Safely home now after making little over 150 QSOs in the Commonwealth contest (the exact figure is now 169). Very poor showing on my and the propagation part. Last year I’ve made over 350 contacts. This year only half of that number. This time the band openings were shorter, but the signals when there was propagation were big. Typical HF situation during the decline of the solar activity. Let’s say it was “interesting” time. There was absolutely nothing on 10 m (checked several times).

During the night I had two 10 minutes spell to rest my eyes. My eyes felt very tired. Otherwise it was 24 hours without a sleep.

Thanks Clint and Russell for a visit on Sunday morning.

In the early afternoon I’ve packed the station and QSYed to Manly to finish it off. One thing must be said: the TH6 is incredible beam. It is very very sharp. When I was beaming short path to EU to work “G’s” I could not hear any VE. Just turning it 90° clockwise the Canadians appeared full strength, but could not hear any EU. Real magic. Worked two ATN (all time new country). It was great. The club position is very RF quiet. It is pity we are not very active from this QTH. It would be great for more contests and for chasing DX.

Most of the action happened on 40 m. I’d say that is the way it will be for the next number of years until the sun will be active again. The band also was showing what the upper bands were characterized with at the peak of the sun cycle. Opened suddenly and closed fast too. It had taken only 10 minutes for the DX station disappear on 40 m and the local (VK ZL) becoming huge signals. Behaviour typical for 10 or 15 meters couple of years ago.

It had been a good fun, but little too hard for the old bloke. As my father used to day: I wish I was twenty again and knew what I know now.

Thanks all

Patrick VK2PN