supported us and remind all that donations no matter how big or small can be sent via paypal to dxpedition@westnet.com.au"
4W6A Timor-Leste DXpedition
This is the sixth and final press release before the 4W6A DXpedition.
The bulk of the equipment, including the linear amplifiers, the Titanex V160E vertical, Hexbeam and other antennas, left Darwin, Australia, on 6 September.
It has all arrived safely in Dili, Timor-Leste, and is now awaiting the arrival of the team next week.
9M6DXX and 9M6XRO leave Malaysia on 12 September for a transit stop in Bali, from where they plan to be active 'holiday style' as YB9/G4JVG and YB9/GM3OOK respectively.
Unfortunately, due to a late change of airline timetable, they will not now arrive in Dili before the afternoon of Friday 16 September. The chartered boat taking the team and the equipment to Atauro Island has therefore been rescheduled to later that afternoon. It is likely that only one or two stations will be on the air that day as the team will run out of daylight before all the antennas can be erected. The remainder of the antenna work will commence at first light the following morning (approximately 2115UTC on 16 September) and 4W6A should be fully operational by the morning (UTC) of 17 September. 4W6A will be QRV on all bands 10 to 160 metres, using CW, SSB and RTTY with up to four stations simultaneously. It is hoped that log search will be available, thanks to the Clublog facility (go to www.4w6a.com/qsl-information/log-search), but this is dependent on a reliable Internet connection being available on the island.
Do you have a news item that you would like read out on a broadcast? Contact Richard VK2FRKO on email address vk2frko@tpg.com.au
or give the item to Richard at the club.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO BROADCAST NEXT WEEK DUE TO FIELD DAY ACTIVITIES.
Now to wind up. Westlakes Amateur Radio Club Inc. is located in York Street, TERALBA - and is open on Saturday Afternoons from around 12 noon. Also on a Tuesday evening from around 6pm. To make contact at other times, try dialling (02) 49 581588 where an answering service
operates. Visitors are always welcome at the club. We have plenty of tea, coffee, long-life milk, and an interesting selection of biscuits.
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