It has come to my attention that the following frequency channels are allocated for Simplex FM during the contest:
145.500 - 145.575 Mhz
It is my opinion that you use 145.500 Mhz as the calling frequency and then move to another unoccupied frequency as allocated above. Now I know that no one has the right to claim any frequency for permanent use. The GRHub Network use 145.550 Mhz as a simplex link frequency for Echolink and AllStar . This frequency is open for use by any radio amateur at any time. As can be seen this frequency falls slap bang in the allocated contest frequencies above. This is really no problem at all and can any radio amateur participating or not participating in the contest use the 145.550 Mhz frequency at any time if it is not in use. Locally I have not heard any contest activity on 145.550 Mhz except for a relay of a contest station in the Cape Town area last night. This does not mean that there is no contest activity on the 145.550 Mhz frequency.
Although I can use 145.550 Mhz as before I have decided to disconnect the RF Link on 145.550 Mhz until the end of the PEARS VHF/UHF Contest. This is done to ensure that the frequencies are clear for use by contesters but also to adhere to the Amateur Radio Code. No transmissions from the GRHub Network will be relayed on the 145.550 Mhz frequency during the duration of the contest. However all normal activity will still continue on the 49355 AllStar and ZS1I-L Echolink nodes as before.
I would once again like to wish all radio amateurs taking part in the contest good luck and may you make many contacts. Enjoy!!
PS. Normal GRHub 145.550 Mhz RF Link activities will again commence at 12:00 UTC on Sunday 16 January 2022.
