1984 to 1989 all Tamanian AR Magazine news articles

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Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 
I have also added a couple of “QRM from VK” columns that were collated from John VK7JK from the South.
The “QRM from VK7” columns relate to the NW Branch or to TAS HAMFESTs.
This article was about the Tasmanian Amateur Radio Convention for 1987 which was held on the NW coast at the Penguin High school.

VK7ZBT mag extract’s 

from AR Magazine 1984 May page 49 -

Tasmanian News

"HAMFEST 84"
The AGM of the Tasmanian Division of the
WIA was held at Penguin on the NW Coast on
17th March, and in conjunction with it a
general get-together was organised by Max Hardstaff SK 
VK7KMF became VK7KY from the NW Branch, under the title
Of "HAMFEST 84".
A display in the Penguin Town Hall was the
headquarters on both days. Displays totalled
eight. On both days Geoff Clarke VK7WZ SK, Tony Bedelph
VK7AX, Syd Medford VK7SF SK, Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP became VK7KAP, Peter
Westerhof VK2NPW was VK1NPW and VK7ZBT Greg Stammers had displays,
and there was a combined stand of members.
There were two special displays, on Saturday
Coastal Computers, and on Sunday DOC.
All displays were extremely well presented
and consisted of ATV equipment from Mt
Duncan VK7RAD/VK7RMD, RTTY, Slow Scan and Video all set
up and operating. Coastal Computers had
computer demonstrations going at their stand
and on Sunday the DOC stand was fully
equipped. A CW contest was organised and
controlled by DOC. One section was won by
Geoff Clarke VK7WZ SK for speed and the other Bill Bower 
VK7AV for accuracy.
There was another stand displaying the
Home Brew Competition, and this was won by
Phillip Barnard VK7JJ, with a Portable ATV Transmitter
designed and built by him, (not from a kit).
Last but by no means least VK7ZLB Lionel Bird had a
stand representing FM Radio.
Saturday evening was devoted to a Dinner
at the Neptune Hotel in Penguin, and had an
attendance of thirty-three adults and six
children. The meal was considered very good
by all, and entertainment organised by Arthur Trevaskis
VK7SE was very well accepted. Arthur sang
and played guitar, as did Kim Hardstaff, and
they were accompanied by James (Arthur's
son) on drums.
In all the week-end went well and was
enjoyed by all who attended.
Congratulations and thank you to all involved
for a fine effort.

From AR Magazine June 1984 pages 44 and 45 -
NEW TV REPEATER
Arthur Trevaskis VK7SE writes all the way from
Penguin. Tasmania, to mention that their
repeater VK7RTV (444.25 in, 426.25 out) has
been running since October 1983. Solar cell
powered, it is sited on Mount Duncan on the
northwest coast, and some 45 minutes’ walk
from the nearest spot reachable by car. Every
component of the repeater had to be carried
by humans up a steep and rough bush track —
but it was well worth it!
from CQ-TV No 125

from AR magazine 1985 Feb pages 6 to 7 –
VK7 CELEBRATIONS
The 1985 Tasmanian Amateur Radio Convention will be held over the
Queen's Birthday weekend the 8th to 10th of June 1985. This "Ham fest" as it
is more usually known, is under the organisational auspices of the Southern
Branch of the Tasmanian Division of the W1A and will be centred around
Hobart.
The " Ham fest " will provide an opportunity for amateurs to share their
hobby with other enthusiasts and hopefully with the public at large. The
theme of the "Ham fest" will be "Amateur Radio. Yesterday. Today and
Tomorrow."
1985 is the 75th Anniversary of the WIA's foundation and is also the 60th
Anniversary of the formal establishment of the Tasmanian Division. This
year is also the 40th Anniversary of the re-activation of WIA activity in this
State after the suspension of amateur activity for the duration of World War
One.
It is therefore intended to make this " Ham fest " the focal point of the
celebrations of these anniversaries. A number of historical (and maybe
hysterical) re-enactments of some wireless communication landmarks are
proposed.
To begin with permission has been sought to activate briefly a "spark
transmitter “to recreate the "POP MEDHURST" experiments of 1901.
It is interesting to note that as early as 1896 Australia was to the fore in
wireless experimentation. The Chief Electrical Engineer of the Victorian
Postal Department, a Mr H W Jenvey. played an important role in the early
development work. Professor W Bragg gave a lecture (entitled 'telegraphy
without wires'), at the Adelaide University on 21st September 1897. During
the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York in the vessel R M S
' OPHIR ' in 1901. the naval escort vessels HM Ships ' St George ‘and 'Juno'
established the first marine radio communication in Australia with shore
stations at Queenscliff lighthouse. Victoria in May 1901. and at Long beach
light station. Sandy Bay. Tasmania in July 1901.
Local Government and Service clubs arc supporting this venture.
In the northwest of Tasmania work is proceeding on a trans Bass Strait
net to re-enact the establishment of the first land station licensed in 1906 and
located at Devonport.
The initial step towards inaugurating wireless telegraphy as an official
communication medium in Australia was taken with the passing of the
Wireless Telegraphy Act in 1905. The first fixed land station was licensed by
the Post Office on 7ih June 1906. Located at East Devonport. Tasmania, it
was owned by the Marconi Wireless Telegraphy Co and was used to
communicate with a similar station later established at Point Lonsdale.
Victoria. On the 12th July 1906. when both stations were fully operational,
the Governor-General of the period sent what is believed to be the first
Australian official wireless telegram to the Governor of Tasmania: "The
Commonwealth greets Tasmania and rejoices a1 the establishment of the
means for knitting the people of Australia more closely together- Northcote. "
The organisers of this proposed net are open for ideas on the actual
mechanics of marking this historic event and await the avalanche of advice
and other constructive comment. Contact Barry Risely VK7KAD who will
pass on your ideas.
In the northern part of the state it is hoped to recreate the early trans Bass
Strait VHF experiments when on Sunday 5th March 1950 VK's 7PF, 7DB.
7AM and associate Rex Summers operated from Ml Barron using 144 MHz
portable equipment and attempted to contact VK's 7DH and TAJ. Although
the transmitter caused the team problems due to lack of voltage from the
generator, the reception of signals from 7AJ/7DH at S8 and 7LH from
Western Junction at S7. Part of the equipment used on Mt Barrow is still
available and will be brought out from retirement for the occasion.
The "Ham fest" will not be just a nostalgic journey into the past but will, if all
plans succeed, be an up to date display of amateur radio techniques and
equipment. The NW coast UHF A TV group, the RTTY, Satellite and Computer
Groups will be displaying their equipment and skills. Trade exhibitors have been
invited to attend. There will be some informal social functions on site and the
whole weekend will be a season for special awards and certificates for amateur
radio activities. All are asked to give support, assistance and participation to
ensure this "Ham fest" is worthy of celebration 75 years hence.
Ken Sulman ??? VK7DY is QTHR in the callbook and is the Ham fest Convenor. Contact
him today.
The above notes supplied by Barry Risely VK7KAD. Publicity Officer. TARC 85


July 85
DEVIL NEWS FROM THE NW BRANCH
REPEATER REPORT
No problems have been reported with two
metres and it is with pleasure that it can be
reported the NW will soon have a new ATV
repeater VK7RAE on the air. The location will be at Kelcey
Tiers, behind Devonport, where the tower is
installed with 240V AC being available. The Visual
and CW ID boards are completed and the antenna
design is well on the way. Yet to be completed are
a couple of boards and the purchase of the coaxial
cable.
Sincere appreciation is tendered to and
includes VK7s AX Tony Bedelph, OL Owen Langham, OM Rob Harper SK, RN Ron Churcher SK, UD Steve Dyer, WJ Jack Wright SK, WZ Geoff Clarke SK and Peter Westerhof VK2NPW was VK1NPW for their invaluable assistance so far.
GONG AWARD
It appears the introduction of this award has
kept the use of the repeater down under the three
minute mark. The name has been changed and if
you are heard to make a mistake or other
misdemeanour, you are a contender for this award

Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 
AR magazine 1985 Aug Page 54 -
DEVIL NEWS FROM THE NW BRANCH
The lease for the ATV repeater site has been
renewed so it looks like the repeater will be on top
of the mountain for a few more years.
Two metre repeaters 2 Mt Wellington, 3 Lonah and 8 Mt Barrow will be set for remote
linking by the end of the year.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”.
 
from AR Magazine 1985 Oct page 56 -
DEVIL NEWS FORM THE N W BRANCH
REPEATER NEWS: As more money becomes
available, it is hoped to make some improvements
to repeater VK7RNW at Lonah Penguin. At present the repeater is performing
adequately.
ACTIVITIES: The first broadcast on RTTY by the
club was very good with five replies to the broadcast.
This was very encouraging and there is now a
regular broadcast each Friday night on 3.630MHz.
All who receive the broadcast are welcome to join in.
REMEMBRANCE DAY: Volunteers operated the
club station VK7NW for the RD Contest. Stations who
participated were: VK7s: WP Ross Bonney, WN Noel Walker SK, VK7ZAP now VK7KAP Andrew Perkins, KY Max Hardstaff SK, ZBT Greg Stammers,
EQ Steve Bush, WZ Geoff Clarke SK, WL Bill Lester SK and AX Tony Bedelph.

CLANGER AWARD: Was presented to Ivan Ling VK7XL
for miscellaneous activities leading up to and about
trying to stop a cow from choking by jumping up and
down on its stomach. The general belief was that he
was using it for a trampoline.

Max Hardstaff VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 


from AR 1985 Nov page 75 -
DEVIL NEWS - NW Branch News
Devonport High has a class in electronics and
quite a number of the boys from the school now
have call signs, a pleasing result to the school
curriculum. The school call sign, VK7DHS, is
operational most lunch hours and after school, so
if they are heard, please give them a call.
Permission has been received for the Club to
begin work on a 70cm repeater, so now it will be all
stops out to get it operational!
The Club has had a pleasing month in the QSL
department with 154 cards incoming and 84
outwards.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 

from AR 1985 Dec page 56 -
DEVIL NEWS FROM THE NW BRANCH
There were 85 QSL cards inwards and 110
outwards this month.
A request has been received to again provide
communications for a horse trial. This is a
worthwhile exercise and will be a combined
WICEN exercise.
Unfortunately, the 70cm ATV aerial has to
under-go a re-build, as it has had an altercation
with the wind.
VK7NW (Club station) RTTY Broadcasts have been heard in
Hobart, with a good report received from VK7HV HA VAN DER STAAY???
Bob Gore VK7KAB and Kirby Cunningham VK7KC operated from
Guilford during JOTA, whilst Ron Churcher VK7RN SK, with a group 
of Guides and Brownies, operated from Devonport.
There are several members of the Group
showing an interest in Packet Radio. VK7s AX Tony Bedelph,
KDR John Webster, ZAR Alan Ruthven SK, WR William Reid, WN Noel Walker SK, and WZ Geoff Clarke SK are starting to get this
medium on the air, so if there are any other
members interested, please contact Tony VK7AX.

Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 

from AR Magazine 1986 Feb page 56 -
TASMANIAN AMATEUR RADIO
CONVENTION 1986 (TARC 86)
The WIA Tasmanian Division, Northern Branch,
will hold a Radio Convention on the weekend
15-16th March 1986, at the Australian Maritime
College, Newnham Campus, Launceston,
Tasmania.
Activities over the weekend will include the
Tasmanian Annual General Meeting, Annual
Dinner, Displays of RTTY, Satellite, HR VHR UHF and
Video Equipment, Film and demonstrations.
There is also local sightseeing and good
accommodation and meals are available on site.
Further information may be obtained from 
VK7ZZ Rick Bray, Trevallyn, (1986 / 1987 WIA Callbook, not in 2000 callbook) Was once Ian Nichols, a blind amateur in Hobart., VK7NHG Leon or Loon Horbifl VK7NHG    VK7NHG L R Herbig, Youngtown, (1983 / 1984 WIA Callbook through to 2001 WIA Callbook)



Contributed by Loon Horbifl VK7NHG
Publicity Officer TARC Committee





from AR Magazine 1986 Feb page 52 -
"DEVIL NEWS FROM THE NW BRANCH
Officers for 1986 are: 
President — Bob Gore VK7KAB; 
Vice-Presidents — Ross Bonney VK7WP and John Webster VK7KDR; 
Treasurer Bruce Marshal VK7MB;
Secretary — Tony Clayton VK7AH 
WICEN Co-ordinator — John Duncombe VK7ZPT SK; 
Activities Officer — Greg Stammers VK7ZBT;
RTTY — Florian Biner; never held a callsign 
Weekly News Officer — Frank Richards   VK7ZFH; 
QSL Officer — Max Hardstaff VK7KY SK;
Publicity — Ron Churcher VK7RN SK; 
Librarian — Terry McMullen VK7BV. 
There are two positions not filled. 
Youth Affairs and Components and Equipment.
Arthur Trevaskis VK7SE; Ivan Ling VK7XL; John Webster VK7KDR,
Steve Bush VK7EQ; Greg Stammers VK7ZBT and Frank Richards VK7ZFH
were selected for the Broadcast Sub- Committee.

Congratulations to Andrew Hay VK7ZHA now VK7XR, who is awaiting
the allocation of his limited call sign.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 
from AR Magazine 1986 03 March page 60 –
SEWING CIRCLE STORY
Bob Jackson VK7NBF
Falmouth House, Falmouth, Tas. 7215
The Tasmanian Sewing Circle is not what it
seems. For one thing there is not a needle or reel
of thread in sight. But, there are Morse keys,
valves and aerials aplenty.
This name is a long-standing 'nickname' for a
group of about 50 dedicated amateur radio enthusiasts,
mostly retired men, who get-together
each evening for a chat over the air-waves. They
come from all over Tasmania and their conversation
covers almost every subject imaginable.
The Circle began in 1962, when the late Jack
Batchler VK7JB, and his friend Snowy Harrison
VK7CH, maritime mobile on the MOORINA, had
daily conversations on 80 metres. The mode used
was CW, (it had to be as Snowy swears that he
does not own a microphone, even to this day).
Jack used an Army 122 set.
They were soon joined by the late Bob O ‘May
VK70M and others, but the mode changed to SSB
when Snowy was not on the net. They earned
their nickname one evening when the session
delayed the Batcheler’s mealtime. Jack's wife, Joy
VK7YL, said that the men reminded her of a
sewing circle at school — a select group of
students who were allowed to talk as they sewed.
Jack protested that it was a strange comparison
for a bank manager, a marine engineer and an
Army officer. However, despite his protests, the
name stuck and is still in use to this day.
In 1981, Joe Brown VK7BJ, presented a framed
photograph of a sewing machine which was to be
awarded annually to the most loquacious member
of the group. For the past three years, a barbeque
has been held at the home of Bill VK7NRV, where
the presentation is made. The winner is the sole
judge of the recipient for the next year. The current
holder is Owen Langham VK70L.
Reference material The Southern Star



from AR Magazine 1986 March page -
The Branch now has a group of people who are
going to gather news and arrange broadcast
announcers for when the broadcasts are done on
the north west coast. A gathering of these people,
together with some from the north and south, will
shortly meet with the intention of making our news
more interesting.
VK7AX Tony, has asked
members for their total support with Camp Quality.
Camp Quality is a group that has a camp for
children with cancer and it is planned that the NW
Branch will help with communications, etc.
A local equestrian club has forwarded details of
an event, to be held In March at Ulverstone, and
they have asked for help with communications for
the Jumps Events. There were some volunteers
so, John Duncombe VK7ZPT SK, the WICEN Officer for the
Branch suggested it would be a good WICEN
exercise.
Funds have been
allocated for a new system for VK7NW Lonah and
VK7RAD Mt Duncan now VK7RMD is complete and ready to go. The only
problem is to get the man- power to install it at the
repeater site.
The QSL Bureau had 152 cards inwards and 78
outwards for the month.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 

from AR Magazine 1986 April page -
NORTH WESTERN BRANCH
Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each
month at the Penguin High School, beginning at
7.30pm. Activity and club station nights are held
every second Friday, same location, 8.00pm.
Visitors are always welcome. Club call sign is
VK7NW and postal address is Box 194, Penguin,
Tas. 7316.
Interests within the Branch include HF operation;
ATV; Special Communications; Antennas
and Computing.
Further information may be attained from the
President VK7KAB Bob Gore, the Secretary VK7AH Anthony Clayton, or
VK7's WP Ross KDR John Webster, MB Bruce Marshall.


from AR Magazine 1986 April pages 52 & 53 -
DEVIL NEWS from the NORTH WEST
Camp Quality (see last column), will be held
from 8 - 14th December and discussions of the
requirements needed for communications have
been discussed. Communications will be from
Penguin to Ulverstone and Kimberley to
Ulverstone, with a station on air at the camp
during the week. Assistance will also be required
to provide a video of the day’s activities for resting
children to view. The local Apex club is also taking
part in the video venture.
Club members assisted with communications
for the Boys Brigade Billycart Derby, held on 22nd
March. VK7s WJ Jack Wright SK, ZPT John Duncombe SK, ZBT Greg Stammers and ZHA now XR Andrey Hay donated
their time to this cause. Assistance was also
provided for the Horse Club Trials during last
month.
Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP became VK7KAP has been constructing two
diplexer units and the Branch was asked to
consider an extension of the allowance to build
another five filters for installation at a special
communications repeater on Mount Duncan VK7RAD now VK7RMD, and
also, the Lonah repeater VK7RNW. The money was made
available for Andrew to conclude his good work.
About 83 QSL cards were received for the
month and 30 were dispatched.
Broadcast Officer Frank Richards VK7FH, has advised
that Broadcast Rosters are being produced,

Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 


from AR Magazine 1986 May page 52 -
DEVIL NEWS from the NORTH WEST
Branch members were thrilled when the Penguin
High School, where Branch functions are held,
made available a bigger storeroom for storage of
equipment such as the base station and RTTY
gear.
All repeater modes are well in hand and the
next activities night will see the six and two metre
aerials underway.
VK7FH Frank Richards, the Branch News-Co-ordinator advised
that the last news broadcast was pre-recorded
and sent to the news-reader, ready to go to air. It
was well received.
The Horse Trials, held at Westella, just out of
Ulverstone, was a great success, with 11 Xrators 
taking part. Some had two jumps to look after,
others had three. The base was set-up at the
start and as the horses left they were put on a
stop-watch. As the proceeded through the course,
their positions were relayed back to base, also the
results of each jump, how many clean jumps, how
many refusals, etc.
An ambulance had to be called on two
occasions, and help was on hand very quickly.
The operators were thanked for a job well-done
and their presence at another one being staged
shortly was encouraged.
Operators at the Horse Trials;
Photo - From left: 
Bill Lester VK7WL SK; VK7EG Noel Davies; Tony Bedelph VK7AX; 
Ross VK7WP; VK7WN Noel Walker SK; John Webster VK7KDR; 
Owen Langham VK7OL.
Front: Greg Stammers VK7ZBT; Max Hardstaff VK7KY SK; 
John Duncombe VK7ZPT SK and Jack Wright VK7WJ SK.

On 20th February, two NW Branch members
ventured to Crotty. Crotty is situated in the southwest
of the State, which is approached firstly by a
bitumen road, then gravel with the final approach
being either by four-wheel drive or foot. The
intrepid Winston Nichols VK7EM and Arthur Trevaskis VK7SE
chose to walk.
Crotty was a mining town which closed down
around 1900. At that time, it had a good railway
service to Pillinger and some of the carriages still
remain in the bush — one with a large tree
growing through it. Arthur Trevaskis and Winston Nichols walked
down to Kelly Basin along the old railway track.
Contacts were made back to VK7BV Terry McMullen, VK7KAB Bob Gore,
VK7KC Kirby Cunningham and VK7WZ Geoff Clarke SK on 80 metres. The intrepid
venturers were using a small home-brewed rig,
(built by Winston), a lead-acid battery and a dipole
aerial slung over a couple of trees. 
Reports were 5 x 7-8.
A CW contact was also made, with good copy,
on another home-brew transceiver, complete with
key and speaker in a Strepsils tin.
The boys must have looked quite a sight, lying
on their stomachs in their tent, trying to cope with
the rain and understand Morse signals which they
had both thought they had forgotten, but the most
memorable event of the trip must surely have
been when Arthur Trevaskis produced a three-layer sponge
cake complete with candle to celebrate Winston's
birthday.

Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 

from AR Magazine 1986 June page 52 -
DEVIL NEWS from the NW Branch
We have been told that when we do the
communications for the horse trials next year, we
will have to be on our best behaviour as HRH
Princess Ann will be competing. (We may have to
wear a collar and tie for the occasion!).
The horse trials, held at Wynyard, proved to be
a successful day. The operators provided
emergency communications and score transfer for
the event and was the biggest event covered by
the Club to this date.
The course has 31 fences for the senior
competitors to jump and the novice competitors
had 26 fences to jump. There were 12 operators
used, 11 at field stations with one at a central base
station receiving messages from the field stations.
Members who participated were VK7s ZPT John Duncombe SK;
ZHA now XR Andrew Hay; ZBT Greg Stammers; EG Noel Davies; AX Tony Bedelph; WL Bill Lester SK; ZAP became KAP Andrew Perkins; OL Owen Langham; DC Dave Cleland; WJ Jack Wright SK; KDR John Webster and ZRD Robert Duncombe ZPTs Johns son
The Billycart Derby, that was held at Lillico
Straight was also a great success, with plenty of
spills and thrills for the competitors. Thanks to the
operators who participated at both events.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 

from AR Magazine 1986 July page 52
On the first Sunday in May, the VK7WI Weekly
Broadcast began at 0900 EST and resulted in
Andrew VK7ZHA now XR being awarded the Gong Award
for the month — he forgot the change of time and
slept in
The club now has its own QSL card for station
VK7NW club station, which coincides very well with the
setting-up of the station in another part of the
Penguin High School. Recent Activity Nights have
been taken up with the move as the new room is
on the opposite side of the building. As the new
room is much larger for the permanent set-up of
VK7NW, regular operation from the station should
be much better.
Meetings of the Branch are held at the Penguin
High School, on the second Tuesday of each
month, commencing at 7.30pm. Visitors are most
welcome and are directed to the venue via the two
metre repeater — Repeater 3 Lonah.
On 20th April, the North West ATV Group
commissioned its second Amateur Television Repeater.
It is operational under the call sign of
VK7RAE.
The repeater is located on Kelcey Tier, near
Devonport on the property of Ron Churcher VK7RN SK. Ron
has kindly made his properly available as a site for
the repeater and thanks are extended to him.
The prime role of this repeater is to allow
amateurs in the Devonport area to transmit and
receive noise-free pictures in Devonport and the
surrounding area.
Uplink vision carrier frequency is 444.250 MHz
and downlink 579.250 MHz (Horizontal Polarisation).
Persons interested in viewing the output
channel are reminded that the downlink frequency
falls In Band 4 allocation of the UHF Television
Spectrum (put simply, this appears at Channel
34V4 on a standard UHF television tuner). However,
the proverbial piece of wet string will prove
insufficient for noise-free reception of the device
as its power output is relatively low. A good quality
high gain antenna cut for UHF will guarantee good
pictures.
The radiation pattern is omni-directional with a
full 360 degrees in the horizontal plane.
Known amateurs to be transmitting good quality
pictures through the repeater are Jack Wright VK7WJ SK
and VK7ZAR Alan Ruthven, 
It may be timely to point out to listeners that we
often hear and read that the majority of amateurs
are Black Box and appliance operators these
days, and where are the true amateurs ???This
repeater and the other ATV repeater, (VK7RTV,
which is Installed on Mount Duncan), with the
exception of the receiver IF systems, are completely
home-brew. This includes the receive
converters, control systems, transmitters and all
antennas.
To date, much experimental work has been
carried out by the ATVers with antenna and
propagation on the UHF bands.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 


from AR Magazine 1986 August page 55 -
DEVIL NEWS from the North West
It was also announced to the 16 members present
that VK7RAD Mt Duncan to become VK7RMD was operational from VK7ZAP's Andrew Perkins became VK7KAP
QTH, and attention was drawn to the recently
completed Diplexer, which was on display for
members to see before it was put into operation.
The rest of the evening was spent learning
about Camp Quality with the assistance of a short
video and a talk from John Willet. John explained
the facts and requirements of the camp. The camp
is from December 8 to 14 and during that time,
those involved will have their entire day and some
of their evening fully occupied. This fact must be
understood by volunteers and their families before
they commit themselves.
The men will be involved in communications for
the camp and a station for contacts with other
children for the camp children to talk to. Others
will be involved in the activities side of things as
well as a Video.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 





from AR Magazine 1986 Sept page 57 -
DEVIL NEWS — from the North West
Guests were Barry Fraser VK7FR SK and Joe Gelston
VK7JG SK. Joe was representing State Council,
being Guest Speaker for the night.
During the course of the evening, Joe advised
that instead of State Council paying for repeaters
VK7RNW Lonah, VK7RAA Mt Arthur, etc, each Branch will be
responsible for their own local repeaters. This
matter will be discussed further at the next State
Meeting.
Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP became VK7KAP is having success with repeater
VK7RAD Mt Duncan and has had it running on test at his
QTH. It looks as though it will not be too long
before it will be installed on the mountain top.
The new room at the High School is still
progressing well and is becoming more homely
with a donation of carpet from Don Purton SK VK7DP and
coffee mugs from VK7ZAR Alan Ruthven,

Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 


from AR Magazine 1986 Oct page 56 -
DEVIL NEWS from the North-West
Letters of thanks were read from the Boys
Brigade, Apex and the Horse Trials at Ulverstone,
for the communications help given to them by the
Club.
Several items were tabled for discussion, one of
them being Camp Quality. After much discussion
it was decided to use the club call sign VK7NW,
for the camp station. Operations from Camp
Quality will be from a caravan.

The committee have started thinking about the
Ham fest which will be held on the North-West
Coast.
A WICEN exercise will be held next year in
conjunction with an air pageant at Wynyard. This
has the makings of a very interesting exercise.
The VK7RAD now VK7RMD repeater will shortly be installed on
top of Mount Duncan. A working party has already
made the arduous climb to install the housing for it
on August 10. The party consisted of VK7s ZAP Andrew Perkins now KAP
ZHA now XR Andrew Hay, AX Tony Bedelph, WR William Reid, WN Noel Walker SK, OM Robert Harper SK, ZBT Greg Stammers, and WJ Jack Wright SK, with
Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP became VK7KAP in charge.
They assembled at the Penguin High School at
around 9.45 am and proceeded to the walking
track in four-wheel drives and a utility. A variety of
materials were then transported to the peak via
the backs or hands of the party. Ross VK7WP and
Noel Davies VK7EG carried the large and bulky steel
housing for most of the trek.
Approximately two and a half hours were spent
working on and inspecting the equipment already
at the site.
The hardy adventurers had an eventful trip back
down the mountain due to two trekkers taking a
wrong path halfway down and proceeding for
some distance before realising their error. At the
base another two headed in the wrong direction in
a four-wheel drive but were able to find their way
eventually.
Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 


from AR Magazine 1986 Nov page 56 -
DEVIL NEWS from the North-West
The repeater, VK7RAD/VK7RMD, on 146.625 MHz is now
on site and operational. The repeater is run by
solar power and is being turned off at night
because the cold weather turns it on and leaves it
running all night. Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP became VK7KAP turns the
repeater on prior to going to work in the morning
and off again at night. This on/off routine will
continue until he has time to go to the site to make
some adjustments to the unit. These adjustments
have to be made when the temperature is minus four
degrees, so it is going to be an unpleasant
task. If the repeater is abused to the extent that it
is unable to be used or normal use, it will be
turned off completely until the adjustments are
made A special thanks is extended to all the
amateurs who have participated in the repeater
project.
The club station has still not been on-air from its
new QTH, as members have had other
commitments, however it is hoped things will be
underway shortly.
Possibly contributed by not attributed to Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. 


from AR Magazine 1986 Dec page 56
There will be communications activity at Easter
time at the Horse Trials. There has been a good
response from members and It appears there is
enough volunteers.
The Club Radio Room is almost ready for
habitation, there is only the carpet to be laid, so
volunteer help is sought.

Photos:

Photo - Andrew VK7ZHA now XR and Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP. became VK7KAP

Photo - Greg VK7ZBT, rests on Mount Duncan.

Photo - Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP became VK7KAP and Tony Bedelph VK7AX, attended
the Installation of the special
communication repeater, VK7RAD now VK7RMD, on
Mount Duncan.

ACTIVITIES WEEK FOR DEVONPORT HIGH
SCHOOL — VK7DHS (School call sign)
Tony Clayton VK7AH, and his group had a very successful
week. Activities included a tour of the Able
Tasman Wireless Room and a demonstration of
life-boat drill, a walk to the summit of Mount
Duncan to the site of one of our repeaters, a
display of Army radio and a field exercise in trucks
and jeeps to witness radio demonstrations.
Tony thanks all who assisted with the activities,
and especially to Jack Wright VK7WJ SK, for his assistance
with lectures and the amount of time he gave.

NORTH WESTATV GROUP
The first meeting of the group was held on
October 15, at the home of the group leader, Tony
Bedelph VK7AX. There were 13 in attendance.
Tony said that is should be emphasised that this
is not a "splinter group" to the Wireless Institute of
Australia, and is to support the Institute as
required.
The evening was spent discussing the group's
plans and intentions, which include the promotion
of ATV activities amongst amateur radio members
in conjunction with other radio activities.
It is hoped to encourage activities and provide
assistance to interested people, support and
maintain VK7RTV Mt Duncan and VK7RAE Kelcey Tier repeaters,
encourage outdoor activities using portable video
equipment, provide assistance to organisations
requiring videotaping, etc, reintroduce ATV
broadcasts and to include the occasional social
outing of the group.

Max VK7KY SK was our news contributor and gatherer and he called the columns “Devil News from the NW”. assisted by Tony VK7AX photo courtesy Jack Wright VK7WJ SK


from AR Magazine 1987 Feb pages 54 & 55 -
(not titled in magazine but Devil News)
Repeater 3 VK7RNW Lonah has been misbehaving lately (a fault
has developed in it), by sending spurious noise
when operators are transmitting. The 7RAD Mt Duncan now VK7RMD control
unit has been improved and a one second pause
is required to reset the repeater between overs.
It is easy to see that the bands have begun to
improve as there were 196 incoming QSL cards.
The Radio Room is still progressing well and
donations are still being received, for which we
thank the donors. Frank Richards VK7ZFH, gave a black
and white television set, two pieces of test
equipment and some rolls of RTTY paper whilst
John Webster VK7KDR, gave a two-metre-high rack on
castors to house some of the equipment.
One of the repeaters on Mount Duncan VK7RAD/VK7RMD recently
had a very close shave when a large tree fell
barely missing the cable and guy wires. Fortunately,
only the wires suffered slight strain.

Contributed by Max VK7KY SK and Greg VK7ZBT  

from AR Magazine 1988 Jan page 61  
The WICEN groups in several areas of the State
seem to be having quite regular commitments to
provide communications support for such activities
as car rallies, orienteering expeditions and ocean
yacht racing (like the West coaster). The experience
gained from these activities, according to
their various co-ordinators, will stand them in good
stead if they are called upon to act in the case of an
actual disaster.
Due to a long lead time, this has had to be
written before the West coaster (the Melbourne to
Hobart Yacht Race) takes place, and a more
complete report on the outcome of the efforts of
amateur operators will be given in the February AR.
WIA Broadcasts are becoming slightly more complex
in the State as, further relay frequencies come
into play, and the broadcast roster now includes a
total of 28 participants. This means that each
involved amateur is concerned with originating,
relaying on 80 or 40 metres only two or three times
in the three-monthly period.
The 80-metre antenna at the Southern Activity
Centre is now "up and running" and this means
that the Centre can accept its share of 80 metre
relays as well as originating two metres. The
broadcast is being recorded and repeated now on
Tuesday evenings, 1930 hours local, on 80 metres
only (3.590 MHz) taking up the half hour before the
Devil Net. We hope that those who listen to this
report will stay on air and join in the Devil Net
under the benevolent guidance of Bob Jackson VK7NBF
who is in his fifth year as Devil Net Coordinator.
The two-metre repeater on Mount Wellington,
which has been the object of a great deal of "repair
and maintenance" work during the past two
months, is now working very well. Reports of
access to the repeater have been received from
many areas of the State which would earlier have
seemed impossible, or at least very difficult and
spasmodic. The linking of repeaters for broadcast
purposes have been faultless and has made rebroadcasting
and relaying very reliable. The
meteorological conditions at the 4000 feet-plus
level play havoc with all external fittings, especially
cables, and the group who spend time working
under such conditions to keep the repeater working
deserve the thanks of all repeater users.

WIA MEETINGS
WIA meetings are held at:
Penguin High School on the second Tuesday in the
month at 8 pm.
Launceston Maritime College on the second
Friday, at 7.30 pm.
Hobart Activities Centre, Newtown Road on the
first Wednesday at 8.15 pm.
The ATV Group is continuing to meet regularly in
the north-west of the island under the guidance of
Peter VK7AX, and to give encouragement to other
prospective ATVers. there is a transmitter kit
available from Peter.
A definite move to support would be novice
amateur operators have been set in train by 
VK7EG Noel Davies, and the branches are distributing information
packages to colleges and schools to
attempt to increase the number of candidates for
the courses and to provide personal help when
required.
The Tasmania Day Award proved to be a going
concern and, already discussions are taking place
about the possibility of a repeat in 1988.
Talking of awards, the 400th Tasmanian Devil
Award was reached a short time ago. VK3CWJ was
the lucky recipient, not only of the award certificate
itself, but also a signed photograph of the
Tasmanian Devil Net Organiser himself!

QRM from VK7! 
John Rogers VK7JK
VK7 BROADCAST OFFICER

from AR Magazine 1988 April page 57  
QRM from VK7
This is the first opportunity to bring news of the
changes in Branch Officials which has been
brought about by the various Annual General Meetings
NORTH WESTERN BRANCH
President — Greg VK7ZBT
Vice-Presidents — John Duncombe VK7ZPT SK and Noel Davies VK7EG
Secretary—Tony Clayton VK7AH
Treasurer — Bruce Marshal VK7MB
Repeater and Beacons Coordinator — Andrew Perkins VK7ZAP became VK7KAP

Assistant Repeater and Beacons Co-ordinator —
Andrew Hay VK7ZHA now XR
QSL Organiser — Steve Bush VK7EQ
Stores — Rob Gore VK7KAB
Publications — Terry McMullenVK7BV
WICEN Director — John Duncombe VK7ZPT SK
News Scribe — John Webster VK7KDR
Branch Publicity Officer — Ron Churcher VK7RN SK
Volunteers from the NW Branch are looking
forward to a great day helping with the exercise at
Wynyard this month. The ANZAC weekend always
seems to be a times for enjoyable activities and
this year should be no exception.

In the south, the new officers are:
President — Stuart Bean VK7NXA
Vice-President — Russ Pitman VK7ZRP
Secretary — VK7VV Rai Taylor,
Assistant-Secretary — Mike Hennessy VK7MC
Treasurer — David Obrien VK7NDO now VK7OB
Assistant-Treasurer — Peter Skeggs VK7GT
Equipment Officer — Mike Hennessy VK7MC
Southern Broadcast Co-ordinator — Mike Haney VK7ZMH now MH
WICEN Coordinator — Alan Widdowson VK7CI
Repeater Coordinator — Antony Tulk   VK7ZTA
Membership Officer — VK7VK Victor J Kitney, Cambridge, (1986 / 1987 WIA Callbook) Swansea, (2000 WIA Callbook), (missing 2001 WIA Callbook) was VK6VK, then VK0VK, then VK7VK I think.

QSL Officer — Peter Skeggs VK7GT
Publicity Officer — Lew ???? VK7U
Honorary Auditor — Brian Sampson VK7BS
Activity Centre — Russ Pitman VK7ZRP
State Council Delegates — Peter King VK7ZPK SK 
Mike Wilson VK7ZWW


The WICEN (South) group has established a
close working relationship with the State Emergency
Services, and so has formalised their call-out
procedure to enable quicker deployment of their
resources in the event of an emergency. There are
four sections — Base, Satellites, VHF Mobiles and
VHF Special Services. Details of how contacts are
made "down the line" have been circulated to
registered members, but are also available to
others who may be interested in becoming part of
the network. Contact Alan Widdowson VK7CI, QTHR.
For the first time in many-a-year there is a news coordinator
for the VK7WI broadcast in the north
Bill Bower VK7AV, who is happy to make tapes of his
contribution), in the north-west John Webster VK7KDR,
temporarily anyway!), and in the south Mike Haney VK7ZMH now MH,
who has acquired a rig for HF so that he
can collect news on the Saturday morning net).
Now, there should be very close to a commercial/
professional level of news-gathering In VK7 from
now on.
As this column was being prepared, both the
north and south of the island were making a
common approach to improving their two metre
repeaters. Both branches were in the process of
acquiring new control units and, by the time this is
published, all should be reaping the benefit. There
is no doubt about it — the VHF repeater groups
may not be large in number but they are great in
their efforts)
QRM from VK7
73, John Rogers VK7JK


from AR Magazine October 1988 page 51  
The 1988 Ham fest will be held as near to Tasmania
Day as possible, that is on Saturday, 29 and
Sunday 30, October.
The Ham fest activities will run all day on
Saturday from 9 am and on Sunday morning from 9 am.
The main venue will be the Southern Activity
Centre at 105 Newtown Road, Hobart. At the
centre there will be a series of displays depicting
various aspects of amateur radio operations —
satellites, packet radio, RTTY, standard HE VHF
and UHF communication practices, a Branch store
and sale table, mobile clinic (bring in your equipment
for testing!), and a complete range of social
activities, with food and liquid refreshment, and
plenty of chat.
There will also be some demonstrations and
constructional activities, antenna building, adjusting and testing and a display of vintage equipment
from the VK7ML SK Max Loveless collection.
The broadcast of October 30, from VK7WI, will
take place from the Ham fest, and you will have the
opportunity to see the system in use, what is
involved in getting the broadcast to air and you can
give your ideas of how the broadcast could further
be improved.
The whole Ham fest is to be a get-together for all
Tasmanian amateurs and visitors to swap ideas,
find out about other facets of out hobby, and join in
the technical, as well as social side of the
weekend's program.
A BYO barbeque will be set up and refreshments
will be available throughout the day. Members of
the public are most welcome to visit the displays,
so please spread the news, bring the family and
friends and enjoy the day.
The ever-popular Sewing Circle Barbeque will
be held on the Sunday afternoon to augment the
festivities. Visitors from across the State will be
able to take part in the Ham fest and enjoy the
Sewing Circle without having to make two round
trips and they will be made very welcome.
All VK7s are asked to listen to the VK7WI
Sunday Morning Broadcasts during the month for
further details on the Ham fest, so that there is
plenty of support to make it an occasion to
remember. There may be a special function on the
Saturday evening, so keep the date free — we'd
hate you to miss out!
Come to what we expect to be a real Old-
Fashioned Field Day!
BRANCH MEETINGS
Northern — October 14,7.30 pm.
North-western — October 11,7.45 pm.
Southern — October 5,8.15 pm.

John Rogers VK7JK
VK7 BROADCAST OFFICER

QRM from VK7 from AR Magazine 1989 April page 50 -
QRM from VK7
The following is a list of Office Bearers who
were elected to serve for 1989, by the members
of The North-West Branch W.I.A. at their AGM
held on 14th Feb, 1989.
President Greg Stammers VK7ZBT
Vice President Arthur Trevaskis VK7SE
Secretary Andrew Hay VK7ZHA now XR
Treasurer Bruce Marshall VK7MB
Repeaters Andrew Perkins VK7KAP
QSL Bureau Steve Bush VK7EQ
WICEN John DuncombeVK7ZPT SK
Mag. Pubs. Terry Mc Mullen VK7BV
Stores Robert Gore VK7KAB
Publicity Ron Churcher VK7RN SK
Repeater 3 Officer Arthur Trevaskis VK7SE
Broadcast Officer not filled
Activities Officer not filled









Steve VK7UD (standing) & Tony VK7AX (seated) 
Operating switching of on course video during the 1990 World Rowing Championships


Noel Walker VK7WN SK

Noel's main interest in amateur radio
was in the field of amateur television and
he was very involved with the installation
and maintenance of Tasmania's first
amateur television repeater (Callsign
at that time VK7RTV later changed to
VK7RMD) on Mt. Duncan in the early
to mid 1970's.
This repeater was one of the first
solar powered repeaters to be installed
in VK7 and as such brought with it
many challenges, not the least being the
carting by hand of VERY heavy lead acid
batteries to the summit of the mountain.
Noel was very active in this area and
provided assistance where required.
Many hours were spent designing, and
trialling various antennae for use on the
ATV repeater.

Amateur Radio Mag  May 2007