Radio fest to ham it up

ALL things radiocommunications and electronics are coming to the Ballarat Airport.

Ballarat Amateur Radio Group’s annual Hamvention, which operates much like a swap meet, is set for Sunday 4 February at the Ballarat Polocrosse Club Pavilion.

“This is an opportunity for amateur radio enthusiasts to gather in a social environment, meet up with friends and make new ones,” said Ballarat Amateur Radio Group president Ben Daniel.

“Most importantly, it is an opportunity for those interested in the hobby to both setup a table with the equipment that they no longer use and make it available for sale to others and for others to go on the bargain hunt.

“People come from all over Australia; Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and all parts of Victoria.”

The Hamvention is usually a yearly event, but it took a pandemic-forced break and returned for the first time in three years in 2023.

“It was the most successful one the Ballarat Amateur Radio Group has run,” Mr Daniel said.

With about 40 stalls held by enthusiasts who have new and second-hand equipment from varying eras, and demonstrations to be given, Mr Daniel said the 2024 Ballarat Hamvention should be the club’s biggest yet.

“It’s a great day to catch up with people,” he said. “I generally buy some bits and pieces.

“It promises to be a truly exciting time.”

The one hundredth anniversary of amateur radio in Ballarat was marked by Ballarat Amateur Radio Group in 2023.

The Hamvention will be held from 10am and entry is $7. The Ballarat Polocrosse Club Pavilion is at 207 Airport Road, Mitchell Park.

Head to barg.org.au for more information or to take part.