Broadcast - 22 August 2021
Our previous Tech Night, Wednesday 11th August, was on the eve of the RD Contest Weekend, so it was only fitting to have a presentation centred on the management of logs and making sure your logs are submitted correctly, so we hand over to President Idris VK7ZIR for that update;
“Our presenter was Peter VK7PD, a keen contester in Tasmanian amateur radio circles and he had prepared a PowerPoint slide show displayed on our large screen TV. This was extremely informative and covered all aspects of the RD contest including the Rules and bands involved. Peter added his own tips and techniques to make contesting life easier and explained the process of “band dancing”. Following on from Peter, Lewis VK7IT took us through the downloading and installation of VKCL a popular logging application which generated the correct Cabrillo format for sending off log submissions. Peter then took us through the actual entering of QSOs into the application, pointing out the traps and pitfalls one might encounter. Andrew VK7DW added his own experiences and encouraged the timely submitting of logs to give VK7 the best chance in the contest. Here’s hoping for another win!
The evening was rounded off with supper and discussion of the coming event.
73, Idris VK7ZIR”
Following on, an update from Peter VK7PD re the RD Contest and he tells us;
“As most listeners would know, last weekend saw the annual Remembrance Day Contest, Australia’s most significant amateur radio event. It commemorates those radio amateurs who lost their lives in WW2, this is done by making as many radio contacts as possible between operators in VK, P29 and ZL.
As of Friday night, in the north of VK7, 10 logs had been submitted, 6 from the north-west and a whopping 29 from the south. It looks like at least in some parts of the state they were punching above their weight once again.
Locally, VK7KPC operated QRP including some RTTY contacts. VK7DW, VK7LH and VK7PD formed a team called “Grassy Hut Hams” they ‘band danced’ local and some interstate contacts, which included RTTY on 10 bands for DW and PD, while LH ran up a fine score of HF contacts. All 3 sat up until 2am Sunday and resumed operation at 8am.
Indications are that Catherine, VK7GH did her usual late night vigil.
It’s hoped that next year there will be more participation in the norther half. A bit more local competition might keep some of us on our toes HI HI!!!”
Thanks to all those who joined in.
73, Peter VK7PD”
Thanks Idris and Peter. I trust everyone participating enjoyed the RD Contest. Your scribe definitely enjoyed the respite from producing, or should that be fabricating? a weekly news segment This is the one time of the year I can have a lay day. Also, if you did take part, please don’t forget to submit your log, no matter how few contacts you may have had. VK7 now has a healthy record of winning the event, not something we should surrender lightly.
Last Saturday NTARC held its August general meeting and considering it was the RD weekend we had an extremely good attendance. Parking at the club room was at a premium as the Rocherlea Football Club was playing at home and so all spots in front of the club room were taken. The meeting commenced at 14:10 and the agenda was worked through in an efficient but non-rushed manner. Lots of question from the floor on a range of topics, which is always great to see. The meeting was finalised by 15:15 hours and then afternoon tea was enjoyed by all. Members lingered on, enjoying the afternoon with a number not departing until close to 5.00pm.
Just a reminder though to all attending the club rooms that we have the Check in TAS app at our club rooms. By registering and using the Check in TAS app we are complying with the Public Health Directions by enabling our members to self – check in at the club room.
This information is stored with the Tasmanian Government for contract tracing if required. The QR code is up and running for members to utilize, with the QR code poster at the sign in table. Members are still able to register their attendance at the club by signing in manually in the attendance book if you are unable or you choose not to register using the Check in TAS app. Please note though that you must use one of those two methods. You do not have an option of not registering. That is a matter of law.
UPCOMING EVENTS
TECH NIGHT – Wednesday 25th August at the NTARC Club rooms, 19:30 hours until whenever.
SLOW MORSE COURSE – Wednesday 25th August. Your host and teacher is Nic VK7WW. Frequencies and times are the same as were used by Nic for the previous TestNet and TechNet. And if you have forgotten what they were, here they are, 1900 hrs to 1930 hrs on 3.580 MHz and then at 1930hours through to about 2030 on 3.567MHz.
So why not tune in and give it a try. For those who may want some extra help, this website is reported as being very good. www.morsecodeclassnet.com
FUTURE EVENTS
Equine event – Saturday 28th August, North East Equine Endurance Club, Jolly Lette Memorial ride, Santarena Park, Scottsdale. Plenty of warning to help out on this ride. NTARC will be providing support for 80, 40 and 20 rides.
COFFEE MORNINGS – currently held every Friday in the NTARC Club rooms. Catch up time is from 10.00 am to noon and we look forward to seeing you all.
These coffee events represent a good opportunity to collect your QSL cards. We currently have cards awaiting collection, so why not pop in and check the QSL box and join us for a cuppa and chat.
Just a friendly reminder, please demonstrate your appreciation of all the effort that goes into operating the club, its facilities and the other services we provide, especially in these abnormal and very trying times, enjoying the company, coffee, biscuits and cake, by leaving a gold coin or two, or even a small bank note, in the jar to assist in our on-going operations.
FINALLY – A reminder to all members that if you have any items of news you would like added to our weekly roundup, no matter how trivial, then please email me at the following address news@ntarc.net all items to be received no later than 17:00 on the Friday prior to the Broadcast.
Your continued cooperation in this regard will be greatly appreciated.
We will bring you all such contributions next Sunday morning.
73, Yvonne VK7FYMX, Secretary NTARC Inc
