Repeaters
A UHF repeater is a radio tower—usually set up on high ground—that helps extend your radio signal over long distances. It picks up your transmission and re-broadcasts it so others further away (like over hills or through valleys) can hear you.
To use a repeater, your radio needs to be set to duplex mode, and you’ll need to transmit on channels 1–8 or 41–48. These are the repeater output channels, and your signal is automatically relayed via a paired input channel (31–38 or 71–78). Just remember—never transmit directly on 31–38 or 71–78, as they’re reserved for repeater input only.
Repeaters are often privately owned and maintained by clubs, farmers, or individuals—so keep your transmissions short and respectful.
UHF CB Radio Channel Guide (Australia)
Here’s a quick
breakdown of how UHF CB channels are used:
- Channels 1–8 & 41–48 – Repeater access (turn on duplex mode)
- Channels 31–38 & 71–78 – Repeater input only (do not use for talking)
- Channel 5 & 35 – Emergency only (legally reserved for distress calls)
- Channel 11 – Call channel (used to contact someone before switching to another channel)
- Channel 10 – Common in 4WD, national parks, and convoys
- Channel 18 – Popular with caravanners and holiday convoys
- Channel 29 – Pacific & Bruce Highways (used by truckies in NSW & QLD)
- Channel 40 – General highway use, often used by truck drivers
- Channels 22 & 23 – Data only (no voice allowed)
- Channels 12–21, 24–30, 39, 49–60, 64–70, 79–80 – General chat (simplex voice use)
- Channels 61–63 – Reserved for future use