VK3RPL: Two new repeaters 2m & 70cms at Portland

Here's a new challenge for the Aussie DXers amongst you!

Peter VK3CHA is the licensee of two new amateur radio repeaters down at Portland. They're both located at Alcoa, on one of the towers. The antennas are only about 5metres or so from the repeater rack.

The PA's are running at approx 50w at the minute, but they could be cranked up as they are rated at 150w FM.

The 70cm repeater is active but the 2 metre repeater is waiting for the filters to arrive which should be this week or so.

An EchoLink connection is currently being investigated for either the 2m or 70cm side. No CTCSS is required.

When reporting to Nik, VK3FNJP, 3CHA said the coverage is better than expected:
- mobile coverage up to Linton, Warrnambool, Mt Gambier,
- base coverage to Horsham & Ballarat.

Source: Wireless Institute of Australia