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Highest Sunspot Number in 20 years: Monitor the high bands.

Highest Sunspot Number in 20 years: Monitor the high bands.

News, Solar Weather
The Earthside of the sun just hit its highest sunspot number (299) in more than 20 years. The farside sunspot count might be even higher. Helioseismic maps of the farside of the sun reveal vast areas of potential sunspot activity: The black blobs are sunspots so large they effect the way the whole sun vibrates. NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory can measure the vibrations, allowing helioseismologists to pinpoint farside sunspot groups even though they are invisible from Earth. Farside activity visible in today's map is among the most widespread of Solar Cycle 25. Article from spaceweather.com
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Antenna Maintenance 2024

Antenna Maintenance 2024

News
After nearly three years in the air, it was time for some maintenance on the powerhouse that defines VK2FR's station: the 14-element Force 12 XR3NV antenna. This task was no small endeavor. With relentless winds howling at a steady 40kmph in the remote countryside of the Hunter Valley, it felt like hours before we could even begin. Finally, the antenna was over, and we could start splitting the boom to replace deteriorated guys and realign the elements and boom, which had somehow shifted out of place due to the extreme weather conditions typical of VK2FR. In the image below, you can see my good friend VK2CR doing what he does best :-)
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XU7AME Cambodia & CQWW Contest

XU7AME Cambodia & CQWW Contest

News
From DX-World Jaye, VK2SD has been on holiday in Cambodia since October 11 and is now active for the next 6 days as XU7AME mainly on 10m – keep an eye on 28.485Mhz. Jaye says: Most activity will be on 10m band using 2 element delta-loop antenna. Also have an MFJ 2289 BigEar portable antenna 40m through to 6m. Using FT891, 100 watts. I will only confirm the contact via eQSL – No direct cards. If any proofs are required I can email pictures of documents upon entering the country. I have obtained my Cambodian Ham Radio licence with the Telecommunications Regulator Cambodia (TRC) permitting me to TX on all bands.
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Echoes of the Outback: Love’s Resilience – The Telegraph Track’s Ham Radio Miracle in North Queensland, Australia

Echoes of the Outback: Love’s Resilience – The Telegraph Track’s Ham Radio Miracle in North Queensland, Australia

News
The Telegraph Track is an iconic off-road adventure route located in the captivating wilderness of North Queensland's Cape York Peninsula, Australia. This legendary track stretches approximately 350-400 kilometers from Bramwell Junction to the Jardine River, offering intrepid travelers a challenging and exhilarating journey. Rich in historical significance, the track once served as a vital lifeline, connecting remote regions through the Overland Telegraph Line. Today, it entices 4x4 enthusiasts and adventurers with its rugged charm, presenting steep ascents, daring river crossings, and renowned obstacles like Gunshot Creek, Palm Creek, and Logans Creek. Amidst the untamed beauty, those venturing on this path find themselves embracing self-sufficiency and preparation, fully immersing in the thrill of exploration and forging unforgettable memories in one of Australia's most sought-after tracks. Not only does it present unspoiled…
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What is happening to amateur radio?

What is happening to amateur radio?

Ramblings
I've been involved in amateur radio for about 20 years now, having obtained my license over 20 years ago. Prior to that, my interest in radio began with citizen band communication, where I discovered my passion for this hobby. Throughout the years, I've witnessed acts of terror, pandemics, corruption, wars, and various forms of utter stupidity. It makes me question whether the world has completely lost its sanity. When I initially received my license in the early 2000s, there was a strong emphasis on operating skills, displaying courtesy on the airwaves, and understanding the fundamental principles of radio operation. However, I'm not certain whether the recent pandemic has caused an influx of foolishness on the airwaves, if people are merely bored, or if they have become too engrossed in FT8…
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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 Tex 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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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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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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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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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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