Southland Hams: Invercargill Club a Key Hub for Deep South Communications

Invercargill, NZ – For radio enthusiasts across the Southland region, the Invercargill amateur radio branch (Branch Number 37) stands as a vibrant and active hub for communication, learning, and community engagement. With regular monthly meetings and a consistent VHF net, 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 249 Ettrick Street, Appleby, Invercargill 9812. For postal correspondence, their address is 70 Tanner Street, Grasmere 9810.

Dedicated Leadership and Essential Technical Support

The Southland, Invercargill 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: Billy Barrow (Callsign ZL3FLY) leads the branch, and can be reached at billyb@pcthingz.com or by phone at 027 747 5156.
• Secretary & Club Callsign Trustee & Exam Supervisor: Daniel Erickson (Callsign ZL4DE) efficiently handles the club's administration, manages its on-air identity, and plays a key role in guiding new aspirants into the hobby. He can be contacted at zl4de@icloud.com or by phone at 027 478 9685. Daniel is also one of the Branch Repeater Trustees.
• AREC Group Leader: Myles Greber (Callsign ZL4MDX) is responsible for the club's vital Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC) efforts for the Southland region. He can be reached at glsouthland@arec.nz.

The other Branch Repeater Trustee is ZL4BDS, ensuring the proper functioning of the club's regional repeaters.

Consistent Meetings and Active VHF Net

The Southland, Invercargill branch offers a consistent schedule for its members to gather, learn, and connect:

• General Meeting: Held on the second Tuesday of each month (except January) at 7:30 PM. These gatherings are an excellent opportunity for members to discuss club news, share technical insights, and socialize.

Beyond in-person gatherings, the Southland, Invercargill branch maintains a strong presence on the airwaves with its regular Net Information:

• Weekly VHF Net: Held on Bald Hill 146.800 MHz every Sunday at 8:00 PM. This provides a reliable opportunity for members to check in, share news, and conduct discussions.

Fostering New Talent: Dedicated Exam Supervisors

The Southland, Invercargill 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:

• Daniel Erickson (Callsign ZL4DE), zl4de@icloud.com
• Shannon Stanley (Callsign ZL4SH), shanonstanley@gmail.com
• Brendan Sheehy (Callsign ZL4BDS), zl4bds@gmail.com

Whether you're a seasoned "ham" looking for a vibrant local community, an aspiring radio amateur keen to earn your license, or simply interested in the world of wireless communication and its vital role in regional connectivity and emergency services, the Southland, Invercargill amateur radio branch offers a welcoming and engaging environment in the deep south of New Zealand.

For more details on the Southland, Invercargill amateur radio group and their activities, visit their website at http://zl4gq.com/ or drop by one of their upcoming meetings!