YJ0VK DXpedition wrap-up

Chris, VK3QB, reports (edited):
The four members of the YJ0VK team (Chris VK3QB, Allan VK2CA, Luke VK3HJ and Brenton VK3CBV) returned from Vanuatu on September 2nd, after 6 days of operation.

A quick summary of operation follows:
* Almost 4,000 qsos
* 69 DXCC entities
* Approx 500 digital qsos (RTTY and PSK31)

Overall the team had a lot of fun and regard the expedition as a success. Conditions were a bit disappointing, especially into EU, with barely 300 QSOs to that part of the world. We listened, we called EU but conditions did not favor that path; we worked EU as much as possible when the conditions were there. Obviously, lots of NA and JA.

More detailed statistics can be found on our Web site (under the 'News' tab) at: http://yj0vk.vkham.com
We have also posted a few pictures under the 'Gallery' tab.

The QSL card is currently being designed, and we hope to start QSLing in the coming 4-5 weeks. Many thanks to all the patient operators who sat on the side as we worked the pileups, and also those who persevered with the poor conditions. And sorry to those who we know were chasing
us but we were unable to work – especially on 12 and 30 meters. We did try!

A more detailed report will be published in the coming weeks when we recover from the trip and get our equipment unpacked, cleaned and ready for the next trip.

On behalf of the team, I would like to offer a special thank-you to the following:
* ODXG as principle supporter
* Chris, VK5CP, for the loan of equipment
* Phil, VK3YB, for the loan of equipment
* Allan, VK2CA, and vkham.com for our internet presence.
* Individual amateurs who made donations
* Brian, VK3BSN, (NBS Masts and Antennas) who manufactured our vertical antennas

Thanks again to one and all, and I think we are already considering another trip next year.

Very 73 to all...es gud dx.
Pls drop me an E-mail vk3qb@wia.org.au if you have any questions about the trip.

On behalf of the YJ0VK Team,

de Chris, VK3QB

OPDX