VHS737

Hi Maurice B1

The VKS network is most certainly still out there working with upgrades of equipment in a number of locations. An additional channel was added to the network about 2 years ago - I had my Codan NG updated last to the latest program and still use it whenever we are away.

A sat phone is great but I would never remove my HF. And you can't listen to the cricket on a sat phone like you can on the HF.

As you can see I am a member of VKS. There are other networks as well.

Cheers

Hi Maurice

The VKS network is still active and growing. There are dedicated Members who attend most 4WD type shows to provide info and sign up new members.

I have a satellite phone and hands free kit in my Landcruiser.I also have my Codan NGT as well.

I like the ability to listen to the scheds and find out who else is in the area I'm travelling, also to find out the weather, road conditions and any hazards (like a bushfire crossing the road up the Cape).

While sat phones are great to get help, that help could be 2000+ km away. With the HF, the operators keep a track of where people are and they could selcall people logged as being in your area. Help could be just around the corner - literally.

I only use my radio when we are travelling, but we always check in before we leave Perth to make sure it is all working correctly. The operators are also fantastic in that they will let my young bloke do our sched calls (which we do at the end so we don't hold other travellers up). It's a great way for him to get to learn how to operate the radio in case something happens to me.

Cheers

Anthony

Maurice
VKS737 now also handles sat phone calls for help
Also note that there are places HF will get a signal where sat phones won't, for example, in the Vic High Country
Wouldn't go bush without it
Cheers
Andrew

As mentioned above Maurice, VKS737 is still providing the same reliable HF communications service. Bases are currently being refurbished too, with the latest high tech hardware...at considerable cost. As for satphones....like many, I use both satphone and HF when outback...they both have their strengths. If you have the time, read up on the info at vks737.on.net......particularly the FAQ and Satphone pages.

Also Consider the HF Radio Club .They have Aust wide coverage ,skeds/messagers and 200 mins of free Phone calls to any Aust number per month with a compatable set. Channels aren't as congested as VKS 737.http://www.hfradioclub.com.au

They most certainly are still around.
VKS network

Wouldn't be without my Codan.