Graeme, VK3CDO and Peter, VK3TPM set up camp this weekend at the Leanganook Campground in the Mount Alexander Regional Park. The radio setup was a KX3 into a home brew Unun feeding an end fed wire with a counterpoise. There were several contacts including VK7 and the antenna tuned up well. Although there has been rain recently, and the ground and wood was damp, there was no rain over-night. Graeme is very well equipped with good quality camping gear and he cooked a scrumptious lunch a...

Two excellent talks at this month's meeting at Woodend. Despite a foggy and frosty morning there was a good turnout at the monthly meeting. The large flat TV screen works well for showing images during presentations. Joe began with a greeting to all and mentioned that if anyone needs help with ham radio things around the house other members are ready to help. We don't want any more members falling off ladders! First speaker was Dallas, VK3EB, visiting specially from Shepparton....

Today's meeting was well attended with show and tell of some electronic items. Very casual atmosphere, members gathered at various tables and great discussions were held. Our table discussed Peter’s microchip from his Icom 9700 which sustained some damage during a lighting storm. We ventured into politics and tried to sort out the nation’s problems, federal and state. The other table was absorbed in their conversation about lighthouses and other various topics. David and Barrie spent the...

Sunday's technology festival held by the Bendigo club was an ambitious affair. Our club had a table with members in attendance to handle the inrush of membership applications. There was a mix of information tables and equipment sales (at some very good prices). The WIA was there of course. VK3BRT, Barry and Ron had a table of goods for sale. VK3RV and VK3PRC were seen. Peter VK3TPM gave a presentation about AI coming to FreeDV. The venue was very spacious and ...

Today's talk was about portable operation including competitions with Summits On the Air (SOTA), Parks On The Air (POTA) and Worldwide Flora and Fauna (VKFF), from experienced operator (half goat!) David, VK3KR. David showed the web sites of each of the competition sites. He showed his portable gear including home brew rechargeable battery systems. David also regaled us with amazing stories of exciting trips to mountain tops around Victoria and Tasmania. Also at the meeting Graeme, VK3CDO...