10/05/2025 - Kidderminster Military Wireless Museum visit

After quite a bit of interest was expressed in a visit to the museum by members, it was finally arranged for 11am this Saturday morning.

Having spoken to Ben Nock G4BXD a number of times on the air, it was nice to finally meet him and view his extensive collection of military wireless equipment. The oldest piece, I believe, dating back to the 1920's.

I think many will find his collection of spy sets quite fascinating as well as the radio and radar equipment from WWII era aircraft.

So, whether your interest is in more modern military wireless equipment, WWWII era or early avionics; there is something of interest for everyone.

A very extensive collection along with Ben's knowledge of these items, how they were used and demonstrations of some of the exhibits in operation made for a very enjoyable couple of hours.

05/04/2025 - G/CE-002, Walton Hill SOTA activation

The weather was glorious and the view from 316m ASL, quite spectacular. Unfortunately HF band conditions were not favourable. Even making the required 4 contacts on 40m seemed like an effort with us unable to use our chosen frequency due to another station using it that we couldn't at first hear.

When we could finally hear them, it turned out to be a station from Portugal also activating a SOTA summit (CT/DL-005). Fortunately we were able to make the summit to summit contact, which was probably the on-the-air highlight of the day.

Equipment used for the activation on HF was a Xiegu G90 coupled to a JPC-12 portable vertical antenna and a 10ah 12v lead acid motorcycle battery.

We succeeded in activating the summit on 40m and enjoyed both the weather and the view, but were a little disappointed not to activate on more bands.

B&DARC 60th Anniversary SES

The Bromsgrove and District Amateur Radio Club celebrates its 60th year this year. Beginning Saturday the 18th of January we will be on the air with special event call GB6VGG.

Please make contact with us if you hear the station on the air!

Clubs Net

These will continue on Monday and Wednesday evenings. 19.30 local time. 145.400MHz FM.

The regular net attendees have suggested that we will continue to have a net on Friday evenings for those unable to attend the club meeting, again 19.30 local time, so before the club meeting starts. It would be good if someone could operate the club station G3VGG from the club shack on a Friday evening.