Mark Perry with POTA delivered a presentation of how POTA (parks on the air) works and how to interface with the various websites for logging a POTA contact. First, you need to register, be a licensed amateur radio operator and have equipment to go portable. As an activator you set up at any recognised parks, beaches, rivers or landmarks. You’ve already registered your location, frequency and time you’ll be on air online then you announce your callsign and location and wait to hear a response from a hunter. Hunters don’t need to be at a park. Both parties need to log the QSO on the official POTA site so that both activator and hunter get credit. QSO’s equal awards but mainly it’s a lot of fun and a way to make multiple contacts. Go to www.pota.au for more information.
There were 25 in attendance at the club today. We started with tea and coffee and some delicious muffins provided by Lindsey, VK4TSA, Steve’s XYL. The presentation was followed by a sausage sizzle. After lunch Mark set up his antenna and radio to demonstrate how to make a POTA contact.
It was a great day to catch up with old mates and meet new ones. Please watch the EVENTS section on the webpage: www.GCARS.com.au for further presentations. As always, club days are held on Saturdays from 10am.
