Quick answers to the questions we get asked most. If you can’t find what you’re after here, get in touch via the Contact page and we’ll sort it out.
Getting Started
Do I need a licence to join the club?
No — anyone with an interest in radio and technology is welcome to come along as a visitor. To operate on-air yourself you’ll need an amateur licence, and the club can help you get there. See the Foundation License Course page for how we support new operators through their first licence.
How do I join TARC?
Head to the Membership / Join page and fill out the form. A committee member will follow up with the next steps and payment details.
What does membership cost?
Current fees are listed on the Membership / Join page. Fees go toward club running costs, the repeater network and equipment for the comms support program.
Can I come to a meeting before I join?
Absolutely — visitors are always welcome. Check the About page for meeting times and our address, and just come along.
Meetings & Getting Involved
When and where does the club meet?
Meeting details, including the address and regular schedule, are on the About page.
What actually happens at a meeting?
A mix of club business, technical talks, project show-and-tell, and planning for upcoming events and comms support activations — plus a fair bit of on-air chat.
I’m not licensed yet — can I still get involved?
Yes. Plenty of club activity (working bees, event support, camping trips, general company) doesn’t require a licence, and being around experienced operators is one of the best ways to learn before you sit your Foundation exam.
On-Air & Technical
What repeaters does the club run?
Full frequencies and details are on the Repeaters page under Resources.
Are there regular nets?
Yes — see the Events & Nets page for the current schedule.
Communications Support
What is the club’s communications support program?
TARC provides volunteer radio communications for community events across North Queensland — off-road racing, endurance events and heritage activations among them. See the Communications Support page for more.
How do I volunteer to help at an event?
Come to a meeting or get in touch via the Contact page — upcoming comms support activations are also flagged in Club News.
Members & the Site
I’m a member but don’t have a login — what do I do?
Get in touch via the Contact page and we’ll set you up with an account.
Where can I read old newsletters and Back-scatter issues?
Current issues are linked under News → Back-scatter and News → Weekly Newsletter. Older archives are being added over time.