How to use radios in an emergency

DO you have an emergency plan, but have never considered having a communications plan in place in the event of a disaster?

Bendigo Amateur Radio and Electronics Club is hosting an information session about how to use radios in an emergency environment this Friday 19 April from 7.30 pm at the Bendigo East Hall.

A presentation will be given by Geoff Smart who was a VicRoads emergency management officer during the Black Saturday bushfires.

“We’re trying to provide more awareness to communities about alternative communications facilities because a lot of people rely solely on mobile phones and the internet,” said club committee member and former government communications planner, Graeme Knight.

“When that fails, what other technologies are there? There’s amateur radio and satellite phones.

“Most people living in the bush would have a fire plan, but a communications plan is important, and they probably don’t have one organised.

A former employee of the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Mr Knight said he’d like to see emergency service bodies highlighting the need for communications plans when they’re promoting disaster readiness.

“Things like mobile phones and chargers could be useless, but radio’s been around for a long time,” he said.

“We put a man on the moon in 1969, so in 2024 communities should be able to communicate.

“Our club’s always trying to help provide awareness.”

The Bendigo East Hall at 35 Lansell Street is the home of BAREC, which aims to boost amateur radio as a hobby in central Victoria, and offers training and assistance.

The club would appreciate a gold coin donation from attendees of the session, and a light supper will be provided. Contact 0417 389 357 for more information.