Our next Tech/Social meeting will be held at the Redlands Coast Museum on Monday 19th January, with doors opening at 7:00 PM for a 7:30 PM start. Members and visitors alike — including non-members — are always very welcome.
We’re delighted to welcome our own Scott VK4MGL, who will be presenting on Parks on the Air (POTA). Scott is a highly active and experienced POTA operator and will share insights from his extensive portable operating experience, making this an informative and enjoyable evening for anyone interested in getting on the air beyond the shack.
POTA combines the technical thrill of setting up antennas and radios with the joy of exploring parks and meeting other operators. It’s ideal for any skill level — from beginners with a simple QRP setup to seasoned operators chasing rare contacts or big award goals. Whether you’re interested in field antenna design, digital modes like FT8, Morse code, or just getting out into nature with your gear, there’s something in POTA for you.
Operators who contact activators from any location — called hunters — also accrue credit toward awards. The program features a detailed award system with milestones like Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Sapphire, and advanced awards that recognize hundreds or even thousands of unique parks activated or hunted.
So don’t miss Scott VK4MGL’s presentation this Monday night — Scott will take you on a deep dive into the practical and technical aspects of portable operation, from equipment and setup to operating tips in the field. He’ll also clearly explain how the POTA scoring, rankings, and park designations work, demystifying the awards system and showing you how easy it is to get started. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or new to portable radio, you’ll walk away inspired, informed, and ready to get out there, get on the air, and start earning POTA awards of your own!
And if trekking out to all those parks sounds a bit too adventurous, don’t worry — you can still join the fun from the comfort of your own QTH; Scott will show you how you can still be involved without ever leaving home!
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