Port Pirie's Ether Initiative: Community Broadcaster Extends Reach into Technical Training

PORT PIRIE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA – In the regional South Australian city of Port Pirie, the TRAX FM Mid North Radio & Electronics Group operates with a mandate that extends beyond the usual purview of amateur radio clubs. Intrinsically linked with the local community radio station, Trax FM, the group serves as a nexus for enthusiasts of diverse radio disciplines – from community broadcasting and short-wave listening to CB and amateur radio, alongside general electronics.

A primary objective of the group is the active promotion of amateur radio and the provision of pathways to licensing. It offers a Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) examination service through its accredited assessors, catering to Port Pirie and neighbouring towns on an as-needed basis. Looking ahead, there are explicit plans to formalise and expand its training offerings, with future lessons and examinations for both amateur and marine radio licenses to be hosted at the Trax FM studios at 251 The Terrace. This initiative, spearheaded by Training Coordinator and President David Carwana (VK5DMC), signals a commitment to upskilling the local community, albeit with an acknowledgment of limited places, suggesting a focused approach.

While physical meetings are somewhat flexibly scheduled – occurring on "some 2nd Thursdays of the month" at 7:00 pm at the Trax FM premises – the group encourages direct contact for those wishing to engage. On the air, the group participates in radio nets on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 8:00 pm, collaborating with the Whyalla group via the VK5RMN repeater on 146.700 MHz. This provides a regular, if bi-monthly, opportunity for practical radio operation.

The group's operational base within Trax FM, and its team which includes two WIA assessors and one marine radio invigilator, positions it as a valuable resource for the Mid North region. Its inclusive approach, welcoming a spectrum of radio interests, reflects its community radio DNA. Leadership includes Secretary Graham Johnston (VK5SU) and Treasurer Christine Kent, working alongside Mr. Carwana.

The TRAX FM Mid North Radio & Electronics Group, by embedding its activities within a community broadcasting framework, offers a distinctive model for fostering technical skills and radio enthusiasm. Its planned expansion into more formalised training could prove a significant asset in equipping residents of Port Pirie and the wider Mid North region with valuable communication competencies. Interested parties can make contact via the details on their website or by calling Mr. Carwana directly.