Closure of this ZS Link Network Blog - 29 April 2026

This will be the final posting on the ZS Link Network Blog.

This blog will no longer be updated but will remain available for research and historical purposes.

Please note:

1. A new Blog replace this Blog.

2. For those who wish to see the reasons for closing of the ZS Link Network Blog click HERE
 

Looking forward to re-meet many of you on THE ALL NEW - ZS1I Amateur Radio Projects/Activities Blog available HERE
 

J. Terblanche  ZS1I
Mossel Bay
29 April 2026 

Important changes to the ZS Link Network that will have an impact on certain services in the Southern Cape and World Wide!!

This is an important announcement if you make use of the services of the ZS Link Network in the Southern Cape.  

What does these changes entail as mentioned in the above heading/title of this article?  The changes will mainly involve the ZS HUB Network in the Mossel Bay area.  First I would like to provide a bit of background before announcing the changes that will effect the ZS Link Network from the 1 May 2026.

The author and Willem van Zyl ZS1ON (SK) were among the first users of Echolink (then Qtel) in 2003 in the Southern Cape.  The necessary hardware and software were obtained in New Zealand.  As the years went on we started to use Echolink and other VOIP amateur radio services when it was first released. We each setup a sysop mode which included a VHF linked radio in the Mossel Bay area. This was basically the start of an Echolink Network in the Southern Cape.  I am not going to go into further detail here but will move on to Feb 2017 when I put the first AllStar Node (HamVoip) on the air in the Southern Cape.  Incorporated into this node was Echolink and the 145.550 Mhz Simplex Link.  The GRHub Network was launched in July 2021 and the Blog Web-Site in August 2021.  A name change  to ZS Link Network took place in March 2022.  The DMR Bridge was added in June 2023 and the DMR Digital Repeater in April 2026.  Now why mention all this here?  This is only mentioned as a time line that reflect the development of VOIP Network from 2003 to 2026 in the Southern Cape.  A period of 23 years.  However I do not take all the credit for setting up nodes, links, repeaters etc. during this time period as there are several other roll players who added equipment to the ZS Link Network and previous networks.

Enough of the trip down memory lane let's get to the Important Changes that will impact the ZS Link Network from the 1 May 2026. I will list the changes that will take place to the existing network in the Mossel Bay area and the time has arrived to move to another facet of Amateur Radio.

Changes to Existing Services 1 May 2026:

• Name Changes
• Equipment Changes
• ZS Link Network Blog closure (New Blog under construction)
  
• Network Changes
• Changes to Bulletins
• Changes to Services

Time to move onto another facet of Amateur Radio:

Last Saturday afternoon during the "Saturday Afternoon Amateur Radio On-The-Air Activities" talk amateur radio activities were discussed.  For a while now I pondered over the idea to move onto other facets of Amateur Radio that would hopefully create more amateur radio activities.

Moving into a new facet of amateur radio is a great way to re-energize Amateur Radio. As of 2026, the landscape is heavily influenced by advanced digital modes, digital radio, compact portable gear, and high-efficiency antenna designs, making it easier than ever to explore new territory.

From the 1 May 2026 I will concentrate more on the following facets of amateur radio:

• QRP Radio
• WSPR
• CW Beacons
• Digital Radio (DMR, DSTAR, System Fusion)
• Satellites
• Digital Repeaters
• Reflectors and Servers
• AREDN
• Microprosessors / Tinkering
• Homebrewing
• Creating a new WhatsApp Group called "Activities in Amateur Radio" where I will also provide more information on new amateur radio activities.
  

Now I hear many of you ask but how will the ZS Link Network function from the 1 May 2026?  Well that is quite simple to answer.  The ZS Link Network will function as the Administrators of the group see fit. I can therefor not speak on behalf of the ZS Link Network Group in this regard. 

I am not going to explain every single change in this article as it will make the article very long and cumbersome.  I will provide further information on this blog as we move along in changes and as they are made.

As I said in the audio version on the 625 WhatsApp Group there is/was no sinister incident / reason for making these changes.  There is no difference of opinion or any other reason for making these changes other than providing me more time for the new venture in Amateur Radio.

I never thought that the humble GRHUB Network would grow into the ZS Link Network to what it is today. I would once again like to invite clubs and radio amateurs to use and keep on using the ZS Link  Network if they so wish. The network is not a private, club only or special allocated network.  It is open for general use by any radio amateur.  Transmit, experiment, test etc. - let radio amateurs know you are active and on the network.  Start or join a QSO and make new friends.

Thanks and Appreciation:

Thank you to those who support and use the Network regularly.  Your support and comments are highly appreciated.

The network is alive and well thanks to radio amateurs who use the network and keep on adding nodes to the existing network. There are many other roll players that ensure that the network is operational and being extended to other areas of the country and even overseas.

I would like to thank all those radio amateurs that keep the network maintained and running even during quiet periods.  Your unselfish participation in maintaining nodes, repeaters, links etc. is highly appreciated.  Remember you do it for Amateur Radio, the best hobby in the world!!

For me?  It is just time to move on in Amateur Radio and I am looking forward to the future of Amateur Radio.

"The more we feel concern for others and seek their well-being, the more friends we will have and the more welcome we will feel."

Why do radio amateurs not leave large enough gaps ("overs") between transmissions?

Does the title of the above article sound familiar? 

On numerous occasions the ZS Link Network experience the "to quick on the trigger (PTT)" habit. Yes it is a bad habit and the author is also guilty at times.  No pointing of fingers here let's find out why this happens.

I wrote the following this morning on the WhatsApp Group:

"Gaps, gaps etc. Stations cannot connect to the ZS Link Network Group's networks. Stations are left out in the cold. We must please leave gaps and not be so quick to press the PTT between overs. There are some of our regulars who want to connect to the DMR links and other systems, but cannot get in. Let's please leave long enough (5-8 seconds) gaps between rounds. We don't want to lose stations because they can't connect/disconnect or log in. No, I have nothing to do with the administration of the network anymore, but just felt like bringing it to everyone's attention again in the interest of the group. - ZS1I"

In amateur radio, failing to leave a gap between "overs" (transmissions) is known as "quick-keying" or "tailgating." Experienced operators strongly advise against this because it disrupts the flow of communication and violates standard Ham Radio Etiquette.

Now why do radio amateurs not leave large enough gaps ("overs") between transmissions?

Radio amateurs often fail to leave sufficient gaps ("overs") between transmissions due to a combination of ingrained habits from crowded operating environments, the desire to prevent others from "stealing" the frequency, and the rapid, conversational nature of "rag-chewing" (casual chatting). 

Common reasons for short breaks or overlapping transmissions include:

• Habit from Crowded Frequencies: Many radio amateurs are accustomed to operating on crowded bands or repeaters (particularly on 10-meter or 75-meter bands), where any significant pause is perceived as an opportunity for another station to "steal" the frequency or interrupt the conversation.
• Fear of "Stealing" the Conversation: There is a common belief that if an operator leaves too long a pause, another user will break into the conversation, leading to a "quick key" reflex.
• "Rag-Chewing" Mentality: In casual, relaxed conversations, operators often treat radio like a telephone call, aiming for a rapid exchange of information rather than the formal, slow pace of traditional radio procedure.
• Misunderstanding Repeater Operation: Some operators do not wait for the repeater's "courtesy tone"—a sound that signals the repeater has reset and is ready for the next transmission—leading to "doubling" (talking over someone) or premature transmission.
• Unfamiliarity with Proper Etiquette: Not all operators are fully trained in, or consistently follow, best practices regarding break times, which recommend a 5-second pause to allow for emergencies or other stations to join.
• Imitating CB Practices: Some amateur radio operators carry over habits from 11-meter (CB) radio, where fast-paced, high-interference communication is common.

Best Practices to Avoid Overlapping:

• Listen First: Always listen for a few seconds before transmitting.
• Wait for the network to reset: On repeaters, wait for the network to reset before keying up.
• Pause intentionally: Leave a 5–8 second gap between "overs" to allow for break-ins, especially for emergency calls.
• Release the PTT: Fully release the push-to-talk button to ensure the repeater resets properly.

As far as DMR communications over the internet is concerned,  here is some information as to why on should leave a large enough gap between overs:

Networked Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) communications over the internet introduce significant and noticeable latency (delay) due to a combination of digital voice encoding and Forward Error Correction (FEC), and internet traffic delays.

Key Aspects of DMR Internet Latency:

• Operational Courtesy: Because of this latency, operators should wait at least 5 seconds after hearing the end of a transmission before initiating a new one to avoid breaking traffic.
• Transmission Delay: It is recommended to wait approximately 2 second after keying the transmitter before speaking to ensure the connection is established.
• Causes: Latency is introduced by the digital encoding of voice at the transmitter, FEC processing at the receiver, and internet packet routing.
• Technical Performance: Specialized DMR over Internet Protocol (DoIP) gateways can achieve a conversion delay of 9.10 ms, with an average jitter of 1.90 ms and low packet loss.

Operational Considerations:
Unlike analog radios, DMR does not have a "repeater squelch tail." The inherent digital delays mean conversations can feel staggered, requiring disciplined, patient, and structured communication protocols to avoid talking over others and to accommodate the shared nature of networked resources.

 

Enough written.  We all know now what to do from here-on!!

Zayn ZR3VO - AllStar Portable / Mobile Node Project

Image: ZR3VO Portable / Mobile AllStar  Node.  (Click on image for larger view.)

Zayn informed me that he is busy building an AllStar Portable / Mobile Node and a DMR Mobile Hotspot which he will be using whenever the need arises.  In the first article we will be looking at the AllStar Portable / Mobile Node and in the second article we will be looking at his DMR Mobile  / Portable Hotspot.

Now what on earth is a Portable / Mobile AllStar Node?

A

DIY mobile AllStar node is a custom-built, portable device that uses a low-power computer, a radio interface, and amateur radio equipment to connect to the global AllStarLink network via the internet  (often a mobile hotspot). This setup allows amateur radio operators to communicate with thousands of other nodes and repeaters worldwide using their handheld or mobile radios, essentially acting as a personal gateway or "hotspot". 

The "DIY" aspect means the operator assembles the components themselves, which is a common and cost-effective approach within the ham radio community, as opposed to buying a pre-built commercial unit. 

 

Key Components:

 

A typical DIY mobile AllStar node requires the following main components: 

• A Computing Device: A small, low-power computer, most commonly a Raspberry Pi (Pi 3 or Pi 4 are popular choices). It runs a Linux-based operating system with the AllStarLink software, often a pre-configured image like HamVoIP.
• A Radio/Audio Interface: A small circuit board or device that connects the computer's USB port (via a C-Media CM108/CM119 sound IC) to the radio's audio input/output and Push-to-Talk (PTT) lines. Pre-made interfaces like the DMK URIx or Masters Communications DRA boards are available, or advanced users can build their own from scratch.
• A Node Radio: A simple, often inexpensive, UHF or VHF radio (e.g., a Baofeng UV-5R or similar) dedicated to the node. This radio receives signals from your personal handheld radio and transmits audio back from the network.
• Power Source: For a mobile setup, a portable battery bank or a buck converter for a vehicle's power system is used.
• Internet Connection: The node needs internet access, which can be provided by Wi-Fi or by tethering to a mobile phone hotspot.

Functionality:

 

The setup works by:

1. Receiving an FM signal from your handheld radio on a specific frequency.
2. Converting the audio to digital data via the sound interface and the Raspberry Pi.
3. Transmitting that digital data over the internet to other AllStar nodes.
4. Receiving internet audio from other nodes.
5. Converting the digital audio back to an FM signal for transmission to your handheld radio.

This allows for seamless communication over vast distances, bridging the gap between local RF (Radio Frequency) coverage and the global internet network. 

 

Building Your Own:

 

To build a DIY node, you would typically follow these general steps:

1. Register for an AllStar node number on the AllStarLink website.
2. Gather the necessary hardware components.
3. Install the AllStar software (like HamVoIP) onto the Raspberry Pi's SD card.
4. Wire the radio to the interface board (if necessary).
5. Configure the software settings, including audio levels and network parameters, often using a program like PuTTY for remote access.
6. Test the node using the "Parrot mode" feature.

There are many online guides and YouTube tutorials available to walk users through the process.

 

Information regarding the ZR3VO AllStar Portable / Mobile Node:

 

Call Sign:  ZR3VO

Frequency:  145.350 Mhz

CTCSS:  88.5 Hz

Node Number: 46615

Location: Orania

Site: Orania Township

Affiliation: ZS Link Network Group

 

The "inauguration"   of the node took place recently He use the node regularly while mobile and even portable. The node is functioning well and is definitely a great asset when going mobile or portable.  Congratulations on constructing a useful and effective node, Zayn. 

Images:  Click on images for larger view.

 

 

200 000 Milestone reached in respect of the ZS Link Network Blog

Image:  Google  (Click on image for larger view)

It gives me great pleasure to announce that the ZS Link Network Blog has reached an all time viewers total (hits) of 201 882, with 859 articles, this according to Google.  Is this of any significance?  Well if you like to brag or boast about  the Blog then many will say that this total is of no significance.  Others might be of the opinion that a 201 882 hits can easily be achieved.  Well if the Blog was about South African Politics, Socialites or posting controversial and  inflammatory content then sure you will reach a 201 882 hits in a day or two.  However this blog is about  Amateur Radio/Ham Radio/ Space/Science/Technology/DIY Projects/Homebrew/Nets/AREDN and too many other topics to mention here.  Now why mention this "achievement" here.

It is quite simple.  This Blog is not about the author.  It is about those radio amateurs who contributed direct or indirectly to many posts on this Blog.  You the contributes get all the recognition for keeping this Blog alive and interesting.  Something must be done correctly to reach the 200 000 hits milestone.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank every single radio amateur that contributed to the success of this Blog.  But not only the contributors, also all our readers or visitors from all over the world.  Hopefully in visiting the Blog many of our viewers have find something interesting to read and to view on the Blog.  I could have just kept quiet and say nothing about this milestone but that would be in direct conflict with the amateur radio code, very selfish and ungrateful.

Once again thank you to everyone that contributed to the ZS Link Network Blog in any way.  Lets continue and keep this Blog interesting and relevant. 

73

Johan ZS1I

On behalf of the ZS Link Network Group

Mossel Bay

South Africa

20 February 2026

Images:  (Click on images for larger view.)

 

Destructive Fire destroy and damage homes, cars and wild-life in Mossel Bay (5 - 10 January 2026)

2026 was off to a fiery start in Mossel Bay in the Garden Route with various fires gutting homes, destroying vehicles and vast tracts of prime land and fynbos. The fire that started in open veld next to the N2 and spread to several areas as listed in the image below.

During the period 5 - 12 January 2026 the ZS Link Network Amateur Radio Group kept abreast of the fire and all related developments via WhatsApp Group and live Amateur Radio Nets in the event that amateur radio emergency communications were called upon.  Another first is that the fire fighters were supported by OM Jan ZS1CBS, a radio amateur and farmer who assisted in fighting the fires with his own fire fighting equipment.  Well done to Jan and a big thank you for assisting our community in times of need!!  (See images below)

The fire in Aalwyndal, Vakansieplaas, Island View and surrounds saw an enormous outpouring of solidarity – it was a tenacious community against a raging fire. Special thanks to the neighbourhoodwatch groups (Community Policing Forum), NSRI and the farmer’s associations from all over the greate Mossel Bay.
On the afternoon, 8 January 2026, when numerous flare-ups occurred due to persistent, strong and ever-changing winds, threatening adjacent areas like Sonskynvallei, Hartenbos Heuwels, Renosterbos and Num Num - more than 30 bakkies and small trailer tenks with water were, as well as trucks with water tanks were deployed. Here are some of the videos of the volunteers who added tremendous value to the firefighting effort.

Hannelie Marias, Chairperson of the Da Gamaskop Community Policing Forum writes (translated from Afrikaans):  “𝐼𝑡’𝑠 𝑢𝑛𝑏𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑣𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑎𝑠𝑘, ‘𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑑𝑜 𝐼 𝑓𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑢𝑝 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟?’ 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦’𝑟𝑒 𝑜𝑓𝑓! 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑑𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑚𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑣𝑒𝑠 𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑔𝑖𝑐 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑠𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑎𝑘𝑘𝑖𝑒𝑠 (𝑝𝑖𝑐𝑘𝑢𝑝𝑠) 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎 𝑠𝑢𝑏𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑝𝑢𝑚𝑝 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑚𝑜𝑡𝑜𝑟 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑝𝑟𝑎𝑦 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑. 𝑌𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑑𝑎𝑦, 𝐼 𝑚𝑦𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑎 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐴𝑎𝑙𝑤𝑦𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑙 𝑅𝑜𝑎𝑑. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑒𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑝, 𝐼 ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡. 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑒𝑥ℎ𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑑, 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑛 𝑜𝑢𝑡. 𝐴𝑔𝑎𝑖𝑛, 𝐼 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑜𝑑 𝑖𝑛 𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑒, 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡, 𝑎 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑙𝑒𝑔—𝑦𝑒𝑠—𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑏𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑎𝑘𝑘𝑖𝑒, 𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑏𝑠 𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑟 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑎 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑖𝑠 𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑑, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑙𝑖𝑑. 𝐻𝑒 𝑚𝑢𝑠𝑡 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑟𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡 𝑎𝑡 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑡 10 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑠. 𝑁𝑜𝑤 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠 𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙.”

Videos:  Mossel Bay Advertiser and EWN 

 

 

𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘 – 𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗡 𝗔𝗜𝗗 - 12 Jan 12:25 🙏 THANK YOU, Mossel Bay! Your generosity during the Aalwyndal, Vakansieplaas & Island View fires has been overwhelming. Crews are no longer stationed in the fire zone, but remain on alert for flare‑ups. 🚫 No more perishables accepted – the active operational period has ended. 🧴 Toiletries & household items still welcome (see list below). 💳 Financial contributions remain open to support affected families. Drop‑off: Generosity, 3 Watson Street, Voorbaai Donate online: edenprotocol.co/mossel-bay-fire-relief 🧴 Needed Items * Soap, facecloths, toothpaste, toothbrushes * Shampoo, conditioner, roll‑on, spray * Sanitary towels, lotion/aqueous cream * Razors, hairbrushes, combs * Toilet paper, washing powder, fabric softener * Handy Andy, bleach/Domestos, dishwasher liquid * Washing pegs, scourers, broom, mop, dustbins

Images:  Robert Crous + Mossel Bay Advertiser (Click on images for larger view.)

 

Images:  Working on Fire, Kishugu Aviation and Mossel Bay Advertiser  (Click on images for full view.)

Images below:  Jan ZS1CBS, Radio Amateur and Farmer getting his fire fighting  equipment ready before moving in to fight the fire which at that stage was threatening the Hartenbos Heuwels and other areas.  Jan, thank you for the community service you provided free of charge.

Images and video below:  The editors son also assisted in fighting the fire after his normal daily work schedule.  Thank you son for the service that you rendered to the Community of Mossel Bay!

 

End.

The End of 2025 and the Start of 2026 in Amateur Radio (Ham Radio)

Greetings

We trust that everyone had a great holiday season thus far.  Now,  we as administrators want to get rid of 2025 today and start 2026 on a very high note.  The holiday season is still with us but that does not mean that amateur radio has to wait until all the other activities starts in 2026.

The following paragraph is surely the most important in this topic. Before we start the "ranting session" we would like to thank each and every radio amateur who used or were involved in the ZS-Link Network in 2025.  It is radio amateurs like yourself that makes the ZS-Link Network Group a success by being active on the air and also by connecting to the ZS-Link Network. However this network will not be a success if it is not active or regularly being used.  A big thank you to Johann ZS1AAC who runs all the Amateur Radio Nets every day of the week and no, Johann is not retired.  He still runs his own business and are involved in many other activities.  Thanks, Johann.

The ZS-Link Network is alive and well thanks to radio amateurs who use the network and keep on adding nodes and repeaters to the existing network. There are many other roll players that ensure that the network is operational and being extended to other areas of the country and even overseas.

We would like to thank all those radio amateurs that keep the network maintained and running even during difficult times.  Your unselfish participation in maintaining nodes, repeaters, links etc. is highly appreciated.  Remember you do it for Amateur Radio, the best hobby in the world!!

2025 was a very successful year for the ZS-Link Network Group and its membership increased dramatically.  What is especially important is the fact that so many candidates wrote the RAE in the Southern Cape and became radio amateurs.  Many getting involved in the ZS-Link Network Group and the activities we impose.

It is now time to "rant" after all the praising and thanks giving!!  No don't despair keep on reading.  2026 is upon us and instead of having new year resolutions for amateur radio that does not always work out, we want to encourage all active and non active radio amateurs to get involved in amateur radio. DO NOT leave amateur radio for when you retire one day or when you have more free time.  In many instances this never materializes.  NOW 2026 is the time to enjoy amateur radio.  Later might be to late.  Let's start now to  keep amateur radio alive and prosperous.  Some of the administrators recently overheard conversations where radio amateurs complain on the air that there is very little activity on the air and even off the air in parts of South Africa.  Well stop complaining and make it happen.  Join the ZS Link Network Group. This is where all the action is!

We as the ZS-Link Network Group has a winning recipe available HERE which you are welcome to implement and follow.  This recipe has worked wonders for the ZS-Link Network Group and we are convinced that it will work for many others out there.  Give it a try in 2026!!

Finally:  The ZS-Link Network Group Administrators would like to convey the following to all radio amateurs:

• A  rewarding and very successful 2026.
• Many radio amateurs are miles away in terms of the physical distance, but our hearts are close to each other and will always be. 
• Life is short. So, try to make the most of it in the coming year and the time ahead.
• We have always been grateful to God for blessing this wonderful group of people involved in the ZS-Link Network Group.  
  
• May 2026 reward you with peace, safety, happiness, good health, and everything your heart desires in amateur radio.
• You, your family, and friends make it all worthwhile.
  

Happy New Year! May 2026 bring renewed passion, more joyful memories, sense of purpose and endless possibilities to your Amateur Radio en-devours.

 

The ZS Link Network Administrators

Southern Cape:  South Africa 

Website:   ZS Link Network Blog

End.

Hallo

Ons vertrou dat almal tot dusver 'n wonderlike vakansie seisoen gehad het. As administrateurs wil ons vandag van 2025 ontslae raak en 2026 op 'n baie hoë noot begin. Die vakansie seisoen is steeds met ons, maar dit beteken nie dat amateur radio moet wag totdat al die ander aktiwiteite vir 2026 begin nie.

Die volgende paragraaf is sekerlik die belangrikste in hierdie artikel. Voordat ons met die "kla-sessie" begin, wil ons elke radio amateur bedank wat die ZS-Link Netwerk in 2025 gebruik het of daarby betrokke was. Dit is radio amateurs soos julle wat die ZS-Link Netwerk 'n sukses maak deur aktief op die lug te wees en ook aan die ZS-Link Netwerk te koppel. Hierdie netwerk sal egter nie 'n sukses wees as dit nie aktief is of gereeld gebruik word nie. 'n Groot dankie aan Johann ZS1AAC wat al die amateur radio nette elke dag van die week hanteer en nee, Johann is nie afgetree nie. Hy bedryf steeds sy eie besigheid en is betrokke by baie ander aktiwiteite. Dankie, Johann.

Die ZS-Link Netwerk is lewendig en gesond danksy radio amateurs wat die netwerk gebruik en aanhou om nodusse en herhalers by die bestaande netwerk te voeg. Daar is baie ander rolspelers wat verseker dat die netwerk operasioneel is en uitgebrei word na ander dele van die land en selfs oorsee.

Ons wil graag al die radio amateurs bedank wat die netwerk in stand hou en aan die gang hou, selfs tydens moeilike omstandighede. Julle onselfsugtige deelname aan die instand houding van nodusse, herhalers, skakels, ens. word hoog op prys gestel. Onthou julle doen dit vir amateur radio, die beste stokperdjie ter wêreld!!

2025 was 'n baie suksesvolle jaar vir die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep gewees en die ledetal dramaties toegeneem. Wat veral belangrik is, is die feit dat soveel kandidate die RAE in die Suid-Kaap geskryf het en radio amateurs geword het. Baie het betrokke geraak by die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep en die aktiwiteite wat daar gestel word.

Dit is nou tyd vir die "kla sessie" na al die lofprysing en danksegging!! Moenie bekommerd wees nie, lees verder. 2026 is op hande en in plaas daarvan om nuwejaars voornemens vir amateur radio te hê wat nie altyd werk nie, wil ons alle aktiewe en nie-aktiewe radioamateurs aanmoedig om by amateur radio bedrywighede betrokke te raak. MOENIE amateurradio los vir wanneer jy eendag aftree of wanneer jy meer vrye tyd het nie. In baie gevalle realiseer dit nooit nie. NOU (2026) is die tyd om amateur radio te geniet. Later is dalk te laat. Kom ons begin nou om amateur radio lewendig en aktief te hou. Sommige van die administrateurs het onlangs na gesprekke geluister waar radio amateurs aangedui het dat daar baie min aktiwiteit op die lug en selfs van die lug af in dele van Suid-Afrika is. Wel, hou op kla en laat dit gebeur. Sluit aan by die ZS Link Network Groep. Dit is waar al die aksie is!

Ons as die ZS-Link Network Groep het 'n wenresep HIER beskikbaar wat jy welkom is om te implementeer en na te volg. Hierdie resep het wondere verrig vir die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep en ons is oortuig dat dit vir baie ander daar buite sal en kan werk. Probeer dit gerus in 2026!!

Laastens: Die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep Administrateurs wil graag die volgende aan alle radio amateurs oordra:

• 'n Belonende en baie suksesvolle 2026 word jou toegewens.
• Baie radio amateurs is kilometers ver weg wat fisiese afstand betref, maar ons harte is na aan mekaar en sal altyd wees.
• Die lewe is kort. Probeer dus om die meeste daarvan te maak in die komende jaar en die tyd wat voorlê.
• Ons was nog altyd dankbaar teenoor God dat Hy hierdie wonderlike groep mense wat betrokke is by die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep geseën het.
• Mag 2026 jou beloon met vrede, veiligheid, geluk, goeie gesondheid en alles wat jou hart in amateur radio begeer.
• Jy, jou familie en vriende maak dit alles die moeite werd.

Gelukkige Nuwe Jaar! Mag 2026 hernude passie, meer vreugdevolle herinneringe, 'n sinvolle doel en eindelose moontlikhede vir jou amateur radio ondernemings bring.

 

Die ZS Link Netwerk Administrateurs

Suid-Kaap: Suid-Afrika

Webtuiste :  ZS Link Network Blog

Einde.

Opdatering van Verjaarsdag- en Huweliks Herdenking lys / Updating Birthday and Wedding Anniversary List:

Opdatering van Verjaarsdag- en Huweliks Herdenking lys:  Die ZS Link Netwerk Groep is besig om die verjaarsdag en huweliks herdenkings lys op te dateer.  As jy nuut is op die WhatsApp groep of die ZS Link Netwerk Groep word jy versoek om asb jou verjaardag en huweliks besonderhede te verskaf op die WhatsApp Groep  vir inligting Danie ZS1DJ.  Die lyste sal dienooreenkomstig bygewerk word.  Kan ons asb die besonderhede ontvang voor die 15 November 2025, asseblief.


Updating Birthday and Wedding Anniversary List: The ZS Link Network Group is busy updating the birthday and wedding anniversary list. If you are new to the WhatsApp group or the ZS Link Network Group, you are requested to please provide your birthday and wedding details on the WhatsApp Group for information Danie ZS1DJ. The lists will be updated accordingly. Can we please receive the details before November 15, 2025, please.

Dank en Waardering - Skenking van 2m Tait Herhaler deur Fred ZS5SAM

Die administrateurs van die ZS-Link Netwerk Groep will langs die weg graag vir Fred ZS5SAM bedank vir die skenking van 'n Tait 2m Herhaler ter uitbreiding van die bestaande netwerk.  Baie dankie aan Fred vir die skenking van die herhaler.  Die hehaler kan baie handig aangewend word ter uitbreiding van die ZS Link Netwerk.

Op 'n vorige geleentheid het Fred ook 70cm Dipool Antennas geskenk.  Klik HIER vir meer besonderhede.

Die skenking word hoog op prys gestel en is weereens 'n aanduiding van die goeie amateur radio gees en oop-hand welwillendheid wat daar heers in die ZS Link Netwerk Groep!!

ZS-Link Network News - "Ods and Sods" from Radio Amateurs over the past 6 Months - A must view!!

Herewith a few "Ods and Sods" from Radio Amateurs over the past 6 Months.  This post contain various interesting "happenings" in the lives of radio amateurs that belongs to the ZS Link Network Group.  Thank you everybody for making this content available.

Vivian ZS1VIV - Riversdale -  A new Icom IC2730E found its way to the QTH of Viv!

Andre ZS3AG,  Kimberley -  2025 Hartenbos Holiday

Andre ZS3AG and Jason working on antennas

Christo N5VAN ex ZS3R, Nebraska US - New Yaesu FT-dx101MP Radio and antenna

Danie ZS1DL, Dana Bay Mossel Bay -  Our Africa Twin Warrior!

Jakobus ZS1JDJ, DaNova Mosselbaai -  The Bee Man!

Jasper ZS1WT Blandsdrift, Mossel Bay - Mega Farmer / Hunting Season / Braai Time

Nick ZS1NS, Albertinia  -  Musician / Singer / Guitar- and Furniture Restorer / Drawing Artist

 

Richard ZS5RMN, Pietermaritzburg -  Story Teller / Podcaster / Lunch Time

Rassie ZS1RP, Stilbaai  -  Battery Charger Project /Aloe relocation

Johann ZS1AAC,  Stilbaai -  Tansformers / "Bont Hond" / Tower  / Equipment / Recognition

Zayn ZR3VO,  Orania -  Orange River / Festival / Swimming Pool Maintenance

Nick ZS1ZAN,  Anysberge - Anysberge / Tower

Eben ZS1EP, Stilbaai  -  The ocean loves to eat antennas !!

Michael ZS1MMB, George - Hunting / Projects / Plugs can be dangerous

Erich ZS4VW,  Sasolburg -  The best anthracite stove for the cold.

Bernie ZR1ACP, Agulhas -  New Project

Gerrit ZS1KLO, Rheebok -  G90 doing its thing!

Johannes ZS1XL, Stilbaai - Solar Power

Rulhof ZS4RM, Bloemfontein -  RAE / Signal Hill

Ingo ZS1IB, Stilbaai -  The ocean loves to eat antennas !!

Mark ZS1SSM, Gourits River -  The man with the Kiri's and Baof's for sale

Curtis ZS6CMO, Alberton -  3D Printed Glue Gun Stand

Marko Z1NEU,  Mosselbaai -   Eina Finger!

Johan ZS1I, Mossel Bay - The ocean also eats radios!!

Gerhard ZS3TG, Kathu -  Regular providing of HF Happenings

Comment:  WhatsApp make it rather difficult to obtain images and videos from the 625 Group.  It takes a lot of time and effort to re-post information on the ZS Link Blog. To retrieve older postings on WhatsApp is rather difficult and time consuming.  Older postings is also not readily available. Hopefully I can found a way around this WhatsApp frustration.  After all most of the content belongs to us.  If I cannot find another way then this will be the last posting of "Ods and Sods".  

Finally:  If your contribution did not future in this posting then I apologize as the issue mentioned above is the reason.