Branch 50 (Wellington) NZART – Known as the Wellington Amateur Radio Club
On 20 August, from 1pm to 3pm, the Special Interest Group for DMR and Hotspots met at Mike ZL1AXG QTH.
This was an opportunity to share knowledge about DMR Hotspots. Zane ZL1CZ gave a brief talk, and Mike ZL1AXG demonstrated his 3 hotspots. One was receiving Brandmeister TG91 and the other ZL TRBO on the DMR+ network.
We held our August meeting at The Collective Community Hub on 15 August.
George ZL2AG provided a descriptive account of his trips (x3) to Antarctica and Sub-Antarctic Islands with former partner. This was in his “heroic period” (about 20 years ago).
Travel was via a Russian vessel. He described the challneges of venturing out of the “roaring 40s” and down into the “screaming 60’s” before arriving at the “serene 70s” where the sea’s surface was like a mirror. His first adventure was somewhat disappointing as the ship was unable to enter and berth in McMurdo Sound due to the breakdown of the icebreaker that was scheduled to precede their arrival. However, this was achieved on the second adventure. A third adventure didn’t proceed past the sub-antarctic islands. The focus was on seeing the flowers earlier in the Southern spring.
The passengers had pretty much a free roam of the ship, including the bridge. George took pictures of the radio equipment on board and circulated to members. This was of various origins, including Russia and Far East (Samyang).
George also revealed that he had a large collection of Russian light bulbs, accumulated due to a mis-understanding with one of the ship’s crew. The light went out in the enclosed shower while George was trying to get clean. He thought it would be interesting to acquire the expended bulb, but the ship’s maintenance worker misunderstood and kept on leaving more working samples in his cabin! He brought in several bulbs for members to inspect. It was agreed that the collection should be photographed for the website (Mike ZL1AXG to action).
John ZL2XJ showed a series of photos on the large TV from a visit to the Gothenburg Radio Museum in Sweden that he visited during his recent visit to Europe. This included a range of vintage radios and a working ham shack.
Malcolm ZL2UDF showed parts of a video produced by TX Factor (episode 28 sponsored by the RSGB) that included a report on the new iCOM IC905 VHF/UHF/SHF transceiver that works up to 10 GHz, as well as an interesting visit to a 250 Kw shortwave broadcasting station in the UK.
On 6 August 2023 from 1pm to 3pm we held a special workshop on HF transceivers and HF antennas at The Collective Hub in Johnsonville. This workshop was aimed particularly at new amateur operators graduating from our July HamCram. Around 20 people attended.
This event provides the opportunity to look over (and take away) pre-owned equipment (i.e. junk) of interest to new and older members, and for those who have just gained their callsigns it is a chance to get some more information on VHF/UHF transceiver options, view an HF station, and get some practical questions answered.
All Branch 50 members are invited to attend as well as those who have recently gained a callsign through the April and July HamCrams.
For old timers, this is an opportunity to fossick through some “new” junk, and to meet our newest members. For new members, this is an opportunity to check out some potential HF transceivers and find out a bit more about VHF/UHF transceiver options.
The venue is Bernard ZL2BD’s QTH, 1 Winsley Tce, Churton Park. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available at the conclusion of the workshop.