Congratulations to the Bayside District Amateur Radio Society (BDARS) team who represented the club and manned our live amateur radio stations during the Cleveland Caravan, Camping, Boating & 4×4 Expo.
Held at the Redland Showgrounds from 18th to 20th September 2026, the expo brought together the very best of the outdoor lifestyle, with more than 150 exhibitors showcasing caravans, camper trailers, boats, 4×4 vehicles, camping equipment, accessories, gadgets and plenty of inspiration for the next adventure.
For BDARS, the event was another excellent opportunity, using the club’s callsign VK4BAR to demonstrate amateur radio to the wider community. Operating live radio stations provided visitors with a chance to see and hear amateur radio in action and to learn more about what the hobby has to offer. Events such as this are particularly valuable because they allow members of the public to meet operators, ask questions and discover that amateur radio encompasses much more than simply talking over a radio.
A special thank you goes to Eddie VK4TJE, who organised the BDARS involvement and was there throughout all three days of the expo. Eddie’s enthusiasm for mobile operation, contests and encouraging new and prospective operators makes him a natural fit for events like this. Also, thanks also goes to Graham VK4GRE and Michael VK4GOR, who assisted with the operations for a large part of the event
Other BDARS members contributed by calling-in to the team over the radio while others visited the expo in person to help. Their time and commitment, along with everyone else who helped behind the scenes, ensured that the BDARS presence could be active and maintained throughout the busy expo.
And busy it certainly was! The excellent weather helped bring out the crowds, and there was plenty happening across the showgrounds.
The BDARS display highlights the strong connection between the Society and the Redlands Coast Museum. The museum is a regular meeting venue for the club.
Finally, a thank you to the museum management and staff who invited BDARS to the event – and continually facilitated the team with snags and other treats!
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