Category Archives: Uncategorized

WRTC 2023

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Over the past few weeks, I have been having fun chasing the World Radiosport Team Championship (WRTC) stations.

Below is a video of some WRTC stations heard and worked from my QTH.

So far I have worked the following WRTC stations:-

  • 4X22WRTC Israel – 20m, 15m
  • 8B0RARI Indonesia – 20m, 15m
  • 8N1WRTC – 10m
  • 9A22WRTC – 20m
  • DA22WRTC – 20m, 15m
  • E2WRTC -20m
  • EF2WRTC – 15m, 10m
  • EF8WRTC – 20m
  • GB2WC – 20m
  • HZ1WRTC – 20m
  • II0WRTC – 20m
  • II1WRTC – 15m
  • II2WRTC- 20m
  • II3WRTC – 20m, 15m
  • II5WRTC – 15m
  • II8WRTC – 20m
  • II9WRTC -15m
  • IO1WRTC – 20m
  • LZ0WRTC – 20m
  • OM22WRTC – 20m, 15m
  • SP0WRTC – 15m
  • SX0WRTC – 20m, 15m
  • TM2WRTC – 20m
  • UP7WRTC – 15m

KNLS – 6110 kHz

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At about 1419 UTC on 7th January 2023, I tuned in to KNLS Alaska broadcasting on 6110 kHz in the English language.

The broadcast was coming from the Anchor Point 100kW transmitter.

The program consisted of music and religious content.

The overall reception of KNLS was good. The signal strength was good, however, there was some slight interference from PBS Xizing in China broadcasting on the same frequency.

SINPO
44444

Below is a video showing my reception of KNLS.

Cox Scrub Conservation Park VKFF-0824

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Our final park for Sunday 27th November 2022 and the 2022 VKFF Activation Weekend was the Cox Scrub Conservation Park VKFF-0824. The park is located about 70 km south-south-east of the city of Adelaide and about 8 km south of the town of Ashbourne where I live.

Above:- Map showing the location of the Cox Scrub Conservation Park. Map c/o Google maps.

The park is bordered by Bull Creek Road to the east, and Rymill Road to the west. Cleared farming land can be found to the south and north.

Above:- An aerial view of the park showing the boundaries. Image c/o Google Earth.

Cox Scrub Conservation Park is about 563 hectares in size and is one of the largest parks on the Fleurieu Peninsula south of Adelaide.

Above:- An aerial view of the Cox Scrub Conservation Park. Image c/o Google maps.

The park was proclaimed on the 5th day of March 1970 as the Cox’s Scrub National Park. Prior to this, the park was owned by Mr V. Cox, an apiarist of Ashbourne> He preserved the park in is natural state for the bees which he bred. On the 27th day of April 1972, it was reconstituted as the Cox Scrub Conservation Park. Additional areas were added to the park in 1977, 1982, 1984, 1986, and 2018.

In 1983 the park was destroyed during the Ash Wednesday Bushfires.

Above:- Article from the Victor Harbour Times, Wed 21 Sep 1983. Image c/o Trove.

The park is well-signposted from Bull Creek Road.

The majority of the park’s vegetation is low stringybark and banksia with a dense understorey

The park is home to numerous birds. Below are some photos I took during our visit.

Birds SA have recorded 152 different bird species in the park including  Superb Fairywren, Red-browed Finch, Galah, New Holland Honeyeater, White-browed Scrubwren, and Red Wattlebird.

Marija and I logged a total of 70 QSOs, including 22 Park to Park contacts.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3ZPF/p (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)
  2. VK3OAK/p (Baranduda Regional Park  VKFF-0959)
  3. VK2YK/p (Angove Conservation Park VKFF-0867)
  4. VK5BJE
  5. VK5LA
  6. VK5KAW
  7. VK5DW
  8. VK3VIN
  9. VK5HAA
  10. VK5FANA
  11. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)
  12. VK3BEZ/p (Kangaroo Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2121)
  13. VK3MCA/p (Timor Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2211)
  14. VK3TUN/p (Tunstalls Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2217)
  15. VK5DG/p (Tunstalls Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2217)
  16. VK2IO/p (Yellomundee Regional Park VKFF-0558)

Marija worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK3BEZ/p (Kangaroo Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2121)
  2. VK3MCA/p (Timor Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2211)

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3ZPF/p (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)
  2. VK3OAK/p (Baranduda Regional Park  VKFF-0959)
  3. VK2YK/p (Angove Conservation Park VKFF-0867)
  4. VK5BJE
  5. VK5LA
  6. VK5KAW
  7. VK5DW
  8. VK3VIN
  9. VK5HAA
  10. VK5FANA
  11. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)
  12. Vk2VH
  13. VK4AAC
  14. VK3AMO
  15. VK3GJG
  16. VK7HAM
  17. VK5CZ
  18. VK3CJN
  19. VK3YAR
  20. VK3BEZ/p (Kangaroo Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2121)
  21. VK2HMC/p
  22. VK3MCA/p (Timor Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2211)
  23. VK3BBB/5
  24. VK2CCP/5
  25. VK3AHR
  26. VK3TUN/p (Tunstalls Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2217)
  27. VK5DG/p (Tunstalls Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2217)
  28. VK3UAO
  29. VK5PHR
  30. VK3CWF
  31. VK3UH
  32. VK3DNB
  33. VK3SMW
  34. VK3MLT
  35. VK2IO/p (Yellomundee Regional Park VKFF-0558)

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK4FW
  2. VK8MM
  3. V73MS
  4. VK1ZZ/4
  5. VK6NU
  6. VK4JT/p
  7. VK4TJ
  8. VK6LMK
  9. VK4NH
  10. VK4DXA

I worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK3BEZ/p (Kangaroo Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2121)
  2. VK5DW
  3. VK5HAA
  4. VK3MCA/p (Timor Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2211)
  5. VK5FANA
  6. VK5CZ

I worked the following station on 80m AM:-

  1. VK5FANA

It was the end of an excellent weekend and another successful VKFF Activation Weekend. Marija and I activated eight (8) parks on the Fleurieu Peninsula.

References.

  1. Birds SA, 2023, <https://birdssa.asn.au/location/cox-scrub-conservation-park/>, viewed 10th January 2023.
  2. National Parks and Wildlife Service, 2023, <https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/cox-scrub-conservation-park>, viewed 10th January 2023.
  3. Wikipedia, 2023, <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cox_Scrub_Conservation_Park>, viewed 10th January 2023.

Cox Scrub Conservation Reserve VKFF-1701

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Our third park for Sunday 27th November 2022 was the Cox Scrub Conservation Reserve VKFF-1701. The park is located about 65 km south of the city of Adelaide.

Above:- Map showing the location of the Cox Scrub Conservation Reserve. Map c/o Google maps.

The Cox Scrub Conservation Reserve is located on the eastern side of Bull Creek Road (Meadows-to Goolwa Road).  It is not to be confused with the Cox Scrub Conservation Park which is much larger in size.

Above:- An aerial shot of the Cox Scrub Conservation Reserve showing the boundaries. Image c/o Google Earth.

The majority of the adjacent Conservation Park was previously owned by the late Mr. V. COX of Ashbourne, who preserved the area in a natural state for overwintering his honey bees.  In 1969 the land was purchased from Mr. COX on the condition that he was allowed to keep bees in the park.  This agreement was upheld until he passed away.

Above:- Aerial shot showing the Cox Scrub Conservation Reserve with the Conservation Park in the background. Image c/o Google maps.

The park does not have a sign. There is an overgrown track on the eastern side of the road which is suitable for 4WD only.

Marija and I drove along the 4WD track and found a clearing on the eastern side of the park. We ran the Yaesu FT857. 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole for this activation.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3MCA/p (Havelock Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2107)
  2. VK3BEZ/p (Mullungdung Flora & Fauna Reserve VKFF-2406)
  3. VK3TUN/p (Dalyenong Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2075)
  4. VK2VH
  5. VK4AAC
  6. VK5BJE
  7. VK3GJG
  8. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)
  9. VK3DL/p (Coradjil Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2069)
  10. VK2IO/p (Wollemi National Park VKFF-0544)
  11. VK3BBB/5
  12. VK2CCP/5
  13. VK2OKR/p (Gir-um-bit National Park VKFF-0589)
  14. VK2AUS/p (Gir-um-bit National Park VKFF-0589)
  15. VK7IAN/p (Coningham Nature Recreation Area VKFF-1135)
  16. VK3ZPF/p (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)
  17. VK2EG/p (Werakata National Park VKFF-0528)
  18. VK3CTM
  19. Vk2DG
  20. VK5HAA
  21. VK5WWW
  22. VK3VIN
  23. VK5FANA
  24. VK3YAR
  25. VK4NH
  26. VK4DXA
  27. VK4FW
  28. VK8MM
  29. VK3SH
  30. VK3UH
  31. VK3CJN

Marija worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK4NH
  2. VK4DXA
  3. VK2IO/p (Wollemi National Park VKFF-0544)
  4. ZL1BQD
  5. VK2MET/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  6. VK1AO/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  7. VK2VW
  8. VK2HFI
  9. ZL1TM
  10. VK4FW
  11. VK8MM
  12. VK7XX
  13. VK7CEJ
  14. VK6JK
  15. VK4UMB
  16. VK7IAN/p (Coningham Nature Recreation Area VKFF-1135)

Marija worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK5HAA
  2. VK5FANA
  3. VK5CZ
  4. VK5WWW

Marija worked the following station on 80m AM:-

  1. VK5HAA

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3MCA/p (Havelock Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2107)
  2. VK3BEZ/p (Mullungdung Flora & Fauna Reserve VKFF-2406)
  3. VK3TUN/p (Dalyenong Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2075)
  4. VK2VH
  5. VK4AAC
  6. VK5BJE
  7. VK3GJG
  8. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)
  9. VK3DL/p (Coradjil Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2069)
  10. VK2IO/p (Wollemi National Park VKFF-0544)
  11. VK3BBB/5
  12. VK2CCp/5
  13. VK3DJC
  14. VK3SQ
  15. VK2MOP
  16. VK6MRD
  17. VK3ANL
  18. VK5HAA
  19. VK5CZ
  20. VK2OKR/p (Gir-um-bit National Park VKFF-0589)
  21. VK2AUS/p (Gir-um-bit National Park VKFF-0589)
  22. VK7IAN/p (Coningham Nature Recreation Area VKFF-1135)
  23. VK3ZPF/p (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)
  24. VK2EG/p (Werakata National Park VKFF-0528)

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK4NH
  2. VK4DXA
  3. VK2IO/p (Wollemi National Park VKFF-0544)
  4. ZL1BQD
  5. VK2MET/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  6. VK1AO/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  7. Vk2VW
  8. VK2HFI
  9. ZL1TM
  10. VK4FW
  11. VK8MM
  12. VK7XX
  13. VK7CEJ
  14. VK6JK
  15. VK4UMB
  16. VK7IAN/p (Coningham Nature Recreation Area VKFF-1135)

I worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK5HAA
  2. VK5FANA
  3. VK5CZ
  4. VK5WWW

I worked the following station on 80m AM:-

  1. VK5HAA

With 97 QSOs in the log, and 30 Park to Park contacts, it was time to head across the road to our final park for the day, the Cox Scrub Conservation Park.

References.

  1. Wikipedia, 2023, <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cox_Scrub_Conservation_Park>, viewed 10th January 203.

Mount Magnificent Conservation Park VKFF-0916

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Our second park for Sunday 27th November 2022 was the Mount Magnificent Conservation Park VKFF-0916. The park is located about 64 km (by road) south of the city of Adelaide.

I have activated Mount Magnificent a number of times previously.

Above:- Map showing the location of the Mount Magnificent Conservation Park. Map c/o Google maps.

The park is bounded to the west by the Blackfellows Creek Road and to the east by Mount Magnificent Road. The Heysen trail passes through the park.

Above:- An aerial view of the park showing the park boundaries. Image c/o Google Earth.

The park was previously known as the Mount Magnificent National Park when it was gazetted on the 10th day of August 1967. On the 27th day of April 1972, it was reconstituted as the Mount Magnificent Conservation Park.

Mount Magnificent Conservation Park is 90 hectares (220 acres) in size. The summit of Mount Magnificent which rises 380 metres above sea level can be found in the park.

Above:- An aerial view of the Mt Magnificent CP. Image c/o Google maps

Mount Magnificent Conservation Park conserves remnant land which was left virtually untouched by landowners due to the steep terrain and rocky outcrops in the area. The park has Stringybark low open forest various eucalypts, and banksia.

There are some magnificent views to be enjoyed from the park of the southern coast, the Coorong, Lake Alexandrina and Lake Albert.

Marija and I set up alongside the park sign on Mount Magnificent Road. We ran the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole.

We made a total of 76 QSOs, including 21 Park to Park contacts.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3BEZ/p (Herb Guyatt Flora Reserve VKFF-2329)
  2. VK5HS
  3. VK5LA
  4. VK3CJN
  5. VK2IO/p (Parr State Conservation Area VKFF-1370)
  6. VK2MET/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  7. VK1AO/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  8. VK3GJG/p (Bunyip State Park VKFF-0753)
  9. VK3BBB
  10. VK2CCP
  11. VK2VH
  12. VK4AAC
  13. VK3TKK/p (Organ Pipes National Park VKFF-0627)
  14. VK3BEZ/p (Sale Common Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2431)
  15. VK5DW
  16. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)
  17. VK5HAA
  18. VK3SQ
  19. VK3AMO
  20. VK5MRD
  21. VK5AKR/m
  22. VK3OAK/p (Chiltern-Mount Pilot National Park VKFF-0620)

Marija worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK5HAA
  2. VK5CZ
  3. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK3BEZ/p (Herb Guyatt Flora Reserve VKFF-2329)
  2. VK5HS
  3. VK5LA
  4. VK3CJN
  5. VK2IO/p (Parr State Conservation Area VKFF-1370)
  6. VK2MET/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  7. VK1AO/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  8. VK3GJG/p (Bunyip State Park VKFF-0753)
  9. VK3BBB
  10. VK2CCP
  11. VK2VH
  12. VK4AAC
  13. VK5FANA
  14. VK3GRX
  15. VK3UH
  16. VK5BJE
  17. VK2EXA
  18. VK5KVA
  19. VK5VST
  20. VK5MRD
  21. VK5HYZ
  22. VK2TRL
  23. VK3TKK/p (Organ Pipes National Park VKFF-0627)
  24. VK5FB
  25. VK5HAA
  26. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)
  27. VK2LEE
  28. VK5CZ
  29. VK3NBL
  30. VK5PL
  31. VK3SQ
  32. VK3BEZ/p (Sale Common Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2431)
  33. VK3CWF
  34. VK5DW
  35. VK3OAK/p (Chiltern-Mount Pilot National Park VKFF-0620)

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK4NH
  2. VK4DXA
  3. VK4TJ
  4. VK2LEE
  5. VK4MUD
  6. VK2VW
  7. VK2HFI
  8. VK4HNS
  9. VK6NU
  10. VK5HAA
  11. VK4SMA/p (The Palms National Park VKFF-0485)
  12. VK7XX

I worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK5HAA
  2. VK5CZ
  3. VK5JAK
  4. VK5KLV/p (Whyalla Conservation Park VKFF-0808)

It was off to our third park for the day, the Cox Scrub Conservation Reserve, not far from our home.

References.

  1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, 2023, <https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/mount-magnificent-conservation-park>, viewed 10th January 2023.
  2. Wikipedia, 2023, <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Magnificent_Conservation_Park>, viewed 10th January 2023.

Kyeema Conservation Park VKFF-0826

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Our first park for Sunday 27th November 2022 and day two of the 2022 VKFF Activation Weekend, was the Kyeema Conservation Park VKFF-0826.

Kyeema is about 53 km south (by road) of the city of Adelaide.

Above:- Map showing the location of the Kyeema Conservation Park. Map c/o Google maps.

I have activated Kyeema Conservation Park seven times previously, the first being in 2014.

The park is located on the northern side of Woodgate Hill Road, between Brookman Road and Blackfellows Creek Road. The Heysen Trail passes through the park.

Above:- An aerial view of the park showing the park’s boundaries. Image c/o Google Earth.

The Kyeema Conservation Park is about 347 hectares in size. On the 12th day of November 1964, the park was proclaimed as a Wildlife Reserve. On the 3rd day of August 1967, the park was proclaimed as the Kyeema National Park. On the 27th day of April 1972, it was reconstituted as the Kyeema Conservation Park. On the 4th day of April 1972,

The land which is now the Kyeema Conservation Park was used as a labour prison reserve. It was originally known as the Kyeema Afforestation Camp, then the Kyeema Prison Camp. It operated between October 1932 and 1959 when it was replaced by the Cadell Training Centre in the Riverland region of South Australia.

Above:- Article from The Advertiser, Tue 6 Sep 1932. Image c/o Trove.

The park mainly consists of Messmate Stringybark, Pink Gum, Cup Gum and a diverse range of understorey plants.

Above:- An aerial view of the Kyeema Conservation Park. Image c/o Google maps.

Birds SA have recorded a total of 84 different bird species in the park. This includes Superb Fairywren, Striated Thornbill, Brown Thornbill, White-browed Scrubwren, Crescent Honeyeater, Yellow-faced Honeyeater, and Grey Shrike-thrush.

Native mammals found in the park include the rare Southern Brown Bandicoot, the Australian Swamp Rat, and Western Grey Kangaroo.

In February 1983, the park was destroyed by the Ash Wednesday bushfires. In the years after the bushfire, local school students replanted the park. In the first three years a total of 20,000 seedlings were planted in an area now officially known as The Childrens Forest.

Above: Article from the Victor Harbour Times, Wed 28 Sep 1983. Image c/o Trove.

We set up in the cleared area adjacent to the car park on Woodgate Hill Road. We ran the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole.

Marija and I made a total of 130 QSOs, including 58 Park to Park contacts.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB before the UTC rollover:-

  1. VK2YAK/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  2. VK4YAK/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  3. VK2OKR/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  4. VK2AUS/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  5. VK4FDJL/p (Boyne Island Conservation Park VKFF-1485)
  6. VK3PF
  7. VK2EXA
  8. VK4NH
  9. VK4DXA
  10. VK5HAA
  11. VK4MUD
  12. VK4FW/p (Police Paddock Conservation Park VKFF-1632)
  13. VK8MM/p (Police Paddock Conservation Park VKFF-1632)
  14. VK3OAK/p (Rutherglen Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2185)
  15. VK2IO/p (Comleroy Flora Reserve VKFF-3209)
  16. VK2MET/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  17. VK1AO/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  18. VK4SMA/p (Mount Binga National Park VKFF-0694)
  19. VK4EMP/p (Crows Nest National Park VKFF-0121)
  20. VK3VIN
  21. VK2VH
  22. VK4AAC
  23. VK5HS
  24. VK5FANA

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2YAK/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  2. VK4YAK/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  3. VK2OKR/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  4. VK2AUS/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  5. VK2HQ/p (Killalea Regional Park VKFF-3196)
  6. VK3OAK/p (Rutherglen Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2185)
  7. VK3UAO
  8. VK2MET/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  9. VK1AO/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  10. VK3BEZ/p (Herb Guyatt Flora Reserve VKFF-2329)
  11. VK2IO/p (Comleroy Flora Reserve VKFF-3209)
  12. VK3GJG/p (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)

Marija worked the following stations on 20m SSB before the UTC rollover:-

  1. VK2IO/p (Comleroy Flora Reserve VKFF-3209)
  2. VK5HAA
  3. VK3GJG/p (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)
  4. VK7LTD
  5. VK7XX
  6. VK4KLA
  7. VK4SMA/p (Mount Binga National Park VKFF-0694)
  8. VK2LP
  9. VK2EMS
  10. VK7HBR
  11. VK3OAK/p (Rutherglen Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2185)
  12. VK2VW
  13. VK2HFI

Marija worked the following stations on 20m SSB after the UTC rollover:-

  1. VK7XX
  2. VK7CEJ
  3. VK2VW
  4. VK2HFI
  5. VK5BJE
  6. VK5HAA
  7. VK4TJ
  8. VK2LP
  9. VK2EMS
  10. VK4SMA/p (Mount Binga National Park VKFF-0694)
  11. VK2PKT

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB before the UTC rollover:-

  1. VK2OKR/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  2. VK2AUS/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  3. VK2YAK/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  4. VK4YAK/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  5. VK4FDJL/p (Boyne Island Conservation Park VKFF-1485)
  6. VK3PF
  7. VK2EXA
  8. VK4NH
  9. VK4DXA
  10. VK5HAA
  11. VK4MUD
  12. VK4FW/p (Police Paddock Conservation Park VKFF-1632)
  13. VK8MM/p (Police Paddock Conservation Park VKFF-1632)
  14. VK3OAK/p (Rutherglen Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2185)
  15. VK2IO/p (Comleroy Flora Reserve VKFF-3209)
  16. VK2MET/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  17. VK1AO/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  18. VK4SMA/p (Mount Binga National Park VKFF-0694)
  19. VK4EMP/p (Crows Nest National Park VKFF-0121)
  20. VK3VIN
  21. VK2VH
  22. VK4AAC
  23. VK5HS
  24. VK5FANA

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB after the UTC rollover:-

  1. VK2YAk/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  2. VK4YAK/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  3. VK2OKR/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  4. VK2AUS/p (Glenrock State Conservation Area VKFF-1319)
  5. VK2HQ/p (Killalea Regional Park VKFF-3196)
  6. VK3OAK/p (Rutherglen Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2185)
  7. VK3UAO
  8. VK2MET/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  9. VK1AO/p (Worimi National Park VKFF-0614)
  10. VK5BJE
  11. VK3BEZ/p (Herb Guyatt Flora Reserve VKFF-2329)
  12. VK3BBB/5
  13. VK2CCP/5
  14. VK2EXA
  15. VK3AMO
  16. VK2IO/p (Comleroy Flora Reserve VKFF-3209)
  17. VK3DJC
  18. VK3UH
  19. VK3GJG/p (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)
  20. VK7EE
  21. VK2LEE

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB before the UTC rollover:-

  1. VK2IO/p (Comleroy Flora Reserve VKFF-3209)
  2. VK5HAA
  3. VK3GJGp (Kurth Kiln Regional Park VKFF-0971)
  4. VK7LTD
  5. VK7XX
  6. VK4KLA
  7. VK4SMA/p (Mount Binga National Park VKFF-0694)
  8. VK2LP
  9. VK2EMS
  10. VK7HBR
  11. VK3OAK/p (Rutherglen Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2185)
  12. VK2VW
  13. VK2HFI
  14. VK7CEJ

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB after the UTC rollover:-

  1. VK7CEJ
  2. VK7XX
  3. VK2VW
  4. VK2HFI
  5. VK5BJE
  6. VK5HAA
  7. VK4TJ
  8. VK2LP
  9. VK2EMS
  10. VK4SMA/p (Mount Binga National Park VKFF-0694)
  11. VK2PKT

Marija and I then packed up and we headed to our next park, the Mount Magnificent Conservation Park.

References.

  1. Birds SA, 2023, <https://birdssa.asn.au/location/kyeema-conservation-park/>, viewed 10th January 2023.
  2. Wikipedia, 2023, <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyeema_Conservation_Park>, viewed 10th January 2023.

Mount Billy Conservation Park VKFF-0912

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Our last park for Saturday 26th November 2022 was the Mount Billy Conservation Park VKFF-0912. The park is located about 79 km (by road) south of the city of Adelaide.

Above:- Map showing the location of the Mount Billy Conservation Park. Map c/o Google maps.

Mount Billy is located on the western side of Hindmarsh Tiers Road and on the eastern side of Nettle Hill Road.

Above:- Aerial view of the Mount Billy Conservation Park. Image c/o Google Earth.

The park is about 198 hectares in size and was proclaimed on the 12th day of August 1999. The land was originally owned by SA Water and was transferred to the Department for Environment and Water in 1999. It originally served as a catchment area for the Hindmarsh Valley Reservoir which is now decommissioned.

Above:- An aerial view of the Mount Billy Conservation Park. Image c/o Google maps.

The Mount Billy Conservation Park represents some of the best preserved mallee and forest communities in the southern Mount Lofty Ranges.

Birds SA have recorded a total of 79 bird species in the park including Superb Fairywren, Eastern Spinebill, Crescent Honeyeater, Brown Thornbill, Grey Shrikethrush, and Australian Golden Whistler.

The rare Southern Brown bandicoot can be found in the park.

Marija and I operated from just inside the park boundary on Hindmarsh Tiers Road. We ran the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole for this activation.

We made a total of 68 QSOs including 18 Park to Park contacts. A few dozen European stations on 20m SSB on the long path was also a bonus.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK4FDJL/p (Calliope Conservation Park VKFF-1499)
  2. VK3ZK/p (Ninety Mile Beach Marine National Park VKFF-0951)
  3. VK4NH
  4. VK4DXA
  5. VK3AHR
  6. VK3VIN
  7. VK3CAT
  8. VK2DG
  9. VK2IO/p (Blue Mountains National Park VKFF-0041)
  10. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  11. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  12. VK3BEZ/p (Traralgon South Flora Reserve VKFF-2465)
  13. VK2VW
  14. VK2HFI
  15. VK3ZPF/p (Churchill National Park VKFF-0621)
  16. VK3MCA/p (Werribee Gorge State Park VKFF-0775)
  17. VK4EMP/p (Crows Nest National Park VKFF-0121)

Marija worked the following station on 20m SSB:-

  1. OP7M

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK4FDJL/p (Calliope Conservation Park VKFF-1499)
  2. VK3ZK/p (Ninety Mile Beach Marine National Park VKFF-0951)
  3. VK4NH
  4. VK4DXA
  5. VK3AHR
  6. VK3VIN
  7. VK3CAT
  8. VK2DG
  9. VK2IO/p (Blue Mountains National Park VKFF-0041)
  10. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  11. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  12. VK3BEZ/p (Traralgon South Flora Reserve VKFF-2465)
  13. VK2VW
  14. VK2HFI
  15. VK3ZPF/p (Churchill National Park VKFF-0621)
  16. VK3SMW
  17. VK3QH
  18. VK4HAT
  19. VK7OT
  20. VK3MCA/p (Werribee Gorge State Park VKFF-0775)
  21. VK4SMA
  22. VK4EMP/p (Crows Nest National Park VKFF-0121)
  23. VK4SYD
  24. VK3BKO
  25. VK4TJ
  26. VK3JDO
  27. VK3HBG
  28. VK5KLV
  29. VK3GJG
  30. VK2MET
  31. VK1AO
  32. VK4CPS
  33. VK3DAC
  34. VK3ZD

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. F4ILH
  2. IW2NXI
  3. UT5ZC
  4. ON3MDZ
  5. IK4IDF
  6. PA5WK
  7. OH1MM
  8. PD1ATH
  9. OP7M
  10. ON2LVC
  11. OH1XT
  12. OH6GAZ
  13. ON4VT
  14. F4GYH
  15. SV1FTY
  16. F6EOC

It had been a terrific day, but we were tired and hungry and headed back home.

References.

  1. Birds SA, 2023, <https://birdssa.asn.au/location/mount-billy-conservation-park/>, viewed 10th January 2023.
  2. Friends of Parks, 2023, <https://friendsofparkssa.org.au/members/members-directory/friends-of-mt-billy-conservation-park/>, viewed 10th January 2023.

Spring Mount Conservation Park VKFF-0789

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After packing up at Myponga, we headed further south to one of my favourite parks, the Spring Mount Conservation Park VKFF-0789.

The park is located on the Fleurieu Peninsula about 76 km south of the city of Adelaide.

Above:- Map showing the location of the Spring Mount CP. Map c/o Google maps.

I have activated Spring Mount on three prior occasions, the first time in 2017.

The Spring Mount Conservation Park is about 279 hectares in size and is located south of Springmount Road and on the western and eastern side of Mount Alma Road which dissects the park.

Above:- Aerial shot of the Spring Mount Conservation Park. Image c/o google maps.

Spring Mount first acquired protected area status on the 3rd day of February 1966 as the Spring Mount wild-life reserve. On the 27th day of April 1972 the wild-life reserve was reconstituted as the Spring Mount Conservation Park.  Additions were made to the park on the 13th day of September 1973, and on the 17th day of October 2013.

The park consists predominantly of Open Forest of Brown Stringybark and Messmate Stringybark with various understorey plants including Myrtle Wattle, Beaked Hakea, and Yacca.

Birds SA have recorded 90 species of bird in the park including Adelaide Rosella, White-throated Treecreeper, Superb Fairywren, Crescent Honeyeater, Grey Shrikethrush, Grey Fantail, and Scarlet Robin.

During our visit to the park we observed Yellow-tailed Black cockatoos, echidnas, and Western Grey kangaroos.

Marija and I set up in the carpark on Mount Alma Road.

Above:- An aerial view of the park showing our operating spot. Image c/o Google Earth.

We ran the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole for this activation.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK1DI/p (Kowen Escarpment Nature Reserve VKFF-3182)
  2. VK3PI/p (Ironbark Road Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2113)
  3. VK3ANL/p (Greswell Hill Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2104)
  4. VK2IO/p SOTA VK2/ CT-032 & Blue Mountains National Park VKFF-0041)
  5. VK3BEZ/p (Traralgon South Flora Reserve VKFF-2465)
  6. VK3MCA/p (Brisbane Ranges National Park VKFF-0055)
  7. VK3APJ/p (Ararat Hills Regional Park VKFF-0958)
  8. VK2YK/p (Sandy Creek Conservation Park VKFF-0933)
  9. VK3OAK/p (Black Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2048)
  10. VK3DL/p (Coradjil Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2069)
  11. VK2TER/p (Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve VKFF-2013)
  12. VK4MUD/p (Geham National Park VKFF-0679)
  13. VK3TUN/p (Gowar Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2099)
  14. VK5DG/p (Gowar Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2099)
  15. VK2MET/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  16. VK1AO/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  17. VK3ZPF/p (Churchill National Park VKFF-0621)
  18. VK3VIN
  19. VK2VW
  20. VK2HFI
  21. VK3AMO
  22. VK3NDG
  23. VK3FACD
  24. VK3LOC
  25. VK3DAC
  26. VK3MCA/p (Werribee Gorge State Park VKFF-0775)
  27. VK3FRC
  28. VK4HMI
  29. VK3KMA
  30. VK3ZD
  31. VK4EMP/p (Ravensbourne National Park VKFF-0427)
  32. VK2VH
  33. VK4AAC
  34. VK4KLA
  35. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  36. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  37. VK4NH
  38. VK4DXA
  39. VK3CJN
  40. VK3DJC
  41. VK4SYD

Marija worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK4EMP/p (Ravensbourne National Park VKFF-0427)
  2. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659 VKFF-1659)
  3. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659 VKFF-1659)
  4. VK2MET/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  5. VK1AO/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)

Marija worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK5BJE
  2. VK5FANA

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK1DI/p (Kowen Escarpment Nature Reserve VKFF-3182)
  2. VK3BBB
  3. VK2CCP
  4. VK3PI/p (Ironbark Road Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2113)
  5. VK3ANL/p (Greswell Hill Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2104)
  6. VK2IO/p SOTA VK2/ CT-032 & Blue Mountains National Park VKFF-0041)
  7. VK3BEZ/p (Traralgon South Flora Reserve VKFF-2465)
  8. VK3MCA/p (Brisbane Ranges National Park VKFF-0055)
  9. VK3APJ/p (Ararat Hills Regional Park VKFF-0958)
  10. VK2YK/p (Sandy Creek Conservation Park VKFF-0933)
  11. VK3LSR
  12. VK5FANA
  13. VK3OAK/p (Black Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2048)
  14. VK3VIN
  15. VK4KLA
  16. VK3DL/p (Coradjil Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2069)
  17. VK2LEE
  18. VK5PL
  19. VK2TER/p (Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve VKFF-2013)
  20. VK4MUD/p (Geham National Park VKFF-0679)
  21. VK3BCM
  22. VK3TUN/p (Gowar Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2099)
  23. VK5DG/p (Gowar Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2099)
  24. VK2MET/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  25. VK1AO/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  26. VK3ZPF/p (Churchill National Park VKFF-0621)
  27. VK2VW
  28. VK2HFI
  29. VK3MCA/p (Werribee Gorge State Park VKFF-0775)
  30. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  31. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK4KLA
  2. VK4EMP/p (Ravensbourne National Park VKFF-0427)
  3. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  4. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  5. VK4NH
  6. VK4DXA
  7. VK3OAK/p (Black Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2048)
  8. VK5HW
  9. VK7XX
  10. ZL1TM
  11. VK2TER/p (Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserv VKFF-2013)
  12. VK4MUD/p (Geham National Park VKFF-0679)
  13. VK7ZR
  14. VK2MET/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)
  15. VK1AO/p (Tomaree National Park VKFF-0490)

I worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK5BJE
  2. VK5FANA

With 96 QSOs in the log, including 54 Park to Park contacts, it was time for us to pack up and head to our fourth and final park for the day.

References.

  1. Birds Sa, 2023, <https://birdssa.asn.au/location/spring-mount-conservation-park/>, viewed 10th January 2023.
  2. Wikipedia, 2023, <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spring_Mount_Conservation_Park>, viewed 10th January 2023.

Myponga Conservation Park VKFF-0921

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Our second park for Saturday 26th November 2022 was the Myponga Conservation Park, located about 71 km south of the city of Adelaide.

I have activated Myponga Conservation Park on 4 prior occasions, the first being in April 2016.

Above:- Map showing the location of the Myponga Conservation Park. Map c/o Google maps.

On our way to the park we passed the Fleurieu Milk Company who is supplied milk by five local farmers. Myponga has a rich history of dairy farms. During the mid to late 1900s Myponga had about 40 dairy farms.

As we drove up James Track we were rewarded with some nice views of the township of Myponga and the Myponga Reservoir.

The Myponga Conservation Park is about 167 hectares in size. The park first received protected status as the Myponga National park on the 24th day of February 1972. On the 27th day of April 1972 the park was reconstituted as the Myponga Conservation Park.

Above:- An aerial view of the Myponga Conservation Park. Image c/o Google maps.

Access to the Myponga Conservation Park is via James Track. The Heysen walking trail also passes through the park.

Above:- An aerial view of the Myponga Conservation Park. Image c/o Google Earth.

The park consists of several flora habitats including Open Forest Over Wet Heaths in the gullies – messmate stringybark and cup gum over prickly tea-tree and heath tea-tree; Low Very Open Woodland – cup gum and pink gum over cranberry heath and common fringe-myrtle.

Birds SA have recorded a total of 68 bird species in the park including Crescent Honeyeater, New Holland Honeyeater, Australian Golden Whistler, Scarlet Robin, and Grey Shrikethrush.

Marija and I drove down the 4WD track (Heysen trail) and set up on the side of the track. We ran the Yaesu FT857, 40 watts, and the 20/40/80m linked dipole for this activation.

We made a total of 97 QSOs on 20, 40 & 80m SSB. This included 58 Park to Park contacts.

Marija worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2EG/p (Pulbah Island Nature Reserve VKFF-2705)
  2. VK7FAMP/p (Eaglehawk Bay State Reserve VKFF-1797)
  3. VK3MCA/p (You Yangs Regional Park VKFF-0982)
  4. VK2APC/p (Edmondson Regional Park VKFF-2781)
  5. VK2LP/p (Edmondson Regional Park VKFF-2781)
  6. VK2YAK/p (Copeland Tops State Conservation Area VKFF-1308)
  7. VK4YAK/p (Copeland Tops State Conservation Area VKFF-1308)
  8. VK3BEZ/p (Traralgon South Flora Reserve VKFF-2465)
  9. VK1DI/p (Molonglo Gorge Nature Reserve VKFF-0991)
  10. VK2IO/p (Blue Mountains National Park VKFF-0041)
  11. VK1RF/p (Yatteyattah Nature Reserve VKFF-2779)
  12. VK3BBB
  13. VK2CCP
  14. VK3DL/p (Cooriemungle Creek Flora Reserve VKFF-2299)
  15. VK2MET/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  16. VK1AO/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  17. VK3VIN
  18. VK2EXA
  19. VK3GH
  20. VK3DFG
  21. VK2VH
  22. VK4AAC
  23. VK3SQ
  24. VK3UH
  25. VK2YK/p (Sandy Creek Conservation Park VKFF-0933)
  26. VK3CWF
  27. VK2TER/p (Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve VKFF-2013)
  28. VK3ABI
  29. VK3ZPF
  30. VK2MET/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  31. VK1AO/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  32. VK5PL
  33. VK5ZSA
  34. VK3APJ/p (Ararat Hills Regional Park VKFF-0958)
  35. VK3ANL/p (Greswell Hill Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2104)
  36. VK3AMO
  37. VK3ZK/p (Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park VKFF-0747)
  38. VK5CZ
  39. VK3ADX
  40. VK5GA/p (Sandy Creek Conservation Park VKFF-0933)
  41. VK3MCA/p (Brisbane Ranges National Park VKFF-0055)
  42. VK1RF/p (Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve VKFF-1979)
  43. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  44. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)

Marija worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK5FANA
  2. VK2YK/p (VKFF-0933)

Marija worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK2LEE
  2. VK4NH
  3. VK4DXA
  4. ZL1TM
  5. VK3ANL/p (Greswell Hill Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2104)

I worked the following stations on 40m SSB:-

  1. VK2EG/p (Pulbah Island Nature Reserve VKFF-2705)
  2. VK7FAMP/p (Eaglehawk Bay State Reserve VKFF-1797)
  3. VK7PAL
  4. VK3MCA/p (You Yangs Regional Park VKFF-0982)
  5. VK2APC/p (Edmondson Regional Park VKFF-2781)
  6. VK2LP/p (Edmondson Regional Park VKFF-2781)
  7. VK2YAK/p (Copeland Tops State Conservation Area VKFF-1308)
  8. VK4YAK/p (Copeland Tops State Conservation Area VKFF-1308)
  9. VK3BEZ/p (Traralgon South Flora Reserve VKFF-2465)
  10. VK1DI/p (Molonglo Gorge Nature Reserve VKFF-0991)
  11. VK2IO/p (Blue Mountains National Park VKFF-0041)
  12. VK1RF/p (Yatteyattah Nature Reserve VKFF-2779)
  13. VK3BBB
  14. VK2CCP
  15. VK3UH
  16. VK3TBR
  17. VK5HAA
  18. VK3SQ
  19. VK4NH
  20. VK4DXA
  21. VK3PWG
  22. VK3DL/p (Cooriemungle Creek Flora Reserve VKFF-2299)
  23. VK2MET/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  24. VK1AO/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  25. VK3VIN
  26. VK2YK/p (Sandy Creek Conservation Park VKFF-0933)
  27. VK2TER/p (Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve VKFF-2013)
  28. VK2MET/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  29. VK1AO/p (Tilligerry Nature Reserve VKFF-2740)
  30. VK5ZSA
  31. VK3APJ/p (Ararat Hills Regional Park VKFF-0958)
  32. VK3ANL/p (Greswell Hill Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2104)
  33. VK3AMO
  34. VK3ZK/p (Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park VKFF-0747)
  35. VK5CZ
  36. VK3ADX
  37. VK5GA/p (Sandy Creek Conservation Park VKFF-0933)
  38. VK3GP/p (Ararat Hills Regional Park VKFF-0958)
  39. VK3DJC
  40. VK3MCA/p (Brisbane Ranges National Park VKFF-0055)
  41. VK1RF/p (Narrawallee Creek Nature Reserve VKFF1979)
  42. VK4FW/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  43. VK8MM/p (Tinana Island Conservation Park VKFF-1659)
  44. VK7IAN/p (Wellington Park Conservation Area  VKFF-2932)

I worked the following stations on 80m SSB:-

  1. VK2YK/p (Sandy Creek Conservation Park VKFF-0933)

I worked the following stations on 20m SSB:-

  1. VK3ANL/p (Greswell Hill Nature Conservation Reserve VKFF-2104)

References.

  1. Birds SA, 2023, <https://birdssa.asn.au/location/myponga-conservation-park/>, viewed 9th January 2023.
  2. Fleurieu Milk Company, 2023, <https://www.fleurieumilkco.com.au/myponga-one-of-the-best-for-dairy-farming/>, viewed 9th January 2023.
  3. Wikipedia, 2023, <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myponga_Conservation_Park>, viewed 9th January 2023.