WIA Winter VHF-UHF Field Day Returns 20-21 June 2026

The Wireless Institute of Australia Winter VHF-UHF Field Day returns on the weekend of 20-21 June 2026, providing amateur radio operators across Australia with an opportunity to get portable, head for the hills and see just how far they can communicate on the VHF, UHF and microwave bands. Operating from 0100 UTC Saturday through to 0059 UTC Sunday, the event encourages participants to leave the comfort of the home shack and explore the challenges and rewards of portable operation.

Unlike many HF contests, the Winter Field Day places a strong emphasis on distance-based scoring, making location, antenna performance and operating skill key ingredients for success. Operators exchange Maidenhead grid locators, with contacts made entirely by simplex operation as repeaters and satellites are not permitted. Whether operating as a single operator, a multi-operator club station, or from a home station, participants have the option of entering the full 24-hour event or one of the shorter 8-hour categories. Activity is expected across FM, SSB, CW and digital modes, with many stations taking advantage of elevated portable sites to maximise coverage.

The Winter VHF-UHF Field Day has become a highlight of the Australian contest calendar since its introduction in 2008, promoting greater activity on the bands above 50 MHz while encouraging experimentation, portable operation and the activation of new grid squares. Whether you're a seasoned contester chasing long-distance contacts on 23 cm and above, or simply looking to make a few local contacts on 2 metres and 70 centimetres, the WIA encourages all amateurs to get on the air and join in the fun. After all, in this contest, distance really does matter.

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Roger Harrison VK2ZRH
Contest Manager

Page Last Updated: Monday, 15 Jun 2026 at 07:25 hours by Justin Giles-clark

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