The Remembrance Day (RD) Contest is more than just a radio contest—it’s a tribute to the brave radio amateurs who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. This annual event, held on the weekend closest to August 15th, marks the cessation of hostilities in the South West Pacific in 1945. The 2024 contest will take place from 0300 UTC (1:00 pm local time) on Saturday, August 17th, to 0300 UTC on Sunday, August 18th.
A Brief History of the Remembrance Day Contest
The Remembrance Day Contest has a long and storied history, beginning shortly after World War II. Originally conceived as a way to honour the amateur radio operators who lost their lives during the war, the contest has since evolved into a tradition that fosters camaraderie among radio enthusiasts while preserving the memory of those who served.
The event was established by the Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA), the oldest national amateur radio society in the world, founded in 1910. The WIA wanted to create a meaningful way to remember the contributions of amateur radio operators who played crucial roles in wartime communications. These operators provided vital communication links, especially in the South West Pacific, where conventional communication methods were often unreliable or non-existent.
Each year, the contest brings together amateur radio operators from Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea, along with many others from around the world. Participants engage in friendly competition, aiming to improve their operating skills and make as many contacts as possible on various frequency bands.
Contest Details and Participation
The RD Contest is designed to encourage participation from all levels of amateur radio enthusiasts. The aim is to contact stations in VK call areas (Australia), ZL (New Zealand), and P29 (Papua New Guinea) across all bands, excluding the WARC bands (10, 18, and 24 MHz) as per International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) agreement. Permitted modes include PHONE, CW, and RTTY, reflecting the communication methods of the era being remembered.
For this year’s event, HF SSB voice transmissions are to be made within the following frequency ranges:
- 1843-1875 kHz
- 3535-3570 kHz and 3600-3700 kHz
- 7080-7300 kHz
- 14112-14300 kHz
- 21150-21450 kHz
- 28300-29100 kHz
The contest provides an excellent opportunity for shortwave listeners to test their equipment and hone their shortwave receiving skills. This event is not just about competition; it’s about improving technical abilities, making connections, and remembering those who paved the way for today’s amateur radio community.
The Men Behind the Contest: A Roll of Honor
The Remembrance Day Contest also serves as a poignant reminder of the individuals who paid the ultimate price during World War II. The following is a roll of honour of WIA members who sacrificed their lives:
Royal Australian Navy
- J.E. Mann VK3IE
- A.H.G. Rippen VK6GR
Australian Military Forces
- C.D. Roberts VK2JV
- J.D. Morris VK3DQ
- J. McCandlish VK3HN
- S.W. Jones VK3SF
- D.A. Laws VK4DR
- J.G. Phillips VK5BW
- K.S. Anderson VK6KS
Royal Australian Air Force
- F.W.S. Easton VK2BQ
- V.J.E. Jarvis VK2VJ
- W. Abbott VK2YK
- G.C. Curle VK2AJB
- T. Stephens VK3GO
- M.D. Orr VK3OR
- J.F. Colthrop VK3PL
- J.A. Burrage VK3UW
- J.E. Snadden VK3VE
- F.J. Starr VK4FS
- R. Allen VK4PR
- C.A. Ives VK5AF
- B. James VK5BL
- J.E. Goddard VK6JG
- P.P. Paterson VK6PP
Merchant Marine
- N.E. Gunter VK3NG
A Moment of Silence
As a mark of respect, all participating stations are asked to observe 15 minutes of silence before the start of the contest. During this time, the opening ceremony will be broadcast, setting the tone for a respectful and solemn competition.
Conclusion
The Remembrance Day Contest is a unique event that combines the thrill of amateur radio with the solemn duty of remembrance. It’s an opportunity for radio enthusiasts to connect, share their passion, and honour the memory of those who served and sacrificed. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a newcomer to the world of amateur radio, the RD Contest offers a meaningful way to test your skills and pay tribute to history.
Credit: This blog is inspired by the historical significance of the Remembrance Day Contest, honouring the sacrifices of radio amateurs during World War II.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable event that blends history, community, and the thrill of shortwave radio: the International Lighthouse & Lightship Weekend (ILLW) on August 17-18, 2024! This annual celebration runs from 12:00am on Saturday to 12:00am on Sunday (UTC), bringing together radio enthusiasts and lighthouse lovers from around the world.
A Brief History
The ILLW started in 1998 with the aim of promoting public awareness of lighthouses and lightships and their need for preservation and restoration, as well as to promote amateur radio. Since then, it has grown into a global phenomenon, with hundreds of lighthouses and lightships participating each year. This event is not a contest, but a fun weekend where radio amateurs set up their gear at lighthouses and lightships, transmitting signals to connect with fellow enthusiasts across the world. Shortwave listeners can monitor amateur “contacts” around the globe.
Interesting to note!
Over the years, ILLW has produced some memorable moments:
- Surprise Visitors: In 2015, a group of radio operators set up at a remote lighthouse in Scotland, only to be joined by a family of curious seals who seemed fascinated by the antennas and cables!
- Unexpected Weather: During the 2010 event, operators at a lighthouse in New Zealand were caught in an unexpected snowstorm. Despite the chilly conditions, they managed to keep their signals strong and enjoyed hot cocoa while making contacts.
- Ghostly Encounters: Some participants swear they’ve experienced ghostly activities at historic lighthouses. One operator reported hearing mysterious footsteps and seeing flickering lights in an old, supposedly haunted lighthouse in Ireland!
Join the Fun
Australia is home to many participating lighthouses, offering a unique opportunity for shortwave radio enthusiasts to be part of this historic event. Whether you’re setting up your station at a lighthouse or connecting from your home setup, the ILLW is a chance to share in a global tradition that celebrates our maritime heritage.
How to Participate
- **Find a Lighthouse**: Check the ILLW website for a list of participating lighthouses in your area.
- **Set Up Your Gear**: Bring your transceiver, antenna, and other equipment to a lighthouse or lightship.
- **Connect**: Tune in and make contact with other operators around the world.
- **Log Your Contacts**: Keep track of the lighthouses and lightships you connect with and share your experience with the community.
Many amateur radio clubs make this an annual event, so check with your local club to participate !
Don’t miss out on this incredible event! Gather your equipment, invite your fellow enthusiasts, and be part of the International Lighthouse & Lightship Weekend. Let’s keep the airwaves alive with the spirit of adventure and history.
Hello, fellow shortwave enthusiasts! Here at Tecsun Radios Australia, we love diving into the rich and fascinating history of shortwave radio. It’s incredible how these broadcasts have played pivotal roles in global events. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some famous shortwave moments that changed the world—and maybe share a chuckle or two along the way.
The Fall of Singapore (1942) During World War II, British-controlled Radio Singapore broadcast the news of Singapore’s fall to Japanese forces in February 1942. This transmission marked a turning point in the war and had everyone clutching their radios in shock. It was a wake-up call to the vulnerabilities of the Allied forces and changed the global perception of the war’s progression. Talk about a plot twist!
D-Day Invasion (1944) June 6, 1944, saw one of the most critical operations of World War II—the D-Day invasion. Shortwave radios around the world buzzed with updates from the beaches of Normandy. These broadcasts didn’t just relay news; they were morale boosters, cheering on the Allied forces as they began the endgame against Nazi Germany. Imagine the tension and excitement—like tuning in for the finale of a gripping series!
The Cuban Missile Crisis (1962) The Cuban Missile Crisis was a nail-biter, and shortwave radio was the suspenseful soundtrack. With Radio Moscow and Voice of America at the helm, updates and propaganda flew across the airwaves. These broadcasts informed and influenced global public opinion during one of the Cold War’s most intense standoffs. It was like a high-stakes poker game, and everyone had their ears glued to the radio.
Apollo 11 Moon Landing (1969) “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Who could forget the thrilling moment when Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon? Shortwave radios were the portals to this historic achievement, uniting millions in awe and excitement. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated wonder—like discovering your favourite radio station’s signal is crystal clear on a foggy night.
Fall of the Berlin Wall (1989) The fall of the Berlin Wall was a joyous occasion that symbolised the end of the Cold War. Shortwave stations like Radio Free Europe played a vital role in broadcasting the news, and you could almost hear the collective cheer through the airwaves. It was a celebration of freedom and unity, a moment that made everyone feel like dancing to the sweet sound of liberty.
Tiananmen Square Protests (1989) During the Tiananmen Square protests, shortwave radio was a lifeline of uncensored information. Stations like Voice of America and BBC World Service provided coverage that the Chinese government tried to suppress. These broadcasts were crucial in informing the international community about the pro-democracy protests and the subsequent crackdown. It was a brave stand for truth, echoing through the static.
September 11 Attacks (2001) The September 11 terrorist attacks were a heart-wrenching moment in modern history. Shortwave radios played a critical role in providing immediate news coverage to people worldwide. Stations like Voice of America broadcast real-time updates, offering a global perspective on the events and their aftermath. In times of crisis, shortwave radio proves to be an invaluable companion.
The Impact of Historic Shortwave Broadcasts
These historic broadcasts demonstrate the power of shortwave radio in shaping global events and public perception. Shortwave radio has served as a lifeline in times of war, a beacon of hope in moments of despair, and a bridge for communication across borders.
Educational and Cultural Exchange Shortwave radio has facilitated educational and cultural exchanges by broadcasting programs that promote understanding and cooperation among different cultures. Stations like the BBC World Service and Radio Netherlands Worldwide have contributed to global education and cultural enrichment.
Advocacy and Human Rights In countries with restricted media, shortwave radio has been a critical tool for advocating human rights and democracy. By providing uncensored news and information, shortwave broadcasts have supported movements for freedom and justice worldwide.
Emergency Communication In times of natural disasters and emergencies, shortwave radio has proven indispensable. Its ability to reach remote areas and provide reliable communication makes it a vital tool for disaster response and recovery.
The legacy of shortwave radio is marked by its ability to transcend borders, connect people, and document history as it unfolds. From wartime broadcasts to moments of scientific achievement and social change, shortwave radio has played an integral role in shaping our world. As we look to the future, the enduring impact of these historic broadcasts reminds us of the power of radio waves to inform, inspire, and unite humanity.
So, the next time you tune into your Tecsun radio, remember—you’re not just listening; you’re part of a grand tradition that’s been making waves for decades. Happy listening!