Bayside Beams: Brisbane's Enthusiasts Tune In

Cleveland, Queensland - In the tranquil bayside of Brisbane, amidst the relics of Queensland's past housed in the Redland Museum, a different kind of signal is being amplified. The Bayside District Amateur Radio Society Inc. (BDARS), identified by its callsigns VK4BAY and VK4BAR, serves as a vibrant hub for enthusiasts of amateur radio, electronics, and the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Though its physical heart beats in Cleveland, its reach extends far beyond, encompassing members throughout south-east Queensland, across state lines, and even to distant shores. In 2023, the society boasted a healthy membership in the 80s, a testament to the enduring appeal of this technically engaging hobby.

BDARS's raison d'être is the advancement of these interconnected pursuits within their local sphere. This is achieved through a dualpronged approach: rigorous training courses culminating in accreditation radio examinations, and regular social and technical gatherings designed to foster camaraderie and the exchange of knowledge. In an era dominated by instant digital communication, BDARS champions the hands-on exploration of radio waves and electronic circuits, offering a tangible connection to the principles underpinning our increasingly wireless world.

The society convenes twice monthly at the Redland Museum. The first Monday of each month sees the Monthly General Meeting, while the third Monday is reserved for a more technically focused or social gathering, both commencing at 7:30 PM. These meetings provide a forum for members to discuss club business, share technical insights, and engage in the social fabric of the society.

The club's commitment to facilitating on-air activity is underscored by its strategically located repeater network atop Mount Cotton. These vital pieces of infrastructure include VK4RDB operating on 146.875 MHz (FM with a -600 KHz offset and 91.5 tone), another VK4RDB on 438.450 MHz (FM with a -7 MHz offset and 91.5 tone, supporting both analogue and Fusion digital modes), and a third VK4RDB on 438.825 MHz (catering to the digital standards of DMR and D-Star, reflecting the diverse technological interests within the society).

Beyond the formal meetings, BDARS fosters a more casual environment for connection through a Morning Coffee Meet held on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at the Redlands Sporting Club in Wellington Point, commencing at 10:00 AM local time. This provides an opportunity for informal networking and the exchange of ideas amongst members.

The airwaves themselves buzz with BDARS activity through its regular Club Nets. Members tune in on 146.875 MHz every Monday at 7:30 PM local time, delve into HF communication on 3.570 MHz on Wednesdays at 7:30 PM local time, and explore digital voice on the Fusion Net via 438.450 MHz on Tuesdays at 7:30 PM local time. These nets serve as vital platforms for communication, technical discussion, and the strengthening of the bonds within the society.

For those seeking to join the ranks of licensed amateur radio operators, BDARS actively provides training courses and facilitates accreditation examinations. Detailed information on obtaining a licence can be found on their website. Eddie Tomes VK4TJE serves as the club's training course coordinator, readily available to guide aspiring hams through the licensing process.

In a world increasingly reliant on black boxes and proprietary systems, societies like BDARS play a crucial role in demystifying the technology that underpins modern communication. By fostering a spirit of learning, experimentation, and community, they ensure that the fundamental principles of radio and electronics remain accessible and engaging, cultivating a valuable blend of technical skill and social connection in Brisbane's vibrant bayside.