In a scout hall in Strathmore, a unique Melbourne radio tradition has flourished since 1970. The Western & Northern Suburbs Amateur Radio Club (WANSARC) blends competitive radio sport, family-friendly events, and technical innovation - creating one of Victoria's most vibrant amateur radio communities.
A Club for All Generations
With its motto "spiritually young members," WANSARC proudly mixes:
• Young digital mode enthusiasts
• Experienced HF contesters
• Family participants in social events
• John Moyle Field Day champions (6-time winners)
"We've never believed radio should be solitary," says President Mark VK3PI. "Our strength comes from members aged 16 to 80 sharing knowledge."
Monthly Meetings with Character
The club gathers:
🗓 1st Friday monthly (except January)
⏰ 7:30pm sharp
📍 Strathmore Scout Hall (138B Lebanon St)
📻 Weekly Tuesday VHF net (146.450MHz at 8pm)
Recent activities have included:
• Homebrew electronics workshops
• Tours of broadcast facilities
• Surplus equipment swap meets
Competitive Pedigree
WANSARC dominates field operations:
🏆 Unbeaten 2007-2012 in John Moyle 6-hour category
📡 Regular portable operations honing emergency skills
🌐 JOTA/JOTI support introducing scouts to radio
"Our field day team could deploy a complete station faster than some make coffee," jokes Treasurer Rod VK3FAB.
Three Signature Social Events
1️⃣ January Family Day - Summer BBQ & demonstrations
2️⃣ Christmas in July - Winter feast for members
3️⃣ December Dinner - Annual awards celebration
Join the WANSARC Family
While not currently running courses, the club offers:
✅ Mentoring for new licensees
✅ VHF net participation
✅ Hands-on operating experience
Contact:
📞 0418 838 300 (Secretary Graeme VK3NE)
🌐 wansarc.org.au
📍 Strathmore Scout Hall (Monthly meetings)
In an era of isolated hobbies, WANSARC proves amateur radio thrives as a community pursuit - where competition, education and sausage sizzles share equal importance.
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[Did You Know?]
The club's unusual PO Box in Gisborne (3437) reflects its original western suburbs roots, while its current Strathmore location shows how Melbourne's radio community has expanded with the city's growth. Their Tuesday net regularly reaches stations across Port Phillip Bay.
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