GM Flora and Fauna

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MM6ONL/p Activation of Noss National Nature Reserve (GMFF-054) in August 2012

In August 2012, another rare Shetland location made its debut on the bands when Noss National Nature Reserve (GMFF-054) was activated by Peter Destoop, operating as MM6ONL/p (home call ON2WAB). This isolated island, lying just off Bressay, is famous for its dramatic cliffs, seabird colonies, and wild natural beauty. For radio, it provided both challenges and unforgettable rewards. Getting to Noss Reaching Noss is not as straightforward as driving to a trailhead. The only way across is by small boat, and the weather dictates the schedule. On this occasion, it took three separate attempts in a Zodiac before a safe crossing could be made. When the team finally reached the island, they were warmly welcomed by Kat, an enthusiastic reserve warden. The Climb to Noss Head With clear skies, 20°C temperatures, and no wind, the decision was made to operate from the top of Noss Head , the island’s summit, which is also valid for SOTA. The climb took about an hour and a half, keeping c...

MM6ONL/p Activation of Keen of Hamar National Nature Reserve (GMFF-039) in August 2012

In August 2012, Keen of Hamar National Nature Reserve (GMFF-039) on the island of Unst in Shetland was heard on the air for the very first time. The activation was carried out by Peter Destoop, operating as MM6ONL/p (home call ON2WAB), and it proved to be a memorable combination of radio, travel, and exploration at one of the UK’s most northerly and unusual protected sites. Reaching the Northern Edge of Britain Unst is the northernmost of the Shetland Islands, and reaching Keen of Hamar requires determination. Three ferry crossings and a drive of around 30 miles brought Peter to the reserve, passing the well-known Unst bus stop along the way — a quirky landmark celebrated as the most northerly bus shelter in the UK. Just a short walk from there lies the rocky ground of Keen of Hamar, a stark but extraordinary nature reserve with a reputation for its rare flora. First Time on the Air This was the first GMFF activation of the reserve, and interest from operators across Europe was i...

Lighthouse On Air — International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW)

Each August, amateur radio operators bring some of the world’s most recognisable coastal landmarks to life on the air. The International Lighthouse Lightship Weekend (ILLW) is a relaxed, non-contest operating event focused on maritime heritage, public outreach, and radio friendship. It typically draws more than 500 lighthouse stations in over 40 countries and runs on the third full weekend of August. What ILLW Is (and Isn’t) ILLW began in the late 1990s, launched by members of the Ayr Amateur Radio Group in Scotland, and has grown into a global fixture on the amateur radio calendar. It is not a contest —there are no points, no multipliers, and no competitive scoring. Instead, the emphasis is on promoting the history and preservation of lighthouses and lightships, showcasing amateur radio to the public, and fostering goodwill between operators worldwide. A related cultural event, the Lighthouse Heritage Weekend , often coincides with ILLW, when many sites open their doors to v...

Field Review – Guohe TBR-119 HF/VHF/UHF All Mode SDR Tactical Transceiver

In the world of portable amateur radio activations , a transceiver that combines wide frequency coverage, robust build, and adaptability is a valuable asset. For GMFF operations, where stations may be deployed in rugged Scottish landscapes, remote nature reserves, or even historical sites, the Guohe TBR-119 stands out as a highly capable choice. All-Band, All-Mode Capability Covering 1.5 MHz to 520 MHz , the TBR-119 supports HF, VHF, and UHF operation with modes including SSB, CW, AM, FM, and DMR . This flexibility makes it ideal for activators who may need to move from HF long-distance work to local VHF/UHF contacts without changing radios. For GMFF, POTA, or SOTA operations, this wide range ensures you can take advantage of whatever propagation conditions the day provides. Tactical Build and Weather Resistance The IP67-rated protection and ruggedised design make the TBR-119 well suited for outdoor work in all weather conditions — an important consideration in Scotland’...

GM4FFF/m – POTA Activation from The Antonine Wall (GB-1531)

Date: 9 August 2025 Operators: MMØDFV and GM4XYL Station: GM4FFF/m Location: The Antonine Wall – Auchinstarry, Scotland POTA Reference: GB-1531 Mode: FT8 Band: 30 metres Rig: Icom IC-725 (circa early 1990s) Power: 20 watts Antenna: Whip magmount on vehicle roof A Day at Scotland’s Roman Frontier On this summer afternoon, the GM Flora and Fauna Club brought GM4FFF/m to life from a location steeped in history — The Antonine Wall , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Scotland’s most significant Roman monument. Our operating position was at Auchinstarry , beside the historic Forth & Clyde Canal , close to Croy Hill and Nethercroy . The Antonine Wall, built around 142 AD under Emperor Antoninus Pius, stretched 37 miles across central Scotland, marking the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire in Britain. From our location, the mix of Roman heritage, canal-side scenery, and rolling hills made for a spectacular backdrop to the day’s radio operation. ...

GM4FFF/m – POTA Activation from Dumbreck Marsh LNR (GB-3321)

Date: 9 August 2025 Operators: MMØDFV and GM4XYL Station: GM4FFF/m Location: Dumbreck Marsh Local Nature Reserve, Scotland POTA Reference: GB-3321 Mode: FT8 Band: 30 metres A Scenic Activation Site On 9 August 2025, the GM Flora and Fauna Club took to the airwaves from Dumbreck Marsh Local Nature Reserve for another Parks on the Air (POTA) activation. The location is a mix of wetlands, grassland, and scrubland, supporting a wide range of bird and plant life. With its open horizons and low ambient noise, the site is a natural choice for HF operations. Once a former industrial site, Dumbreck Marsh has been transformed into a valuable wildlife reserve. It’s now managed for conservation and public enjoyment, with paths, viewing areas, and enough open space for a comfortable mobile or portable radio setup. Station and Conditions Operating mobile as GM4FFF/m from grid square IO75XX , the setup was simple but effective: a vehicle-mounted antenna and FT8 on 3...