PLUMPTON, NSW — In an era of fleeting trends and rapid digital turnover, one community continues to honour a tradition of long-distance connection and analog resilience. The Chifley Amateur Radio Club, callsign VK2CRZ, may not have a website anymore, but its signal is strong, and its roots run deep.
Formed in 1985 and becoming an Incorporated Association in 1993, Chifley Amateur Radio Club is a proud stalwart of the amateur radio scene in Western Sydney. With its base in Plumpton, NSW, the club has weathered numerous transitions—technical, spatial, and generational—and continues to offer a reliable presence in the amateur radio landscape.
Three Repeaters, One Community
Operating under the repeater callsign VK2RCZ, the club maintains a trio of repeaters across the 2 metre, 70cm, and 10 metre bands:
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2 metres: 147.075 MHz (+ offset, 95.1 Hz CTCSS) — now equipped with AllStar
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70cm: 439.425 MHz (- offset, 91.5 Hz CTCSS) — supports IRLP and Echolink
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10 metres: 29.630 MHz output, 29.530 MHz input (91.5 Hz CTCSS) — linkable to 2 metres on demand, and expected to return to service soon
These systems were recently relocated to Winmallee and are once again live, with the 2m and 70cm repeaters fully operational.
Nets and Airwaves
Every Wednesday evening from 7:30 to 8:00pm, members and guests gather on air for the 2 metre club net on 147.075 MHz. The repeater requires a 91.5 Hz CTCSS tone, and all operators are encouraged to call in using VK2CRZ portable. For many, it's the highlight of the week—a way to check in, test rigs, and exchange friendly banter in classic ham radio fashion.
A Club in Transition
Until recently, Chifley ARC had hosted regular Saturday afternoon gatherings for nearly four decades—welcoming both members and newcomers without fail. However, a recent request from the church hosting their meeting room forced the club to vacate, prompting a pause in formal meetings.
Today, the group convenes sporadically at local venues, with announcements often spread by word of mouth or via the weekly net. The club is actively searching for a new permanent home.
Staying Connected
Though their web presence has been retired, correspondence is welcome via email at vk2ek@yahoo.com.au. For inquiries or club matters, Secretary Mike Brockway (VK2EK) is the primary contact and can be reached by phone at 0425 218 874.
Leadership is rounded out by:
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President: Nigel Cupitt (VK2NB)
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Treasurer: Len Baker (VK2CBL)
An Analog Heart in a Digital World
In many ways, Chifley ARC’s story is emblematic of the amateur radio ethos itself—resilient, adaptable, and ever focused on community. Though their physical meeting space may be in flux, their commitment to the airwaves remains unwavering.
For those tuning in on a Wednesday night, VK2CRZ is still alive and calling CQ—proof that passion and perseverance can transcend even the static.
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