Changes to VKS-737 services...........
Submitted: Thursday, Aug 10, 2023 at 15:50
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https://vks737.radio/hf-tel-announcement/
HF-Tel Announcement
by VKS737ADMIN2 August 5, 2023
COMMUNITY SERVICE, HF-TEL, HIGH FREQUENCY, NEWS, RADIO, TRAVEL, VKS-737 RADIO NETWORK, VKS-737 SUBSCRIBERS
Important Information for HF-Tel Users
The Australian National 4WD Radio Network Inc. Committee advises the following changes will affect current and / or intending users of the HF-TEL radio telephone service provided by the Network.
Telstra has indicated that they will be closing their 3G Network by July 2024 followed by Optus who will close their 3G Network by September 2024. The VKS-737 Network uses Optus 3G
services at all bases (except
Meekatharra) to add and remove HF-Tel users and download usage logs to allow charging for calls being made.
It is apparent that to continue the HF-Tel service beyond the 31st December 2023 it will be necessary to update the Base Station equipment to operate on 4G.
Based on current costs of commercial equipment plus costs associated with engaging of suitably qualified persons to attend each base to make the relevant upgrades render this option unviable for the Network.
The HF-Tel service will not be available after 31st December 2023.
This will ensure that HF-Tel access can remotely uninstalled from all bases while there is still reliable 3G coverage available.
Prior to that date new short term users with subscriptions will be able use the service.
Reply By: cookie1 - Thursday, Aug 10, 2023 at 16:21
Thursday, Aug 10, 2023 at 16:21
Used it a few times when I first installed the Codan, you had to be mindful that anyone could listen to your conversations, but then bought a Sat Phone to complement the HF which I use both when remote.
VKS737 still provides a brilliant service that I am very thankful for - they tracked me on a failed Geo Centre trip when my trans overheated on the first dune, providing much comfort knowing they knew where I was throughout the day.
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Follow Up By: Member - Warren H - Friday, Aug 11, 2023 at 10:49
Friday, Aug 11, 2023 at 10:49
I had HF radios fitted to our remote working field vehicles in 90s. OTC still existed and ran the Coastal Radio radphone service. You could hear the trawlers ordering gear and reading out their credit card details on the open air. Seemed like nobody abused the service no on-air scammers back then. CSIRO even ran their own private radphone base at Denny and then Gungahlin we even had our own 'private' HF frequencies.
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