St George Amateur Radio Society: Keeping the Airwaves Alive in Sydney’s South

For amateur radio enthusiasts in Sydney’s southern suburbs, the St George Amateur Radio Society (SGARS) has been a hub of activity, education, and community for decades. Based in the St George and Sutherland Shires, the club brings together licensed operators, aspiring radio hobbyists, and technology enthusiasts under one frequency.

A Club with a Mission

SGARS is dedicated to the advancement and enjoyment of amateur radio, offering training and assessments for Foundation, Standard, and Advanced qualifications. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just curious about the world of ham radio, the society provides a welcoming environment to learn and engage.

“We’re passionate about educating our members and the broader community,” says Tony Edward (VK2ALE), the club’s president. “Amateur radio isn’t just a hobby—it’s a skill that fosters communication, technical knowledge, and even emergency preparedness.”

Monthly Meetups and More

The club meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except January) at the Mortdale RSL Club, just a short walk from Mortdale Station. Meetings are informal, often featuring guest speakers discussing everything from antenna design to digital modes.

For those who can’t attend in person, SGARS hosts a weekly net every Thursday at 8:00 PM on the VK2RLE 2m repeater (146.800 MHz), also accessible via Echolink (VK2RLE-R). The club also participates in events like Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) and various field contests.

Learning the Ropes

Interested in getting licensed? SGARS runs Foundation courses in the Sutherland Shire, with assessments available for higher-tier qualifications. “We tailor our courses to suit demand,” says Paul Howarth (VK2GX), the club’s training coordinator. “Anyone keen to join can reach out via our website.”

Join the Conversation

Visitors are always welcome—whether at a monthly meetup, over the airwaves, or online at www.sgars.org.

Contact:
📞 0423 454 626
📧 education@sgars.org
📍 Mortdale RSL Club, 25 Macquarie Pl, Mortdale NSW 2223

For a hobby that blends technology, communication, and community, SGARS proves that amateur radio is far from a dying art—it’s thriving in Sydney’s south.