For Security/Privacy Protection - no selcall numbers are printed in this newsletter.
They are all on your Selcall list.

The H F Radio Club is proud to have the following businesses advertise
in this issue of the News Across the Airwaves

Australian Motorhomes
Barrett Communications editorial
Barrett Communications advertisement
Codan
Ken Tame and Associates Insurance

President: Ray Lawson – “PegRay”

Your Committee and I would like to thank all the members who attended the HF Radio Expo at Casino Village in April. We had a great roll-up and Casino Village is a great venue. The Expo is a great opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about HF Radios and the use of our Telephone Interconnect (TIC).

We would also like to give special thanks to the companies who supported the Expo by attending and giving lectures on their equipment. These were well attended and much was learnt about their equipment and its uses.

As I mentioned in the last Newsletter, Peg and I will be attending all the Club “Get-Togethers” this year, in Eastern Australia. We had a great roll up at Majors Creek. So please, look at your calendar (page20)  for the outings in this Newsletter. Note where and when we are having them and if at all possible, mark them on your diary and come along. We can have a talk and help you to learn how to operate your radios to get the best out of them with the Club. Now for the Big Request! We would like to have more “Get-Togethers” around Australia. If you are interested in organizing a gathering, we would like to hear from you. Please Contact Secretary Ron and he will help you with a mailing list of your area and give you information which the Club requires from you and what you need to do to make a success of the Get-Together. We’ll see you there!

I would like to let you all know that the HF Radio Club Inc. is a Club in its own right and is not part of CMCA Ltd. We are only listed with them as an HF Radio Network, because over many years I have done Radios Seminars at the rallies, to help the Club get new members. I am pleased to be able to say I have had great success in this area.

My next subject is for all our members, to be on the look out for new members. If you see an aerial on a vehicle, please have a talk to the owners and tell them how our “Friendly Club” would welcome them. Give them a pamphlet (with an application form) and encourage them to join. You could have a friend for ever.

Keeping in contact with our Base Station for Emergencies and Position Reports, is very important, as is knowing, that they can contact you if your family has an urgent message for you.

If you need any help, in any way, especially with your radio, just contact any one of our Committee members. They are always ready to help; use the phone numbers from page 2.                            Ray Lawson

HF RADIO CLUB INC
Minutes of Annual General Meeting held at Casino Village
29th April 2007

1.  The meeting opened at 9.50 a.m.

2.  There were 129 members present at the meeting.

Apologies were received from Neil and Beverley Teys; Gary and Pam Tustian; Terry Gillam.

Proxy details were given for  Bill and Heather Caldicott (Ray Lawson)

The minutes of the previous Annual General Meeting (22.4.06) were read. Moved Heather Newport. Seconded David Waterhouse, that they be accepted. Carried

Business arising from the minutes:-

A clarification was requested for the difference between an Audit and a Financial statement as it applied to the Club. It was explained that the Club was not really large enough to warrant having an expensive audit (approx. $7 per member). A special financial statement, checked by an Accountant, would cover the needs of this Club.

Reports were presented by:-

President: (given verbally) the main thrust of this report, was for members to “keep up the good work”. Secretary: (See attached sheet) Moved Denny Sharpe. Seconded Bazza Muggleton that it be accepted; carried.

Treasurer: (See attached sheets) Moved Heather Newport. Seconded Neville Cavanagh that it be accepted; carried.

The Returning Officer reported on the election of the new Committee. The new Committee now comprises:-

                 President:                    Ray Lawson
                 Vice President:            Barry (Bazza) Muggleton
                 Secretary:                    Ron Hanley
                 Treasurer:                    Denise Ryan
                 Committee Members:  Bob Locking, Denny Sharpe, Roy Watkins.

Appointment of an accountant - It was moved Blair Dixon, seconded Ken Billings, that Paul Mulherin be appointed, to provide a financial statement for 2008; carried

General Business:-

• A vote of thanks was made and carried by acclamation, to John and Heather Newport for their work on the Club Newsletter.
• The anonymous donation, of 45%, towards the cost of the purchase of a computer, for use in the production of the newsletter, was also acknowledged.
• Unfinancial members are listed at the end of our “Selcall List”. Members were asked to alert the Secretary, regarding anyone using the channels illegally.
• The outgoing Committee members, Campbell Cripps Clark, John Swift, John Ebsary and Stan Ashlin were thanked for their efforts and contributions to the Club.

The meeting closed at 10.20 a.m.

Reports Tabled at the Annual General Meeting 29/04/2007
Secretary’s Report

Following is a summary of the current membership information:-
            Full Membership = 360 which means we have 665 voting members
            Associate Membership = 6
            Honorary Membership = 6
            Resignations for 2006/7 = 17
            Unfinancial Members, who have now been deleted = 7

Correspondence:-
As usual, this mainly comprises new membership and membership renewals, emails regarding general Club business, Committee interaction, membership enquiries, cards of sympathy and get well to our members etc

Correspondence of note:-
Thank you letter from Casino Village for the work done by Club members, at the Bush Camp site.

Invitation from Amby Hotel (Warrego Hwy, 60kms west of Roma) for free camping (including showers, power, pets allowed, unlimited staying time) for any user, not just motorhomers.

Offer by Codan of free membership for 1 year (TIC not included) with the purchase of a New Codan Radio (NGT AR Voice Venturer Mobile package) with GPS option.

Doctor Byrnes has been contacted by phone, re the Club paying his ACMA fees and retaining the frequencies. His initial response was positive, but we are awaiting a reply.

Thank-you letter to Albatross Radio Club for the donation of their electric stapler.

Thank-you letter to Brian Kelleher for organising the Elmore get together

Letter to Casino Village re the TIC phone account, requesting that it be transferred to our Club account.

The most important events during 2006/2007 have been the numerous Get-Togethers, which the Club supports wholeheartedly. They are being organized right across the country by our members and have become very popular. They are also covered by our insurance policy, if notification is made to the Secretary before the event.

The Western Australian Base is continuing to go ahead and now has 2 scheduled “Sked” time slots, morning and evening; thanks to Merv Brough and our new Committee member Roy Watkins.

Another special thank you must go to Denise Ryan, for taking over as Acting Treasurer. She has organised our finances onto an MYOB system. Using this system means having very efficient control of monies, both in and out. The TIC system has also been made more manageable.

Membership fees will remain the same as for 2005/2006. However, the number of members with a second radio warranted a new set of special fee ratings for this dual membership. These will now be: - Joining Fee: nil; 1 Year: $40.00; 9 Months (commencing Oct 1st): $20.00; 6 Months (commencing Jan 1st): $10.00; 3 Months (commencing April 1st and then including the next year’s fees): $40.00. TIC (if required for the second radio) remains the same with a second $50.00 deposit. These “second radio” members will not receive an extra newsletter, nor will they have extra voting rights. However, they will receive “authority to transmit”, “sticker for aerial” and 1 “membership card” using the second Selcall number.

I would like to express a personal ‘thank you’ to Campbell Cripps Clark: firstly, for all the help given to me with the change of secretary and secondly, for taking on the role of Returning Officer for our recent Committee member election.                                                                                    
           Ron Hanley, Secretary.

Returning Officer’s Report of Elections

In accordance with the Club constitution, the positions of Vice-President, Secretary and the three Ordinary Committee Members became vacant this year.  In addition, the position of Treasurer (who was appointed by the Committee to fill a casual vacancy occurring since the previous A.G.M.) became vacant and an election was therefore required (Clause 14.4).

I am informed that only one nomination was received for each of the positions of Vice-President and Secretary and that three nominations were received for the position of Ordinary Committee Member; hence all those positions are filled unopposed.  Two nominations were received for Treasurer and a postal ballot has been completed.

I declare the elected office-bearers are:
            Vice-President:-                                Barry Muggleton
            Secretary:-                                         Ron Hanley
            Treasurer:-                                         Denise Ryan
            Ordinary Committee Members       Bob Locking,  Denny Sharpe, Roy Watkins

My congratulations to them all and my best wishes that, during their terms in office, they each have success and find fulfillment in performing the duties and responsibilities that they have undertaken on behalf of the members.

The result of the postal ballot was as follows:
Denise Ryan                                        221 votes
Freda Madden                                    42 votes
Informal Votes                                   28
Undistributed Ballot Papers            4

In total, 295 ballot papers were returned from 590 mailed out (to 317 memberships).  The Club should congratulate itself on exactly 50% of the eligible members voting, which is very high for any optional postal vote.  However, the number of informal votes is surprisingly high – a few were blank altogether and many were marked with an ‘X’, in spite of the statement on the ballot paper itself that any ‘X’ etc. will be considered informal!  The four undistributed ballot papers were not returned in the correct envelope (as sent out with the other election material) so were rejected on the grounds that they might not be bona fide.

Finally, I wish to record my thanks to Jenny Clark (independent scrutineer) and John Ebsary (scrutineer for one of the candidates) for their assistance in counting and checking the votes.

C.J.Cripps Clark, Returning Officer

Treasurer’s Financial Report – Separately

Minutes of General Meeting held at Casino Village 29th April 2007

1. The meeting opened at10.25 a.m.
2. There were 129 members present at the meeting; apologies were received from Neil and Beverley Teys - Gary and Pam Tustian, Terry Gillam.
3. The new Committee members were welcomed:-
                           Vice President:            Barry (Bazza) Muggleton
                           Secretary:                    Ron Hanley
                           Treasurer:                    Denise Ryan
                           Committee Members (1 year term): Bob Locking, Denny Sharpe, Roy Watkins.
4. The minutes of the previous General Meeting (11.11.06) were read.  Moved John Newport, seconded Geoff Adcock, that they be accepted; carried.
5. Business arising from the minutes:-
        - The Secretary inadvertently read the minutes from the General Meeting 22.4.06 where it was stated that Freda Madden was a “qualified accountant”. Freda said that this was incorrect and these minutes have been duly corrected.
        - John Newport moved, Freda Madden seconded, that a sub-Committee be re-formed as an “Audit Committee”. Defeated.
        - Bob Locking moved, Ken Billings seconded an amendment, that a Financial Statement be sent to the sub-Committee every 4 months. Mike McKeown tried to clarify the situation and Michael Corbin spoke against the amendment
        - John Judd made a Point of Order, that the members were talking about 2 different motions; as a result the above motions were abandoned.
        - Moved Michael Corbin, seconded David Waterhouse, that a financial statement be put into the Newsletter each quarter; carried.
6. Correspondence:- See Secretary’s report for AGM
7. Report on activities of Committee:-
        - The most important event, was the HF Expo. The number of members attending the expo. was high (81 signed in at reception, however, this is not an accurate figure). The numbers of members attending each session averaged approx 100. Some nights, over 140 meals were served    
8. General Business:-
         - Base Stations – Sked protocol. A new set of “rules” is being established by the Committee. Ray gave a brief summary of what is being proposed, allowing members to take a more active part in Skeds
        - Train the Trainers. Ray asked for any people who were interested in being trained, to help others use the various radios, to contact the Committee. Members were also asked, not to organise anything, without informing the Committee, so that confusion can be avoided. A list of the Trainers will be published in the Newsletter and will also be highlighted on your future Selcall lists. A more detailed list will go to all Base Operators and Trainers, including the type of radio they specialise in plus their personal details etc.
         - NGT installation in 9323s: This will be done by Codan for $90.00. Give electronic serial number, name and money to Denise Ryan.
        - Barry Muggleton offered his services to receive member’s complaints. He will do his best to solve them.
        - John O’Brien asked why members were not emailed with information and the Newsletter. The Secretary explained, that there would be too many megabytes involved; that members’ email addresses would be tied up for too long and that it was just not a viable option.
        - Neville Cavanagh asked that members fill their water tanks before they cross the border into South Eastern Queensland, because of the acute water shortage in that area.
         - Guinness Book of Records for longest line up of motorhomes: Ron Hanley asked interested members to let him know, if they wished to be involved in coming together at a staging point at  Barcaldine.
        - Ray Lawson will be switched into Casino Base (2525) to take messages, run the skeds etc. until a more permanent arrangement can be made. Bob Hilton will be manning Cooladdi Base on a similar basis in the very near future.
        - Roy Watkins offered a big welcome to any member visiting WA and to “just make contact!”
9. The meeting closed at 11.30 A.M.

   ---

BEWARE and take CARE

WHAT NOT TO DO WITH PORTABLE GAS COOKERS.

Words and Pictures by Geoff Adcock

On our travels to the Mudgee Rally in October, we stayed at the Gulgong Showgrounds for a few days. While we were having lunch on the Saturday, we were startled by an enormous explosion at a motorhome about 70 meters away from us. It wasn't long before many onlookers gathered around the Motor home to see what had happened. On inspection we found the remains of an aluminium fold up table, (rather bent) and a Portable gas cooker blown apart;
We asked the owner what had happened and he said “It just blew up. I'd only just started cooking my steak on a large fry-pan on the cooker; the meat wasn't even partly cooked on one side before  the explosion.” Less than five minutes was all it took before it exploded.  (The dog had a good feed as the steak ended some distance away along with the pan.)

I told the owner not to touch anything so I could take some photos of the incident, and I went back to my Motor-home to get the camera to take the photos.

Observing the remains of the cooker I was able to ascertain what had gone wrong. First I asked him how easy was it to light? He replied that he had had difficulty pushing the lever down that inserts the Gas Cylinder into its working position, and he had to “FORCE IT DOWN HARD”. I was then able to tell him what was wrong.

Looking at the remains I found The BLACK top part of the cooker was not turned up the right way for operation, (if trying to operate the unit before turning the top the right way up there is a mechanism that stops the cooker from operating. Apparently this can be forced, which could cause the unit to blow up. Having a fry-pan or even a kettle on top of the cooker, with the top in the wrong position, the heat has nowhere to go, only to be trapped inside, the heat starts to discolour the paint, melt the feet, the plastic front and knob. In less than five minutes the gas cylinder actually blew apart under the tremendous pressure generated by the trapped heat. No one saw the resulting fireball but many people heard it.

These units are only to be used outdoors. The owner of this one had it under the Awning of his Motorhome, and he was sitting just beside it, and only suffered some hearing loss for a short time. He was lucky that it blew away from him, or he would have been injured. Good job he didn't have it inside his motorhome.

If unsure of the correct operation of any item, PLEASE READ THE INSTRUCTIONS.

TOWNSVILLE GET-TOGETHER AUG 16-20 2007

G'day all

Unfortunately, we have had to change the dates for our HF "Get Together" at the Townsville Showgrounds, due to the Tropical Coast Wanderers Chapter being unable to secure the Ingham Showgrounds because of a previous booking. The new dates at Ingham Showgrounds will be Fri-Sun 10-12 Aug.(Cost $10.00 pv incl. power etc. pn)

Dates now for the HF Club 'Get Together' at the Townsville Showgrounds will be the following weekend, Thurs-Mon 16-20th August (incl.) (cost $10.00 pv incl. power etc.pn).

For your information: members travelling to Mareeba etc. the following dates and activities may help in your travel plans:
    28 June to 2 July, "Dam Fine Rally" at Weir State School Thuringowa/Townsville.
    Approx. 14th and/or 21st July, Chillagoe Country Music Festival and Mareeba Rodeo.
    26 - 30 July, "Xmas in July" at Mareeba.
    10 - 12 August, Ingham Showgrounds with the Tropical Coast Wanderers
    16 - 20 August. HF Club Get-Together at Townsville Showgrounds.

That should fill in 3 good months of travel in the Tropics in winter. Sorry about the late change, but it is unavoidable as it would be silly to have both outings on the same weekend.                                                                         Ray

Can you afford to be an Amateur Radio Operator?

Good news for all those ring pulls.............. Keep collecting the ring pulls as I have found an outlet for them. “That’s Life” magazine printed an article about a man who collects them and gives them to the Ronald McDonald Foundation. Apparently the aluminium in them is pure (not like the actual cans) and so worth more money. I have spoken with RMFA and they definitely want the ring pulls. So keep collecting, get them to me and I will pass them on.More in Sept. issue.   Editor.

Elmore, Victorian Get-Together October 26-28th

Hi all, good to see rain at last down here in good old Victoria.

Thought I would let you know now, so that you can make plans for the next HF Radio Club Get- Together at Elmore in Victoria. If you have friends who are members of VKS, please invite them along as it will be an open house to all folk interested in HF Radio. Even folk without a radio but who may be thinking of getting one, are welcome, so please invite them.

The weekend starting on Friday 26th October will be held at the Old Elmore Field Day site or as it is now known, Ayson’s Reserve. There is plenty of room there, flush toilet facilities, but no power or showers. You can be sure to gain a little more knowledge of the radio from the master - Ray Lawson and also have the opportunity to make new friends and have some fun.

More details in the September Newsletter. Any information required, please ring me on 0418 525 242 or email <kelleher@ncable.net.au>. Hope to catch up with you there. Brian and Joy Kelleher

A blonde was bragging about her knowledge of state capitals.
She proudly says, "Go ahead, ask me, I know all of them."
A friend says, "OK, what's the capital of Wisconsin?"
The blonde replies, "Oh, that's easy: W."

Majors Creek Get Together 23rd - 25th March 2007.

Members and visitors began arriving at Majors Creek on Monday 19th March and by Saturday, we had 17 vehicles comprising caravans, motorhomes, slide-ons and camper-vans. The tally came to 26 HFRC members and 7 visitors including one 10 year old girl. The happy hours were in full swing by Friday with people making the most of the local area and meeting friendly locals. There was plenty of fantastic scenery to take in as well. The weather had been good to us because the area had gone from drought to very wet. All the water tanks at the recreation ground were full and the area well grassed.

On Friday Terry and Kay Childs arrived with enough eggs for 2 breakfasts for everybody and enough bacon for 1. As we all know,  when Terry arrives anywhere, the tempo goes up a cog.

We also had Ray and Peg here from day 1. While Ray attended to problems with radios and their operations, Peg was busy catching up with her friends again.

Stan and Helen Ashlin arrived Thursday and immediately made their presence felt. Stan, as usual, was out and about everywhere helping out wherever required, (except at Sked times of course!)

Brian and Joy Kelleher arrived on Thursday and, as expected, were available to Assist where needed. Brian's organizational skills are well known.

Saturday being the NSW election day, we had to vacate our beloved verandah to make way for the polling booth. With the sun shining brightly we ate our gold coin breakfast out in the open, while voters came and went. Morning tea was also in the same area. Stan, Helen and Terry did a great job cooking. At 1.00 pm, 19 people loaded into 8 vehicles and we went on a mystery tour of the local area. This took in some exciting 4wd gravel roads with great scenery. Afternoon tea was taken at the Araluen Pub and 50kms later at 3.00 pm the safari was over. Most people, who participated in the Safari, welcomed the opportunity to do something different. We were able to reclaim the verandah for happy hour at 4.30 pm and the hall at 7.00 pm, after the voting and counting was completed. A catered BBQ was served and went around nicely with very little left over. After dinner a progressive raffle was ex-pertly run by Brian. An hour later, after much laughter, it was complet-ed. We were then treated to the talent of Muzza (Murray Sampson) with guitar and melodious voice to a large supply of country and western songs.

Sunday, saw us treated to a breakfast of eggs and sausages cooked by our intrepid trio, but this time we were able to eat on the verandah. After Morning Tea, a disc bowls court appeared, which generated plenty of interest. By now some people had to leave and by mid-afternoon 9 units had moved out. The re-mainder used the time left to wind down and by Monday mor-ning, nearly everybody had departed. Most agreed that the week-end was good value for money and great fun.

First time Get-Together attendees: Bob and Carmel were amazed at what a good time we all had and are now well and truly hooked. Stalwarts Jon, Rob, David, Margaret, Vince, Judy, Peter, Trish, Barry, Sandra, Coral, Bazza, Glenice, Peter, Corrie and our 7 invited visitors plus the people already mentioned, all contributed to this pleasant Get-Together. 

Bazza  For photos from this gathering - click here

DO YOU KNOW???

People using the new Camps Australia Wide 4 should be aware that the GPS co-ordinates are still in the old ‘degrees, minutes and seconds’ format and not in the new ‘degrees, minutes, decimal minutes’ format. Anyone using these co-ordinates from the new book would need to use the following chart, republished here with permission.

Following reprints of the book the paragraph will be corrected that they are still in the ‘degrees, minutes and seconds’ format. Frank Sleep

The Wonders of Selcall

Most of us older HFers were CBers in a previous life and even though we all marvel at the technological progress made during the 20th Century, I am still constantly surprised by the latest inventions and improvements. Selcall is not new, it is just that now most of us can afford the cost of that little bit extra in a radio – with all the "bells and whistles". Remember the days on CB when you went to channel 16, and then when you were with it, channel 35 in the hope of hearing your mate in another state but not making contact. At the time your mate was having a holiday in Thailand and his radio was turned off! You were never to find out that the small range of frequencies you had, were not propagating at the time. I have a mate who is always complaining that there's no skip around (for 27mhz).

Often the strongest received signal in those days would be someone either swearing, making other rude noises or otherwise rattling on about something insignificant, while trying to think of something sensible to say. It was all chance - hit or miss. There is still an element of chance when using our modern, and, sometimes, not so modern, HF radios, but the chances of success have greatly increased. We have this wonderful thing called SELCALL, or Selective Calling. With Selcall goes Beacon Call and what a marvellous facility this is. You ‘Beacon Call’ your mate, (outside of Sked times, of course) and get the reply of four slow timed beeps. Aha, I've hit him. Next, we do the Selcall. This time we get four powerful beeps in quicker time and we eagerly await his answer. He's not there. Drat! But we give up knowing that we have left a message with him. He's not in Thailand this time, only at the local bottle shop and he is only away from his radio for 20 minutes. Upon his return he hears his radio ‘beeping’, observes who called and, in most cases, makes a return call. Contact is made and everybody is happy - right!  I am sorry about ‘the basics lesson’ but there are some members who do not use Selcall very much and, for the most part, they are happy just to get on at Sked times and catch up that way.

That's OK, horses for courses I say. I do quite a bit of both - I get on as many Skeds as I can and in between I sometimes Selcall.

When I join a Sked time, I usually have at least one hearing aid on and I like to be a little early, by maybe 5 to 10 minutes or so. I try to get my vehicle in a good position (my yard at home has too much interference) and tune up on the appropriate frequency, usually 7899. I really ‘love’ the operator who decides to Selcall a few minutes before Sked time and over the airwaves comes that unmistakable sound of a Beacon Call. Often it happens when propagation is really good and the accompanying sound goes through me and all the others tuned in, like a ‘chainsaw’. We have rules and customs in the club about manners and courtesy protocol.  I believe that nearly all members try to do what is "right". One of the things I love about the HFRC, is the courtesy most members usually show toward each other.

Not all users are Club members. One day, when I berated an operator for making a Selcall during Sked time. He actually gave me his name, told me he was not a member and apologized. There is not much more we can do there. (Did you try to get him to join the HF Radio Club? .. Ed)

I would hope that members refrain from ‘Selcalling’ during Sked times, or if people are already using the frequency. Why do operators use the Sked frequency to Selcall near Sked times? If the person you are trying to reach is already tuned in, a voice call should do it. If he/she is not there, he/she must be on scan (or switched off) and perhaps another near frequency will get him/her. Think about it, easy isn't it?

I know someone is going to think, "I am allowed to Selcall outside of Sked times, even if it is only one minute before Sked time". I just ask you to think about all the other operators tuned up and waiting for the Sked to start up. We have all heard it, and we all have experienced some inconvenience, so let's all con-sider the comfort of our fellow Club members. Please don't turn Selcall into ‘hellcall’ just prior to Sked!

I said earlier that I love this Club, and I love the courtesy shown by members to each other on air and off. Wild horses would not stop me from getting on at Sked times. I am interested to hear if other people agree with me (or for that matter disagree) and I would welcome any reasonable feedback. Thank You, Barry Muggleton

A married couple were asleep when the phone rang at 2 in the morning. The wife (undoubtedly blonde), picked up the phone, listened a moment and said, "How should I know, that's 200 miles from here!" and hung up. The husband said, "Who was that?" The wife said, "I don't know, some woman wanting to know if the coast is clear."

Barrett Editorial: HF Technology is Saving Lives in the Pacific

HF radio had long been associated with health services in Australia due to its connection with the RFDS. As members of the HF Radio Club you are already aware of how you can utilize radio networks in times of need. What you may not be aware of is how HF radios are utilized in other parts of the world and the impact they have on the communities that use them.

New advances in HF technology including remote diagnostics and reduced power consumption are resulting in HF being used throughout the South Pacific and neighbouring islands to bring them a level of health care never before available.

Under projects primarily funded by AUSAid and the World Bank, complete health radio networks have been established in East Timor, PNG and the Solomon Islands. Most sites consist of the HF radio, solar power supply and broadband antenna. The HF radios are generally 125 watt, 20 channel transceivers utilizing selcall. As the sites are solar powered it is imperative the transceivers have low power consumption (less than 500 mA) in the standby mode. The solar power system consists of one or two panels charging a battery which powers the radio. The capacity of the panels and batteries is usually determined during the project design period and reflects the anticipated radio traffic flow and hours of sunlight in the area of operation. The antenna utilized is generally a single wire broadband antenna in an inverted V configuration. The supporting mast is generally about 10 - 12m high and made of either aluminium or local water pipe.

The original East Timor Health Network con-sisted  of  Barrett 930 transceivers in 85 rural health centres and 11 ambulances. Installations were conducted over an 18 month period by a contractor who traversed the country in a 4WD vehicle and trailer, carrying enough equipment and supplies for two or three installations. He would then return to Dili to resupply before heading out again.  The network is currently being maintained by the East Timorese people and is being expanded to incorporate a further 11 health centres.

The PNG National Health Radio Network began in the province of Madang about eight years ago utilizing Barrett 530 transceivers. The network now covers all provinces with approximately 1200 health centres fitted with a mixture of Barrett 530, 930 and 2050 transceivers. Most of these centres are only accessible by helicopter or boat and installation is a time consuming and expensive process. Installation and support are conducted by local company TE PNG. A high power state of the art central control station has also been commissioned in Port Moresby to assist in the passage of vital medical information to the remote health centres.

Due to the extremely remote location of the health centres, equipment reliability is paramount. To repair or replace a radio in a remote location could incur expenses far in excess of the equipment value.  Once equipment becomes inoperable it is difficult for technicians in the central control station to determine the cause and what replacement equipment they need to take when they visit the site. The problem could be solar, battery, antenna or transceiver related. With remote diagnostics giving readings on battery condition and SWR as well as transceiver functions, technicians at the central control station can assess the condition of the remote transceiver and accessories to rectify minor concerns before they escalate.  

In 2003 an AUSAid project was established to provide HF communications to health centres in the Solomon Islands. Only 347 of this group of 992 islands are inhabited and the majority of these have no power or communications. Recent troubles in the region had resulted in the breakdown of most government services and infrastructure so the installation process was always going to be a challenge.           

 Inter-island travel for the installation team is generally conducted in small boats, carrying both personnel and equipment. To date, over 250 health centres have had radios coated covers and identify radios bought for the health marked as HEALTH RADIOS. This is to easily identify health networks in both PNG and Solomon Islands. This assists in stock control and loss prevention.

Martin Johnson, Business Development Manager for Barrett Communications reported, “In Australia today we have a number of options when it comes to communications and it is sometimes difficult for us to under-stand the impact HF technology has on these remote communities. Where medical advice or treatment once meant several days walk or boat  rides, villages now have immediate access to medical and emergency assistance.”

PATERSON CHRISTMAS GET-TOGETHER 9-11 November 2007

The Paterson Christmas Get-Together is 9-11th November, 2007. Cost is $5 per rig pn.

It would also be appreciated if all members could bring a donation for the raffle and a plate of food towards the meal on the Saturday evening. As Allan Tesch will be in New Zealand and therefore not available to do the spit roast, the meal will consist of salads. It would be much appreciated, if members notified me regarding numbers for catering purposes, as we have to pre-order the food.                                                                    Bob Locking

               Guidelines for Reports and Articles for the Newsletter

Length Maximum 1 page, approx. 1000-1100 words excluding photos. Where photos are included, decrease word count by approximately 45-50 words for each photo measuring 5x4cm (reduced insertion size). Anything larger, reduce words accordingly.

Number - We are trying to include only 1 ‘personal’ article per member per issue.

Reports - These are to be written by a member regarding a Club event (e.g. ‘Get-Togethers’) and are not classed as ‘articles’.

Approval of Articles - All articles will be submitted to the Secretary for approval. Articles may be sent to Editor or Secretary.

Advertising Non-HFRC Events - Articles that advertise events that the HFRC has not organised maybe included, but will incur an advertising cost.  Currently - Full page: $320per year; ½ page $160per year.

Thus a ¼ page ad would cost approx. $20.00 per issue. Where block colour or large coloured areas (eg photos) are required, the charge will be slightly higher. Inclusion in a Calendar with only minimal information, eg Event, dates, venue and contact details, would be at no charge.

Members Selcall Numbers - Members submitting articles and reports are requested not to include Members’ Selcall numbers – refer Privacy Policy. Thank you.

Photos - Should be accompanied with a list of photos and names of the people. Thank you.

I trust this will make writing and submission of articles easier for members, and save disappointments where articles are reduced to fit these constraints. The greatest constraint is the postage weight factor, and by adhering to these guidelines this should not be a problem in future. Editor

Two blondes are walking down the street. One notices a compact on the sidewalk and leans down to pick it up. She opens it, looks in the mirror and says, "Hmm, this person looks familiar" The second blonde says, "Here, let me see!" So the first blonde hands her the compact. The second one looks in the mirror and says, "You dummy, it's me!

THE ‘TRAINERS’

A photo of members who underwent special training at the recent EXPO at Casino.
In your SelCall list you will find further details, particularly contact numbers and the radios on which they are knowledgeable.

HF Radio Expo 2007 - Report

A most successful Expo was held again this year at Casino Village, thanks to Terry Childs, John Ebsary and John Swift. Approximately 150 people attended for the 4-day weekend. Some arrived much earlier and some stayed on for a while after. There was a little bit of confusion re site location to begin with, but most managed to get themselves sorted out. Some members even availed themselves of the tranquility of the new bush camp!

The Happy Hours started out as a small, intimate group of members, but the circle expanded quite rapidly each day, as more members arrived; in the end, it was almost impossible to fit everyone in the space. It was great having the chance to chat with both old and new friends; putting the face to the voice.

The seminars were very informative. Unfortunately some had to be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. However, the replacement speakers filled in more than adequately. The gentleman from Telstra, Darryl Rock from Lismore, gave a very enlightening talk on the “Next G”. He was able to answer many questions for all of us, regarding the changeover and the system generally.

The new concept of “Train the Trainers” was very successful. There are at least 18 operators (see photo above), from all over Oz, who are now trained in the use of Barrett and/or Codan radios. They each have different skills levels, but will be able to install the radios, program channels and help members, at different levels of expertise, to use their radios. If they are unable to do any of these things themselves on your radio, they will be able to direct you to someone who can. They will be flagged on your Selcall list if you need some help.

A big thank-you to Gary and Rachel Poke, who lined everyone up to take their photos for the “Rogues Gallery”.  Pages 1 and 2 will be included with your June Newsletter. The next pages will be included as they are filled. Those of you who are not listed, need to get your photos, by email, to the Secretary ASAP.

Thanks go to Kay Childs and her band of helpers for preparing and presenting the huge number of meals, also to Denise for organizing our tickets for the meals (5 evening meals and 3 free breakfasts), which were well attended and profitable for the Club. Thanks also, to Barrett, Codan and GME for sponsoring both the breakfasts and the raffles which were drawn each morning. Some members even expressed the desire to have an “ordinary” meal at home to relieve the pressure!

A large number of new members was present; they were able to get “on the spot” help from all the experts. 13 completely new members were processed and 5 new radios were sold (1 Barrett and 4 Codans) during the Expo and quite a few have been sold since.

Our AGM and GM were a big success, with 129 members attending. The new Committee was announced and a few bits and pieces were sorted out.

Photos from the HF Expo - click here.

CASINO  VILLAGE

It’s been a busy period recently. What with the HF Radio Expo, Australian Disc Bowls Festival, Summerland Olives Festival and the Bushman’s Heritage celebration of bush poetry, all events being very well attended. 

We’ve now got two cottages on site and our housing sector continues to grow.  If you’d like more information on either, please contact us on 02 6662 1069 or email admin@casinovillage.com.au

At the Village we have a few coming events including our normal Roving Travellers Weekends, Tassie Week in August, the Visual Arts Photographic Competition and National Camp Oven Festival – all before members head off to the Forbes Rally.

As advised earlier this year, The Visual Arts Photographic Competition will be held the last weekend in September (just prior to the National Camp Oven Festival).  There will be six categories and prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each category.

You don’t have to be on site to enter.  Entry fee is $3 per photograph, irrespective of size. Maximum size is A4 – minimum 6” x 4”.  Photographs can be mounted on cardboard or mats but please NO frames. It would help enormously if you could put your name, address and contact details on the back of each photo, including the title of your photo. If you wish your photos returned, please enclose a stamped, self addressed envelope. 

Entry forms are available by fax (02 6662 3222) or on the Website: www.casinovillage.com.au

There will be a perpetual trophy for the Best Photograph (as adjudicated by a panel of judges).  Other sections will be by popular vote of people on site.  Photographs taken at Casino Village entered in section (5) may be eligible for use in brochures and other advertising media by Casino Village.

For various reasons we have a couple of people interested in divesting themselves of their shares.  Should you have missed out in either of the previous Offer Information Statements, this could be your opportunity to participate in the future growth of the Village. To enquire about shares, please email les@casinovillage.com.au or phone your details through to the office and we will arrange to put you as potential purchasers in touch with potential vendors.

Chrissy Eustace N23798 
Director 
Phone 0408 729 580

2007 CALENDAR

An Adrenalin Rush

4X4 drivers eat your heart out!  After an afternoon being shown the sights of Esperance – the town, the luxurious houses, beaches etc – in an OKA, we visited Bandy Creek and then crossed the sand dune for a run along the beach. After a couple of kilometres we were confronted with Wylie Rock to our left and the ocean in front and to the right.  Our tour guide and driver (Larry) drove right up to the rock, stopped and looked around.

People in the OKA looked up at the rock and contemplated a climb up this steep rock, which was about 20m high. One person asked, “You don’t expect us to climb up there, do you Larry?”  “No” came the reply from Larry as he began fiddling with the gear lever. There was a collective gasp at the realisation that he was going to drive up the rock! Wide eyed, white knuckled and holding their breath, passengers stared motionless as the vehicle slowly inched its way up the 450 slope. There was another collective sigh, this time of relief, when the top was reached. Everyone was invited to climb out and take in the view across the bay towards Esperance and Cape Le Grande.

After taking in the view for a short time somebody queried how we were going to get off the rock.  Larry indicated that he would turn the vehicle around and drive it back down or people could walk – which had been done before by some who had been too afraid to ride back down. At this point I grabbed the video camera from my wife – her knuckles were too white to hold it – and climbed into the front with the driver and filmed the trip down again.

The trip down was closely watched by the occupants of a couple of 4x4 drives who had driven up to the base of the rock while we were on the top, but who had decided that their vehicle would not be able to make it to the top.

If you ever get the chance to take this tour, the last 20 minutes or so is really worth the cost, especially if you like driving your vehicle into “interesting” situations.  No matter how good you think you and your vehicle may be, you will not be able to make this climb because there is a near vertical face of about a metre straight up off the beach.                 John Judd     

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?