VK2FR

Australian Amateur Radio Station

Category: Ramblings

  • By - VK2FR
  • Posted on

Looking Back on the Year on the Bands

As the year draws to a close, it feels like the right time to pause, look back, and reflect on another chapter of radio adventures. Like many of us in the hobby, this year has been a mix of great propagation days, frustrating band conditions, technical challenges, learning moments, and those rewarding contacts that remind
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Silence Between Contests: The Changing Sound of Amateur Radio

It’s becoming increasingly clear that the amateur radio bands only seem to come alive when there’s a contest on. Have our daily lives become so busy that contest weekends are the only time we can squeeze in a quick DX fix? Or are newer hams simply more comfortable giving a 5/9 report than having a
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  • By - VK2FR
  • Posted on

Where did 2024 go? Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

It’s hard to believe we’re already into the second week of 2025—2024 flew by so quickly! As we move deeper into this year, we’re approaching Solar Maximum, so make sure you grab your PTT and start calling CQ on the higher bands. The bands are open, but it seems like there’s a lack of activity.
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What is happening to amateur radio?

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
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3Y0J Bouvet Island and the misconduct of licensed amateurs

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,
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