Air-Stream Wireless: Building Adelaide's Community Network

In a digital era dominated by telecom giants, Air-Stream Wireless stands as South Australia's pioneering community-operated wireless network. This innovative non-profit has been connecting neighbourhoods across Adelaide since 2001, combining amateur radio principles with cutting-edge WiFi technology to create an independent communications infrastructure.

A Different Kind of Radio Club

Air-Stream distinguishes itself by:
• Operating a 300+ node wireless mesh network across metropolitan Adelaide
• Utilizing 900MHz, 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz bands with custom equipment
• Promoting open-source networking solutions (Linux, FreeBSD)
• Maintaining VK5KFM as its amateur radio liaison callsign

"We're building infrastructure by the community, for the community," explains President Sean Lever.

Monthly Tech Gatherings

The group meets:
🗓 Last Wednesday monthly (except December)
⏰ 7:30pm start (hybrid in-person/online)
📍 Locations vary (check website)
🛠 Always includes swap meets for wireless gear

Recent meetings have featured:
• Long-range WiFi antenna workshops
• Network security demonstrations
• Alternative internet access solutions

Technical Focus Areas

Members collaborate on:
📡 Tower and antenna construction
📶 Point-to-point wireless links (up to 50km demonstrated)
💻 Local content hosting
🛡 Network privacy solutions

Join the Wireless Revolution

Air-Stream welcomes:
1️⃣ Tech enthusiasts wanting hands-on experience
2️⃣ Community groups needing affordable connectivity
3️⃣ Amateur radio operators interested in WiFi experimentation

Contact:
📞 08 7324 4748
🌐 air-stream.org

In an age of centralized internet control, Air-Stream represents a grassroots alternative - proving that communities can build and maintain their own communications infrastructure.

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[Did You Know?]
Air-Stream's network includes Australia's longest amateur-legal WiFi link at 50km between Adelaide Hills and the Barossa Valley. Their members have pioneered cost-effective solutions for rural connectivity using modified commercial gear.