Australian National 4WD Radio Network.

The Australian National 4WD Radio Network that was established in 1993 for users of HF Radios in the Outback has recently been expanded to provide greater benefits for members.

The Network, which is a NON - PROFIT Public Benevolent Institution, is operated by a committee comprising of members from organisations such as the Australian National Four Wheel Drive Council, Tread Lightly Australia, Worldcare Assistance Services, 4WD Owners Card, ACBRO, ACRM, CARES etc. There are also representatives from government departments from around Australia.

The network, using the call sign VKS-737, operates on 5 frequencies (3995kHz, 5455kHz, 8022kHz, 11612kHz & 14977kHz) with bases at Adelaide*, Alice Springs, Gosford, Perth and Woomera, plans are under way to set up further bases and additional frequencies around Australia as funds permit.

(Any donations to the Network are allowable Tax Deductions to the donor under Section 78(4) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936) *The Adelaide base is presently being relocated to a new site and should be operational at the end of July

The Network is available to all outback travellers regardless of the make or model of HF radio that they own (there is no requirement to have a modern radio with all of the bells and whistles). The Alice Springs, Gosford and Perth bases provide regular twice daily voice schedules for those members with early basic radios such as the Codan 7727, PCM Hawk, Traeger Scout, Wagner etc. These bases now also supply regular weather and road traffic reports on request. All bases support selcall for members with suitably equipped radios to make contact outside of voice schedule times.

Further information about the Network can be obtained from Steve Johnston the Network Coordinator at or by telephone on [08] 8287 1061 or fax on [08] 8287 1255.

The Network produces a regular (printed) newsletter and this can be requested from Steve Johnston at the above email/telephone/fax, alternatively a text Only Internet version is available [here]

- Steve Johnson

See also 30/10/97, 26/8/97 or 27/6/97 pages