On the 13th of July 2024, the WACRS went ahead with a project to erect an “above-ground” tower, using six concrete blocks to keep the tower in place. The initial concept put forward by Glenn was for a portable tower whereby even the concrete guy anchors and the tower base could be transported to another site if need be. The tower currently stands approximately 10 metres high.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get any shots of the tower actually been raised which took about 10 seconds. It’s probably why I was retrenched by the ABC because I was like, “Oh wow! look at that!” and forgot to hit the record button at the crucial moment.

With the tower successfully in the air, getting on the air is a significant challenge as VK2RBT really is in limp mode. The project is very much underpowered but with a significant support structure now in place, attention now turns to beefing up all the components of the repeater.

Personnel

  • Site ID and concept: VK2ZPI.
  • Tower provision: VK2HDP.
  • Base fabrication, preparation,
    block transport and hardware: VK2DKP .
  • Block lift and positioning: Wally.
  • Installation lead: VK2FIND.
  • Tower lift and support: 666 Wayne.
  • Rigging support: VK2TMN and 94 Dave.
  • Repeater licensee: VK2HEY.