Biography

As many fellow radio amateurs, my interest in radio started way back in the mid 1970’s when Citizen Band radios were introduced in South Africa, unfortunately due to studies and work I could never pursue the hobby to the extent that I do today.

I am privileged to reside at the Mufulira Boating Club since March 2016 which is situated approximately 10 km North of Mufulira town centre. The town itself (Mufulira – Place of Abundance), 350 km North of the capital Lusaka, was or is a typical mining town which was established in the 1930’s during the discovery of the rich copper deposits in the area.

The Mufulira Boating Club is also an excellent location for a DX expedition with all the necessary conveniences.

I am limited to wire antennas as the club is a restricted wildlife area situated in a typical Miombo woodland. These consist of a ZS6BKW version of the G5RV, a 160m EFHW long wire and a 40m full-size Delta Loop all of which are approximately 13m to 15m in the trees. (These were installed using a Mavic Pro drone)

I use a Kenwood 590 and Icom 7100 from home and a Kenwood 480 with a Little Tarheel II, fitted with a 56” whip whilst mobile.

I return to South Africa on an irregular basis, and when in South Africa I reside in Melville, Johannesburg, operating with the South African callsign ZS6JBS.

I am an active member of the ARRL and SARL.

Worked DXCCs:

Equipment

Rigs: Kenwood 590S, 480SAT + TL922
Icom 7100
Yaesu 857D

Ant: 1/2 cut ZS6BKW
160m EFHW (230m long)
40m Delta Loop
60m OCF