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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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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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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