One of the things I did before I moved down here was find out about the local radio club. Although not overly active in the Canberra club, I did enjoy getting involved now and then and enjoyed the contacts I made. So coming to a new city, finding the local club was something I was definitely keen to do.
The local club in Hobart is the Radio and Electronics Association of Southern Tasmania (REAST). And although I’m yet to attend a club meeting or indeed make any contact with the club other than view the REAST website, I have been keen to visit their club house (which is on top of a main hill pretty well in the center of Hobart).
So this afternoon on my way home from visiting the Hobart Royal Botanical Gardens, I thought I might as well take the slight detor up the hill and check it out.
On arriving at the site, the above sign is the greeting which provides a great bit of history. It reads:
The Coastal Wireless Station, as it was formerly known was established by the Commonwealth Government in 1912 and was an integral part of the early twentieth century communications network, linking the first Antartic expeditions with the rest of the world. The building is now used by Coast Radio Hobart and serves as an important role in ensuring the safety of life and property at sea.
Wow! What a great location with great history for a club’s rooms. And great that they can share a site with such a worthwhile group.
Once venturing further on, the main thing that would catch an HAM’s eye is the array of antennas. Many HF wire antennas, a HF yagi on rotator, various VHF and above dipoles and verticals. An amazing assortment all very nicely setup.
After seeing all that, and knowing that soon I’ll be in my own house and have my radio gear unpacked, I’m sure itching to get active again. Think I’ll need to get in contact with REAST and start getting out there.
Can’t wait!
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