“CQ CQ Contest, this is VK1A, VK1A calling CQ contest….  That’s right, VK1-ALPHA.”

As recently reported, RASA met with the ACMA and discussed several topics.  One topic that received positive feedback was the possibility of 2*1 Contest Callsigns.  You can read more about the meeting here

https://vkradioamateurs.org/rasa-meet-with-acma/

and

https://vkradioamateurs.org/2-x-1-contest-callsigns-we-need-your-feedback/

Since that meeting, RASA has canvassed VK amateurs for feedback and ideas on how such a policy would be implemented equitably, given the rarity of these callsigns, especially in VK2 and VK3.

We’ve received great feedback to date.

To ensure full participation of the VK community, we have appointed a sub-committee to review the options and make a recommendation. 

The committee consisted of active contesters from across the sector.

After much deliberation, the committee recently handed down its report, which RASA endorses. 

The committee recommended that:

  • 2 x 1 callsigns from the VKnX block be allocated to bona fide contest stations, operated by clubs or individuals for use in contests and related activities only – i.e. the callsigns not be available for general use;
  • the applicant must illustrate an ongoing commitment to contest operation by participating in a minimum number of contests over a 12-month period;
  • the applicant must hold an Advanced AOCP;
  • the AX or VI prefix not be available; and
  • the callsign be issued for 12 months only, after which time the applicant must re apply.

Protocols for allocation and issue would need to be developed with the Australian Maritime College (AMC).

2 x 1 callsigns are currently allocated to scientific licences, although some scientific licences also use the more traditional 2 x 2 or 2 x 3 format.

Accordingly, we requested that ACMA place a moratorium on issue of any further VKnX callsigns to scientific licences, and that these callsigns be allocated to amateur contest stations as discussed previously, pending discussions with the AMC.

We will update you all as soon as we hear back from ACMA.