Where the Hunter River meets the sea, the Port Stephens Amateur Radio Club (PSARC) has been linking marine enthusiasts, emergency communicators, and tech hobbyists since 2008. Based in the picturesque Tilligerry Peninsula, this growing club combines laidback coastal vibes with serious radio capability.
Repeaters With a View
The club maintains the VK2ROJ repeater system, providing critical coverage across Port Stephens' waterways and hinterland. President Alan Hill VK2LTP notes: "Our location means we support both marine mobile operators and land-based users - from boaties to bushwalkers."
Sunday Sessions With Character
Unlike evening-focused city clubs, PSARC meets:
⏰ 10:30am on the 2nd Sunday monthly
📍 Tilligerry RSL Sports Club (Tanilba Bay)
☕ Over coffee at this waterfront venue
"The morning timeslot suits our retired members and young families alike," says Secretary Richard Osborne VK2AUS. Meetings mix practical demonstrations with planning for major contests like the John Moyle Memorial Field Day.
Contest Culture & Community Service
PSARC punches above its weight in:
• HF contests (especially 80m/160m events)
• Emergency communications readiness
• Maritime mobile support
Training coordinator Carl Terpstra VK2CXT emphasizes their accessible licensing approach: "We've helped everyone from teenagers to octogenarians get their Foundation through Advanced tickets."
Join the Coastal Radio Community
Visitors can:
1️⃣ Drop into a Sunday morning meeting
2️⃣ Access the VK2ROJ repeater network
3️⃣ Participate in marine mobile operations
Contact:
📞 0418 280 888 (Training) / 0429 824 951 (Secretary)
🌐 portstephensarc.org
📍 Tilligerry RSL, Tanilba Bay (Monthly meets)
In a region where mobile coverage remains patchy, PSARC keeps the Port Stephens community connected - one QSO at a time.
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[Did You Know?]
The club's Lemon Tree Passage PO box is shared with the Hunter Radio Group, reflecting their close collaboration on repeater maintenance and emergency communications projects across the Hunter/Port Stephens region.
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