In a world marked by technology and connectivity, it’s vital to remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us. The upcoming Remembrance Day Radio Contest, scheduled for the weekend of August 12 and 13, 2023, is a poignant opportunity to pay homage to the amateur radio operators who valiantly gave their lives during both World Wars.
Held annually, this contest stands as a testament to their memory and the enduring spirit of camaraderie that amateur radio embodies.
Date and Time: Starting from 0300 UTC on Saturday and ending at 0300 UTC on Sunday, this two-day event promises to be an engaging and meaningful experience for amateur radio enthusiasts across the globe. As the world turns, the contest provides participants with the chance to connect with fellow amateurs, share stories, and remember the past.
Aim of the Contest: The heart of the Remembrance Day Radio Contest lies in its purpose – to establish connections and build bridges through the airwaves. During the event, amateurs strive to contact fellow amateurs in VK call areas, ZL, and P2. All bands except the WARC bands are open for communication, and participants can use the modes of PHONE, CW, and RTTY – modes that echo the communication methods of both World Wars.
Honouring History: The perpetual trophy is bestowed upon the state or territory that exhibits the best performance. More than just a symbol, this trophy serves as a reminder that the essence of the contest is not only in the competition but in the act of remembering and honoring those who came before us.
A Weekend of Exploration: For those who may not be amateur radio operators themselves, the contest presents an excellent opportunity for shortwave listeners to engage. It’s a time to put antennas, receivers, and reception techniques to the test. As the contest unfolds, the airwaves will buzz with activity, creating an environment of curiosity and excitement for those who wish to participate from a different angle.
Contest Rules
3. Contest Date & Time
Weekend in August closest to the 15th, 0300 UTC Saturday to 0300 UTC Sunday.
As a mark of respect, stations are asked to observe 15 minutes silence prior to the start of the contest, during which the opening ceremony will be broadcast.
4. Categories
1. Single Operator
2. Single Operator – QRP
3. Multi-Operator – Single Transmitter (Multi-Single)
4. Multi-Operator – Unlimited (Multi-Multi)
5. Sub-Category Modes for Single Operators
1. Phone (AM, FM & SSB)
2. CW (CW & RTTY)
3. Mixed
6. Permitted Bands
1. Contacts may be made on MF (160M), HF and VHF & above bands except for WARC bands (10, 18 & 24MHZ) which are excluded by IARU agreement from all contest operations.
a. HF SSB Voice transmissions should be within:
1843-1875, 3535-3570 and 3600-3700, 7080-7300, 14112-14300, 21150-21450, 28300-29100KHz,
otherwise disqualification or points reduction may result.
7. Multi-operator Stations
1. Multi-operator single transmitter stations
a. Are only allowed one transmitted signal on air at any time.
2. Multi-operator Unlimited stations
a. Are only allowed two transmitted signals on any band, one per Phone and one per CW as per rule 5.1 and 5.2.
b. Simultaneous transmissions on different bands are permitted.
3. Multi-operator stations are mixed mode only.
Multi Stations, please observe any COVID Restrictions for your area.
8. Teams
Team scenario 1.
A station and two of their friends operate in the contest from their respective home QTH and participate in the contest and submit their logs in the normal manner. They are eligible for any awards in the category they entered as single operators. The contest manager was notified that these 3 stations want to form a team. Their scores are tallied together and that is the team score.
Team scenario 2.
A multi-single club has 2 operators who wish to work from their home QTH. The 2 single operators and the multi-single club contest and submit logs in the normal manner. They are eligible for any awards in the category they entered. The contest manager was notified that these 3 stations want to form a team. The 2 single operators and the club multi-single stations scores are tallied together and that is the team score.
1. A team can consist of only one of the following two options.
a) Three single operator stations
b) Two single operator stations and one multi-single station
2. A team can consist of stations located anywhere in VK, ZL, or P2.
3. An operator can only be included in one team.
4. Clubs may enter multiple teams of 3 call-signs.
5. The ‘Team Leader’ MUST nominate his team to the Contest Manager before the start of the contest. Email to vk4sn@wia.org.au with the subject “RD Team Submission”.
a) Nominations must include the Callsigns and Operators Name. Where multiple teams from one club are submitted, it is suggested to use Team Names, example: Tazzie Devils
b) The Team leader must supply postal details for receipt of any awards.
c) Once the contest has started, team members cannot be changed.
6. The winner of the team initiative will be the highest combined score from any one team.
7. Team scores are not included in the determination of the winning state.
9. Contacts
1. Suggested Call: “CQ RD”, “CQ Contest”, or “CQ Test”
2. Exchange: A valid exchange consists of RS(T) followed by a number as follows:
a. For a single operator, the number of years you have been a licenced Ham. For example, if this is your 1st year as a ham then you will sign RS(T) 001. Round off to the nearest whole number. All zeros are not accepted.
b. For a multi-op or club station, the number of licenced years of the longest licenced Amateur present at the start of the contest.
3. On all bands, stations may be contacted at intervals of not less than THREE hours since the previous contact on that band and mode.
a. FM & SSB count as one mode, as does CW & RTTY count for the CW mode. Therefore one cannot QSO with a station in FM and work them on SSB on the same band before the three hours is up.
4. No cross band contacts are allowed.
5. Exchange of contact information via satellites, telephones, repeaters, Echolink, IRLP, or the internet is not in the spirit of the contest and is banned.
6. Contacts via satellites are not allowed for scoring purposes.
7. Contacts within the same call area are permitted.
11. General Rules
1. W.I.A. General Rules for All Contests apply unless otherwise specified.
2. All operators of single operator stations must perform all operating and logging without assistance.
a. Use of spotting, skimmer, SDR and similar operator assistance software is allowed on all bands, however all replies, exchanges and log entries must be performed by the operator.
3. Holders of more than one licence or callsign MUST use only ONE callsign for the contest duration.
4. Fully automated operation is not permitted; however, computers can be used for logging or CW or RTTY reception and/or keying.
5. All operations must be in accordance with the band plan for the band in use, as published in the latest LCD.
6. Any station observed as departing from the generally accepted codes of operating ethics or licence conditions may be disqualified.
* QRP stations are limited to 5 Watts average (CW/RTTY) or PEP (SSB) at the transmitter output.
7. REMOTE STATION OPERATION is allowed with the following conditions: (NEW in 2021)
a. Both receiving and transmitting antennas must be co-located and be in Australia.
b. If your remote station is interstate, you must sign VKn??/VKn or VKn/VKn??
c. Points will be allocated to the state you are transmitting and receiving from.
d. The remote site location must be shown by a maiden head six figure grid square in your soapbox comments.
e. All calls and exchanges must be obtained through the TX/RX remote site.
f. Only the remote site can be used during the contest. I.E. Using your personal physical local location for use of local TX/RX operations is not allowed.
12. WW2 ex Military equipment
1. Operators using Ex WW2 equipment will be awarded with a special certificate acknowledging their participation and use of such.
2. A declaration with the heading of WW2 Equipment will operate said units within the “ORIGINAL manufactures specified operating conditions”, e.g. no mods to boost the output power etc. A copy of the preferred Certificate is available on the on the WIA website at http://www.wia.org.au/members/contests/rdcontest/documents/WWII%20Declaration%202012.pdf
3. Please include the declaration with your log submission.
Contest Scoring
10. Scoring
1. On 160 metres two points per completed valid contact.
2. On 23cm or higher bands two points per completed valid contact.
3. On all other bands one point. (no WARC bands allowed)
4. On CW and RTTY, irrespective of band, double points.
5. All QSO’s logged between 0100 and 0600 LOCAL TIME score triple points.
Submitting Your Log
13. Log Submission
1. Electronic Logging
a. Use of logging software is preferred as the output file will be in Cabrillo 3 format which suits our log checking software. See below for logger links.
b. Submit Log WITHIN 14 DAYS by 0300z via https://www.vklogchecker.com/
Please add EMAIL: youremail@myisp to the log header.
c. Or failing b. above, attach your ‘callsign.log’ file to your email and send to rdlogs@wia.org.au
d. Put ONLY your callsign in the subject .
e. On receipt of your log, the manager will send an acknowledgement email to you. Just to be sure, it is advised that you flag your email for “confirmation of receipt”, in which case you will receive two emails acknowledging receipt of the log.
2. Paper Logs
a. Hand written logs are not preferred, however if sent must be legible and contain no more than 100 contacts.
b. Entrants are encouraged to enter the paper logs into a logger after the contest and email the Cabrillo log (callsign.log) as indicated above.
c. Paper logs should be accompanied by a Summary Sheet showing all the details as per the log example below and nominated team name if used.
d. Declaration: I hereby certify that I have operated in accordance with the rules and spirit of the contest; signed & dated. Please supply a contact telephone number.
e. Send paper logs and summary sheets to: RD Contest Manager. 43 Jahn Drive, Glenore Grove, QLD 4342. Do not send logs requiring a signature! Collection is an hours return drive away and may not be collected before results are finished.
3. If you genuinely have problems with the above, then acceptance of .xls, .csv, and .txt files will be considered for processing. PDF, DOC(x), MDB or picture files are not accepted.
4. Emailed Logs are to be received by the contest manager no later than 14 days after the contest ends.
5. Paper logs are to be postmarked no later than 8 days after the contest.
6. All logs will be receipted by email or on the website if no email exists for the operator.
7. Logs received after the closing date will not be eligible for processing.
8. Paper logs will not be returned unless a SASE is forwarded requesting return of the log.
9. VK entrants temporarily operating outside their allocated call area, including those outside continental Australia as defined for DXCC, can elect to have their points credited to their home State by making a statement to that effect on their summary sheet or in the ‘soapbox’ field in the Cabrillo file.
Contest Results
14. Contest Results
1. Determination of Winning State or Territory.
State score = (Total points from logs submitted) divided by (number of licencees in the state or Territory excluding beacons and repeaters). The Number of Licences are supplied to the manager from the WIA National Office for that year.
2. Unless otherwise elected by the entrant concerned, the scores of VK0 stations will be credited to VK7, and the scores of VK9 to the mainland call area which is geographically closest. Scores of P2, or ZL will not be included in these calculations, although entrants in those areas are eligible for all certificate awards.
3. Results will be published within 90 days after the close of the contest on the W.I.A. website and winners announced in AR magazine as soon as practical.
Contest Award
15. Contest Awards
1. Entrants must make at least 25 contacts to be eligible for awards.
2. Overall 1st, 2nd and 3rd place certificates will be posted to recipients.
a. Single Operator Phone
b. Single Operator CW
c. Single Operator Mixed
d. Single Operator QRP Phone
e. Single Operator QRP CW
f. Single Operator QRP Mixed
g. Multi-operator – Single Transmitter
h. Multi-operator – Multi Transmitter
i. Team
j. //DISCONTINUED due to callsigns now not reflecting the licence grade.// The top three foundation scorers regardless of category.
3. Certificates will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place-getters for each VK call area, and ZL & P2 from the WIA office. All other certificates will be via PDF download.
a. Categories “a” through “f” as above.
4. Participants using WW2 ex military equipment will receive a special acknowledgement certificate as well as any certificates gained in winning any section.
Logging Software
17. Logging Software
1. Downloads
a. VK Contest Log (VKCL) by Mike Subocz VK3AVV, https://www.mnds.com.au/vkcl/
b. John Drew VK5DJ RD logging program Link
c. SD Logger by EI5DI. See ei5di.com (HF logging only)
d. N1MM (HF only) Support files (City and UDC) from vk4sn.com/Contests/N1MMVK
2. Remember to check for updates immediately prior to contests to make sure you have the latest software that will contain up to date scoring and rule changes.
Logs are now processed through log checking software that uses Cabrillo V3.0 format.
An example log is as follows:
For further information please click this link through to the Wireless Institute of Australia, from which we sourced our information.
If you have a passion for maritime history, adventure, and connecting with fellow radio enthusiasts, then this one is for the calendar – the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW)! This annual gathering has become a global celebration of lighthouses, lightvessels, and navigational aids, bringing together radio operators from over 40 countries for a weekend of camaraderie and exploration.
What is the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW)?
The ILLW had its roots in the Scottish Northern Lights Award, originally organised by the Ayr Amateur Radio Group (UK) in 1998. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most anticipated events on the amateur radio calendar, drawing in more than 500 lighthouse entries across the globe.
Held on the third full weekend of August each year, the ILLW allows amateur radio operators to set up their portable stations at lighthouses, light vessels, and other historic maritime locations. The objective is to establish contacts with fellow operators and share the fascinating stories and significance of these iconic beacons of light.
August: A Month of Lighthouses
The month of August has become synonymous with lighthouses, thanks to the ILLW’s growing popularity. As we have seen, different countries have embraced the spirit of preserving and honouring their maritime history in various ways. In the United States, August 7th is celebrated as National Lighthouse Day, designated by Congress to pay tribute to these historical structures.
Across the pond in Britain, the Association of Lighthouse Keepers (ALK) organises the International Lighthouse Heritage Weekend during the same time as the ILLW.
The ALK encourages lighthouse managers, keepers, and owners to open their sites and visitors’ centres to the public, aiming to raise awareness about these vital navigational aids and preserve their legacy for future generations.
Why participation is so high for this event.
The International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is unlike any other amateur radio event. Here are a few reasons why you should consider taking part or following this historic gathering:
- Fascinating History: Lighthouses have played a crucial role in maritime history, guiding ships safely through treacherous waters. The ILLW provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the captivating stories behind these structures and their keepers.
- Global Connections: With participants from over 40 countries, the ILLW is a unique chance to connect with fellow radio operators worldwide, share experiences, and make lasting international friendships.
- No Pressure, Just Fun: Unlike traditional contests, the ILLW emphasises enjoyment and camaraderie. There are minimal rules, and the focus is on celebration, not competition. Plus, it’s free to participate!
- Preservation of Maritime Heritage: By participating in the ILLW, you contribute to raising awareness about the importance of preserving lighthouses and navigational aids, ensuring that their historical significance is not forgotten.
Want to get involved? Here’s how!
Participating in the International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is easy and exciting. If you’re an amateur radio operator, consider setting up your portable station at a lighthouse or maritime location during the event weekend. Contact your local club to see if they are already planning to get involved. Engage in conversations with other operators, exchange stories, and celebrate the magic of maritime history.
If you’re not an amateur radio operator, you can still be part of this historic event by following the ILLW activities, learning about different lighthouses, and supporting the preservation efforts.
Join the ILLW Celebration!
The International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend is an exceptional experience that combines the thrill of amateur radio with the allure of maritime history. Whether you’re an avid radio enthusiast or simply intrigued by lighthouses, this event promises a weekend filled with adventure and discovery.
Wondering if Australia takes part? Here is a list of Australian lighthouses that have previously taken part in this event:
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse – Western Australia
- Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse – Western Australia
- Split Point Lighthouse (Aireys Inlet Lighthouse) – Victoria
- Cape Otway Lightstation – Victoria
- Point Lonsdale Lighthouse – Victoria
- Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse – New South Wales
- Macquarie Lighthouse – New South Wales
- Cape Byron Lighthouse – New South Wales
- Montague Island Lighthouse – New South Wales
- Kiama Blowhole Lighthouse – New South Wales
- Barrenjoey Lighthouse – New South Wales
- Point Perpendicular Lighthouse – New South Wales
- Cape Nelson Lighthouse – Victoria
- Cape Schanck Lighthouse – Victoria
- Cape Wickham Lighthouse – Tasmania
- Low Head Lighthouse – Tasmania
- Tasman Island Lighthouse – Tasmania
- Maatsuyker Island Lighthouse – Tasmania
- Point Hicks Lighthouse – Victoria
- Griffiths Island Lighthouse (Port Fairy Lighthouse) – Victoria
- Warden Head Lighthouse – New South Wales
The list has grown substantially in Australia this year, you can view the lighthouse list by clicking here https://wllw.org/index.php/en/#VK
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are likely many other lighthouses in Australia that have participated in the ILLW. Additionally, participation may change from year to year, so it’s best to check the official ILLW website https://illw.net/
The Best Radios for Your ILLW Adventure
To make your ILLW experience truly extraordinary, we recommend the Xiegu G-90 transceiver! This high-performance portable HF multimode transceiver covers an impressive 0.5-30MHz general coverage receiver and 10-160-meter amateur band Tx/Rx coverage with 20 watts of RF output. The Xiegu G-90 ensures crystal-clear communication and unparalleled reliability throughout the weekend.
Enhance Your Reception with Tecsun Communication Headphones
We understand that excellent audio quality is vital to your radio pursuits. That’s why we offer Tecsun Communication headphones, providing you with an outstanding dynamic range through efficient 50mm NdFeB magnet drivers. Plus, the 3m connection cable guarantees ample length for comfortable headphone use during the ILLW activities.
Here are some of our top products to enhance your event experience.
1.Tecsun PL-330: This pocket-sized portable receiver comes with SSB capability and direct frequency entry, making it the ideal choice for listening to shortwave radio utility stations, amateur radio transmissions, and regular shortwave broadcasts.
2.PL-880: Featuring digital Signal Processing on the HF band, the PL-880 is a quantum leap forward for receiving weak signals. It also offers selectable IF bandwidth for fine-tuning your listening experience.
3. PL-990x: Considered Tecsun engineering at its finest, the PL-990x High-Performance Shortwave Radio utilizes multiple frequency conversion and modern DSP digital demodulation technology, resulting in improved receiving sensitivity, selectivity, and image rejection.
4. The newest addition to the Tecsun radio range, the H501x DSP Shortwave Radio is the result of years of research and development by Tecsun’s engineering department, incorporating feedback from shortwave radio listeners. Its hybrid desktop portable design ensures uncompromised performance without sacrificing size.
Coincidentally, these fantastic radios are also compatible with our premium headphones, ensuring you enjoy the best audio quality during your shortwave radio adventures.
We need to also mention the TRA HF Portable Dipole antenna, your ultimate radio companion! With a power handling capability of 100 Watts PEP, this antenna is designed to deliver exceptional performance. It comes conveniently packed in a durable canvas carry bag, making it easy to carry and set up wherever you go. Plus, we’ve got you covered with 10 meters of Rg58 cable for effortless connection to most transceivers.
Mark your calendars for the third full weekend of August, and let’s celebrate “Lighthouse Month” together! Join the ILLW community in commemorating these timeless beacons that have guided sailors throughout history. Step into the world of amateur radio, explore maritime heritage, and make connections that span the globe. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to be part of an international tradition like no other!
International broadcaster DW Arabic, has introduced a new radio program called “Sudan Now.” This 30-minute daily program is broadcast in Arabic and can be accessed through various platforms such as shortwave radio, Hotbird, SES-5 satellites, and the DW Arabic website.
“Sudan Now” aims to deliver unbiased coverage of current issues in the region, fostering political, social, and cultural dialogue through engaging interviews, talk shows, and reports.
This program fills a critical information gap in Sudan, where independent sources are scarce, and established media face challenges broadcasting due to internet outages and ongoing conflicts. To overcome these obstacles, “Sudan Now” has been strategically designed for transmission via shortwave radio and the Hotbird- and SES-5 satellites, enabling listeners in the target region to receive the program on their TV sets.
Dr. Nadja Scholz, the Managing Director of Programming at DW, emphasised the necessity of providing the people in Sudan with dedicated programming that offers independent, current, and in-depth information. By utilising shortwave radio, DW expands its reach and ensures access to a wide audience.
Manuela Kasper-Claridge, DW’s editor-in-chief, underlined the urgency of the situation in Sudan, where the humanitarian crisis persists and access to free and independent information is severely limited. The introduction of this Arabic-language radio program is a significant step towards addressing this critical need.
Starting from Monday, June 26, 2023, “Sudan Now” will air every weekday at 2:30 pm (local time, GMT+2), with a repeat broadcast at 8:30 pm. Listeners can tune in to the program on shortwave frequencies 15275 kHz/17800 kHz in the afternoon and 15275 kHz/17840 kHz in the evening.
The launch of “Sudan Now” reflects DW Arabic’s commitment to providing vital information and facilitating dialogue in a region grappling with ongoing conflicts and limited access to independent media.
Information from this article was sourced from :https://corporate.dw.com/en/sudan-now-dw-arabic-launches-new-radio-program-for-sudan/a-66036734