Otago, Dunedin Hams: A Thriving Hub for Radio Enthusiasts in the South

Dunedin, NZ – For radio enthusiasts across the Otago region, the Dunedin amateur radio branch (Branch Number 30) stands as a vibrant and exceptionally active hub for communication, learning, and community engagement. With weekly general meetings, multiple active nets across various bands and modes, and a robust repeater network, this dedicated group keeps the airwaves buzzing and fosters a thriving local "ham" community, keenly focused on both hobby and emergency preparedness.

The club holds its gatherings at 109 Macandrew Road, South Dunedin. This accessible location serves as both their street and postal address.

Dedicated Leadership and Comprehensive Support

The Otago, Dunedin branch is guided by a committed team of officers who ensure smooth club operations and a strong emphasis on crucial amateur radio functions, including emergency communications and technical infrastructure:

• President: Alan Walton (Callsign ZL4QC) leads the branch, and can be reached at t462603@xtra.co.nz or by phone at 027 666 0949.
• Secretary: Martin Balch (Callsign ZL4JH) handles the club's administration and can be contacted at secretary@zl4aa.org.nz.
• Alternative Contact & AREC Group Leader: Charlie Brenssell (Callsign ZL4CB) serves as a key alternative contact and is responsible for the club's vital Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC) efforts for the Otago region. He can be reached at charliebrenssell@yahoo.com for general inquiries or glotago@arec.nz for AREC matters, or by phone at 027 243 6400.

Extensive Meeting Schedule and Active Nets

The Otago, Dunedin branch offers an exceptional level of engagement with its frequent meeting schedule and diverse on-air activities:

• General Meetings: Held every Wednesday (except late December/early January) at 7:30 PM. These weekly gatherings are a fantastic opportunity for members to discuss club news, share technical insights, and socialize.
• Committee Meeting: Held on the second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 PM.
• AGM (Annual General Meeting): The last AGM was held on June 21, 2023, indicating regular club governance.

Beyond physical gatherings, the Otago, Dunedin branch maintains a strong and diverse presence on the airwaves with multiple regular nets:

• VHF Net: Held on Dunedin 690 each Sunday at 7:30 PM.
• VHF DMR Net: On the ZL4JW network at 7:00 PM on Sundays.
• HF Net: Held on 3610 kHz LSB (Lower Sideband) on the first Monday of each month at 8:00 PM. (Also listed as 3613 kHz for the same time and frequency, likely a slight variation in listing).

Comprehensive Repeater Network

The club boasts an impressive array of repeaters, ensuring wide coverage and diverse operating options for its members. The Repeater Trustees overseeing this infrastructure include:

• Mt Cargill 690 & Nat Sys: ZL4JH and ZL4DK
• 665 Repeater: ZL4DK and ZL4JH
• Mosgiel Link (438.2 MHz): ZL4LV and ZL4JH
• DMR UHF/EE122: ZL4KS and ZL4SLG
• Rudd Road 915: ZL4DC and ZL4ASC

Fostering New Talent: Dedicated Exam Supervisors

The Otago, Dunedin branch is highly committed to fostering new talent, boasting a dedicated team of Exam Supervisors ready to guide aspiring radio amateurs through the licensing process:

• Arthur Curline (Callsign ZL4TIK), acurline@gmail.com
• Peter Johnson (Callsign ZL4LV), peterjohnson@farmside.co.nz
• D.J. Mulder (Callsign ZL4DK), zl4dk@yahoo.com
• Stewart Hall (Callsign ZL4DC), zl4dc@outlook.com

Whether you're a seasoned "ham" looking for a highly active local community, an aspiring radio amateur keen to earn your license, or simply interested in the world of wireless communication across traditional and digital modes, the Otago, Dunedin amateur radio branch offers a welcoming and engaging environment in the South.

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For more details on the Otago, Dunedin amateur radio group and their activities, visit their website at https://www.zl4aa.org.nz/ or drop by one of their many upcoming meetings!