Gympie's Signals Strong: A Community Wired for Connection

Gympie, Queensland - In the scenic Gympie region of South East Queensland, a collective of like-minded radio enthusiasts forms the Gympie Communications and Electronics Group (VK4GYM). This inclusive group spans generations, from newcomers just discovering the magic of the airwaves to seasoned operators with over half a century of experience. Since its inception in June 2008, the group has been a steadfast promoter of amateur radio in their local area, operating from their unique clubhouse nestled within the historic Old Gympie Railway Station.

The club's operational infrastructure is impressive, boasting ownership and maintenance of both northern and southern 2-meter repeaters, a town-based 70cm repeater, the WBR02 UHF CB repeater, a high-powered DMR & D-Star HotSpot, and versatile EchoLink-IRLP systems. This robust setup underscores their commitment to providing comprehensive communication options for their members and the wider community.

The Gympie Communication & Electronics Group holds its regular meetings at their distinctive clubhouse located within the Old Gympie Railway Station on Tozer Street, Gympie. Specifically, their building is situated at the northern end of the platform of the "Mary Valley Rattler" railway station. Meetings take place on the second Saturday of each month at 2 pm (with the exception of January). Additionally, a more informal social gathering is held at the clubroom every Wednesday morning from around 9:30 am until noon, fostering a relaxed environment for members to connect and share their interests.

The club actively maintains several on-air nets, providing regular opportunities for communication and fellowship:

• The Gympie & District Net operates every Monday night at 7:30 pm on the club's southern 2-meter repeater, VK4RCM (146.725 MHz, 91.5 Hz CTCSS).
• A Friday evening Net takes place at 7:30 pm on the northern repeater, VK4RGN (146.775 MHz, 91.5 Hz CTCSS).
• For HF enthusiasts, the club runs an 80-meter Net on Wednesday evenings at 8 pm on 3647 kHz.

For those interested in training and assessment, Dave Robson VK4FO serves as the club's training course coordinator and can be contacted at 0427 202 933.

Correspondence with the Gympie Communications and Electronics Group is primarily conducted via email. While a general phone number is provided (0438 722 981), email is the preferred method of contact. Their website (https://www.gceginc.org.au) also serves as a valuable resource for information about the club.

The dedicated committee members leading the group include President Lachlan VK4LCM (contactable via email), Secretary Catherine Robinson VK4CCR (0438 722 981 or via email), and Treasurer Paul VK4YPM (contactable via email).

Nestled in the heart of the Gympie region, the Gympie Communications and Electronics Group offers a welcoming and technically well-equipped environment for amateur radio enthusiasts of all levels. Their unique clubhouse, coupled with their active on-air presence and commitment to fostering community, ensures that the spirit of radio communication thrives in this picturesque part of Queensland.