Blog

26Mar 2023 by VK2FR No Comments
VK1 Tango Xray, Tex: A True Gentleman & Radio Amateur

VK1 Tango Xray, Tex: A True Gentleman & Radio Amateur

News
It is with great sadness to inform a great man and amateur VK1TX tex has passed away peacefully after a short battle with liver cancer. I've not been licensed half the time Texx had been on air but I remember meeting him at a Wyong dinner some 20 odd years ago alongside many other amateurs including Chris VK2SR and every year after that at the Wyong Amateur Radio Field Day. Tex was a true gentleman. He had the time for everybody. He was a kind man, a great radio amateur and travelled to all corners of the globe meeting many of the hams he spoke to daily. He was also a net controller on the long running Australian, New Zealand and Africa DX Net which is run daily on 20…
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03Mar 2023 by VK2FR No Comments
Solar Cycle Update

Solar Cycle Update

News
February was another strong month for Solar Cycle 25. According to NOAA, the average sunspot number was among the highest of the past 10 years. Originally, forecasters thought Solar Cycle 25 would be about the same as Solar Cycle 24, one of the weakest solar cycles in a century. February's sunspot numbers are the latest sign that Solar Cycle 25 will exceed predictions. In fact, Solar Cycle 25 has outperformed the official forecast for more than 24 months in a row. Solar Maximum is not expected until 2024 or 2025, so the solar cycle has plenty of time to strengthen even more, bringing X-flares, geomagnetic storms and auroras.
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20Feb 2023 by VK2FR No Comments
VK & 10 Metre Calling Frequency Culture The Unwritten Rules of VK & 10 Metre Calling Frequency

VK & 10 Metre Calling Frequency Culture The Unwritten Rules of VK & 10 Metre Calling Frequency

News, Ramblings
In recent years, months and even days a heated debate has been taking place on online forums within the Australian amateur radio community. Many VK operators have been accused of abusive behavior and ridicule, leading to a contentious discussion about the use of 28.490 as a calling frequency. In this blog post, I delve into the issue, exploring its impact on the larger amateur radio culture in Australia and considering potential solutions for fostering a more positive and respectful community worldwide. There has been an ongoing debate among amateur radio operators regarding the use of 28.490 as a calling frequency, with some operators claiming it to be internationally or domestically recognized as such. However, it's important to note that, as amateurs, we use various bands of frequencies, some wider than…
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18Feb 2023 by VK2FR No Comments
Reviews: DX COVERS

Reviews: DX COVERS

Product Reviews
I'm excited to say that after a few COVID-induced delays, I finally received the SunSDR2 DX cover I ordered from Prism Embroidery in the UK. I'm someone who likes to take good care of my gear, whether I'm traveling or just going to work, so it was important for me to find a high-quality cover to protect my equipment. I live in Australia, and our harsh environment means I need to be extra careful, especially since the humidity can get quite high. I was impressed by the customer service at Prism Embroidery. Tracie was very communicative throughout the whole process, and I really appreciated that. When I finally received the cover, I was not disappointed. It was well-made, with a felt lining and logo embroidery on the front, and an…
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08Feb 2023 by VK2FR 6 Comments
3Y0J Bouvet Island and the misconduct of licensed amateurs

3Y0J Bouvet Island and the misconduct of licensed amateurs

Ramblings
Bouvet Island, located in the South Atlantic Ocean, is one of the world's most remote and inaccessible islands. This subantarctic volcanic island is covered by 93% glaciers and is prone to harsh weather conditions such as strong winds, heavy rains, and towering seas. Despite the challenges, Bouvet Island remains highly sought-after by amateur radio enthusiasts, being ranked as the second most wanted DXCC entity on Club Log's list, just after P5 (DPRK North Korea). The recent DXPedition to Bouvet Island has sparked excitement and anticipation among the hobby community, showcasing the adventurous spirit and determination of the hams involved. It is a testament to the passion and dedication of amateur radio and the desire to explore and connect with new entities. I am sure that this DXPedition will be a…
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04Feb 2023 by VK2FR No Comments
Sunspot Counts Hit a 9-Year High

Sunspot Counts Hit a 9-Year High

News
In a continued sign of strength for Solar Cycle 25, sunspot counts just hit a 9-year high. The monthly sunspot number of 144 in January 2023 was only percentage points away from topping the previous solar cycle, Solar Cycle 24, which peaked in Feb. 2014 with a monthly value of 146. Originally, forecasters thought Solar Cycle 25 would be about the same as Solar Cycle 24, one of the weakest solar cycles in a century. Current trends suggest Solar Cycle 25 will surpass that low threshold, at least. Solar Maximum is not expected until 2024 or 2025, so it has plenty of time to strengthen further, perhaps far exceeding Solar Cycle 24. Article from SpaceWeather.com
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