SPARC is an active, community-based amateur radio club for communications and electronics enthusiasts. SPARC, as the name suggests, is based on the Mornington Peninsula to the south of Melbourne. The club participates in a wide range of activities including field days, public-relations events, practical construction sessions and a great coffee club every Thursday. The club welcomes prospective new members and visitors.
Amateur radio, also known as ham radio, is the use of radio frequency spectrum for purposes of non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, private recreation, radiosport, contesting, and emergency communication.
SPARC operates the callsign VK3BSP and is active from the clubrooms in Capel Sound. The club has about 80 members whose passions are many and varied. It’s a club of like-minded radio enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Amateur radio requires a license and there are three on offer, all with different skill levels in mind – Foundation, Standard, and Advanced. The club offers regular training and examination services for anyone wishing to get on the air.
SPARC is based near Rosebud which has its own interesting history.
SPARC Activities
Radiofest
Each year, pandemics permitting, SPARC holds the Rosebud Radiofest. Held at the Eastbourne Primary School, the event attracts buyers and sellers from all over Australia.
Learn More or check out Hamfest Australasia
Radio Courses and training
SPARC offers amateur radio training to all who are interested in joining the friendly ranks of amateur radio operators. SPARC runs Foundation to Advanced classes on demand.
Field Days
SPARC participates in many field days during the course of the year. The John Moyle Field Day is popular amongst the SPARC members as it gets everybody out of the shack.
SPARC is affiliated with the Wireless Institute of Australia and the club callsign is VK3BSP.
The SPARC contest callsign is VL3S
Join us On Air
Sunday morning 2 metre net
The club has a net every Sunday morning at 9:30 am on VK3RSP which is situated on Arthurs Seat. Everyone is welcome to join us on 146.675 MHz. You’ll need a CTCSS tone of 88.5 Hz to access the repeater. Even if you’re just a listener, be sure to check-in at the end of the net.
VK3RSP is sponsored and maintained by SPARC as a service to Amateur Radio operators.
Tuesday night 80 metre net
The club also has a net every Tuesday night at 8:00 pm on 3.640 MHz plus or minus QRM.
IRLP / ECHOLINK
Connection Instructions:
– Enter a valid four digit node number using DTMF for IRLP
– Enter * and a valid five or six digit node number using DTMF for EchoLink
– Enter 73 using DTMF to disconnect from either service
For more information visit the IRLP status page.
There is NO interconnection between IRLP and EchoLink modes. Using one blocks the other.
Club Meetings
SPARC meets every Thursday and Saturday morning from 9.30 a.m. until 12 noon (or stumps) at the clubrooms located at the Vern Wright Reserve, Elizabeth Ave Capel Sound. Follow Eastbourne Road to the T intersection turn left to Elizabeth ave, then look for the blue sign pointing to the reserve. Talk-ins provided on VK3RSP 146.675 MHz
Meetings offer the chance for “hands-on” with radio communication and test equipment, and a chance to meet with experienced and professional people with a wealth of experience in communications and all aspects of the hobby. All visitors are very welcome, come and join us for a cup of coffee and a chat.
The SPARC clubrooms are now open to all on Thursday and Saturday mornings.