Skip to main content

Welcome to the GM Flora and Fauna (GMFF) Blog



Greetings from Scotland!

I’m George Funkner, MMØDFV, and I’m delighted to welcome you to the official blog of the GM Flora and Fauna Club.

GMFF is a vibrant community of amateur radio operators who share a passion for portable operations and outdoor activations. The “GM” prefix in our name comes from our Scottish call signs — but our spirit reaches far beyond the Highlands. Whether it’s a windswept cliff on the coast, a remote island, or a tranquil nature reserve, we combine the challenge of field radio with the beauty of the outdoors.

We take part in a variety of award and activity programs, including:

  • POTA (Parks on the Air)

  • SOTA (Summits on the Air)

  • WWFF (World Wide Flora and Fauna)

  • IOTA (Islands on the Air)

  • ARLHS (Amateur Radio Lighthouse Society)

  • WAB (Worked All Britain)

  • BOTA (Beaches on the Air)

Operating under the special club callsigns GS4FFF and GS5FFF, our members can be found activating on HF and VHF bands in all weather conditions — often from some of the most stunning and remote locations Scotland has to offer.

Here on the blog, you’ll find:

  • Activation reports and stories from the field

  • Photos that capture the spirit of outdoor amateur radio

  • Information on upcoming events and planned activations

  • Useful tips for operating portable stations

  • Discussions that bring together both seasoned operators and newcomers

You don’t need to be a licensed ham to enjoy what we do — many of our visitors are nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts who become fascinated by amateur radio after seeing us in action.

Whether you’re here to follow our adventures, learn more about portable radio, or even take your first steps toward getting your amateur licence, you’re in the right place.

Welcome to GMFF — where radio meets the wild.

73 + 44!
George Funkner – MMØDFV
GM Flora and Fauna Club

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

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...
Post a Comment
Read more

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’...
Post a Comment
Read more

Peaton Hill Conservation Reserve – POTA Activation GB-4593

On 12 July 2025 , operators MMØDFV and GM4XYL activated Peaton Hill Conservation Reserve (GB-4593) as GM5FFF/m for Parks on the Air (POTA) . Using a straightforward mobile setup with an Icom IC-725 running 20 watts into a magmount whip antenna , the team operated on 10.136 MHz FT8 . Conditions favored steady contacts across Europe, with the longest QSO logged with R4IK in the Samara region of Russia at a distance of 1603.3 miles (2580.3 km) . About the Reserve Peaton Hill Conservation Reserve is a quiet and scenic area that combines natural beauty with accessible walking trails. From the reserve, visitors can enjoy expansive views of the loch and surrounding hills , making it a rewarding spot for both walkers and portable radio enthusiasts. The trails are well-marked, and the area is alive with the sounds of birdsong, adding to its peaceful charm. The Activation Operating from the car park, the mobile station GM5FFF/m proved effective for the activation. The Icom IC-725 ,...
Post a Comment
Read more