For those of us who carry vhf radios, how many of you are licensed and if so, was it worth it?

Haven't done mine yet but looking into doing the 'all hands on deck' online course for the SROCP between now and Christmas. Hoping to 'go legit' in time for kingy trips in Jan.
This is the one I'm looking at:
http://www.marineradiolicence.com.au/

Apparently a quicker and cheaper alternative for VHF operators, the Australian Waters Qualification (AWQ), was recently introduced which may be of interest?
Details on the ACMA site.
Cheers.

I'm not licensed and haven't transmitted, have got it on scan on 16/72 though and have read a fair bit of the course guide.

I know May day, pan pan and securite... the rest if any I'm not across.

I wanted to know the basics so if I needed help I could ask for it.

The AWQ looks like it might be a good way to go. Sounds like it's going to be a short half day course similar to a Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate. Doesn't look like anyone is running the course yet but I'm going to keep an eye out.

AP-M wrote:The AWQ looks like it might be a good way to go. Sounds like it's going to be a short half day course similar to a Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate. Doesn't look like anyone is running the course yet but I'm going to keep an eye out.

Followed it up and this website has a free download to the test materials:
http://www.anzsbeg.com.au/index.php/saf ... g-package/

Hi Guys,

I did my course with the Hastings Coast guard at Yaringa marina.
If you would like I will post up the details when the next one pops up.
It was 2 short sessions going over the finer points and then you send away for your license.
I would advise to do it sooner rather than later as he told us they may be changing the licence soon to one you have to renew but those who have the Marine Radio Operator licence do not have to renew.
Pay once and its valid for life.

The other handy thing and one of my main reasons for me getting the licence was so that I could apply for my MMSI (Free).
The MMSI is a unique number like a telephone number and allows you to send digital calls over VHF radio.
When you apply you put in emergency contacts numbers, vessel details and photos etc. which are all attached to your MMSI
Probably more valid for boats, I have my VHF linked to my GPS/sounder so if in distress I hit one button and it sends out an emergency call to all people who have a DSC VHF with the nature of distress and exact location.
The coastguard will then have a photo of my boat, its location, what type of distress I have with a simple one button push (2 for type of distress)
I hope I never have to use this but it is nice to have.

You can also do neat stuff like call your friend who has an MMSI and automatically get their location and switch them to your chosen frequency.
Again not that useful on a Yak but it definitely is on a boat.

Personally I got a lot more out of the course than I thought I would and recommend you take it.
It is illegal to use the VHF without a licence and improper use can have serious consequences if there is an emergency situation.
Its also nice to know there are others out there who know how to use the radio and if any of us are in trouble we can assist.

My 2 cents.

Will.

Thanks widsa
I reckon I'll do mine sooner than later
I intend getting a boat eventually anyway
While it is illegal to use a vhf unlicensed, you are allowed to use it in an emergency.
To me though, its worth getting, and I intend to do so.

Widsa wrote: I did my course with the Hastings Coast guard at Yaringa marina.
If you would like I will post up the details when the next one pops up.
Will.

I also would be keen to get up to speed

Same. Would be worthwhile.