Tasmania's volunteer maritime radio network is a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of adventure. For 50 years, this dedicated group of radio enthusiasts has been providing vital communication services to the region's maritime community, and it's an incredible story that deserves to be told. But what makes this story truly fascinating is the journey from a small group of radio hobbyists to a sophisticated, nationwide network. It's a tale of innovation, resilience, and the human desire to connect and explore.
The Birth of a Network
In 1975, Barry McCann and Les Collis founded the Tasmanian Smallcraft Marine Radio Group, born out of a simple yet profound realization: maritime radio could save lives. McCann's personal experience of a broken-down engine without a radio on board sparked a mission to create a network that would ensure safety and connectivity for all. This was the beginning of a remarkable journey, and it all started with a single base station in Margate.
The first broadcast on July 10, 1976, marked a pivotal moment. Len Bonnitcha, the base operator, delivered the weather forecast for southeastern Tasmania, and the network grew from there. The average rate of one hundred new vessels per year for the next decade was a testament to the network's appeal and the passion of its founders. This was not just a radio network; it was a community, and it was growing.
A Network of Enthusiasts
What makes this story truly inspiring is the diverse range of individuals who have contributed to the network's success. From Barry McCann and Les Collis, who laid the foundation, to the 22 operators, volunteer technicians, computer programmers, and tower climbers who make it all work today, the network is a testament to the power of collaboration. It's a community of people with a shared passion for radio, maritime safety, and the great outdoors.
The network's growth has been a journey of constant innovation and adaptation. From its early days of 27 MHz to the shift to VHF in 1998, and the addition of long-range HF stations, the network has evolved to meet the needs of its users. The control of the old Hobart Radio HF station on Bruny Island and the move to the Domain in Hobart in 2004 were significant milestones, and the network's resilience was on full display when it adapted to the closure of Telstra Maritime's HF stations in 2002.
A Name Change and a New Era
The name change to Coast Radio Hobart in 2002 was a strategic move, and the addition of two new base stations on Tasmania's West Coast in 2014 further solidified the network's reach. The final name change to Tas Maritime Radio in 2014 was a recognition of the network's expanded service area and the diverse range of vessels it now supports. It's a name that accurately reflects the network's mission and its impact on the maritime community.
A Community of Support
The support of organizations like Marine and Safety Tasmania has been instrumental in the network's success. The CEO, Lia Morris, highlighted the network's role in preventing hundreds of incidents every year, emphasizing its importance in ensuring the safety of the region's maritime community. This is a network that not only connects people but also saves lives, and that's a powerful statement.
A Network for the Future
As the network looks to the future, the conversion of its links to IP technology is a significant development. This move towards modern communication methods ensures the network's longevity and adaptability. It's a testament to the network's commitment to innovation and its willingness to embrace change, even as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. This is a network that is not just about the past; it's about the future, too.
A Legacy of Connection
Tas Maritime Radio's 50th anniversary is a celebration of a remarkable journey. It's a story of a small group of radio enthusiasts who turned their passion into a nationwide network, providing vital services and connecting people in ways that matter. It's a testament to the power of community, the enduring spirit of adventure, and the human desire to explore and connect. As the network looks to the future, it does so with a rich history and a bright outlook, and that's a story worth sharing.
