After successfully activating Arambol Beach on the afternoon of June 22nd, 2024, I moved to Mandrem Beach in the evening at around 7:00 PM IST to continue the Beaches On The Air (BOTA) activation. I had booked a small cottage right on the beach to serve as a base for the activation and to provide shelter from the adverse weather conditions. Joining me for this activation were fellow hams VU2ZMK Mahendra and VU3IAG Vaishab, whose assistance was invaluable.
Using the same equipment setup from Arambol Beach, we began the activation at Mandrem Beach:
- Transceiver: Yaesu FTdx 10, known for its robustness and excellent performance in various field conditions.
- Antenna: The big ear upright V antenna and a vertical antenna, crucial for maintaining a stable connection despite the high noise floor and static interference.
- Power Supply: EcoFlow River Flow Pro 2 battery powerhouse with about 780 watt-hours to ensure uninterrupted operation.
- Accessories: Essential accessories like an SWR meter, high-quality coaxial cables, a headset for clear audio, and a portable table for setting up the equipment.
VU2ZMK Mahendra and VU3IAG Vaishab joined me in the evening, helping significantly with setting up the vertical antenna, which was challenging due to the gusty winds. Their support not only improved the setup but also boosted morale.
Night Operations and Contesting:
We operated throughout the night, taking advantage of the South American contest. With the vertical antenna, the noise levels significantly improved, allowing us to make several DX contacts. The improved reception and transmission quality made the night operation highly productive and enjoyable.
Early Morning Adjustments:
We took a brief rest from 4 AM IST to 6 AM IST. Upon resuming, we focused on setting up the 40-meter vertical antenna. I used a new antenna base that supports the same 5.6-meter whips with a loading coil and additional whips as radials. This setup was crucial for the morning operations on 40 meters.
Sunday Morning Operations:
Sunday morning brought high traffic on the bands, with the hambel Belgum Net and support from net controllers VU2KOC and VU2SMS, who announced our frequency to get us spotted. This coordination helped attract more contacts. Operating on 7.060 MHz, we managed to log 38 QSOs within an hour.
After achieving a total of 38 QSOs and enduring the demanding conditions, we decided to QRT, satisfied with the successful activation of Mandrem Beach. The teamwork, combined with effective equipment and strategic adjustments, made this activation a rewarding experience.
Photos of the activation and a link to the Beaches On The Air (BOTA) website will be added for those interested in learning more about this fantastic initiative. Despite the challenges faced, the activation was a success, and I look forward to more such adventures in the future.
Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this activation. Your involvement made it all worthwhile. Stay tuned for more updates and future activations.
73,
Sandesh Bhat (VU3FGJ)
Goa Radio Amateurs Society (GRAS)
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