Amateur Radio Field Day

USPA NEWS - Every year on the last Saturday in June, Amateur Radio Operators unite at their local club station or remote Field Day site to showcase the transformative power of the Amateur Radio Service, inviting the public to experience the cutting-edge technology and boundless possibilities it offers.
I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Craig Mackinnon (VE1JMA/VA1CM), the 2026 Field Day co-chair for Halifax/Dartmouth, Nova Scotia area, and gained valuable insights into his interesting journey as an amateur radio operator and his passion for this rewarding hobby.

Craig commenced by telling me; "I'm a Member at Large at the Dartmouth Amateur Radio Club and co-chairing this year's Field Day. It's a joint venture between the Dartmouth and Halifax clubs."

Field Day is an exciting opportunity for amateur radio operators to come together and showcase their skills in a simulated emergency situation, setting up and operating a station in the field for 24 hours using a range of frequencies and modes. It's a chance to demonstrate the value of amateur radio to EMO and the general public, while also fostering a sense of community and friendly competition.

By leveraging our diverse range of frequencies and modes, from HF to microwave, we're not only pushing the boundaries of amateur radio, but also an opportunity to showcase the hobby's potential and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts.

Craig(VE1JMA), highlighted the value of amateur radio clubs in fostering connections with fellow enthusiasts in the local community. Having participated in Field Day events across Ontario and in Orlando Florida, he observed that each club brings its unique spirit and traditions to the celebration, inspiring him to incorporate these diverse perspectives into his hobby.

Craig concluded by saying; "I've always been in love with radio. I think what drives me is the science of radio; propagation, antenna design... I love just seeing what's out there. Having my signal travel to a little village on the other side of the world"