QF3 MROCP

I agree with Leo that any change from the current system will be an improvement. If the attitude of EDUCATION is pushed by the respective authorities. If on the other hand it fails, and I suspect it will, then it will become a nightmare for the radio operators at the Marine Rescue Group radio rooms. It must be remembered that all recreational monitoring is conducted by volunteers who have no authority of the law to get skippers to use the channels for what there designated for. Hopefully there will be some form of FREE EDUCATION and that the new system does not fall deeper into the Commercial world of user payers.

Best to have an aerial directly connected to each radio unit - no breaks / connections in the cable between the aerial and the transceiver (radio). Less chance then of electrical interference and better transmission when you need it. Connections also become loose and corrode, especially around saltwater. Have a look around and you will see many rescue / commercial vessels with one aerial – one radio, be it a Marine VHF, MF/HF, AM/FM – CD radio player, GPS plotter.

The Radio Communications Act 1992 cover's you for using a marine radio in the case of an emergency: Section 49 Emergency operation etc. of radiocommunications devices (1) A person does not contravene section 46 or 47 by operating a radiocommunications device, or having a radiocommunications device in his or her possession, in the reasonable belief that the operation or possession was necessary for the purpose of: (a) securing the safety of a vessel, aircraft or space object that was in danger; or ( dealing with an emergency involving a serious threat to the environment; or © dealing with an emergency involving risk of death of, or injury to, persons; or (d) dealing with an emergency involving risk of substantial loss of, or substantial damage to, property. (2) In proceedings for an offence against section 46 or 47, the burden of proving any of the matters referred to in subsection (1) lies on the defendant. (3) Nothing in this section limits the scope of the expression “reasonable excuse” in section 46 or 47.

You will never be a waste of "their time" - your call keeps the land base radio operator in good training.. just remember that they may also be a new trainee, so they need your call to improve training and performance. Just speak slowly and clearly and learn the Phonetic Alphabet.. and always make sure you're a 100% sure in your mind the correct information has been recorded by the radio operator.. SOLAS

Here's a link to a web site designed for answering all the questions you presented Flathead.. http://www.vhfradiocourse.com/Be_Prepared.html#Log_ON_Log_OFF Also have a look at the Log in Log off video.. and just adapt it to your local area Yes, I am the guy who has volunteered and self funded the site to putting this all together.. please enjoy and learn..