This morning I heard Koos ZS5KDK connecting ZS5PMB-R (Pietermaritzburg Repeater) to ZS1I-L (GRHub Network Link). He and Andre Rheder ZS5AW had a short QSO whereafter I talked to Koos ZS5KDK about current RF Radio- and VOIP Networks and invited him to connect to the GRHub Network whenever they so wish. It would be great to have them link to the GRHub Network and visa versa. Well it did not take long for things to happen. At 13h55 this afternoon I heard PH21XMAS calling via the ZS5PMB-R and I answered his call. Erwin PA3EFR operating PH21XMAS a special event station from Den Haag, Netherland.
Erwin explained: "In this time of compulsory house-arrest due to the global virus, it is great to be able to activate special event stations.
In this joint effort of the Radio Scouting Fellowships PI4RS and PA3EFR/J we activate two calls during this time:
PH21XMAS - from 6th December 2021 until 3rd January 2022
PH22HNY - from 10th December 2021 until 31st January 2022
These calls operate on the Full License frequencies. We hope to be able to work every day in voice and digital modes.
Stay Safe, Stay Sane and hope to have a QSO with you in due time. QSL-cards will not be made."
Further information of PH21XMAS can be viewed on QRZ.com.
Yes, I know it is not true DX and that even if I did receive a QSL card it would not qualify for any DX award. Having work my fair share of DX this does not really matter as I am not a DX Hunter or awards collector.
I later heard Mary ZS5V and Koos ZS5KDK having a QSO with PH21XMAS via the linked networks.
Finally: I hear some say, "No big deal" but you know what, it was great fun and I will be looking out for PH22HNY on the GRHub Network (ZS1I-L) or via the Pietermaritzburg Repeater (ZS5PMB-R). I could hear the excitement in Erwin's voice when I returned his call. That excitement is payment enough for me. Come and join me and others in the fun by working these two special event stations and others via RF - INTERNET - RF. I would like to thank Koos ZS5KDK for connecting ZS5PMB-R to the GRHub Network and for the activity he created by doing so.
I would like to invite other clubs or repeater/link owners to connect their systems to the GRHub Network. It creates activity and keep the frequencies occupied. Hope to hear more stations on the GRHub Network soon.
PS/ Yes I know it is not real DX but the Title makes for good "click bait", Hi Hi!!
