| |
ZS6RO > QNEWS 27.01.04 08:58l 1402 Lines 48677 Bytes #999 (0) @ WW
BID : QNEWS0125
Read: DB0FHN GUEST DK3EL
Subj: QNEWS - JAN 25 - COMPLETE
Path: DB0FHN<DB0RGB<OK0PPL<DB0RES<ON0BEL<ZS6FB<ZS0DLD<ZS6BJU<ZS6RO
Sent: 040123/1738Z @:ZS6RO.SRJ.GAU.ZAF.AF #:35754 [Jo'burg] $:QNEWS0125
From: ZS6RO@ZS6RO.SRJ.GAU.ZAF.AF
To : QNEWS@WW
---------------------------------
THE BEST QNEWS YOU'LL GET ALL WEEK
---------------------------------
IF RE-POSTING ALWAYS ENSURE ORIGINAL BID # AND TITLE ARE USED.
PREAMBLE -
MONSTER GIVEAWAY TODAY
STARTS AFTER THIS QNEWS BROADCAST.............................
OSCILLOSCOPES
COUNTERS
COAX CABLE
RF GENERATORS AND MANUALS
PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE !
CONTACT?
DETAILS WILL BE HEARD ON VK4 FOOTPRINT TRANSMISSIONS ONLY.
QNEWS 24/7 with the following bulletin in Audio Segment One
when you visit the QNEWS NEWSROOM on www.wia.org.au/vk4
QNEWS available in Audio after 1400hrs utc Friday.
NATIONAL NEWS
FEDERAL WIA PRESIDENT IS ERNEST HOCKING VK1LK
At Federal level we particularly need a new author for the DX column
in AR magazine, and assistance for the Federal Contest Co-ordinator's
position. If you are interested please contact the editor of AR
directly or through your Division.
Phil Corby, VK7ZAX Divisional President and Federal Councillor for
Tasmania also reminds us a number of officers and coordinators are
appointed each year at the Federal Convention. (This year held in
Brisbane).
The list has appeared in the December/January edition of AR magazine.
If you are interested in any position please contact any Divisional
councillors to arrange nomination, which has to be no later than
20th February.
(vk7wi)
WIA HF QSO PARTY GIFT WINNERS
Jim Linton who organised this welcome to HF party January One joins
the Q with the who and the what... the gift draw!
* $1,000 gift voucher provided by ICOM Australia, win by Ray VK7TRF
* ARRL Handbook donated by WIA NSW Bookshop, won by Trevor VK3HTL
* Yaesu FT100 HF-plus transceiver - donated by WIA. Won by Anthony VK4TJS
* 2004 Australian Radio Amateur Callbook & CD donated by WIA, won by Andrew
VK5ZUC, Jacek VK3TJS, Dudley VK5HBG, Samantha VK4TTT, Ken VK3TKQ
* Yaesu FT-817 HF, VHF/UHF portable transceiver supplied by Benelec was won
by Norman VK2TOP
* WIA Awards Program CDs from WIA Awards Manager, Malcolm Johnson VK6LC, won
by Viv VK2TVW, David VK3YLV, Col VK2TRC, Ian VK3ZZG, Gregg VK4ZON, Greg
VK4HDG, Paul VK5ZRT, Robyn VK6XRE, Raff VK4XRF, Vince VK6ZAR, Ian VK5ZIR,
Michael VK3UBM, Ryan VK2XRL, Warren VK5HWF, and Matthew VK4HAM portable VK3
* Kenwood TS50 HF Transceiver from Kenwood Electronics Australia, won by
Johnny VK3HJQ
QNEWS "States of our Nation."
Moving divisional news forward in this chapter of QNEWS today we pick
up with VK1 where President is Alan Hawes.
The VK1 annual general meeting falls on the 23rd February this year.
All committee positions become vacant at that time .
If you believe you can contribute to the running of the division your
nomination would be welcome.
Nomination forms must be in the hands of the secretary by close of
business on Friday 13th February which is ten (10) clear days
before the date of the annual general meeting as required by their rules.
VK2
President Brian Kelly VK2WBK
The first WIA Trash and Treasure for 2004 will be held today Sunday 25th
at midday followed by a homebrew group meeting at 2:00pm.
This meeting will be all about BALUNS. Dr Brian Clarke VK2GCE will give a
talk on the theory of baluns, followed by some practical tests and
demonstration of building a balun suitable for a HF antenna.
AR House Parramatta is the venue.
Oxley Amateur Radio Club Port Macquarie at their meetings are really
delving into the what where and why for of the art of DX'ING.
Bob VK2EJK and our own Chris Wright VK2UW are just a couple of active
hams participating and sharing their knowledge.
The Oxley Amateur Radio Club has also been advertising its activities in
the local Port Macquarie news paper along with Free to air radio.
The next Westlakes meeting is set down for the Saturday 14th February 2004.
EDUCATION YOUTH AND ADVANCEMENT OF AMATEUR RADIO PRESENTED BY VK4CO
RONNEE MEACHEN
VK2DQ Ron Bertrands Internet course is on the web at
http://www.radioelectronicschool.com
Speaking of the Radio and Electronics School, we're joined today by
Adam VK4KSS, Radio and Electronics School Course Manager.
Thanks Ronnee
2004 is already shaping up to be a big year for the Radio and Electronics
School. The school is approaching its 75th student since January 1st.
Of this, over 70% of enrolments have been for the Novice Fast Track
Multi Media Course.
When you consider that in 2003 the total enrolments for the school were
565 students. You can appreciate how much of an effect the relaxation of
the Morse code requirement has had.
Many new students have indicated during the enrolment process, that the only
reason they put off becoming a ham - was because of the CW requirement.
Interestingly, those same students have said that they want to learn and use
CW once they become licensed.
Another indicator to this phenomenal upturn in student enrolments, is the
increase in visitors to the School web site. The school web site has enjoyed
an average of 600 visits per week over the past 12 months. However, in the
weeks leading up to January 1st, and the three weeks since, visits have
increased to well over 1000.
The student message board has also seen an increase in activity with over
850 members and an average of 300 messages per month being posted, with most
messages having several responses within an hour or so - this has proven to
be an excellent tool for the students.
This renewed interest in amateur radio has all come about because of the
hard work put in by the WIA and many interested individuals. I think you
will all agree that it is the best thing that has happened to the hobby in
quite some time.
Why not visit our web site at http://www.radioelectronicschool.com and have
a look at the courses we have on offer?
This has been Adam VK4KSS, Radio and Electronics School Course Manager,
for QNEWS.... back to you Ronnee...
The next WIA amateur examinations in VK2 will be held at Amateur Radio House
Sunday 8th February from noon.
Applications must be lodged with the office by this Tuesday ie 27th January.
phoning (02) 9689-2417 or e-mail vk2wi@wiansw.org.au
VK4 Listeners in areas such as
DARLING DOWNS - TOOWOOMBA - HIGHFIELDS - WARWICK
Only two weeks notice is required for those wishing to sit for any subject.
Contact Matthew Weatherley VK4HWM 4698 7775
or e-mail matthew@t130.aone.net.au
The Bundaberg Amateur Radio Club conducts examinations on request.
Intending candidates should contact Rusty VK4JM on 4159 6224.
or e-mail rustymcg@dodo.com.au
ARNEWSLINE ANNOUNCES CREATION OF THE ROY NEAL, K6DUE, MENTORING PROJECT.
This is a program designed to take newly licensed radio amateurs and
place them one-on-one with veteran hams so that they may learn the
traditions and operating skills that no classroom or home-study environment
can teach.
Roy Neal, K6DUE, was a driving force within the structure of Amateur
Radio Newsline. He passed away on Friday, August 15, 2003 from
complications arising from heart valve replacement surgery.
Amateur Radio Newsline Board of Directors at its annual meeting on
December 13, 2003 voted unanimously to honour Roy's memory by creating
a program to carry on his vision.
The Roy Neal, K6DUE, Amateur Radio Mentoring Project" is to be a
structured program that fosters those one-on-one relationships that
go well beyond the knowledge necessary to pass a ham radio exam.
Well done ARNewsline.... continuing it's tradition of serving Amateurs
across the USA.
INTRUDER WATCH - ENFORCEMENT ZONE - PRESENTED BY VK2UW CHRIS WRIGHT
Region III IARUMS Coordinator
B.L.Manohar (Arasu) VU2UR Vu2ur@mailcity.com
VK Federal Coordinator.
VK8HA Henry Andersson vk8ha@octa4.net.au
P.O. Box 619
HUMPTY DOO N.T.
IARUMS NETS
Friday 0730 UTC 7.065.5 with VK4CEU David.
FEDERAL WIRELESS INSTITUTE OF AUSTRALIA INTRUDERWATCH FOR DECEMBER 2003
The unidentified broadcaster on 14280 kHz, a harmonic, is found to be
Radio Liberty, with its 3rd harmonic from 4760kHz. So also, the other
unidentified broadcaster on 14320 is identified to be Radio Uzbeckistan,
with the 2nd harmonic from 7160KHz. Attempts to communicate with their
contacts is going on..
The 24mHz interference from Codar is still very low, but Karl, VK6XW,
reports that OHR (CODARC)? is making a lot of interference on 7075kHz which
almost blots out a WIA News Broadcast at 0230 Sundays.
VK6XW also reports logging 81 SSB Intruders on 14mHz, mainly Indonesian
and Chinese and other Asians.
14250 PY Broadcaster is a daily occurrence.
VK7GW reported that the Asian CW is still active at the bottom end of
14 MHz, short bursts...
Hope 2004 will be a good year with plenty ID's.and removals.
Cheers and all the best from Henry vk8ha@octa4.net.au
COMMUNICATIONS LAW: NORWEGIAN COURT SAYS COPYING DVD'S NOT PIRACY
An appeals court in Oslo Norway has dealt a major blow to those
trying to protect the intellectual copyright of material that they
own from unauthorised duplication. This, after it upholds the
acquittal of a 20-year-old Norwegian man who posted a program on the
Internet for cracking DVD security codes.
The judge ruled that he could freely copy DVDs he bought, adding he
didn't violate the Nordic country's laws protecting intellectual property.
Prosecutors said they were considering appealing to the supreme court.
In the meantime, the decision is being viewed as a major setback for
anti-piracy proponents in the entertainment industry, worldwide.
(Published news reports via ARNewsLine)
WICEN/RESCUE RADIO INTERNATIONAL WITH ROBERT VK3KRB
WIA WICEN CHAIRMAN IS VK3ZRV
WICEN 'TYPE' EVENT CALENDAR...
Check with YOUR WICEN coordinator to confirm dates etc
Additions to qnews@wia.org.au and/or vk4zz@smartchat.net.au
VK3 7- 9 Feb Ski 80 at Eucha.
VK3 29 Feb WICEN Field Day Mt. Disappointment
VK2 20-21 March Eden Creek Horse Enduro.
VK2 4 April Northern Rivers AGM
VK7 27 April - Until May 2nd is TARGA TASMANIA
VK4 1-03 May eco adventure race
* new to calender
WICEN VK3
http://www.wicen.vic.au
State Coordinator: John Kerr VK3BAF
Secretary VK3XMU secretary@vic.wicen.org.au
Feb. 7-9 Ski 80 at Eucha.
An 80 km high speed water ski race from
Torrumbarry Weir to Echuca.
WICEN VK4
(State Coordinator, Ewen McLeod VK4ERM)
A request from Steve/VK4JUS TARC WICEN Co-ordinator to get your
WICEN yearly registration forms by any means possible, no later than
the TARC February 3rd Management Meeting.
So, drown Steve in forms and he will be very happy !
Eco Adventure Race -
May long weekend 1st to 3rd in VK4 with base again being at the
Ravenshoe Pony Club.
The organisers are currently involved in mid planning for the event
and have said that they plan to have a more compact event with
the course going through the manned checkpoints on a more
frequent basis - similar to horse endurance and car rally events.
This will improve safety for competitors and cause less grey hairs
for base officials !
If you wish to participate in providing logistic communications
for the event, which will primarily take place on high frequency radio,
then drop either Chris/VK4ANI or Dale/VK4DMC a line.
RESCUE RADIO INTERNATIONAL
NIUE DEVASTATION REPORTED BY HAM RADIO
Radio amateurs became a lifeline when tropical cyclone Heta ripped
through the tiny island republic of Niue a few weeks ago.
The storm left the tropical paradise with no regular means of communicating
with the outside world and summoning much needed relief aid.
Enter ham radio.
According to news reports, a radio operator on the island put out a
call for help which was answered by Steve McCully, W7TZ/ZF2CQ, in the
California community of Oak Hills. In fact, it was McCully who
phoned the New Zealand Consul General in Los Angeles and provided
that government with its first notification that Niue had been
ravaged by 186 mile per hour winds.
(arnewsline)
INTERNATIONAL
IARU
http://www.jarl.or.jp/iaru-r3/
WIA FEDERAL IARU OFFICER is VK6NE Neil Penfold
Twelfth Regional Conference
Is being held from February 16 - 20, 2004 in Taipei, Taiwan
There will be workshops on two important topics. The first is a
Workshop on WRC 2003. It will include a detailed discussion on the
new Article 25. To facilitate the discussion, a paper by Michael Owen
VK3KI is being circulated with the Conference papers so that all
societies will be able to make an advance study and brief their
delegation on issues to raise and matters for seeking clarification.
The other Workshop will be on The Society's IARU Liaison Officer. The
Workshop will help gain a better appreciation of the duties and
responsibilities of the Liaison Officer and hopefully lead to greater
satisfaction from the work carried out by Liaison Officers.
More information can be found at:
http://www.jarl.or.jp/iaru-r3/
ZS REQUEST FOR COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT CONVERGENCE ACT
On 3 December 2003 the Department of Communications published the
Draft Convergence Bill and called for interested persons to submit
written comments or representations.
Comments or representations must reach the Department by the
3rd February 2004.
This Draft Bill contains proposals of direct interest to all ZS radio
amateurs. The SARL will compile a response and will submit this
by the above date. If it appears justified, the SARL will also
request the opportunity to make representations in whatever forum
is set up by the Department.
All ZS radio amateurs have been requested to read the Draft Convergence
Bill and submit comments directly to the SARL.
You can download a copy of the Bill from the following address:
http://www.gov.za/gazette/bills/2003/25806.pdf
NORWAY - LA
Norwegian Radio Relay League International Liaison Officer Ole Garpestad,
LA2RR, reporting to the ARRL Letter says that registered club stations there
have permission to test on 5 MHz. Almost all of these club stations have
one-letter call sign suffixes and, in some situations, they may use the LE
prefix. The authorisation is restricted for use in emergency communication
or training, and Norwegian stations may not work stations outside of
Norway on 5 MHz.
But worth an ear listen out on 5.41 and 5.42 MHz.
(sourced to ARRL Letter)
UNITED KINGDOM
Ofcom the new UK regulator has taken over looking after ham radio.
Alan Betts is still in charge of Amateur Radio at Ofcom.
http://www.ofcom.org.uk/
Ofcom is the regulator for the UK communications industries, with
responsibilities across television, radio, telecommunications and
wireless communications services.
Ofcom exists to further the interests of citizen-consumers as the
communications industries enter the digital age.
(Ian G3ZHI)
IRELAND
North Dublin Radio Club yesterday had a Slideshow and talk by
Peadar Slattery EI2JA entitled "From the Irish Sea - To The Yellow Sea".
The background historic story of the events leading to "Americas Father of
Radio" Lee de Forest visiting Dublin in 1903 and demonstrating his
Wireless Telegraphy system, operating from The Martello Tower at Howth.
Peadar, in researching this event uncovered a remarkable connection between
the transmitters used at Howth and the first war news reporting by wireless
by Times correspondents to London from the Russo-Japanese War 1904-1905.
Archive material and photographs were collected from many countries
including England, the United States, Japan and Australia.
(irts)
UNITED STATES
ARRL President Jim Haynie, W5JBP, has been elected to a third two-year
term. There were no other nominees, and the ARRL Board of Directors
expressed its confidence in Haynie January 16 with a unanimous vote.
(arrl letter)
UNITED STATES
The ARRL will ask the FCC to create a new entry-level Amateur Radio license
that would include HF phone privileges without requiring a Morse code test.
The League also will propose consolidating all current licensees into three
classes, retaining the Element 1 Morse requirement--now 5 WPM--only for the
highest class.
The entry-level license class--being called "Novice" for now--would
require a 25-question written exam. It would offer limited HF
CW/data and phone/image privileges on 80, 40, 15 and 10 meters as
well as VHF and UHF privileges on 6 and 2 meters and on 222-225 and
430-450 MHz. Power output would be restricted to 100 W on 80, 40,
and 15 meters and to 50 W on 10 meters and up, thus avoiding the
need for the more complex RF safety questions in the Novice question pool.
(HF PACK RELAY)
Callbacks follow the RF editions, but also for Internet readers you may
lodge a quick reply to let us know you receive "the Q"
write a message to qnews@wia.org.au
Audio reports include VK4BAT with VK news, VK4CO Education/Youth/AR Growth
VK3PC WIA QSO PARTY Gift Draw, VK3KRB WICEN and Chris VK2UW with IW news
Compiled by VK4BB
DID YOU TELL ANYONE ABOUT AMATEUR RADIO THIS WEEK?
THE FOLLOWING NEWS CAN BE HEARD IN SEGMENT TWO (2) OF OUR AUDIO SERVICES
QNEWS -- ALL OF THE NEWS ALL OF THE TIME at www.wia.org.au/vk4
QNEWS available in Audio after 1400hrs utc Friday.
CLUB ACTIVITY WITH BRIAN COLEMAN VK4LH IN MACKAY
BAYSIDE
Net 3.567 Wed 1930
QNEWS Brisbane's VHF callback team member VK4VRD Rod is also a member of
the Bayside District Amateur Radio Society Inc. Rod has won Baysides
Annual Education Award for 2003.
Rod passed his 5 words per minute morse under very trying conditions.
You may recall how we praised ACA Brisbane staffers who conducted Rods
examination at his home QTH.
His name has been engraved on to the Trophy and Rod gets to keep the trophy
for the rest of the year. Well done Rod..
CAIRNS AR CLUB
From the Cairns Amateur Radio Club president John/VK4JKL comes news
that there has been a frequency change to the VK4RCA UHF voice repeater
at Mt Yarrabah to prevent it being constantly triggered by so called
"low interference potential devices" a good 10km away in downtown Cairns.
VK4RCA 70cm Repeater Mt Yarrabah 439.850MHz with neg 5MHz offset
(vk4zz)
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS ARC
Yearly Membership subs due
Secretary Gordon/VK4KAL has announced a new membership scheme
which enables those interested in further supporting the great work CHARC
does but living away from the region to contribute !
Drop CHARC Secretary Gordon/VK4KAL a line either on phone 4985 4168
or e-mail donvk4kal@bigpond.com
(vk4zz)
DARLING DOWNS
The next regular meeting of the Darling Downs Radio Club will be held
this Monday, the 26th of January at SES Headquarters, 172 Stephen Street,
Toowoomba at 7:30 PM.
Topic: Internet E-mail via Ham Radio From the Bush or the Boat - The
Winlink System" by John Kirk, VK4TJ
John also will be speaking at the March 22 meeting, that time on
Auroral VHF Propagation.
Visitors More Than Welcome.
(VK4TJ Vice President Darling Downs Radio Club, Inc.)
GOLD COAST AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY
http://www.goldcoastamateurradio.com
Meeting at the Club House 85 Harper St., Nerang on Saturday,
and a Darts Day 8th February.
Classes?
Education Officer, Kath VK4KU 5535 3930.
REDCLIFFE
http://www.qsl.net/vk4iz
Redcliffe and Districts Radio Club Inc Clubhouse will be open on
Monday night at 7.30pm. All are welcome.
The activity for the night is to construct and test antennas and
transceivers, so if you want to come and help just drop in and see
what they are doing.
Remember the Sunday night club nets on 146.925 MHz at 7pm and 3.612 MHz
at 7.30pm. Check in and have a chat, again all are welcome.
(Laurie VK4BLE)
SUMMERLAND AR CLUB (VK2)
http://www.sarc.org.au/sarc1/sarc.htm
15 Feb - SARC AGM, Clubrooms.
Novice Course is being publicised by mailout, radio and newspapers!
Ian VK2IGS has eleven nominations already for the March 7
NOVICE COURSE by RON BERTRAND.
Ron will be attending the opening session to assist the kick off.
TOWNSVILLE
vk4wit@wia.org.au
http://www.vk4tub.org/tarc/
Next TARC Meetings -
Management Meeting 3rd February,
Project Night 10th February and
Social and Backscatter meeting 17th February
all at 7-30pm all at Club Rooms, SES HQ Green Street West End
also note that Radio Theory classes start again on Thursday,
that's January 29th
VK4 AREA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- VHF
The first Brisbane VHF Group meeting for the year is Wednesday 28TH
at the home of Rob Bathgate VK4ZDX, 53 Arrol Street, Camp Hill,
starting around 7:30 PM.
All VHF-interested amateurs are welcome!
VK4 AREA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- WICEN
(State Co-ordinator, Ewen McLeod VK4ERM)
A regular net exists Sunday mornings 7.075 at 0830k.
Eight members of the Bundaberg WICEN Group undertook CPR TRAINING
last Saturday. The training was at the request of the local
SES Controller and conducted by SES First Aid Instructor.
All members agreed it was a day well spent and CPR 2004 Certificates
will be issued.
WICEN North QLD News
Now here is a rare chance to add to the public image kit and show
your WICEN emblem with pride at any logistic support event or disaster
callout.
Steve/VK4SGW has negotiated with a high quality manufacturer of
workshirts to provide, badge and name embroider a light yellow long-sleeved
cotton/poly blend tropics suitable workshirt for WICEN usage.
They cost all up 50 dollars per shirt.
Steve will be taking the one-off orders for the shirts along with cash
payment at the TARC February 3rd Management Meeting.
MAJOR GATHERINGS IN VK4 FOOTPRINT
2004
Feb 8 GOLD COAST ARS OPEN DAY, a BBQ and Darts Contest day.
LOGAN WEST AMATEUR RADIO & ELECTRONICS CLUB BOOT SALE
Feb President VK4JPH Peter 3800 3305 is your contact.
Boot sale is in the Car Park behind the Greenbank Community centre
adjacent to the Scout den, exhibitors will need to register at
the gate and setup before 10:00.
Entry free except for exhibitors (small fee)...
April 2 - 4
Federal convention for 2004 will be held at the Virginia Palms
Conference Centre Boondall, in Brisbane from Friday 2nd April
to Sunday 4th April.
May 1/2/3
Clairview Get Together (located between Mackay and Rockhampton)
May 8 BARCFEST at Holland Park in Brisbane.
June 11/14
FNNQARG ! South Mission Beach
Aug 8 SARCFEST date confirmed as Sunday, 8 August Lismore clubrooms
Sep 11 SUNFEST, already the dates set for next year on Sunshine Coast,
Saturday September 11
WIA EXAMINATIONS IN VK4
Jan. 31 Townsville Exams at the Club Rooms, SES HQ, Green Street
West End. Applications for this session need to be in with
Group Leader Wally/VK4DO no later than 2nd December 2003.
Jan. 31 Sunshine Coast
Exams may be conducted at other times by special arrangement.
Intending candidates should contact
Ron VK4GZ telephone 5448 4063, or
Dave VK4KDL telephone 5448 7649.
March 27 Sunshine Coast
Exams may be conducted at other times by special arrangement.
Intending candidates should contact
Ron VK4GZ telephone 5448 4063, or
Dave VK4KDL telephone 5448 7649.
May 29 SUNSHINE COAST
Exams may be conducted at other times by special arrangement.
Intending candidates should contact
Ron VK4GZ telephone 5448 4063, or
Dave VK4KDL telephone 5448 7649.
July 31 SUNSHINE COAST
Exams may be conducted at other times by special arrangement.
Intending candidates should contact
Ron VK4GZ telephone 5448 4063, or
Dave VK4KDL telephone 5448 7649.
Sept 25 SUNSHINE COAST
Exams may be conducted at other times by special arrangement.
Intending candidates should contact
Ron VK4GZ telephone 5448 4063, or
Dave VK4KDL telephone 5448 7649.
Nov 27 SUNSHINE COAST
Exams may be conducted at other times by special arrangement.
Intending candidates should contact
Ron VK4GZ telephone 5448 4063, or
Dave VK4KDL telephone 5448 7649.
ATHERTON TABLELANDS
Tablelands Radio and Electronics Club conducts examinations on
request for the Atherton Tablelands area.
Contact the Secretary, Dave West - VK4ADW at trec@austarnet.com.au
BRISBANE NORTH REGION
Now exams are available ANY TIME on just 2 weeks notice!
Just ring Redcliffe Clubs Laurie VK4BLE on 3284 8859.
Remember exams any time on two week notice.
BRISBANE SOUTH - LOGAN AREA
The Logan West Amateur Radio & Electronics Club.
If you wish to sit for any subject please contact.
Peter Harding 3800 3305
briscal@optusnet.com.au
BRISBANE WEST - LOCKYER REGION
The Lockyer Valley is located between Ipswich and Toowoomba and
examination services are available with 2 weeks notice required.
Arrangements for any examination can be made by contacting
Alan VK4SN alz@austarnet.com.au 04 1137 3679 VK4SN @ VK4WIL
Warren VK4FJ vk4fj@uq.net.au 04 2120 9536 VK4FJ @ VK4WIL
BUNDABERG
Examinations on request.
Contact Rusty VK4JM on 4159 6224.
e-mail rustymcg@dodo.com.au
DARLING DOWNS - TOOWOOMBA - HIGHFIELDS - WARWICK
Only two weeks notice is required for those wishing to sit for any subject.
Contact Matthew Weatherley VK4HWM 4698 7775 or e-mail
matthew@t130.aone.net.au
GOLD COAST
The club holds any exams at anytime for students who wish to do so!
Just contact Kath VK4KU on 5539 3530
SUNSHINE COAST
Saturday 31 January, 27 March, 29 May, 31 July, 25 September and 27
November.
Exams may be conducted at other times by special arrangement.
Intending candidates should contact
Ron VK4GZ telephone 5448 4063, or
Dave VK4KDL telephone 5448 7649.
MACKAY AREA
Examinations conducted on request to the Mackay Club
Also instruction on a 1 to 1 basis contact
Contact George VK4AJL
vk4ajl@wia.org.au
ROCKHAMPTON
For all information exams etc: contact Clive VK4ACC
4928 1173 or e-mail
vk4acc@wia.org.au
TOWNSVILLE
Exam sessions are held several times during the year and
can also be held on demand provided adequate notice is given.
Exams information and application pack in PDF format from
theTARCinc web site
http://www.vk4tub.org/tarc/
SOUTH OF THE BORDER... DOWN SUMMERLAND WAY
SUMMERLAND AR CLUB in VK2
http://www.sarc.org.au/sarc1/sarc.htm
EXAM DETAILS RING Dave VK2CB 6625 1281, Mob 04 2991 0982.
vk2cb@nnsw.quik.com.au
VK4 AMATEURS WHO ARE JP's
BAMAGA
Amanda Winchester, VK4HIP is registered as a Justice of the Peace
(Qualified) and is on mobile: 04 2936 8907
GLADSTONE
Rick WRIGHT, VK4HWN Justice of the peace QUALIFIED 4972 7147
HERVEY BAY
Geoff Stephenson, VK4OT 4124 4764
Albert Woodward, VK4IK 4124 4863
SUNSHINE COAST
Geoff Sanders, VK4KEL is registered as a Justice of the Peace
(Qualified) and is on telephone 5445 0280
complied by vk4bb... club news read by vk4lh
THE BEST QNEWS YOU'LL HEAR ALL WEEK
QNEWS - ALL OF THE NEWS ALL OF THE TIME LISTEN TO IT ON SEG 3
on the WIA WEB PAGE on wia.org.au/vk4
QNEWS available in Audio after 1400hrs utc Friday.
CONTESTS AWARDS and SPECIAL EVENTS WITH CHRIS EDMONDSON VK4AA/VK3CE
===========================================================
* denotes new addition to calendar
Date Contest
---- -------
Feb
* 11 WESTLAKES MONTHLY SIMPLEX CONTEST
14 SARL Kids Day 2004.
28 - 29 NZART's Jock White Memorial Field Day Contest
Mar 19 - 21 John Moyle Field Day
Apr
17 AUSTRALIAN POSTCODE CONTEST
25 Harry Angel Memorial Sprint.
(Honours WWI Veteran VK4HA who until becoming SK
WAS WORLD OLDEST AMATEUR AT AGE 106!)
May 22 VK-TRANS TASMAN 80m Phone
Jun 5 VK-TRANS TASMAN 80m CW
12-13 ANARTS RTTY CONTEST 2004
19 KIDS DAY USA 2004
Jul 17 160M VK/ trans-Tasman Contest
Aug 21-22 Lighthouse Activation Weekend.
Check the OFFICIAL VK Contest Site, www.vkham.com/contests/index.html
Well, G'Day everyone, and here we go again.
Actually, it's a pretty quiet time for the contester at the moment. Perhaps
it's as well, given that the Ross Hull ended last weekend, at the same time
as the ever-frantic Summer VHF Field Day, a two-day dash, hit the air.
Mind you, I didn't get to spend any time at all on the air last weekend.
I decided to break my silly leg instead, which ruled any thought of portable
operation right out.
So now we wait until February for the next major round of contesting, and it
gets under way with a scramble on the evening of Wednesday the 11th with
the Westlakes Monthly Simplex Contest, doubtless held monthly on the, ah,
simplex channels. Ah yes, it helps to be right on the ball here.
February 14 sees the SARL Kids Day for 2004, and a fortnight later, the 28th
and 29th see the NZART's Jock White Memorial Field Day Contest. So really,
it's the end of February before we see a traditional contest on the HF bands.
And yes, we were only kidding about the Westlakes thing. We do know just a
little bit more about it, so let's check out the rules of engagement. The
Westlakes Simplex net is a monthly scramble, where you have a limited time
to work as many other stations as possible in a short period of time, but
they add an unusual wrinkle to the thing by making it something of a
guessing game. I hear it's rather fun, but thanks to its being on VHF,
you would need to be in the Newcastle area to be in with a chance. So that's
Wednesday the 11th of February. Listen out for the runner-up of the last
such event, Winstone, VK2BS, to act as net controller.
The January event, held last Wednesday week as we speak, saw 7 contestants
desperately trying to locate net controller Steve VK2UD, whose approximate
location was eventually pegged by both Max VK2TTI and Winstone VK2BS
resulting in an eliminating guessing competition to decide the final winner.
They've assured QNEWS that Max fluked the right answer and was declared the
winner on the night.
A little further afield now, and Stan White, ZL2ST, tells us that
New Zealand's Jock White Memorial Field Day Contest, to be held on
February 28 and 29, will for the first time include home stations as
well as portable field stations.
Even at this early stage, it's time to get prepared if you are going to
participate as a field station. Act now and you should be able to get a
great team together to put a real dent in it.
Courtesy of Baz ZL1DD here are the results of the Straight Key Night 2003.
Surprisingly, a major solar flare did not seem to affect conditions unduly,
and QRN levels were down in ZL but heavy in VK.
Reasonable conditions meant the QRP boys did well, but sooner or later the
higher power stations will have their day.
A very interesting collection of radios and equally interesting
personalities participated in the event. First overall and top of
the vintage QRP division was octogenarian Jack, ZL1AJ with his ARC-5
transmitter roaring along at five watts. Keeping the vintage theme alive,
Jack used a dear old AR88 receiver.
QR double P star was Bruce, ZL1WB with but one watt from his home-brew
transmitter and, we're told, a different key used for each QSO!!
Crikey, I wonder how many he managed?
As an aside, 2003 saw the fun event's first YL entrant, Carolyn ZL2JP.
We'll let you know when the next one's coming up, too.
Right! Just enough time to take a quick peek at an award, and it's a real
beauty. This one's helped along no end by having its very own weekly Net
to encourage applicants to have a real push at it, too.
Tune into the Tasmanian Devil Award Net to have a crack at this highly
popular award.
But get this: it's being moved to a new time slot on and from Thursday,
the 5th of February to bring it under the auspices of VK7's
Central Highlands ARC.
The net will start at 8pm Eastern Summer time on 3585 kHz, and should run
for about 30 minutes or so.
The CHARCT net will then commence with its usual weekly quiz. Believe me,
this rather colourful group is well worth a listen to. I've heard all manner
of lurid stories about an annual pilgrimage to VK3, too. As I say, even if
you don't intend to actually say anything, make sure you tune in for a
listen.
Back to the Tassie Devil award, and many operators from right around the
globe have qualified for this famous award. And you can't just rest on your
laurels once you have it either. There are updates available as to the
number of contacts that you have made with Tasmanian operators.
The updates are numbered at 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300.
Crumbs, are there really that many people in Tasmania?
Anyway, to qualify for the award it is necessary to make contact with a
number of Tasmanian amateurs, that number being determined by your own QTH.
For HF, if you're in Australia you'll need 50 contacts. From elsewhere in
Oceania and Antarctica that number is 30. From North America and Asia it's
20, while Europe and South America need 10. Our friends in continental
Africa need just seven confirmed VK7 contacts to qualify for the award.
For VHF or UHF operators, contact is to be made with 20 VK7 stations with
at least one contact made in each of the Southern, Northern and North-West
Branch districts.
Repeaters may be utilised.
Satellite contacts via amateur satellites with cross band to HF is
allowed if your licence permits such transmissions.
I'll give the address to post your applications to in a shake, but remember
if you miss it you can get the details from the text version of QNEWS at
www.wia.org.au/vk4
To claim the award applicants must forward to the Awards Manager the
following information
1. a copy of the claim log with the applicants name, address and callsign
2. a copy of the claim log indicating the callsign of the stations
contacted, the band utilised, the date, time, mode of emission and
signal reports exchanged with each station worked
3. a copy of the claim log signed by the applicant. No counter
signature is required and
4. each claim for the Award is to be accompanied by AUD$3.00 for
stations with Australia and AUD$5.00 for stations outside Australia or
equivalent in IRC'S to cover the cost of the Award and postage.
All contacts made since 1st January 1978 are allowable for claims for
this Award.
Write to:
The Awards Manager
Wireless Institute of Australia
Tasmanian Division
GPO Box 371
Hobart 7001
Australia
That's my lot once more. Catch you next time.
73 from Chris Edmondson, VK3CE / VK4AA.
Thanks Chris... must admit when Chris told me how he broke his leg
I was a tad concerned his report might be a bit "echoie" this week...
Seems he was with his Kids bowling... lined up the pins....
did the run up... fingers remained stuck in the ball... down he went...
to the far end of the alley... then still only got a spare!
Hope the kids a waiting on you hand and foot mate!
THE QNEWS WORK BENCH - the nuts and volts report
(Measure twice - Cut once!)
Peter Ellis VK1KEP has a copy of an article describing the
James Taylor W2OZH "Space Miser 80m" antenna on his web site.
http://www.pcug.org.au/~prellis/amateur/space-miser-80m.html
Enjoy this modest-sized 80m antenna, well suited for city apartment living,
that has caught the eye of Tony VK1TB among others who face the
predicament of small blocks and roof spaces.
MEDIA WATCH and PR OPPORTUNITIES
Arrangements have been made to automatically broadcast the following
world news services on Westlakes Repeater VK2RTZ 146.775 MHz.
Sunday morning 09.30 hrs QNEWS via IRLP.
Sunday evening 19.30 hrs American Newsline
Wednesday Evening 19.30 hrs This week in Amateur Radio
As some of our listeners would know the Sunshine Coast Amateur Radio Club,
have been re-transmitting QNEWS Sunday evenings at 7.30 PM for the
past 6 months. Previously the news had been transmitted at 9:00 AM Sundays.
Well it's changing again.
As of 1st February 2004 QNEWS is reverting to its original 9:00 AM
timeslot Sunday mornings.
Radio Cool, the Atherton Tablelands Community radio station on 88FM
just happens to be run by the President of the areas AR club,
John, VK4TL.
Sunday 25th, today, at 10am Radio Kool will air a program about
Amateur Radio originally produced by the Townsville Amateur Radio Club
and broadcast on 4TTT FM.
The program gives an insight into Amateur Radio and should prove to
be both educational and entertaining.
In the Apple Isle AR News Program SPECTRUM is being relayed on 80M.
3.570 MHz by Dion VK7YBI.
QNEWS can be heard on this frequency at 7.30 PM (TAS TIME) on Mondays as
part of the Spectrum Newscast.
Dion VK7YBI is a 'no code' Novice recipient, so it is pleasing to see him
using his skills and equipment in becoming involved & assisting with
relays etc.
(TONY 7AX)
Next NZART Official Broadcast 8pm & 9pm is tonight, Sunday 25th January.
DX ADVICE
QSL BUREAU UPDATE
Alan VK1WX President VK1 Division reports on a new postal address for the
UA2 prefix.
The new address is:
UA2 QSL Bureau,
ROSTO Technical School,
ul.Ozyornaya 31,
Kaliningrad,
236029, Russia.
(VIA Victor Loginov, UA2FM UA2 QSL Bureau official)
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- ALARA
ALARA Net is held each Mondays on 3.588 MHz, commencing at 1000 UTC.
geencee@picknowl.com.au
ALARAMEET 2005 to be held in Mildura.
http://homepages.tig.com.au/~bishops/alara/
Korea Ladies' Amateur Radio Club (KLARC) host world wide YL Meet Seoul,
8 to 11 October.
More information from Chae Do Sook HL2KDW
Email: hl2kdw@hotmail.com
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- ATV (or Every pixel tells a story)
TV in a form of BPL may be coming to a house near you.
This as a JA company announces that it has developed a
high-speed home power line IP networking technology capable of
high-definition video transmission.
Amateur Radio Newsline's Bruce Tennant, K6PZW has more:
"Best known for its Panasonic-brand products, a newly developed
Matsushita Electric technology will make it possible to provide
broadband connectivity to every room in a house via existing home
power lines. This, using an Panasonic branded adaptor about the size
of an audiocassette that the company says cannot be interfere with by
radio amateurs.
The adaptor contains a power plug, power supply, LAN connector and an
L-S-I chipset that converts broadband data into signals that can
travel over a power line. The unit connects a broadband Internet
link such as D-S-L or optical fibre lines to the existing power lines
in the home. According to Panasonic, a user simply plugs the P-L-C
adaptor into any AC power outlet to create a home broadband
networking without installing new cabling.
The most interesting claim being made by Panasonic is that the new
technology it calls H-D P-L-C resists interference from other
signals such as those from ham radio that the company says often use
the same frequencies as wired communications".
(ARNewsline(tm), CQ -- from news releases)
This new Powerline Communications technology was exhibited last week
at 2004 International CES, held in Las Vegas.
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- FIFTY MEGS AND OVER (the plumbers delight)
A new VK4RAT 23cm Repeater on Mt Stuart is operational, 1273.5 MHz
with standard +20MHz offset, if your in that region, fire it up you might
be surprised at who you'll reach!
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- FINAL FRONTIER
VK5AGR is the AMSAT National Coordinator, vk5agr@amsat.org
VK5ZAI is the Australian Co-ordinator for ARISS.
AMSAT-VK HF Net.
2nd Sunday each month.
November through March 0900 UTC 7.068 MHz
April through October 1000 UTC 3.685 MHz
Squirty star imitates black hole
Scientists using CSIRO's Australia Telescope near Narrabri in northern
NSW have made a discovery that they hope will increase our
understanding of a fundamental cosmic process.
The team has seen a neutron star spitting out a jet of matter at very
close to the speed of light. This is the first time such a fast jet
has been seen from anything other than a black hole.
Read more at:
http://www.csiro.au
Double pulsar find to test relativity
An international team of scientists working in the UK, Australia,
Italy and the USA has made an astronomical discovery that has major
implications for testing Einstein's general theory of relativity.
Using the 64-m CSIRO Parkes radio telescope in New South Wales,
Australia, the team recently detected the first system of two pulsars
orbiting each other - the only system of its kind found so far among
the 1400-plus pulsars discovered in the last 35 years.
Read more at:
http://www.csiro.au
This week, again, our correspondent Peter Ellis VK1KEP challenges us
to consider further the problem of communicating with spacecraft.
This week, he found a web site about the early Russian probes to the
Moon, Mars and Venus.
"The site's author, Don Mitchell, is an academic in the computing
field, and has recently been using his graphical analysis skills
to clean up image data from early Russian probes that landed on
Venus in the 1970s and 80s.
However, there is considerable descriptive detail and images about:
the spacecraft transmission systems (waveforms, transmitters,
bit-rates, power, etc);
the ground stations, and the conical, helical and parabolic dish antennas
on the spacecraft.
Point your browser to http://www.mentallandscape.com and look for
the link to "Soviet Exploration of Venus". However, you will also find
articles about Nikola Tesla's Investigation of High Frequency Phenomena
and Radio Communication.
Peter Ellis VK1KEP
It is with regret that we have to announce the passing away of Gert Schlorf,
ZS1ABM.
In the early days of the SUNSAT project, Gert erected the first
ground station for SUNSAT at Stellenbosch University, including
antennas, rotators, and all modems for communicating with the satellite.
Gert was a member of Boland Amateur Radio Club and was a world record holder
for a contact on 2 m between Luderitz and Italy.
Our sincere condolences go out to his wife, children other relatives and
friends.
(sarl)
AUCTION OF AO-40 SCULPTURE TO HELP FUND AMSAT ECHO SATELLITE LAUNCH
The bidding began January 21 on a handsome original sculpture of the
AO-40 satellite as AMSAT-NA auctions off the work of art on eBay to help
fund the AMSAT-OSCAR ECHO (AO-ECHO) satellite launch campaign. The auction
will run for 10 days, and the winning bid will be recognised as a donation
to the launch campaign.
"This bronze is one of only four pieces, created by long time AMSAT member
Floyd Thorn, N5SVP, now a Silent Key," said AMSAT Marketing Manager Jim
Jarvis, N2EA. "It has been donated to AMSAT by his family to support the
AO-ECHO launch campaign."
The AO-ECHO fund currently stands at nearly $49,000.
AMSAT-NA's ECHO satellite is passing final integration and testing with
flying colours.
The satellite will incorporate two UHF transmitters, each running from 1 to
8 W and capable of simultaneous operation, four VHF receivers and a
multiband, multimode receiver capable of operation on the 10 meter, 2 meter,
70 cm and 23 cm bands.
(arrl letter and vk2wi)
VK4 SILENT KEYS @ 2003 - 2004 WIAQ COUNCIL YEAR
VK4BS Jim Cunningham around the 19th or 20th of March 03 (advised by vk4sj)
VK4BMA Denis Brice March 29th 2003 (advised by vk4brg)
VK4NYY Ralph Curry a former vk4nyy April 2003 (advised by vk4kel)
VK4HW Dave Hutchins April 21st 2003.
VK4COK Reg Carmody May? advised by Ron vk4fc
VK4BP Doug Sim May 24th 2003
Bob Beetson May 2003 original holder of vk4bb circa 1929
VK4FB Ian Fisher silent key in June 2003.(advised vk4ble)
VK4VI Harry Bird July 2003 (advised by Westlakes AR Club)
VK4AQA Bob Collins July 13 2003 (advised by vk4afs)
VK4ANL Albert Lanham July 2003 (advised SCARC)
VK4TS Tweedy Svenson Monday 4th Aug.(vk4bcp)
VK4NL Noel Lawton (advised by VK4NPF)
VK4MUM Ann Renton January 8 2004 (advised by vk4zz)
*VK4AHF Henry Fulford January 19 2004 (advised by vk4dmc/zz/fuq/znz)
Honorary life member of the Tablelands Radio and Electronics Club
and associate member of The Townsville Amateur Radio Club VK4AHF
Henry has become Silent Key.
Henry was an electrical engineer running the big northern powerstations
many years ago, and at age 94 passed away whilst a resident of the
Carinya Home for Aged.
Henry's funeral took place Friday at the Atherton Catholic Church .
Henry was a man of many talents one of which was the playing of the
violin.
We will miss him.
Wilf Booth / VK4ZNZ
IN THE NEWS THIS WEEK:-
MONSTER GIVEAWAY TODAY
NATIONAL NEWS
FEDERAL HELP REQUIRED
WIA HF QSO PARTY GIFT WINNERS
QNEWS "States of our Nation."
VK1
VK2
EDUCATION YOUTH AND ADVANCEMENT OF AMATEUR RADIO
Adam VK4KSS, Radio and Electronics School Course Manager.
WIA amateur examinations in VK2
WIA amateur examinations - DARLING DOWNS - TOOWOOMBA - HIGHFIELDS - WARWICK
Bundaberg Amateur Radio Club conducts examinations on request.
ARNEWSLINE ANNOUNCES CREATION OF THE ROY NEAL, K6DUE, MENTORING PROJECT.
INTRUDER WATCH - ENFORCEMENT ZONE - PRESENTED BY VK2UW CHRIS WRIGHT
FEDERAL WIRELESS INSTITUTE OF AUSTRALIA INTRUDERWATCH FOR DECEMBER 2003
COMMUNICATIONS LAW: NORWEGIAN COURT SAYS COPYING DVD'S NOT PIRACY
WICEN/RESCUE RADIO INTERNATIONAL WITH ROBERT VK3KRB
WICEN VK3
WICEN VK4
NIUE DEVASTATION REPORTED BY HAM RADIO
INTERNATIONAL
IARU Twelfth Region 3 Conference
ZS REQUEST FOR COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT CONVERGENCE ACT
NORWAY - LA - 5 MHz
UNITED KINGDOM - Ofcom the new UK regulator.
IRELAND - North Dublin Radio Club yesterday had a Slideshow.
UNITED STATES - ARRL President Jim Haynie, W5JBP.
UNITED STATES - new entry-level Amateur Radio license
CLUB ACTIVITY WITH BRIAN COLEMAN VK4LH IN MACKAY
BAYSIDE
CAIRNS AR CLUB
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS ARC
DARLING DOWNS
GOLD COAST AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY
REDCLIFFE
SUMMERLAND AR CLUB (VK2)
TOWNSVILLE
VK4 AREA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- VHF
VK4 AREA SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- WICEN
MAJOR GATHERINGS IN VK4 FOOTPRINT
WIA EXAMINATIONS IN VK4
VK4 AMATEURS WHO ARE JP's
CONTESTS AWARDS and SPECIAL EVENTS WITH CHRIS EDMONDSON VK4AA/VK3CE
THE QNEWS WORK BENCH - the nuts and volts report
MEDIA WATCH and PR OPPORTUNITIES
DX ADVICE
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- ALARA
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- ATV (or Every pixel tells a story)
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- FIFTY MEGS AND OVER (the plumbers delight)
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- FINAL FRONTIER
VK4 SILENT KEYS @ 2003 - 2004 WIAQ COUNCIL YEAR
*VK4AHF Henry Fulford January 19 2004 (advised by vk4dmc/zz/fuq/znz)
***************************
QNEWS - we've reported...YOU decide.
QNEWS thanks YOU for entrusting us to bring you VK's authoritative Ham News
AND REMEMBER OUR MONSTER GIVEAWAY
STARTS AFTER THIS QNEWS BROADCAST.............................
OSCILLOSCOPES
COUNTERS
COAX CABLE
RF GENERATORS AND MANUALS
PLUS MUCH MUCH MORE !
CONTACT?
DETAILS WILL BE HEARD ON VK4 FOOTPRINT TRANSMISSIONS ONLY.
QNEWS thanks Amateur Radio Newsline, ARRL, ARRL Letter,
FISTS down under, IARU r3, NERG News,
RAC, and RSGB.
for source material for this weeks edition.
Societies and Club News Letter Editors can EXCHANGE a feed prior to
the actual broadcast date, e-mail qnews@wia.org.au
Callbacks follow the RF editions, but also for text readers you may
lodge a quick reply to let us know you read it, who knows, you might
even get a "cheerio call".
Compiled by VK4BB /
Special Interest Group news read by VK4FUQ, VK4AA presents Contests
VK1KEP PETER ELLIS SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
Read previous mail | Read next mail
| |
