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ZL2TZE > QNEWS 05.12.03 07:47l 1162 Lines 41080 Bytes #999 (0) @ WW
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---------------------------------
THE BEST QNEWS YOU'LL GET ALL WEEK
---------------------------------
IF RE-POSTING ALWAYS ENSURE ORIGINAL BID # AND TITLE ARE USED.
QNEWS can be accessed on the www in both text and MP3 audio.
http://www.wia.org.au/vk4
Packet uploads, vk4zz Gavin, vk7ax Tony,
zl2bau Peter, zl2tze Phillip
THE FOLLOWING BULLETIN CAN BE HEARD IN THIS PREAMBLE
When communication counts, count on QNEWS..
NATIONAL NEWS
Some Housekeeping first of all this week....
QNEWS will be continuing over the Christmas New Year period, no we
"never sleep"!
If your listening to us on a VHF/UHF repeater, just check with your
callback operator after the news, remind them to continue sending
checkin numbers and news items to qnews@wia.org.au
It has been pointed out several times that one or two clubs seem to get
the major share of "air-time on QNEWS", let's just say if YOUR proud
of YOUR club and it's on air activities, email details to
qnews@wia.org.au
oh and make sure it's not just the same email mailed week after week!
And all stations outside of VK4 should be downloading 4 mp3 files each week,
the preamble, national, operational and end segment. BUT please check the
first and last file prior to broadcast each week... you may very well
find it talks about YOUR area, and you'd prefer to play the generic file
instead! HiHi.
Gift draw for WIA Welcome to HF QSO Party
Australian no-code licensees with Limited or Novice-Limited licences will be
eligible to enter a draw of gifts if they get on air on New Year's Day and
join the WIA Welcome to HF QSO Party.
The gifts available include:
* A $1,000 gift voucher provided by ICOM Australia
* ARRL Handbook donated by the WIA New South Wales Bookshop
* A Yaesu FT-100 HF-plus all mode solid state transceiver supplied by the
WIA.
* Five 2004 Australian Radio Amateur Callbooks and CDs.
Genuine first-timers on HF who only hold Limited or Novice-Limited
callsigns, will be able to enter a log extract of ten contacts on HF bands
during the QSO Party to be in the draw for the gifts - one per person.
A number of WIA stations, including VK2WI, VK3ZWI and VK7WI will be on air
New Year's Day, and contact with them is worth three contacts with other
stations.
Entries should be mailed to "WIA Welcome to HF QSO Party", PO Box 200,
Forest Hill Victoria 3131, by no later than Wednesday 7 January, 2004.
Full details of the QSO Party will be published on various WIA websites and
included on WIA broadcasts during December.
(Jim Linton VK3PC, WIA Welcome to HF QSO Party Organiser)
WIA FEDERAL PRESIDENT REPORTS:-
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have just received confirmation from the ACA on the use of the AX
prefix for Australia Day:
"The use of the AX prefix by all VK amateurs is approved for the
duration of Australia Day from 00:00 - 23:59 (local time) 26 January
2004."
Can I ask you all to promote this information within your divisions.
73s de Ernie VK1LK
EDUCATION YOUTH AND ADVANCEMENT OF AMATEUR RADIO PRESENTED BY VK4CO
RONNEE MEACHEN
THE WIA FEDERAL EDUCATION OFFICER IS RON SMITH VK4AGS.
VK2DQ Ron Bertrands Internet course is on the web at
http://www.radioelectronicschool.com
Morse Training Transmissions:-
3699 kHz DAILY 24/7 Yearly
3555 kHz TUESDAY 0930 UTC VK8CAW
3545 kHz WEDNESDAY 0930 UTC VK3FGE -Dave- FISTS #9088
An on-line Amateur Radio licensing course--possibly bundled with ARRL
membership--plus additional Certification and Continuing Education courses
are among the strategic objectives of the League's 2004 Operational Plan.
The ARRL letter says the League also plans to evaluate its existing ARRL
on-line class offerings. The item was among several the ARRL
Executive Committee designated to include in next year's plan when it
met November.
Work on the licensing course already is under way, and the ARRL expects to
announce its availability in the near future.
Closer to home 3 quick reminders, the WIA EXAM office will close
22/12 to 27/1.
The WIA will STILL conduct CW exams for the foreseeable future.
Our own VK On Line Ham Courses organised by Queenslands Ron Bertrand are
easily available on the net..
http://www.radioelectronicschool.com
INTRUDER WATCH - ENFORCEMENT ZONE - PRESENTED BY VK2UW CHRIS WRIGHT
OK let's run through the "who's who" of the vk area intruder watch set!
Overall our Region III IARUMS Coordinator is Arasu, VU2UR
IARU Monitoring System International Coordinatoris Robert, ZL1BAD,
with Len Martinson, ZL1BYA, Monitoring Service co-ordinator
for the NZART.
VK Federal Coordinator is VK8HA Henry Andersson
Divisionally, and not all divisions contribute, but in VK3 it's
VK3TZE Jimmy. Then we have VK4ZRT Wayne, VK5EV John and in Tassie it's
VK7RB Rob.
And the IARUMS NET is Friday 0730 UTC 7.065.5 with VK4CEU David.
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
VK1 6 Dec Rallye des Femmes
VK3 26-31 Dec The Murray Marathon. Contact Carol on 5962 6098.
*VK3 7- 9 Feb Ski 80 at Eucha.
*VK3 29 Feb WICEN Field Day Mt. Dissapointment
VK2 20-21 March Eden Creek Horse Enduro.
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
Dec. 26-31. The Murray Marathon.
A canoe race over 400km in length running between Yarrawonga
and Swan Hill. Volunteers still required.
Contact Carol on 5962 6098.
Jan. No organised events. Standing by for Bush fire activation's.
Feb. 7-9 Ski 80 at Eucha.
An 80 km high speed water ski race from
Torrumbarry Weir to Echuca.
Feb 29th. WICEN Field Day at Mt Disappointment.
QNEWS "States of our Nation."
VK2
http://www.wiansw.org.au
President Brian Kelly VK2WBK
The next WestLakes Simplex net is set down for Wednesday 10th December.
Terry VK2KTD will be net controller.
Starting time 7pm Frequency 146.425 MHz
2004 will be the 40th Anniversary of Westlakes ARC and it is proposed to
promote a "member of the year trophy" as from next year.
A Function committee consisting of Dave VK2RD, Keith VK2PKT and Ted VK2UI
has been formed to seek additional suggestions for the coming anniversary
year.
VK3
PRESIDENT JIM LINTON
http://www.wiavic.org.au
wiavic@wiavic.org.au
11 December NERG's Christmas BBQ
VK4
PRESIDENT VK4ERM EWAN McLEOD
http://www.wia.org.au/vk4
2004 WIAQ GRANTS CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
The Wireless Institute of Australia , Queensland Division (WIAQ) has
instituted a scheme of grants to promote a number of its objectives in
support of Amateur Radio in Queensland.
Assessment will be by an independent group outside of the WIAQ Council
per se . Applications will be forwarded unopened to the Assessment group
immediately after the closing date with the intention of recommendations
being made to the WIAQ Council at its April 2004.
VK5
http://www.wia.org.au/vk5
Barossa Amateur Radio Club
Regular club meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month.
Meeting at the St. Petri Lutheran Church Hall - Meeting Rooms,
on the corner of First and Second Streets, Nuriootpa.
Arrival time from 7:30pm, meetings start at 8:00pm.
On air; Barossa club 146.825 and 438.425 MHz.
VK8
http://www.wia.org.au/vk5
Mike VK8ZMA has told us He'll be on air on HF earlier than the VK4's!
At 2230 Hrs local Darwinian time on 31/12/03 as that corresponds to
0000 in Canberra!
Say's he's waited 37 years for this as a Z Call!!!
INTERNATIONAL
JAPAN
Ms. Kiyoko Ono, 7M3URU has become head of that Countries National Public
Safety Commission, and a valued member of the Cabinet of the Japanese
Prime Minister, Mr. Koizumi.
Ms. Ono, a bronze medallist in gymnastics at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics,
is a JARL member and a strong supporter of amateur radio who has attended
many JARL events despite her busy schedule.
(JARL)
WEIRD AND WONDERFUL
VK7 JOINS THE 3rd WORLD
Roger VK7HRN is working towards his full theory with the assistance
of the Radio & Electronics School.
A recent assignment on AC included an optional question:-
"Some people actually hear 'tones' coming from radios and audio
equipment during the day. Usually once or twice a day.
These tones last for a few seconds.
Do you know what they are?"
Roger was unable to answer the question, even after consulting with
revered full calls.
On submitting his assignment, the answer came back
"The two tones that are sent down the power lines to switch hot
water and heatbanks on and off.
They sometimes come over radio and audio equipment."
Roger responded that unlike on the mainland, Tassie's electricity
supplies are reasonably reliable and good old fashioned meters with
clocks fulfil this purpose, and that the question was not appropriate
for VK7's.
The Radio & Electronics School accepted this and added a note to the
optional question, excluding Tasmanians, but commented that the only
other students having a problem with this question were from third
world countries!
(VK7WI)
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.
----------------------------------------------------------
WIA Queensland Tel : 3221 9377
PO Box 199 Wavell Heights, Qld 4012
Contact WIAQ by HF Radio 3.605 Mondays 7:30pm after QNEWS
Packet sp qnews@vk4wie.#bne.qld.aus.oc
Web Page http://www.wia.org.au/vk4
E-mail: president@wiaq.powerup.com.au WIAQ President
fedcounc@wiaq.powerup.com.au Federal Councillor
secretary@wiaq.powerup.com.au Secretary
e-mail: QSL Bureau = wiaqqsl@powerup.com.au
QNEWS newsroom = qnews@wia.org.au
QTC Magazine = qtc@wiaq.powerup.com.au
QTAC = qtac@yahoogroups.com
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, Maryborough AR Club President Monday 4th Aug.(vk4bcp)
*VK4NL Noel Lawton November 27th 2003 (advised by VK4NPF)
(Active, and on air, and well known for his CW operating on
the HF bands.)
(SUPPLIED BY Bruce Lenahan VK4NPF)
CLUB ACTIVITY WITH BRIAN COLEMAN VK4LH IN MACKAY
BARC
http://www.qsl.net/vk4ba
or, by E-mail to vk4ba@qsl.net
The Brisbane Amateur Radio Club, meets twice a month, at St. John`s Church
in King Street Annerley. The first meeting is the SECOND Friday of the month,
(that's December 12) which is mainly a "social night", but also the club
uses this first meeting as a "show and tell" night where members bring
along their home brew projects, then explain the workings to all the
assembled members and guests.
The second meeting, is the FOURTH Friday of the month, which this month
will be BOXING DAY! Hey keen members these BARC TYPES!
This meeting will be the business night, starting at 7:30pm sharp,
continueing until approximately 8:30pm, then most members have coffee,
tea and buiscuits and a chat about all things amateur.
The B.A.R.C nets are as follows every Monday night, starting at 7:30pm on
28.450mhz, the club call is VK4BA, then Wednesday night commencing at
7:30pm on 146.550mhz, the call is once again VK4BA.
Every morning of the week (Monday to Friday) on 146.550mhz, commencing at
8:00am, the call is VK4ZR name of Kevin and the club also has an 70cm
repeater, which is used for the Thursday night net, commenceing at 7.30pm,
the call is VK4ZR, name of Kevin.
B.A.R.C.fest will be at the Holland Park Bowling Club again next year,
but with alterations and modifications hope to overcome the crampness
of this year. So after Christmas start saving for the bargains, beer and
the meat pies.
Thanks to Warren VK4WH for that most comprehensive report.
It has been pointed out several times that one or two clubs seem to get
the lions share of air-time on QNEWS, let's just say if YOUR proud of YOUR
club, email details to qnews@wia.org.au just as Summerland and Townsville
do each week... oh and make sure it's not just the same email week after
week!
GOLD COAST AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY
TeleText page 911
http://www.goldcoastamateurradio.com
Gold Coast Amateur Radio Society are having their Christmas Breakup on
Saturday 13th December from 10am and we are looking forward to catching with
many of the members not seen for a while come and enjoy yourselves.
Everything will be provided by the Club.
December 10th, Santa Radio for the Gold Coast Hospital with a
presentation and Patron Mr Lex Bell will be in attendance, this has
become an annual event and many thanks go out to the people behind the
scenes that bring it all together.
Well Well Well... after being told by the Gold Coast Club for some 3 months
of their major outing to Summerland and their hopes to hold the criketing
"Kortz Kup" again this year.... SUMMERLAND SAY NO ONE FROM GOLD COAST TURNED
UP!
Summerland told QNEWS apart from that it was an excellent fine day,
enjoyed by 23.
Stan S-105 and XYL came down from Brisbane and brought the Kortz Cup.
Hence the Cup has moved south for next year by default.
A cricket game was played by those energetic enough to do so.
The VHF and UHF foxhunts were run and much wandering through the bush was
done.
Next on Summerlands agenda...THEIR CHRISTMAS BBQ DAY TODAY
At the Clubrooms, Richmond Hill.
TOWNSVILLE
TARC 2004 Executive will be
President Gavin Reibelt VK4ZZ
Vice Pres Don Terrace VK4MC
Secretary Ray Hinks VK4LU
Treasurer Bob Hinds VK4AAH
The next scheduled Exam session will be held on 31st January
at the Club Rooms, SES HQ, Green Street West End.
TARC 2003 XMAS Party Happens Sunday 14th December from 2 to 7pm
Monster Xmas Lights Tour happens Friday 19th December -
TARC-adians, visitors, friends and family are invited to assemble
from 6pm at the Garbutt Shopping Centre Carpark, entry via Gorden Street
and once darkness falls the XMAS Lights Display group mobiles will proceed
under the guidance of Wallaby Bob and Jeanette.
The TARC Monster Xmas Lights Tour will be joined by Mr and Mrs Santa
and will tour all the best light displays in the Townsville / Thuringowa area
TARC Australia Day Weekend Family Radio Camp happens Friday Evening
23rd January to Monday Afternoon 26th January at the Girl Guides
Campsite and Training Centre Rollingstone.
Camp under the trees at Possum Valley or sleep in the dorm at
Bluewater House.
AX4WIT will be on-air from the camp to provide directions and contact.
TARC Meetings
Project Night 8th December starting 7-30pm,
Management Meeting 3rd February,
Social and Backscatter meeting, 17th February.
All visitors to the region and members are made welcome !
Where at ?
Club Rooms, SES HQ Green Street West End.
QNEWS has just gotten of the line with Kaye, Vice President/Publicity Officer
of The Gold Coast Radio Club. Kaye, on behalf of the club apologises to the
Summerland Group and assures them that no insult was intended.
Various reasons for the members non attendance can only be surmised and
that no insult was intended.
It is hoped that the Summerland Group will accept an invitation to make
amends with a get together at GoldCoast clubhouse in the New Year.
MAJOR GATHERINGS IN VK4 FOOTPRINT
2004
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)
June 11/14
FNNQARG ! South Mission Beach
Sep 11 SUNFEST, already the dates set for next year,
Saturday September 11
WIA EXAMINATIONS IN VK4
Dec. 07 Redcliffe and Districts Radio Club Inc are holding examinations
Details, contact Laurie Pritchard VK4BLE on 3284 8859 ah or
via the clubs email address rdrc4@hotmail.com
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.
ATHERTON TABLELANDS
Tablelands Radio and Electronics Club conducts examinations on
request for the Atherton Tablelands area.
Contact the Secretary, Dale McCarthy - VK4DMC 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
DARLING DOWNS
Toowoomba area, contact Mathew VK4HWM on 4698 7775 or email him on
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
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
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.
To avoid confusion QNEWS only lists contests from:-
Contest Managers themselves, the WIA and Radio Amateurs of Canada
and does not necessarily endorse, support or vouch for the accuracy
of the information provided.
WIA FEDERAL CONTEST EMAIL= contests@wia.org.au
Chris VK4AA reads each weeks contest time table for 2003-4
===========================================================
* denotes new addition to calendar
Date Contest
---- -------
2003
Dec
5 - 7 ARRL 160 Meter Contest
13 - 14 ARRL 10 Meter Contest
26 ROSS HULL VHF CONTEST
27 - 28 ORIGINAL QRP CONTEST (CW)
27 - 28 STEW PERRY 160 MTR DISTANCE CHALLENGE (CW)
2004
Jan
3 - 4 ARRL RTTY ROUNDUP
10 - 11 VHF + SUMMER FIELD DAY
10 - 11 HUNTING LIONS ON THE AIR
11 END OF ROSS HULL CONTEST
24 - 25 CQ 160 METER CONTEST (CW)
Feb
28 - 29 NZART's Jock White Memorial Field Day Contest
Mar 19 - 21 John Moyle Field Day
Apr 25 Harry Angel Memorial Sprint.
(Honours WW1 Veteran VK4HA who until becoming SK
WAS WORLD OLDEST AMATEUR AT AGE 106!)
Aug 21-22 Lighthouse Activation Weekend.
Check the OFFICIAL VK Contest Site, www.vkham.com/contests/index.html
And it's G'Day to all from the magnificent rain forest atop south-east
Queensland's Tamborine Mountain, where my view disappears into the beautiful
Pacific Ocean. Oops, sorry to lay it on, but we've had some of the most
incredible weather up here of late. It's hard not to smile when you're up
here.
Except, of course, when you put a lot of effort into listening out for a
recalcitrant special event from space which simply doesn't show, not on
voice or even on packet.
A fair few people went to a lot of trouble to organise a special event
station from the ISS, and news services around the world were buzzing with
excitement. I've not had my radio off the channels we publicised, and the
satellite tracking software has been whirring and clanking for days.
Not a squeak.
I tell you, I'd certainly be pleased to hear from anyone, anywhere who was
able to manage a contact with the ISS crew last weekend - or since then of
course - preferably via internet E-mail to vk4aa@amsat.org
Okay, so what's lurking on the contest event time table as 2003 winds down?
On this weekend, December 5 to 7 UTC, is the ARRL 160 Metre Contest, an
annual stoush for those whose antennas are far bigger than mine.
Next weekend, December 13 and 14, little 10 metre David tries to oust 160
metre's Goliath with the ARRL 10 Metre Contest and that, from the point of
view of most of this broadcast's audience, is that for the 2003 contest
scene. Save for one little thing..
The contester's final hurrah each year is a big one on the local calendar.
Each week we've reminded you about it on the last few broadcasts, with a
rules overview and so on already served up. So I probably don't need to
remind you, do I? VHF amateur enthusiasts in this country can't wait for
Christmas Day to be behind us, for Boxing Day, December 26, brings a
17-day trial, the Ross Hull VHF Contest.
Of course, the weekend of December 27 and 28 is also set aside for those who
really wouldn't devote too much time for VHF of any kind, as both the
Original QRP Contest for CW and the Stew Perry 160 Metre Distance Challenge
also for CW, excite HF operators right around the world.
Listening to some of these old CW pros hard at work seems such an
appropriate way for amateur radio to take the next big step in its evolution.
The end of the year, Eastern Daylight Savings Time midnight on December 31,
ushers in a code-free licence presence for ALL Australian amateur operators
on the HF spectrum.
Hop in on the HF bands from your place on January 1, 2004, or if you're an
AOLCP or Novice Limited without HF gear, visit a mate with the gear and your
call on the air. And I bet there will be more indignant CW operation on
January 1 than in ages.
January 10 - 11 hosts the VHF + SUMMER FIELD DAY, while January 11, of
course, also marks the end of the mammoth Ross Hull.
Now wind it way forward to February 28 and 29 for the NZART's Jock White
Memorial Field Day Contest. Aussies get their own back on March 19 to 21,
for the John Moyle Field Day
Then note April 25 for the Harry Angel Memorial Sprint, a fun 106-minute 80
metre scramble which honours WW1 Veteran Harry Angel, VK4HA, at the time of
becoming a SK, was the world's oldest amateur at age 106!
The Council of Europe Radio Amateur Club, has launched a new competition
open to all radio amateurs. This, to commemorate the 18th anniversary of
its establishment in June 1986. The challenge involves sending a list of all
contacts made with their club station TP2CE using its various special
prefixes before the end of June 2004.
Now finally, some DX and net advice
The Central Coast Amateur Radio Club just north of Sydney, NSW, hosts its
Bellbird Net each Tuesday night from 1900 to 2000 hours local eastern time.
The operating frequency is 3567 kHz ñ QRM.
Net controllers are Franklyn VK2DYP, Don VK2KJX, Hugh, VK2DHI and Ivan,
VK2ARI.
All amateurs are invited to join in, even more so after January 1, and all
are most welcome.
Right, and thanks to the CCARC for sending that item to QNews
Next, we hear that K5LB has announced that he'll be going to Swaziland next
March and is looking for several operators to tag along, quite possibly as
lion food seeing his plans include a trip through the Kruger Game Park.
If you're interested and consider yourself a tasty morsel, contact
qnews@wia.org.au and we'll forward your mail.
Now, also in March, 2004 you can look for and work our own sand monster,
Fraser Island. The call sign will be VK4FRI operated by the Lockyer Valley
Radio & Electronic Club. Further information from President John VK4MJC.
Oh, just one quick final final!
It's been pointed out several times by miffed club members that one or two
clubs seem to get the lion's share of `awards air-time' on QNews.
And yes, it's true. Let's just say the if you are proud of your club and
its on-air activities, perhaps you might acknowledge our fading mind reading
skills, and simply E-mail the details to qnews@wia.org.au
But please do make sure it's not just the same Email sent off week after
week!
We'll look forward to all those E-mails, and catch you again next week.
Good contesting and good DX all from Chris Edmondson, VK4AA and VK3CE.
NOW THE WW SPECIAL INTEREST ZONE WITH FELIX VK4FUQ
With the Region 3 ARDF championship finishing this week, news to hand that
USA club "The Santa Barbara Amateur Radio Club" will host the
2004 USA Amateur Radio Direction Finding Championships, this the
fourth annual USA ARDF event will be held next June in California.
"Radio-orienteers from all over the country plus visitors from abroad are
expected to attend. The competitive courses are open to anyone of any age
from any country, with or without an Amateur Radio license."
Information about transmitter hunting and US ARDF activities on
www.homingin.com
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- DIGITAL
Hi from Brian VK4BBS
Before I start I am not a new on the block "Whiz Kid" with all the technical
know how and jargon I came up the hard way starting with absolutely no
electronic knowledge having to study and sit for essay type exams and 10wpm
CW.
I must add here that I am also 100% for the dropping of CW and other licence
changes anything that encourages and brings new blood into our hobby I am
100% for it.
I got into the "Digital Modes" way back in the 70s starting by
rebroadcasting the WIA and VK4 News on RTTY firstly typing in on to paper
tape and transmitting on HF with the use of a Model 15 teleprinter, I
progressed from there still on RTTY to a Commodore 16k Pet I actually used
to connect to the ARRL in USA with the Commodore Pet with the grand speed of
a 300 baud via a acoustic coupled modem over the phone to get snippets of
news not available here.
Satellites and Packet for me came along about the same time and I grabbed
them with open arms ending up running the VK4BBS Packet BBS station for some
13 years, this station still runs under the VK4WIE callsign looked after now
by the City of Brisbane Radio Society SysOp Ari VK4PKT, to this I added the
first HF Packet gateway out of VK to USA and also into Asia (AsiaNet) along
came the digital satellites and I added the first VK Satellite gateway HF
packet went to PSK but slowly disappeared and about the time that I passed
the BBS over to the CBRS satellite gateways were on the way out and
Wormholes were on the way in.
Why tell you all this really only to let you know that whilst not so much on
the technical side I have had considerable experience on the operational
side of RF digital communications during this time I have made many errors
in fact it all has been " flying by the seat of my pants" all trial and
error but what an exciting and fun time have I had doing just that and what
a thrill it was when things all panned out and worked correctly but is sure
was not without a lot of trial and error, APRS has been the same.
HF Packet is different, Really different to VHF APRS.
HF Packet is different, Really different to VHF APRS. [Its 4 times slower!
and only 25% of the capacity of your local LAN.]
With the changes in licensing about to take place and reading the grape vine
I imagine that there are those, hope they do, currently on VHF APRS who will
hopefully want to give HF APRS a go. Whilst I personally look forward to
seeing you there in the near future I should make you aware the HF APRS is
vastly different to VHF.
Looking at your map and seeing stations move about I doubt if you will
really recognise these differences for after all for a station Monitoring on
HF, VHF or via an Internet Gateway the results are virtually the same but
actually operating is vastly different.
1. On HF a beacon at either 15 or 30 minute intervals is all your will hear
of a HF APRS Gateway.
2. The HF Gateway does NOT digipeat on HF it may though do so on either or
both VHF or an Internet Gateway.
3. HF gateways gate traffic to VHF and internet but there should NOT be
traffic the other way round, ie VHF and internet to HF.
4. You can NOT connect to a HF Gateway whilst some VHF gateways allow this.
5. Your beacon should NOT contain Speed and Height etc just the very basic
location no more.
6. You do NOT use 1200 baud on HF your use the slower 300 baud.
7. Your beacon should NOT be long, mine at 21 character takes almost 4
seconds to transmit when more stations get on I will reduce this even
further but it still will be around 3 seconds, bonuses of having a
shorter beacons on HF include having a far better chance of being heard
error free, it is only the error free beacons heard and passed on by the
HF gateway, and allows more stations to operate on HF at a similar time.
8. You can NOT ping, query, send messages or chat etc on HF you must go to
VHF or Internet to do this.
9. You generally can NOT track other stations, unless heard direct by you,
on HF again you should go to VHF etc to do so.
10. Try to NOT interfere other HF APRS stations with your beacons which is
hard due to HF Skip as you may not hear them..
11. You should NOT send Objects or the like on HF go to VHF or the net if
you must send objects NOT HF.
12. You MUST Net with a HF Gateway like VK3SB or VK4DMI if you don't you
will just NOT get heard.
13. Please use the recommend path of only GATE,WIDE when on HF especially if
you want to remain friends with the HF SysOps.
14. Above all you should think of others particularly on HF for if you
thought VHF a challenge you have NOT tried HF yet.
15. You do NOT really need a TNC for HF APRS just a tracking module like a
TigerTrak is all that is required.
Give HF APRS a try really needs a few more there and certainly another two
or three suitably place HF Gateways around VK/ZL would be most welcome, look
forward to hearing your beacons there.
Hope that the above gives some food for thought to those contemplating
operating on HF APRS.
(B C N U Brian VK4BBS Brisbane)
( From bbeamish@bigpond.net.au )
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
ARISS GEAR PASSES PREFLIGHT TEST
ARISS International Chairman Frank Bauer, KA3HDO, reports that he and
other members of the USA team just returned from Russia where we they
were supporting a series of meetings and tests at the Energia facility.
According to Bauer, the primary reason for the US team visit was to
complete the testing of the Phase 1 Ericsson 2 meter and 70 cm
radios, along with the Phase 2 Kenwood D 700 radio system using a set
of flight identical ARISS antenna systems.
The tests were performed in the KIS facility at Energia that houses
all their flight equipment. Inside the KIS is a flight equivalent
Service Module. The good news is that the group not only
successfully completed the end-to-end testing of the Kenwood and
Ericsson radio systems but the SSTV system as well.
The successful completion of these end-to-end tests was a requirement
by the Russian team. This, to clear these radio systems for use in
the on-orbit Service Module.
(Amateur Radio Newsline/Norm Seeley, KI7UP)
Jose Jacob, VU-2-JOS via the VU-Hams reflector points us to a great
locator for the International Space Station. The URL, on the standard
www.wia.org.au/vk4 site then click the RED newsroom link to read
this weeks bulletin of news and information.
http://science.nasa.gov/temp/StationLoc.html
AO-40 now is in "hibernation mode" approximately for four weeks.
This is done twice a year to keep the satellite healthy.
Although the satellite's passbands are off its beacon remains on and
FEC telemetry is active whenever possible.
According to AO-40 ground controller Stacy Mills, W4SM, the passbands
should be back on in time for the Christmas holiday.
(sourced to arrl letter)
WORLD WIDE SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- HFPACK
http://www.hfpack.com
HFpack caters for portable type operations,
HFpack WORLDWIDE SATURDAY SUNDAY
UTC FREQ
HFpack Short Frequency List.
================================
==kHz==MODE==LOCATION===PURPOSE
================================
_3587.5 LSB (Region 1 & 3 Night Primary)
_3997.5 LSB (North America)
_3996.0 USB (North America)
_5371.5 USB (USA Night Primary)
_5403.5 USB (USA/UK)
_7087.5 LSB (Region 1 & 3 Regional)
_7160.0 USB (North America)
_7242.5 LSB (North America Regional)
_7296.0 USB (North America)
10120.0 USB (VK/ZL Day Regional)
10137.5 CW (Worldwide)
14342.5 USB (Worldwide) Day ALTERNATE
18152.5 USB (Worldwide) QSY "B"
18157.5 USB (Worldwide) Day PRIMARY
18158.2 CW (Worldwide)
18162.5 USB (Worldwide) QSY "A"
21437.5 USB (Worldwide)
24977.5 USB (Worldwide)
28327.5 USB (Worldwide)
================================
Above frequencies are commonly used.
A more complete frequency list is available on the HFpack website:
http://www.hfpack.com
HFpack is three years old.
To think, three years ago KQ6XA Bonnie wondered if there might be 25 ]
other hams in the world who were interested in HF Portable.
A QSO between two portable operators was rare back then.
The term "Pedestrian Mobile" was unheard of, and it was a lonely endeavor
practiced only by a few isolated experimenters.
To everyone who participates in HFpack activities... on the air,
with the egroups, at the hamfests, and events... to those who share
enthusiasm and knowledge through writing... who encourage others by
example and operating... and to the co-moderators...
thank you for making HFpack a continued success!
(73---Bonnie KQ6XA HFpack Founder)
SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- RADIO SCOUTING
TeleText page 958
http://www.scouts.com.au/discover/index.html
http://www.scout.org/jota
Calling all Amateur Operators
Australian Scout Jamboree 2004 at Woodhouse, Adelaide.
5th - 15th January 2004.
The Australian Jamboree is on again in Adelaide, January 2004.
Expected are thousands of scouts from Australia and overseas
participating in this Grand 10 day Event.
So if you are interested in being apart of the fun and excitement at the
Australian Jamboree 2004 and help out at the JOTA Station please contact
Lea Adcock, JOTA Manager, Australian Jamboree 2004
Ph: (08) 8381 5909
Lea.Adcock@senet.com.au
THE QNEWS WORK BENCH - the nuts and volts report
(Measure twice - Cut once!)
Transistors from DNA and Carbon Nano-Tubes
Peter VK1KEP says Scientists at the Israel Institute of Technology, have
harnessed the power of DNA to create a self-assembling nanoscale transistor.
Erez Braun, associate professor says science has been intrigued with the
idea of using biology to build electronic transistors that assemble without
human manipulation. To get the transistors to self assemble, they
attached a carbon nanotube onto a specific site on a DNA strand, and then
made metal nanowires out of DNA molecules at each end of the nanotube.
The device is a transistor that can be switched on and off by applying
voltage to it.
In computing technology, as scientists reach the limits of working
with silicon, carbon nanotubes are widely recognized as the next step in
squeezing an increasing number of transistors onto a chip.
See the full article at http://www.ats.org/
Reporter: Peter Ellis VK1KEP
FEEDBACK TO THE Q
QNEWS Radio News Service
Clubs and individuals are strongly encouraged to submit items for inclusion
in the Q.
The news service relies on your input. If you or your club have recently
participated in some radio related activity or made a notable achievement
please submit your details to qnews@wia.org.au
Remember, day-to-day information such as dates of upcoming meetings or
events, club contact details etc. are also welcome.
We do have just 40 minutes or so for the Q audio, you send it we'll
do our best to get it on!
HISTORY FROM THE SUMMERLAND ARC ARCHIVES
1890 First electrified underground railway opened in London.
1893 Tesla patents radio controlled vehicle.
1895 Roentgen discovers x-rays.
1896 Sestier and Barnett film the Melbourne Cup, the first famous film
made in Australia.
1897 Marconi transmits ship to shore 18 miles.
1899 First US radio company incorporated in Prescott, Arizona.
1906 International Wireless Telegraph Convention, Berlin.
1922 2SB (later 2BL) was first OZ commercial station to go to air.
1927 Traegar shows RFDS radio Cloncurry, far western Queensland for
Melbourne Cup Day.
IN THE NEWS THIS WEEK:-
NATIONAL NEWS
Some Housekeeping first of all this week....
Gift draw for WIA Welcome to HF QSO Party
"The use of the AX prefix by all VK amateurs is approved
EDUCATION YOUTH AND ADVANCEMENT OF AMATEUR RADIO PRESENTED BY VK4CO
INTRUDER WATCH - ENFORCEMENT ZONE - PRESENTED BY VK2UW CHRIS WRIGHT
WICEN/RESCUE RADIO INTERNATIONAL WITH ROBERT VK3KRB
QNEWS "States of our Nation."
VK2
VK3
VK4
VK5
VK8
INTERNATIONAL
JAPAN
WEIRD AND WONDERFUL
VK7 JOINS THE 3rd WORLD
VK4 SILENT KEYS @ 2003 - 2004 WIAQ COUNCIL YEAR
*VK4NL Noel Lawton November 27th 2003 (advised by VK4NPF)
CLUB ACTIVITY WITH BRIAN COLEMAN VK4LH IN MACKAY
BARC
GOLD COAST AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY
SUMMERLAND
TOWNSVILLE
MAJOR GATHERINGS IN VK4 FOOTPRINT
WIA EXAMINATIONS IN VK4
VK4 AMATEURS WHO ARE JP's
Chris VK4AA reads each weeks event time table for 2003-4
DX and net advice
WW SPECIAL INTEREST ZONE WITH FELIX VK4FUQ
WW SIG - ARDF
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- DIGITAL
WW SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- FINAL FRONTIER
WORLD WIDE SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- HFPACK
SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS --- RADIO SCOUTING
THE QNEWS WORK BENCH - the nuts and volts report
Transistors from DNA and Carbon Nano-Tubes
FEEDBACK TO THE Q
QNEWS Radio News Service
HISTORY FROM THE SUMMERLAND ARC ARCHIVES
***************************
QNEWS - we've reported...YOU decide.
QNEWS thanks YOU for entrusting us to bring you VK's authoritative Ham News
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.
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