Solar flares and radio

Solar activity, such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), can significantly impact radio signals, particularly in shortwave and high-frequency (HF) bands. Here’s how it works:

  1. The Sun and the Ionosphere: 

  Radio waves rely on the Earth’s ionosphere (a layer of charged particles in the upper atmosphere) to bounce signals over long distances. Solar activity affects the ionosphere by increasing ionisation levels, which changes how well it can reflect radio signals.

  1. Improved Signal Propagation: 

  During periods of increased solar activity, when sunspots are numerous, the ionosphere becomes more reflective. This boosts the range of shortwave radio signals, due to reflection, allowing them to travel a greater distance.

  1. Signal Disruptions: 

  Solar flares and CMEs (Coronal Mass Ejections) can cause sudden ionospheric disturbances, which may lead to radio blackouts. These events can block or degrade radio signals, especially on the sunlit side of the Earth.

  1. Day vs. Night Propagation: 

 Solar radiation influences the ionosphere more during the day than at night. As a result, higher frequency signals (like shortwave) propagate better during daylight, while lower frequencies (like MW) tend to perform better at night.

  1. Solar Cycle Impact: 

 The Sun follows an 11-year solar cycle. During the peak (solar maximum), radio conditions improve, but disruptions also become more common. During solar minimum, signal ranges may be reduced. We are currently in Solar Cycle 25 with maximum activity expected in July 2025.

Understanding these solar influences helps radio enthusiasts optimise their listening experience by timing operations with favourable solar conditions.

The development of the modern phonetic alphabet for radio communication was developed and refined over the period from 1927 until 1965. Practical experience over both World Wars and subsequent conflicts involving voice radio communications have led to the final version used today, known officially as the NATO Phonetic Alphabet.

The phonetic alphabet consists of a collection of 26 code words, each representing a single letter of the alphabet. This system was devised and revised to ensure the use of the phonetic alphabet would eliminate any ambiguity during the passing of messages by radio (or telephone), and that the letters and numbers would be easily distinguishable from one another.

Over radio, the names of many letters sound similar, for instance “n” and “m”, “f” and “s” etc. Using the codeword for each letter improves readability in poor radio conditions.

The 26 code words of the phonetic alphabet are:

Alfa, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, Hotel, India, Juliett, Kilo, Lima, Mike, November, Oscar, Papa, Quebec, Romeo, Sierra, Tango, Uniform, Victor, Whiskey, Xray, Yankee, Zulu

Emphasis is placed on the letters shown in capitals.

There are also codewords for numbers, to minimise miscommunication.

Number/Symbol Codeword Pronunciation

These code words are used today by amateur, aviation, marine and both civilian and armed forces.

Radio New Zealand (RNZ) Pacific is embracing the future of shortwave broadcasting with the launch of a cutting-edge 100 kW Ampegon TSW-2100 shortwave transmitter. At a time when many international broadcasters are phasing out their shortwave services, RNZ Pacific is doubling down on this critical communication medium to enhance its reach across the Pacific.

IMAGE: A drone view of the RNZ Pacific shortwave site at Rangitaiki, New Zealand. (Photo courtesy Radio New Zealand.)

The new transmitter, which was officially brought online on August 1, 2024, replaces the ageing “Transmitter 1” that has served the broadcaster since 1989. Located at Rangitaiki, near Taupō in New Zealand’s central North Island, this upgrade is part of a significant NZ$4.4 million (US$2.4 million) investment aimed at bolstering RNZ Pacific’s broadcasting capabilities. The transmitter is equipped to handle both analog and Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) transmissions, ensuring high-quality, resilient communication across the Pacific region.

The inauguration of this new transmitter was marked by a ceremony attended by notable dignitaries, including New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters and representatives from several Pacific nations such as Kiribati, the Cook Islands, Samoa, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. The event was observed both at RNZ House in Wellington and at the Rangitaiki transmitter site, underscoring the importance of this technological advancement.

Reflecting on the significance of shortwave broadcasting, Minister Peters highlighted its enduring relevance. “Shortwave was crucial when the New Zealand Broadcasting Service began in 1948, and it remains indispensable today,” he remarked. “In times of crisis, such as tsunamis or cyclones, shortwave is the most reliable system to ensure communication is maintained.”

RNZ Pacific’s commitment to shortwave broadcasting is particularly vital, given the limited number of countries still providing this service to the region. Following Australia’s decision to discontinue its shortwave transmissions in 2017, only New Zealand and China remain as active providers.

Paul Thompson, RNZ’s Chief Executive, emphasised the importance of shortwave during emergencies, citing the 2022 Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai eruption as a key example. The disaster severed internet connections in Tonga for several weeks, yet RNZ Pacific’s shortwave broadcasts continued uninterrupted, providing a critical lifeline of information.

Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor, RNZ Pacific’s Manager, expressed pride in the broadcaster’s longstanding tradition of sharing unique stories from the Pacific. The new transmitter, she noted, marks the beginning of a new chapter in this legacy.

The incorporation of DRM digital capabilities into the new transmitter is a significant advancement for RNZ Pacific. Ruxandra Obreja, Chair of the DRM Consortium, highlighted how local broadcasters across the Pacific can rebroadcast RNZ Pacific’s digital streams without any loss of audio quality, ensuring that content reaches even the most remote areas with clarity. Currently, 22 broadcast partners in nine Pacific island nations utilise these DRM signals.

Steve White, RNZ’s transmission engineer specialist, praised the smooth installation of the new transmitter, noting that it was completed on time and within budget, without any disruption to RNZ Pacific’s services.

Credit: This article is based on a piece originally published by T. Carter Ross in Radio World magazine.

 

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable event that blends history, community, and the thrill of shortwave radio: the International Lighthouse & Lightship Weekend (ILLW) on August 17-18, 2024! This annual celebration runs from 12:00am on Saturday to 12:00am on Sunday (UTC), bringing together radio enthusiasts and lighthouse lovers from around the world.

A Brief History

The ILLW started in 1998 with the aim of promoting public awareness of lighthouses and lightships and their need for preservation and restoration, as well as to promote amateur radio. Since then, it has grown into a global phenomenon, with hundreds of lighthouses and lightships participating each year. This event is not a contest, but a fun weekend where radio amateurs set up their gear at lighthouses and lightships, transmitting signals to connect with fellow enthusiasts across the world. Shortwave listeners can monitor amateur “contacts” around the globe.

 

Interesting to note!

Over the years, ILLW has produced some memorable moments:

  1. Surprise Visitors: In 2015, a group of radio operators set up at a remote lighthouse in Scotland, only to be joined by a family of curious seals who seemed fascinated by the antennas and cables!
  2. Unexpected Weather: During the 2010 event, operators at a lighthouse in New Zealand were caught in an unexpected snowstorm. Despite the chilly conditions, they managed to keep their signals strong and enjoyed hot cocoa while making contacts.
  3. Ghostly Encounters: Some participants swear they’ve experienced ghostly activities at historic lighthouses. One operator reported hearing mysterious footsteps and seeing flickering lights in an old, supposedly haunted lighthouse in Ireland!

 

Join the Fun

Australia is home to many participating lighthouses, offering a unique opportunity for shortwave radio enthusiasts to be part of this historic event. Whether you’re setting up your station at a lighthouse or connecting from your home setup, the ILLW is a chance to share in a global tradition that celebrates our maritime heritage.

 

 How to Participate

  1. **Find a Lighthouse**: Check the ILLW website for a list of participating lighthouses in your area.
  2. **Set Up Your Gear**: Bring your transceiver, antenna, and other equipment to a lighthouse or lightship.
  3. **Connect**: Tune in and make contact with other operators around the world.
  4. **Log Your Contacts**: Keep track of the lighthouses and lightships you connect with and share your experience with the community.

Many amateur radio clubs make this an annual event, so check with your local club to participate !

Don’t miss out on this incredible event! Gather your equipment, invite your fellow enthusiasts, and be part of the International Lighthouse & Lightship Weekend. Let’s keep the airwaves alive with the spirit of adventure and history.

The Sun has once again demonstrated its immense power by unleashing a significant solar flare, causing radio blackouts here on Earth. This latest event highlights the increasing activity as we approach the solar maximum of Solar Cycle 25, a period marked by frequent solar eruptions.

A Record-Breaking Flare

On Tuesday, the Sun emitted a massive storm of energized particles, recorded as the most powerful flare in the current solar cycle. Designated as an X8.7 category flare, it surpasses the strength of recent solar activities. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this flare originated from an active sunspot labelled AR3664, situated at the very edge of the Sun’s visible hemisphere.

Impacts on Earth

The implications of this solar event were significant. Parts of Earth, particularly the United States, experienced radio blackouts due to the intense electromagnetic radiation from the flare. In Australia amateurs reported very poor HF propagation. The Tecsun SDR showed almost no noise (or signals) across the HF spectrum for several days. These blackouts disrupted communication systems, navigation, and other technologies reliant on radio waves.

 Understanding Solar Cycle 25

Solar Cycle 25, which began in December 2019, is now approaching its solar maximum—a phase where solar activity peaks, leading to more frequent and intense solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These solar phenomena are a natural part of the 11-year solar cycle, driven by the Sun’s magnetic field.

Preparing for Solar Events

As we continue through this period of heightened solar activity, scientists and agencies like NASA and NOAA closely monitor the Sun’s behaviour. This vigilance helps in forecasting space weather events and mitigating their impact on Earth’s technological infrastructure.

The recent X8.7 solar flare serves as a reminder of the dynamic and powerful nature of our star. While the immediate effects might be limited to radio blackouts, the broader implications of increased solar activity underscore the importance of ongoing observation and preparedness. 

Stay tuned for further updates as Solar Cycle 25 continues to unfold, bringing with it both challenges and opportunities to deepen our understanding of the Sun-Earth connection.

When it comes to evaluating signal reception in the world of shortwave radio, the SINPO code reigns supreme. This universally adopted format provides a comprehensive assessment of signal quality, aiding broadcasters in fine-tuning their transmissions for optimal reach. From signal strength to overall clarity, each component plays a crucial role in deciphering the effectiveness of radio transmissions. Let’s dive into the intricacies of the SINPO code and how it facilitates seamless communication between shortwave listeners and broadcasters.

There is a universally used format for evaluating signal reception, when submitting a signal report and QSL card request, called the SINPO code. It calls for 4 reception parameters to be logged and a final evaluation of overall reception made. SINPO, is an acronym for signal, interference, noise, propagation, and overall, is a code used to describe the quality of radio transmissions, especially in reception reports written by shortwave listeners (SWLs). Each letter of the code stands for a specific factor of the signal, and each item is graded on a 1 to 5 scale.

Understanding the SINPO Code in Shortwave Listening

So when a shortwave listener is submitting a reception report to a broadcaster, using the SINPO code will help the broadcaster assess the effectiveness of their transmission in reaching the target zone.

In addition to using the SINPO code it is also useful to provide the following information when submitting a signal report:

Date and time in UTC, frequency, receiving equipment (receiver, antenna, and antenna orientation if directional), program details including content (ie news, music, etc), a contact address or email, for the station response.

Most broadcasters will respond with a QSL card or letter confirming reception.

In a world dominated by modern technology and instant communication, there exists a unique and passionate community of shortwave radio enthusiasts who find their thrill in tuning into aviation broadcasts. While it might seem like an esoteric hobby, listening to aviation broadcasts over shortwave radio has cultivated a cult following

Here are some of the reasons so many listeners follow the HF aircraft band.

Kind of like a global adventure!

Shortwave radio allows enthusiasts to embark on a global adventure from the comfort of their homes. Aviation broadcasts provide a portal into the skies, enabling listeners to eavesdrop on conversations between pilots and air traffic controllers from all corners of the world.

 The sense of adventure and the opportunity to virtually traverse continents is a compelling reason why shortwave radio enthusiasts are drawn to aviation broadcasts

 Shortwave radio provides real-time access to aviation communications. Enthusiasts can listen in on air traffic control exchanges, weather information, flight paths, and even emergency communications as they happen.

It is quite technical!!

Fine-tuning shortwave radios and antennas to receive clear aviation signals is a technical challenge that appeals to hobbyists. It requires skill and patience to optimise reception and achieve the best audio quality.

 The technical aspect of the hobby fosters a sense of accomplishment and expertise, further deepening the enthusiast’s connection to shortwave radio.

Amateurs listening in during an emergency have saved the day in the past, both in the air and by sea!!

 Shortwave radio is a reliable means of communication during emergencies. Aviation enthusiasts play a vital role in monitoring aviation frequencies during critical situations, potentially assisting authorities or providing essential information.

This sense of responsibility adds a noble dimension to the hobby, reinforcing the dedication of shortwave radio enthusiasts.

There is quite a community too!!

While shortwave radio listening can be a solitary activity, it also nurtures a strong sense of community. Enthusiasts connect through online forums, clubs, and social media groups, where they share their experiences, knowledge, and tips.

The sense of camaraderie among like-minded individuals contributes significantly to the cult following of this hobby.

For some, listening to aviation broadcasts on shortwave radio is a tradition passed down through generations. The nostalgic element, combined with the heritage of the hobby, creates a sense of continuity and connection to the past.

Listening to aviation broadcasts over shortwave radio may seem like a niche hobby, but it offers a world of adventure, technical challenges, and a close-knit community that has earned it a dedicated cult following. 

Vast areas of the world lack the necessary local VHF radio communication systems needed to provide reliable radio coverage between aircrews and air traffic controllers. The lack of VHF coverage within most of these areas is due to the very remote location of these regions, for example, much of the airspace over the Atlantic and Pacific oceans lacks VHF communications as it is impossible to install transmitters on a reliable platform within these regions. As a result,  a network of shortwave (HF) frequencies have been allocated to provide long range voice communications between aircrews and ATC facilities.

The allure lies in the ability to bridge the gap between the terrestrial and the celestial, allowing enthusiasts to soar through the skies without ever leaving their homes. So, whether you’re a seasoned shortwave radio enthusiast or a curious newcomer, consider giving aviation broadcasts a try – you might just find yourself captivated by the mesmerising world of shortwave radio and its passionate following.

Here at Tecsun Radios Australia we have the best range of radios to support your shortwave listening adventures, we even supply a comprehensive shortwave listening guide, written by owner and fellow enthusiast, Garry himself!!!

Curious about listening to Aviation broadcasts, here are some of our top radios for the job.

PL-880, PL-990x, H-501x, PL-330, PL-365, PL-368, PL-660, S-2000. Most receivers in the Tecsun Radios Australia range have the ability to receive single sideband (SSB) transmissions, and that is the mode used by aircraft on the HF bands. As you can see, even the most economical receiver (PL-365) is capable of listening to aircraft on the HF bands.

 

 

In a world marked by technology and connectivity, it’s vital to remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us. The upcoming Remembrance Day Radio Contest, scheduled for the weekend of August 12 and 13, 2023, is a poignant opportunity to pay homage to the amateur radio operators who valiantly gave their lives during both World Wars.

Held annually, this contest stands as a testament to their memory and the enduring spirit of camaraderie that amateur radio embodies.

Date and Time: Starting from 0300 UTC on Saturday and ending at 0300 UTC on Sunday, this two-day event promises to be an engaging and meaningful experience for amateur radio enthusiasts across the globe. As the world turns, the contest provides participants with the chance to connect with fellow amateurs, share stories, and remember the past.

Aim of the Contest: The heart of the Remembrance Day Radio Contest lies in its purpose – to establish connections and build bridges through the airwaves. During the event, amateurs strive to contact fellow amateurs in VK call areas, ZL, and P2. All bands except the WARC bands are open for communication, and participants can use the modes of PHONE, CW, and RTTY – modes that echo the communication methods of both World Wars.

Honouring History: The perpetual trophy is bestowed upon the state or territory that exhibits the best performance. More than just a symbol, this trophy serves as a reminder that the essence of the contest is not only in the competition but in the act of remembering and honoring those who came before us.

A Weekend of Exploration: For those who may not be amateur radio operators themselves, the contest presents an excellent opportunity for shortwave listeners to engage. It’s a time to put antennas, receivers, and reception techniques to the test. As the contest unfolds, the airwaves will buzz with activity, creating an environment of curiosity and excitement for those who wish to participate from a different angle.

Contest Rules

3. Contest Date & Time
Weekend in August closest to the 15th, 0300 UTC Saturday to 0300 UTC Sunday.
As a mark of respect, stations are asked to observe 15 minutes silence prior to the start of the contest, during which the opening ceremony will be broadcast.

4. Categories
1. Single Operator
2. Single Operator – QRP
3. Multi-Operator – Single Transmitter (Multi-Single)
4. Multi-Operator – Unlimited (Multi-Multi)

5. Sub-Category Modes for Single Operators
1. Phone (AM, FM & SSB)
2. CW (CW & RTTY)
3. Mixed

6. Permitted Bands
1. Contacts may be made on MF (160M), HF and VHF & above bands except for WARC bands (10, 18 & 24MHZ) which are excluded by IARU agreement from all contest operations.
a. HF SSB Voice transmissions should be within:
1843-1875, 3535-3570 and 3600-3700, 7080-7300, 14112-14300, 21150-21450, 28300-29100KHz,
otherwise disqualification or points reduction may result.

7. Multi-operator Stations
1. Multi-operator single transmitter stations
a. Are only allowed one transmitted signal on air at any time.
2. Multi-operator Unlimited stations
a. Are only allowed two transmitted signals on any band, one per Phone and one per CW as per rule 5.1 and 5.2.
b. Simultaneous transmissions on different bands are permitted.
3. Multi-operator stations are mixed mode only.

Multi Stations, please observe any COVID Restrictions for your area.

8. Teams

Team scenario 1.
A station and two of their friends operate in the contest from their respective home QTH and participate in the contest and submit their logs in the normal manner. They are eligible for any awards in the category they entered as single operators. The contest manager was notified that these 3 stations want to form a team. Their scores are tallied together and that is the team score.
Team scenario 2.
A multi-single club has 2 operators who wish to work from their home QTH. The 2 single operators and the multi-single club contest and submit logs in the normal manner. They are eligible for any awards in the category they entered. The contest manager was notified that these 3 stations want to form a team. The 2 single operators and the club multi-single stations scores are tallied together and that is the team score.

1. A team can consist of only one of the following two options.
a) Three single operator stations
b) Two single operator stations and one multi-single station
2. A team can consist of stations located anywhere in VK, ZL, or P2.
3. An operator can only be included in one team.
4. Clubs may enter multiple teams of 3 call-signs.
5. The ‘Team Leader’ MUST nominate his team to the Contest Manager before the start of the contest. Email to vk4sn@wia.org.au with the subject “RD Team Submission”.
a) Nominations must include the Callsigns and Operators Name. Where multiple teams from one club are submitted, it is suggested to use Team Names, example: Tazzie Devils
b) The Team leader must supply postal details for receipt of any awards.
c) Once the contest has started, team members cannot be changed.
6. The winner of the team initiative will be the highest combined score from any one team.
7. Team scores are not included in the determination of the winning state.

9. Contacts
1. Suggested Call: “CQ RD”, “CQ Contest”, or “CQ Test”
2. Exchange: A valid exchange consists of RS(T) followed by a number as follows:
a. For a single operator, the number of years you have been a licenced Ham. For example, if this is your 1st year as a ham then you will sign RS(T) 001. Round off to the nearest whole number. All zeros are not accepted.
b. For a multi-op or club station, the number of licenced years of the longest licenced Amateur present at the start of the contest.
3. On all bands, stations may be contacted at intervals of not less than THREE hours since the previous contact on that band and mode.
a. FM & SSB count as one mode, as does CW & RTTY count for the CW mode. Therefore one cannot QSO with a station in FM and work them on SSB on the same band before the three hours is up.
4. No cross band contacts are allowed.
5. Exchange of contact information via satellites, telephones, repeaters, Echolink, IRLP, or the internet is not in the spirit of the contest and is banned.
6. Contacts via satellites are not allowed for scoring purposes.
7. Contacts within the same call area are permitted.

11. General Rules
1. W.I.A. General Rules for All Contests apply unless otherwise specified.
2. All operators of single operator stations must perform all operating and logging without assistance.
a. Use of spotting, skimmer, SDR and similar operator assistance software is allowed on all bands, however all replies, exchanges and log entries must be performed by the operator.
3. Holders of more than one licence or callsign MUST use only ONE callsign for the contest duration.
4. Fully automated operation is not permitted; however, computers can be used for logging or CW or RTTY reception and/or keying.
5. All operations must be in accordance with the band plan for the band in use, as published in the latest LCD.
6. Any station observed as departing from the generally accepted codes of operating ethics or licence conditions may be disqualified.
* QRP stations are limited to 5 Watts average (CW/RTTY) or PEP (SSB) at the transmitter output.

7. REMOTE STATION OPERATION is allowed with the following conditions: (NEW in 2021)
a. Both receiving and transmitting antennas must be co-located and be in Australia.
b. If your remote station is interstate, you must sign VKn??/VKn or VKn/VKn??
c. Points will be allocated to the state you are transmitting and receiving from.
d. The remote site location must be shown by a maiden head six figure grid square in your soapbox comments.
e. All calls and exchanges must be obtained through the TX/RX remote site.
f. Only the remote site can be used during the contest. I.E. Using your personal physical local location for use of local TX/RX operations is not allowed.

12. WW2 ex Military equipment
1. Operators using Ex WW2 equipment will be awarded with a special certificate acknowledging their participation and use of such.
2. A declaration with the heading of WW2 Equipment will operate said units within the “ORIGINAL manufactures specified operating conditions”, e.g. no mods to boost the output power etc. A copy of the preferred Certificate is available on the on the WIA website at http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/rdcontest/documents/WWII%20Declaration%202012.pdf
3. Please include the declaration with your log submission.

Contest Scoring

10. Scoring
1. On 160 metres two points per completed valid contact.
2. On 23cm or higher bands two points per completed valid contact.
3. On all other bands one point. (no WARC bands allowed)
4. On CW and RTTY, irrespective of band, double points.
5. All QSO’s logged between 0100 and 0600 LOCAL TIME score triple points.

Submitting Your Log

13. Log Submission
1. Electronic Logging
a. Use of logging software is preferred as the output file will be in Cabrillo 3 format which suits our log checking software. See below for logger links.

b. Submit Log WITHIN 14 DAYS by 0300z via https://www.vklogchecker.com/
Please add EMAIL: youremail@myisp to the log header.

c. Or failing b. above, attach your ‘callsign.log’ file to your email and send to rdlogs@wia.org.au

d. Put ONLY your callsign in the subject .
e. On receipt of your log, the manager will send an acknowledgement email to you. Just to be sure, it is advised that you flag your email for “confirmation of receipt”, in which case you will receive two emails acknowledging receipt of the log.

2. Paper Logs
a. Hand written logs are not preferred, however if sent must be legible and contain no more than 100 contacts.
b. Entrants are encouraged to enter the paper logs into a logger after the contest and email the Cabrillo log (callsign.log) as indicated above.

c. Paper logs should be accompanied by a Summary Sheet showing all the details as per the log example below and nominated team name if used.
d. Declaration: I hereby certify that I have operated in accordance with the rules and spirit of the contest; signed & dated. Please supply a contact telephone number.
e. Send paper logs and summary sheets to: RD Contest Manager. 43 Jahn Drive, Glenore Grove, QLD 4342. Do not send logs requiring a signature! Collection is an hours return drive away and may not be collected before results are finished.
3. If you genuinely have problems with the above, then acceptance of .xls, .csv, and .txt files will be considered for processing. PDF, DOC(x), MDB or picture files are not accepted.
4. Emailed Logs are to be received by the contest manager no later than 14 days after the contest ends.
5. Paper logs are to be postmarked no later than 8 days after the contest.
6. All logs will be receipted by email or on the website if no email exists for the operator.
7. Logs received after the closing date will not be eligible for processing.
8. Paper logs will not be returned unless a SASE is forwarded requesting return of the log.
9. VK entrants temporarily operating outside their allocated call area, including those outside continental Australia as defined for DXCC, can elect to have their points credited to their home State by making a statement to that effect on their summary sheet or in the ‘soapbox’ field in the Cabrillo file.

Contest Results

14. Contest Results
1. Determination of Winning State or Territory.
State score = (Total points from logs submitted) divided by (number of licencees in the state or Territory excluding beacons and repeaters). The Number of Licences are supplied to the manager from the WIA National Office for that year.
2. Unless otherwise elected by the entrant concerned, the scores of VK0 stations will be credited to VK7, and the scores of VK9 to the mainland call area which is geographically closest. Scores of P2, or ZL will not be included in these calculations, although entrants in those areas are eligible for all certificate awards.
3. Results will be published within 90 days after the close of the contest on the W.I.A. website and winners announced in AR magazine as soon as practical.

Contest Award

15. Contest Awards
1. Entrants must make at least 25 contacts to be eligible for awards.
2. Overall 1st, 2nd and 3rd place certificates will be posted to recipients.
a. Single Operator Phone
b. Single Operator CW
c. Single Operator Mixed
d. Single Operator QRP Phone
e. Single Operator QRP CW
f. Single Operator QRP Mixed
g. Multi-operator – Single Transmitter
h. Multi-operator – Multi Transmitter
i. Team
j. //DISCONTINUED due to callsigns now not reflecting the licence grade.// The top three foundation scorers regardless of category.
3. Certificates will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place-getters for each VK call area, and ZL & P2 from the WIA office. All other certificates will be via PDF download.
a. Categories “a” through “f” as above.
4. Participants using WW2 ex military equipment will receive a special acknowledgement certificate as well as any certificates gained in winning any section.

Logging Software

17. Logging Software
1. Downloads
a. VK Contest Log (VKCL) by Mike Subocz VK3AVV, https://www.mnds.com.au/vkcl/
b. John Drew VK5DJ RD logging program Link
c. SD Logger by EI5DI. See ei5di.com (HF logging only)
d. N1MM (HF only) Support files (City and UDC) from vk4sn.com/Contests/N1MMVK
2. Remember to check for updates immediately prior to contests to make sure you have the latest software that will contain up to date scoring and rule changes.

Logs are now processed through log checking software that uses Cabrillo V3.0 format.
An example log is as follows:

 

For further information please click this link through to the Wireless Institute of Australia, from which we sourced our information.

 

Emergency radio for flood victims

Even months after the flooding event in the NSW North coast we are still learning of tales of survival and loss.

While we read in amazement at 63-year-old grandmother  Ann south of Eugowra in the Central west’s heroic fast thinking, helping her daughter and 6 day old grandchild into the roof cavity of her home while she stood on a stool with water up to her chin for four hours whilst also suffering pneumonia. Then sadly hearing her 75-year-old neighbour was not seen again after a rush of water hit the town. ( Source  Smh.com.au  https://bit.ly/3Bb2Evn )
It is also unfortunate that even at the time of writing flooding is affecting various areas of Victoria.

You may recall our blog about Lismore resident and artist Christine Porter who made it her mission to ensure elderly and less able people in that region receive an emergency radio. Not just a shortwave to listen to broadcasts, One with a flashlight, a beacon, and a solar and hand crank power source.
We were very proud to be able to supply our Best Emergency Radio units to her at a discount to contribute to this worthy cause. Click here to read the original blog on our website

lismore floods emergency radio

(Image of Lismore’s Ballina Street bridge became a rescue spot during its record-breaking flood in February.ABC News: Matt Coble)

Christine Porter was recently interviewed by ABC regional radio. We would like to share this recording with you as it is in fact incredibly insightful.
Here are our main takeaways from it.

Christine mentions that she discovered the emergency radio whilst helping out a friend who had lost everything in the floods.
As stories came out of people being rescued from their roofs, Christine thought about those who would not be able to easily climb onto their roofs.
In fact, right now think about how easy it may be for yourself to climb up on a roof. for many people, it is not that easy, particularly if there is a rush of water heading your way and everything is saturated, let alone if you had any form of ailment or mobility issue.

As we heard earlier retired nurse Ann Souths’ story, she managed to get her daughter and 6 day old granddaughter up through a manhole into a roof cavity. From inside this cavity, their calls could not be heard by any rescuers outside.
Christine confirms in her interview that the sound of the flood was so loud, you couldn’t hear people calling for help. This is one of the reasons she felt the flashing beacon and VERY loud siren were absolutely essential. Christine actually demonstrates the siren in the interview, it is effective, to say the least. Christine mentioned that she tested the flashing light and you could see it from half a KM away which would really help emergency personnel and the community locate you. 
While for Ann south, they were fortunate to still have mobile phone reception, and her daughter was able to call emergency services who had a helicopter rescue them. Lismore was in fact without power for 7-8 days.
The Best Emergency radio has solar and hand crank power for charging. The hand crank is particular;y helpful if there is non stop rain and no sun to charge up the solar panels. A crank can get achieve minute or so charge on your phone to call or text someone in an emergency

When all the power was out it is important to receive radio, particularly emergency radio which has constant updates, As most Television will continue their regular broadcasts and apps need refreshing, not something you want to do too often when your battery is low.

Christine Porter remarks that during the February floods, water reached areas it has never reached before, it was fast and it was devastating. Although the community of Lismore are a resilient bunch, there is still an uneasy feeling every time it rains and the whole town is on edge.
Without power having a radio to listen to for updates is very reassuring for residents.
Christine Porter talks about the fact that even though she was on higher ground when it rained again she would feel uneasy herself and stay up all night listening to the radio for updates.

Listen to the radio interview here.

Want a Best Emergency radio for yourself or as a gift for someone who should have one? Click here to view the radio and all its features on our webstore.

Please note to receive orders prior to Christmas we recommend placing orders on or before the 10th of December.

This June Long Weekend, get ready for the annual event held by the ORARC over TWO exciting days!!

The Oxley Region Amateur Radio Club annual Field Day will be held at the Wauchope Showground hall with all the usual field day activities on Saturday and Sunday the 11th and 12th of June 2022 during the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend.

This is a great opportunity to meet like-minded folk, talk radios, enjoy a sausage sizzle or group dinner, try your luck in the raffles and best of all get involved in the fox hunts!

The Field Day dinner will be held at the Port Macquarie Golf Club on the Saturday night.  Mark your calendar now.  The Wauchope Showground permits camping so it is possible to stay on site in your own motor home, caravan, or tent with power and amenities.

Click here to download a copy of the Field Day Program (PDF).

Here’s page 3 from the program, the Field Day schedule: provided by the ORARC.

Our continued thanks go to VK2CLL’s daughter Jacqui for her continued fantastic Graphics Design work for our brochure!   See everyone soon.