Time to tune in

Melbourne Electronics and Radio Club (MERC) president Nick Field and member Mike Adams. (Damjan Janevski) 432309_01

Radio enthusiasts are being called upon in Keilor, as the Melbourne Electronic Radio Club is seeking more participants to join in on the fun.

President Nicholas Field said the group is suitable for all ages, and will be a good time for any radio enthusiasts.

“We have about 30 members and our membership is fairly broad with members aged in their 20’s to 90’s,” he said.

“The hobby of amateur radio is also quite broad with many different facets within the hobby.

“Some of our members like to just get on the radio and see who they can find to talk to at the other end. Usually our club members make contact on the HF radio to stations as far away as the United States or Europe. Last week one of our members was speaking to a station that was operating from Japan.

“Some members enjoy building antennas, testing them and then seeing how they can improve upon their original design.”

Mr Field said radio fans of any level are welcome, and can always learn something new.

“We have some members who also enjoy the electronics side of the club. We have some very knowledgeable people who work or have worked in various industries that can share their knowledge and help out with projects,” he said.

They also run competition games, such as a game to see who can reach the most different areas across the country.

The club meets once a week, on the first and third Thursday of each month, and second and fourth Friday, at the Keilor Village Scout Hall on Bonfield Street.

Gerald Lynch