Hunter Radio Group: Newcastle's Century-Old Wireless Tradition

In an unassuming TAFE classroom in Tighes Hill, history crackles through the airwaves each month. The Hunter Radio Group (HRG), established in 1922, continues its legacy as one of Australia's oldest continuously operating amateur radio societies, blending vintage call signs with cutting-edge digital technology.

A Living Piece of Radio History

With roots stretching back to the early days of wireless experimentation, HRG maintains vital infrastructure including:
• VK2RNC repeater network atop Mt Sugarloaf
• DMR digital repeater (438.675MHz)
• 50MHz CW beacon - a rare Morse code transmission
• Echolink-connected 2m repeater (146.975MHz)

"We're caretakers of both tradition and innovation," says President Richard Osborne, noting the group's weekly Monday news broadcasts - a rare surviving example of amateur radio journalism.

Weekly Rituals, Monthly Gatherings

Every Monday 7:30pm: 30-minute news bulletin on 146.975MHz followed by callbacks
Every Wednesday 7:30pm: Social net on the same frequency
Second Thursday monthly: Technical meetings at Tighes Hill TAFE's electronics lab

The TAFE venue reflects HRG's educational focus, with members often demonstrating everything from vacuum tube repairs to software-defined radio techniques.

Digital Expansion Without Forgetting Roots

While embracing DMR digital modes and maintaining a YouTube channel (@VK2AWX), the group preserves analog traditions:

• Morse code beacon at 50.288MHz

• VHF simplex operations

• Hands-on electronics workshops

Join the Legacy

Prospective members can:

1. Tune into the Monday news broadcast

2. Attend the monthly technical meetings

3. Participate in the Wednesday night net

Contact:
📞 0429 824 951 (President)
🌐 vk2awx.net
📍 Tighes Hill TAFE, Basden Building J (Monthly meetings)
📻 146.975MHz for weekly activities

In an age of disposable digital communication, HRG stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of amateur radio - where every contact carries a century of tradition.

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[Did You Know?]
The group's VK2AWX callsign has been in continuous use since 1947, making it one of the oldest active call signs in the Hunter region. Their Monday news broadcasts have aired since the 1950s.