Communications

During the season we used a Codan SSB set for communications with Scott Base and two Tait VHF radios for communications within the valley when working away from camp. In general communications were good, particularly with Scott Base and at no time were communications missed because of "technology" failure.

The Taits were of limited use because of the "shape" of the Miers. In many situations "Line of sight" communications were not possible and since no repeater was available this restricted the use of the Taits. It was possible to listen to Scott Base, and even transmit from certain sites, but this was not generally practical.

It is suggested that if parties are to be working in the Miers, Dromedary areas again a repeater should be set up on either Black Island or Brown Peninsula. From either of these sites good communications using VHF could be provided throughout the Miers Valley, from the Miers to Scott Base, and to a field camp in the Garwood. Such a repeater location would greatly extend the practical range of the VHF sets, improve safety when working in the field, and provide complementary coverage to the Mt Newall site.

The Coms operators this season provided an excellent service and an efficient link to Scott Base.