In a modest community hall in Fulham, a group of radio enthusiasts is quietly reshaping South Australia’s communication landscape. The Amateur Radio Experimenters Group (AREG), operating under callsigns VK5ARG and VL5X, has spent 25 years merging old-school radio passion with bleeding-edge technology, earning its reputation as Adelaide’s most inventive amateur radio collective.
Where Curiosity Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
Founded in 1998, AREG has become synonymous with technical ingenuity:
• Maintains Adelaide’s premier repeater network, including the VK5RWN system – Australia’s first combined D-STAR/DMR digital repeater (added 2022)
• Pioneers experimental projects like high-altitude balloon tracking and software-defined radio
• Supports emergency communications with robust infrastructure
• Connects globally via IRLP Node 6214 and Echolink
"We’re not just operators – we’re innovators," says President Gerard Rankin VK5ZQV. "Last month, we bounced signals off a meteor trail. Next month? Maybe the Moon."
Hybrid Gatherings for Modern Times
AREG adapts to contemporary needs with:
🗓 3rd Friday monthly meetings (7:30pm start)
📍 Fulham Community Centre (in-person) + Zoom access
🔧 Hands-on workshops on antenna design and digital modes
Recent highlights include:
• DMR network deep-dives demonstrating global connectivity
• Fox-hunting competitions tracking hidden transmitters
• Youth STEM initiatives introducing radio tech to students
Technical Marvels in the Suburbs
The club’s infrastructure rivals commercial networks:
📡 Tri-band repeater VK5RSB covering 6m, 2m, and 23cm bands
🌍 VK5RSA (438.025MHz) – Adelaide’s go-to UHF repeater
💻 Software-defined radio lab for experimental protocols
Training Tomorrow’s Radio Pioneers
Under Christopher Platt VK5CP, AREG offers:
✅ Licensing courses from Foundation to Advanced
✅ Exam sessions at their Fulham tech hub
✅ Mentorship programs pairing novices with experts
"Our graduates help communities stay connected during disasters," notes Platt. "It’s radio with purpose."
Join the Experiment
Tech enthusiasts can:
1️⃣ Attend Friday hybrid meetings (in-person/Zoom)
2️⃣ Participate in balloon-tracking projects
3️⃣ Test skills in annual fox-hunting contests
Contact:
📞 0407 302 353 (Secretary)
🌐 areg.org.au
📍 Phelps Court, Fulham (Monthly gatherings)
In an era of disposable tech, AREG keeps the spirit of hands-on innovation alive – proving amateur radio remains vital in our digital world.
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Follow The Australian for more stories about grassroots technological innovation.
[Did You Know?]
AREG’s 70cm repeater (439.900MHz) once relayed a conversation between a hiker in the Flinders Ranges and an astronaut aboard the International Space Station – all using equipment built by members. Their DMR system now connects to 4,000+ talk groups worldwide.
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