BERRI, SOUTH AUSTRALIA – Established in 1989, the Riverland Radio Club (callsign VK5BRL) serves as a focal point for amateur radio operators and interested individuals across South Australia's fertile Riverland district. Its operational ethos is one of inclusive engagement, actively working to conduct activities for its members and facilitate pathways to licensing for newcomers to the hobby.
The club convenes on the first Monday of each month at 7:30 pm local time, utilising the practical and community-oriented space of the Berri Community Men's Shed on the Old Sturt Highway. This choice of venue itself speaks to an integration with broader local initiatives. Meetings are structured to be both informative and efficient, typically incorporating a presentation or a hands-on practical session, followed by what is described as a "quick but formal business meeting," ensuring that administrative necessities do not overshadow the core technical and social engagements.
A significant emphasis is placed on nurturing new talent and assisting existing operators with upgrades. The club has qualified assessors available and actively encourages prospective licensees or those seeking to advance their qualifications to attend a meeting to discuss their needs. This direct, personal approach to facilitating assessments, supplemented by information available on their website, underscores a commitment to lowering barriers to entry and progression within the amateur radio sphere. Ivan Smith (VK5HS), who also serves as the club's Treasurer, is the designated contact for training coordination.
Under the leadership of President Peter (VK5PE) and Secretary Andy Williss (VK5LA), the Riverland Radio Club maintains its administrative base via a post office box in Renmark (PO Box 1833). For further details or to make contact, interested parties can reach out to the Secretary at 0488 778 154 or attempt to make contact via the club's 2-meter repeater, VK5RLD, on 147.325MHz (which requires a +600kHz offset and a 91.5Hz tone).
The Riverland Radio Club, through its consistent meeting schedule, community-integrated venue, and proactive support for licensing, plays a vital role in sustaining the amateur radio hobby in a key agricultural region of South Australia. It ensures that the airwaves remain an accessible and engaging frontier for local enthusiasts.
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