MeshCore Networks Continue to Expand Across Australia and Around the World

One of the most exciting developments in amateur radio and community communications is the rapid growth of MeshCore networks. Built using the low-power LoRa radio protocol on the licence-exempt 433 MHz and 900 MHz ISM bands, these innovative networks are demonstrating just how much can be achieved with a handful of inexpensive devices, some clever software and a community of enthusiastic volunteers.

Unlike many modern communications systems, MeshCore networks do not rely on the Internet to move messages. Instead, each node automatically communicates with neighbouring nodes, intelligently routing messages and data across the network until they reach their destination. As more nodes are added, the network becomes stronger, more resilient and capable of covering increasingly large areas with surprisingly little infrastructure.

Much of the growing MeshCore infrastructure has been installed by volunteers using solar-powered nodes located on hilltops, towers and other elevated sites. Because these repeaters are independent of both the commercial power grid and the Internet, they can continue operating during power outages or communications failures. This resilience is attracting increasing interest from amateur radio operators and community groups exploring MeshCore as a valuable "when all else fails" communications network.

Australia is seeing rapid growth, with networks now appearing in many states and territories. Volunteers continue to extend coverage by adding new nodes and linking communities together, while internationally the MeshCore ecosystem continues to expand as more enthusiasts discover its simplicity, flexibility and impressive performance.

Whether your interest is experimentation, emergency communications, low-power digital networking or simply learning something new, MeshCore offers an exciting opportunity to become involved in one of amateur radio's fastest-growing technologies.

To explore the expanding East Australian network and view live coverage (see the picture accompanying this story), visit EastMesh at Link.

To learn more about the MeshCore project, compatible hardware, software and documentation, visit Link.

With only a few hundred milliwatts of RF power, a simple LoRa radio and a growing community of volunteers, MeshCore is proving that resilient communications don't always require expensive infrastructure. Sometimes, the best networks are the ones built by communities, for communities.

A great example of volunteers creating a indpendent network for the community that might just survive the zombie apocalypse!

Page Last Updated: Thursday, 02 Jul 2026 at 09:23 hours by Justin Giles-clark

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