100 years of ‘amateur' radio

THE Lockyer Valley Radio and Electronics Club Inc is involved in a worldwide celebration of the centenary of organised amateur radio in Australia that began with, what is now the world's oldest continuing national radio society.

The national radio society, the Wireless Institute of Australia (WIA) was, founded in Sydney in 1910 making it the world's oldest continuing organisation of its kind.

“The historical milestone we are now celebrating starts at a time of early wireless experimentation, when it was a new science being explored by ordinary people who are today called radio amateurs,” WIA President Michael Owen said.

Peter Davies, the club's vice president said the Club members are mounting a public display and will be talking to the world using a special call sign, VK100WIA.

“The display runs from Saturday 21, through to Sunday, August 22,” Peter said.

“The event will allow people with an interest or curiosity about radio and electronics to experience it, hands on.”

Members will be on hand to answer questions and will be very pleased to explain how an amateur radio station licence can be obtained in just one weekend.

“The display will be at the Laidley youth centre, and the good part is it's free admission, but if people feel inclined a gold coin donation would be welcomed.”

Peter said the event will showcase the diverse range of activities the hobby of amateur radio can offer, some including communicating via satellite and television, to using high frequency communications around the world.

If you want to be up to date on the happenings of the club the WIA website www.wia.org.au