On Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 9 AM to 12:30 PM ET, members of the West Essex Amateur Radio Club (WEARC), Roseland Amateur Radio Club, NPARC, Tri-County Radio Association, and other local amateur radio operators gathered at Bramhall Terrace in South Mountain Reservation, Maplewood, New Jersey, for another morning of portable radio operating and technical experimentation.
The August meetup drew an excellent turnout, with approximately 15 licensed amateur radio operators participating. A significant amount of equipment was brought to the site, including at least five HF radios and several antenna systems. The variety of stations and antennas gave operators multiple options for getting on the air and comparing different portable operating setups.
HF band conditions were good, allowing the group to make many contacts throughout the morning. Activity included three operating modes: voice, CW, and digital communications using FT8 and FT4. The range of equipment and operating modes provided opportunities for experienced operators to experiment while also giving newer amateurs a close look at several aspects of field operation.
VHF activity produced one of the morning’s most notable contacts. Using FM simplex, 50 watts, and a vertically polarized Yagi antenna, the group completed a contact approximately 80 miles east-northeast into Connecticut. The extended range may have been aided by light tropospheric ducting during the early morning, resulting in better-than-usual VHF propagation.
The equipment and hands-on opportunities were enjoyed by experienced operators and newcomers alike. Those newer to amateur radio found particular value in seeing the stations and antennas operating in the field, while having the opportunity to ask technical and operational questions directly of more experienced participants.
Weather conditions were excellent, with clear skies and warm temperatures throughout the event. Generous participants also provided plenty of bottled water and snacks for the group.
Overall, the August gathering was another successful morning of operating, experimentation, and time spent with fellow amateur radio operators. With strong attendance, favorable band conditions, and a wide selection of equipment available, the event offered something of interest for operators at every experience level.
The group is already looking forward to another weekend portable operating meetup, possibly in early September. Maurice, KB2SUL, took many photographs throughout the morning, which appear below for everyone to enjoy.
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