New Site, New Challenges
This year’s Field Day had a new wrinkle added to it for FARA. We were unable to secure our usual location for the 24 hours needed. Thankfully, member Ken, KJ4UYE, stepped up and offered is property as our 2025 location.
Our Field Day Coordinator Justin, NB3A, visited the property and said it would work out well. The really nice thing about it was there were a lot more trees to work with to hang temporary antennas.
Another benefit of this site was the fact we could do some preparation on Friday the night before, which would take the pressure off setup on Saturday. It was misty Friday evening, but we were able to get a couple of antennas up, the generator and shelters in place.
The weather was cooler than last year, but we did have a chance of rain throughout the event.
We had a great turnout this year, with many members stopping by, as well a visit by our VA Section Manager and Assistant Section Manager.
Stations were pretty much on the air the entire 24 hours except for a few hours in the very early AM.
Our GOTA station again this year was provided by the 4 H Ham Radio Club of Fauquier County bringing some STEM projects and welcoming those interested in what amateur radio is all about and getting an opportunity to get their voices in the airwaves.
Everyone looks forward to dinner on Saturday, especially when our President, Allen, KO4NMC, prepares his famous brisket and he didn’t disappoint this year. It was potluck so we had some of Ross’, N4RP, great chili and wonderful sides provided by the other club members.
As the end of the contest came to a close, members kept getting the last calls available.
A special thank you to Ken, KJ4UYE and Averill for the use of their property this year.
A big shout out to our field day coordinator Justin, NB3A, who had to adapt his plans to a new site as well as all of our Field Day 2025 station captains!
FARA's 2025 Field Day Site
Club participation was great again this year, we had a good time and great stories were shared and learned.
