<![CDATA[GBARC Forum - ACS Auxiliary Communication]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/ Wed, 07 Oct 2026 13:19:50 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[ACS ONLINE UPDATE 22 APRIL]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1669 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 19:05:13 -0400 Dave_VE3WI]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1669 73
Dave, VE3WI
----------------------------------
AUXILIARY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES UPDATE APRIL 22 2026 19:00-20:00 hrs

Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT RAC Community Services Officer

Join us to hear about the progress of ACS in the past year, process for deployment, role of the deployed, practical information, radio GO kit demonstration, and future ACS training sessions.

Register with your Canadian Call Sign and email address before April 21st at reupva3rie@gmail.com

Rosemarie Upfield  VA3RIE
Communications, Education/Training Coordinator
ACS - Golden Horseshoe (GH) Section]]> 73
Dave, VE3WI
----------------------------------
AUXILIARY COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES UPDATE APRIL 22 2026 19:00-20:00 hrs

Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT RAC Community Services Officer

Join us to hear about the progress of ACS in the past year, process for deployment, role of the deployed, practical information, radio GO kit demonstration, and future ACS training sessions.

Register with your Canadian Call Sign and email address before April 21st at reupva3rie@gmail.com

Rosemarie Upfield  VA3RIE
Communications, Education/Training Coordinator
ACS - Golden Horseshoe (GH) Section]]> <![CDATA[Fequencies in and around GREY & BRUCE County]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1661 Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:48:07 -0400 VA3-GUF-Frank]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1661
The following list of frequencies are most probably used by ACS/ARES in the event of a declared emergency within Grey or Bruce County.  This is a living list meaning that it is updated from time to time as new information becomes available or situations change.  It is a good idea to keep a soft or hard copy of this list as a future reference in the event of a declared emergency where the internet might no longer be available.  A downloadable PDF file of this list is attached to this forums post.

2 Meter VHF
  • 145.290 MHz (-)    VA3CAX        Berkeley             156.7 Hz    NAC 293 for P-25
  • 145.370 MHz (-)    VA3ROG       Blue Mountain     156.7 Hz
  • 146.610 MHz (-)    VE3TIV         Kincardin            No Tone
  • 146.715 MHz (-)    VE3CAX        Lions Head          156.7Hz
  • 146.730 MHz (-) VE3GBT      GBARC Paisley   94.7 Hz    Linked with GBARC VE3OSR
  • 146.790 MHz (-)    VE3BMR       Collingwood         NAC 293    P-25
  • 146.820 MHz (-)    VE3PER        Port Elgin            97.4Hz
  • 146.895 MHz (-) VE3OST      GBARC Mobile    No Tone   Event/Emergency deployment
  • 146.940 MHz (-) VE3OSR      Owen Sound      94.7 Hz    Linked with GBARC VE3GBT
  • 146.520 MHz simplex calling frequency
  • 146.460 MHz Grey County ARES exercise frequency
  • 146.535 MHz alternate simplex frequency, also Markdale area simplex
  • 146.550 MHz alternate simplex frequency, also Collingwood simplex
  • 146.580 MHz alternate simplex frequency

HF Frequencies for ACS/ARES during a wide area emergency
  •   3.733 MHz Spare Net Frequency
  •   3.742 MHz NTS: ARES (2015 ET Wed. Except summer), Ontario Phone Net (1900 ET daily)
  •   3.755 MHz ONTARS Net (0700-1800 ET daily)
  •   3.783 MHz GBARC Net Wednesdays after 2M Net, approx 2000Hrs or later
  •   3.932 Mhz Great Lakes Emergency and Traffic Net GLETN (2030 ET daily)
  •   7.100 MHz Trans Provincial Net (0700-1700 ET daily)
  •   7.135 MHz CANAM Net (10:00 ET)
  •   7.153 MHz NTS: ARES (1400 ET Sun. Except summer), Comsont Net (1000 ET daily)
  •   7.250 MHz Nickle Belt Net (1500-1700Hrs) Mon-Fri
  •   7.255 MHz East Coast Amateur Radio Service
  • 14.115 MHz ARES Operational Frequency
  • 14.125 MHz Canadian Red Cross Net (1900Z=1400 EST=1500 EDT Sunday)
  • 14.140 MHz General calling frequency
  • 14.265 MHz Salvation Army SATERN Net (1000 ET Mon-Fri)
  • 14.303 MHz International Assistance Traffic Net (0630 EST winter, 0700 EDT summer, daily)
  • 14.325 MHz Salvation Army SATERN emergency Net

RAC Canada Wide Emergency Frequencies
                         Single Sideband                            CW                                 Digital
Band          Frequency          Tactical         Frequency    Tactical       Frequency     Tactical
80 M            3.675 MHz LSB     Alfa                3.535 MHz     Golf              3.596 MHz      Mike
40 M            7.135 MHz LSB     Bravo              7.035 MHz     Hotel            7.096 MHz      November
20 M          14.135 MHz USB     Charlie          14.035 MHz     India          14.096 MHz      Oscar
17 M          18.135 MHz USB     Delta            18.075 MHz     Juliet          18.096 MHz      Papa
15 M          21.235 MHz USB     Echo             21.035 MHz     Kilo            21.096 MHz      Quebec
10 M          28.235 MHz USB     Foxtrot          28.035 MHz     Lima          28.096 MHz      Romeo

See the attached file for the downloadable PDF version of the above frequency list.  Should there be any errors on this list, by all means do let me know so that I can update it with the latest current info.
.pdf - ACS-ARES Frequency List.pdf Size: 71.6 KB  Downloads: 4
]]>
The following list of frequencies are most probably used by ACS/ARES in the event of a declared emergency within Grey or Bruce County.  This is a living list meaning that it is updated from time to time as new information becomes available or situations change.  It is a good idea to keep a soft or hard copy of this list as a future reference in the event of a declared emergency where the internet might no longer be available.  A downloadable PDF file of this list is attached to this forums post.

2 Meter VHF
  • 145.290 MHz (-)    VA3CAX        Berkeley             156.7 Hz    NAC 293 for P-25
  • 145.370 MHz (-)    VA3ROG       Blue Mountain     156.7 Hz
  • 146.610 MHz (-)    VE3TIV         Kincardin            No Tone
  • 146.715 MHz (-)    VE3CAX        Lions Head          156.7Hz
  • 146.730 MHz (-) VE3GBT      GBARC Paisley   94.7 Hz    Linked with GBARC VE3OSR
  • 146.790 MHz (-)    VE3BMR       Collingwood         NAC 293    P-25
  • 146.820 MHz (-)    VE3PER        Port Elgin            97.4Hz
  • 146.895 MHz (-) VE3OST      GBARC Mobile    No Tone   Event/Emergency deployment
  • 146.940 MHz (-) VE3OSR      Owen Sound      94.7 Hz    Linked with GBARC VE3GBT
  • 146.520 MHz simplex calling frequency
  • 146.460 MHz Grey County ARES exercise frequency
  • 146.535 MHz alternate simplex frequency, also Markdale area simplex
  • 146.550 MHz alternate simplex frequency, also Collingwood simplex
  • 146.580 MHz alternate simplex frequency

HF Frequencies for ACS/ARES during a wide area emergency
  •   3.733 MHz Spare Net Frequency
  •   3.742 MHz NTS: ARES (2015 ET Wed. Except summer), Ontario Phone Net (1900 ET daily)
  •   3.755 MHz ONTARS Net (0700-1800 ET daily)
  •   3.783 MHz GBARC Net Wednesdays after 2M Net, approx 2000Hrs or later
  •   3.932 Mhz Great Lakes Emergency and Traffic Net GLETN (2030 ET daily)
  •   7.100 MHz Trans Provincial Net (0700-1700 ET daily)
  •   7.135 MHz CANAM Net (10:00 ET)
  •   7.153 MHz NTS: ARES (1400 ET Sun. Except summer), Comsont Net (1000 ET daily)
  •   7.250 MHz Nickle Belt Net (1500-1700Hrs) Mon-Fri
  •   7.255 MHz East Coast Amateur Radio Service
  • 14.115 MHz ARES Operational Frequency
  • 14.125 MHz Canadian Red Cross Net (1900Z=1400 EST=1500 EDT Sunday)
  • 14.140 MHz General calling frequency
  • 14.265 MHz Salvation Army SATERN Net (1000 ET Mon-Fri)
  • 14.303 MHz International Assistance Traffic Net (0630 EST winter, 0700 EDT summer, daily)
  • 14.325 MHz Salvation Army SATERN emergency Net

RAC Canada Wide Emergency Frequencies
                         Single Sideband                            CW                                 Digital
Band          Frequency          Tactical         Frequency    Tactical       Frequency     Tactical
80 M            3.675 MHz LSB     Alfa                3.535 MHz     Golf              3.596 MHz      Mike
40 M            7.135 MHz LSB     Bravo              7.035 MHz     Hotel            7.096 MHz      November
20 M          14.135 MHz USB     Charlie          14.035 MHz     India          14.096 MHz      Oscar
17 M          18.135 MHz USB     Delta            18.075 MHz     Juliet          18.096 MHz      Papa
15 M          21.235 MHz USB     Echo             21.035 MHz     Kilo            21.096 MHz      Quebec
10 M          28.235 MHz USB     Foxtrot          28.035 MHz     Lima          28.096 MHz      Romeo

See the attached file for the downloadable PDF version of the above frequency list.  Should there be any errors on this list, by all means do let me know so that I can update it with the latest current info.
.pdf - ACS-ARES Frequency List.pdf Size: 71.6 KB  Downloads: 4
]]> <![CDATA[ARES and GBARC Explained]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1641 Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:43:40 -0400 Tom VA3TS]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1641
This is a brief history of ARES and its relationship with the Georgian Bay Amateur Radio Club.

ARES has been a long-time entity in the counties of Grey and Bruce. This goes back before the 1990's and was separate from the GBARC and has remained that way for a couple of decades.

At the beginning, the ARES group was part of GBARC and was made up of some dedicated leaders like Bob VE3LKD and Jon VA3CIC and others.

This arrangement was fraught with issues and there were many who refused to participate in ARES as they felt, ARES should be FREE to join and they felt they could not justify dues to GBARC for the ability to join in with others interested in ARES.

As a result, participants dwindled and it was obvious that something had to change. At the time it was felt that the best way to solve this issue was to remove the ARES group from anything related to the club and therefore anyone who wished to, could join the ARES group and participate as they saw fit.

This of course, did not prevent GBARC members from participating and so everyone co-existed quite well for many years.
So, after many years (mid 2010's), the then group leaders, expressed their will to move on to other things in their lives and this resulted in the ARES group not having leaders and the group fell into a state of non-activity.

At the time they used yahoo groups to maintain a mailing list and provide a means to send notifications to the whole group who has volunteered to help.
Around the same time as the ARES group becoming non-functional, yahoo groups decided to cease their operations as well.

So, what was left was the GBARC webmaster (me), who felt that we should include ARES on our website so that ARES would not disappear altogether.
However, the issue of GBARC membership still remains, there are those that will not participate so long as GBARC asks for dues or any type of membership fee.

If the current leaders of ARES/ACS/Auxcomm wish to see their group grow, they should embrace the separation from GBARC as well. These days we have groups.io which performs the same function as yahoo groups did and can also be a free of cost option.         

 GBARC is a hobby club, not a service group.

Our membership is here to enjoy our hobby, operate for fun, get on the air and get together for social/operating events. If at the same time, members wish to participate in ARES, they obviously can, and are encouraged to do so. But...the ARES group cannot make arrangements with counties or other external groups without first satisfying the requirements of our by-laws, specifically By-Law 4 Resolutions. see below

BY-LAW 4 RESOLUTIONS

A.        Statements of policy of the club to the public, governing departments, and
           officials of such governing departments, and affiliated bodies, and officials of
           such affiliated bodies, or to the media, shall be by resolution, duly motioned and
           seconded, and voted on by a Quorum of full members as set out in the
           Constitution.
B.      No member, either FULL or ASSOCIATE shall make any statement of policy, as
          set out in BY-LAW 4 (A) without direction and permission of the club as set out in
          that BY-LAW.]]>
This is a brief history of ARES and its relationship with the Georgian Bay Amateur Radio Club.

ARES has been a long-time entity in the counties of Grey and Bruce. This goes back before the 1990's and was separate from the GBARC and has remained that way for a couple of decades.

At the beginning, the ARES group was part of GBARC and was made up of some dedicated leaders like Bob VE3LKD and Jon VA3CIC and others.

This arrangement was fraught with issues and there were many who refused to participate in ARES as they felt, ARES should be FREE to join and they felt they could not justify dues to GBARC for the ability to join in with others interested in ARES.

As a result, participants dwindled and it was obvious that something had to change. At the time it was felt that the best way to solve this issue was to remove the ARES group from anything related to the club and therefore anyone who wished to, could join the ARES group and participate as they saw fit.

This of course, did not prevent GBARC members from participating and so everyone co-existed quite well for many years.
So, after many years (mid 2010's), the then group leaders, expressed their will to move on to other things in their lives and this resulted in the ARES group not having leaders and the group fell into a state of non-activity.

At the time they used yahoo groups to maintain a mailing list and provide a means to send notifications to the whole group who has volunteered to help.
Around the same time as the ARES group becoming non-functional, yahoo groups decided to cease their operations as well.

So, what was left was the GBARC webmaster (me), who felt that we should include ARES on our website so that ARES would not disappear altogether.
However, the issue of GBARC membership still remains, there are those that will not participate so long as GBARC asks for dues or any type of membership fee.

If the current leaders of ARES/ACS/Auxcomm wish to see their group grow, they should embrace the separation from GBARC as well. These days we have groups.io which performs the same function as yahoo groups did and can also be a free of cost option.         

 GBARC is a hobby club, not a service group.

Our membership is here to enjoy our hobby, operate for fun, get on the air and get together for social/operating events. If at the same time, members wish to participate in ARES, they obviously can, and are encouraged to do so. But...the ARES group cannot make arrangements with counties or other external groups without first satisfying the requirements of our by-laws, specifically By-Law 4 Resolutions. see below

BY-LAW 4 RESOLUTIONS

A.        Statements of policy of the club to the public, governing departments, and
           officials of such governing departments, and affiliated bodies, and officials of
           such affiliated bodies, or to the media, shall be by resolution, duly motioned and
           seconded, and voted on by a Quorum of full members as set out in the
           Constitution.
B.      No member, either FULL or ASSOCIATE shall make any statement of policy, as
          set out in BY-LAW 4 (A) without direction and permission of the club as set out in
          that BY-LAW.]]> <![CDATA[Grey County Emergency VHF Radio NET test]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1605 Sun, 18 Jan 2026 21:44:12 -0500 VA3-GUF-Frank]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1605
On Wednesday January 21st between the hours of 10:00am & 11:30am, Grey County emergency amateur radio staff will be activating their VHF amateur radio, call sign VA3 GCO, contacting anyone on the Owen Sound Repeater network.  Some of the Grey County amateur radio staff will also be on air with handhelds using their own call signs.  I will also be on site with my handheld.  Should you have your radios on and are in reach of the mike, feel free to check-in on net.  They will be recording all contacts made during their radio activation exercise.

Looking forward to hearing you on air.]]>
On Wednesday January 21st between the hours of 10:00am & 11:30am, Grey County emergency amateur radio staff will be activating their VHF amateur radio, call sign VA3 GCO, contacting anyone on the Owen Sound Repeater network.  Some of the Grey County amateur radio staff will also be on air with handhelds using their own call signs.  I will also be on site with my handheld.  Should you have your radios on and are in reach of the mike, feel free to check-in on net.  They will be recording all contacts made during their radio activation exercise.

Looking forward to hearing you on air.]]> <![CDATA[ACS GH WINTER 2026 Presentation Line-up]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1597 Sun, 04 Jan 2026 07:59:36 -0500 VA3-GUF-Frank]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1597 Message below from the ACS Golden Horseshoe group.

*********************************************************************************************
Happy New Year Everyone!  Wishing you all a good year of peace.

Posted below is this Winters Presentation Line Up for Auxiliary Communications Services Golden Horseshoe.  If you have not already registered, confirm your registration for each session by sending me an email including your call sign.

ACS-GH WINTER 2026 Presentation Line Up
Confirm your registration before the deadlines provided, by sending an individual email including your Canadian Call Sign to:  reupva3rie@gmail.com
 
Portable Operations Hints and Kinks JANUARY 28 2026
Presented By John Leonardelli VE3IPS
Antennas, Propagation, Equipment, Power, Apps and more, for the basic or advanced HAM, there will be something of interest for everyone.  Register before January 26 at reupva3rie@gmail.com
 
PASSING VOICE TRAFFIC FEBRUARY 11 2026
Presented By Rosemarie Upfield VA3RIE
What is the Principle, Purpose, Process, Function and Formats of Voice and Data Messaging in an Emergency Situation.  Register before February 9th at reupva3rie@gmail.com
 
BANDING TOGETHER WITH HAMCLOCK MARCH 11 2026
Presented By Rob Schuetze VE3XBI, YRARC Director of Emergency Communications
HamClock is an essential daily tool for every amateur radio operator.  It delivers real-time propagation reports, solar weather data, world clocks, and satellite tracking—all at a glance.  With critical information instantly available, HamClock helps you make smarter communication decisions and improve on-air effectiveness every single day, and let’s be honest… it looks cool too!  Register before March 9th at reupva3rie@gmail.com

Thanks very much,
Rosemarie Upfield  VA3RIE
Communications, Education/Training Coordinator
Auxiliary Communication Service (ACS)
Golden Horseshoe (GH) Section
reupva3rie@gmail.com
*********************************************************************************************]]> Message below from the ACS Golden Horseshoe group.

*********************************************************************************************
Happy New Year Everyone!  Wishing you all a good year of peace.

Posted below is this Winters Presentation Line Up for Auxiliary Communications Services Golden Horseshoe.  If you have not already registered, confirm your registration for each session by sending me an email including your call sign.

ACS-GH WINTER 2026 Presentation Line Up
Confirm your registration before the deadlines provided, by sending an individual email including your Canadian Call Sign to:  reupva3rie@gmail.com
 
Portable Operations Hints and Kinks JANUARY 28 2026
Presented By John Leonardelli VE3IPS
Antennas, Propagation, Equipment, Power, Apps and more, for the basic or advanced HAM, there will be something of interest for everyone.  Register before January 26 at reupva3rie@gmail.com
 
PASSING VOICE TRAFFIC FEBRUARY 11 2026
Presented By Rosemarie Upfield VA3RIE
What is the Principle, Purpose, Process, Function and Formats of Voice and Data Messaging in an Emergency Situation.  Register before February 9th at reupva3rie@gmail.com
 
BANDING TOGETHER WITH HAMCLOCK MARCH 11 2026
Presented By Rob Schuetze VE3XBI, YRARC Director of Emergency Communications
HamClock is an essential daily tool for every amateur radio operator.  It delivers real-time propagation reports, solar weather data, world clocks, and satellite tracking—all at a glance.  With critical information instantly available, HamClock helps you make smarter communication decisions and improve on-air effectiveness every single day, and let’s be honest… it looks cool too!  Register before March 9th at reupva3rie@gmail.com

Thanks very much,
Rosemarie Upfield  VA3RIE
Communications, Education/Training Coordinator
Auxiliary Communication Service (ACS)
Golden Horseshoe (GH) Section
reupva3rie@gmail.com
*********************************************************************************************]]> <![CDATA[Owen Sound AUXCOMM training course, Feb 2026]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1580 Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:55:39 -0500 VA3-GUF-Frank]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1580 To all interested Amateur Radio Operators interested in getting RAC AUXCOMM trained.

RAC has announced it will be hosting an AUXCOMM training course in Owen Sound at the end of the month of February, Saturday Feb 28 to Sunday Mar 01. 2026 at the Owen Sound Best Western on the Bay, 1800 2nd Avenue East.  This course will show you the equipment RAC can make available in a declared emergency as well as train you on the important aspects of an AUX-C trained volunteer. In a declared emergency the trained AUX-C uses their knowledge and experience in incident organization/structure and ICS/IMS forms to assist as called upon to support the communication requirements to bring an incident to resolution by the incident Emergency Management stakeholder.  If you are interested in receiving this training, then let me know by either reply to this post or sending me an email at va3-guf@outlook.com.  There are 25 seats available on the course so first come first serve so do let me know soonest as to your interest in attending.

This RAC course has 2 online prerequisites listed below that should not delay in your initial request to attend.

First prerequisite is to join the Ontario Corps of Volunteers and pass their course that has 4 modules mentioned below, after setting up of your account at the following link;

          https://www.volunteercorps.gov.on.ca/Account/Register

Set up your account as a new user.  There should be a place for selecting radio operator in your profile set-up as to your level of interest plus any other that you wish to volunteer for during the account set-up.  You will be asked as part of the registration process what distance you are willing to travel to provide assistance as an emergency volunteer.  It is your choice as to the travel distance you are comfortable with.

The following 4 modules of the Volunteer Corps training must be completed before receiving final confirmation of your position on the course and should take less than a small part of your day or can be done over a number of days dependent on your schedule;
 
          Emergency Management & Preparedness
          Volunteer Risk Management
          Accessibility & Human Right 
          Exploring the Roots of Racism

You will be able to download certificates of successful completion for each module completed.  A soft copy of each completion certificate will need to be forwarded to me before receiving confirmation of your seat on the course.

The second prerequisite is to set-up an account in the Ontario IMS Emergency Management training portal so that you can take the online IMS-100 training course.  This course will take about the same amount of time as the 4 modules above.  Go to the following link to set-up your account;

          https://training.emergencymanagementonta...e.dll/Home
 
Once your account is set-up, log in and make your way to the course catalogue for the left menu and then select Incident Management System (IMS) for the IMS course listings.  Scroll down and select the following course;

          IMS 100 Introduction to Incident Management System (E-Learning)

Complete this comprehensive training that is focused on how Ontario prepares for and responds to various levels of emergency with differing organization structure that is important to understand for the RAC AUXCOMM training.  Download your copy of the IMS-100 certificate of completion once done and send it to me.

Once I have received a soft copy of the 5 certificates of successful completion, I will be able to confirm by personal invitation confirmation letter your seat as one of the 25 on the course.

I look forward to seeing you all there in February.]]> To all interested Amateur Radio Operators interested in getting RAC AUXCOMM trained.

RAC has announced it will be hosting an AUXCOMM training course in Owen Sound at the end of the month of February, Saturday Feb 28 to Sunday Mar 01. 2026 at the Owen Sound Best Western on the Bay, 1800 2nd Avenue East.  This course will show you the equipment RAC can make available in a declared emergency as well as train you on the important aspects of an AUX-C trained volunteer. In a declared emergency the trained AUX-C uses their knowledge and experience in incident organization/structure and ICS/IMS forms to assist as called upon to support the communication requirements to bring an incident to resolution by the incident Emergency Management stakeholder.  If you are interested in receiving this training, then let me know by either reply to this post or sending me an email at va3-guf@outlook.com.  There are 25 seats available on the course so first come first serve so do let me know soonest as to your interest in attending.

This RAC course has 2 online prerequisites listed below that should not delay in your initial request to attend.

First prerequisite is to join the Ontario Corps of Volunteers and pass their course that has 4 modules mentioned below, after setting up of your account at the following link;

          https://www.volunteercorps.gov.on.ca/Account/Register

Set up your account as a new user.  There should be a place for selecting radio operator in your profile set-up as to your level of interest plus any other that you wish to volunteer for during the account set-up.  You will be asked as part of the registration process what distance you are willing to travel to provide assistance as an emergency volunteer.  It is your choice as to the travel distance you are comfortable with.

The following 4 modules of the Volunteer Corps training must be completed before receiving final confirmation of your position on the course and should take less than a small part of your day or can be done over a number of days dependent on your schedule;
 
          Emergency Management & Preparedness
          Volunteer Risk Management
          Accessibility & Human Right 
          Exploring the Roots of Racism

You will be able to download certificates of successful completion for each module completed.  A soft copy of each completion certificate will need to be forwarded to me before receiving confirmation of your seat on the course.

The second prerequisite is to set-up an account in the Ontario IMS Emergency Management training portal so that you can take the online IMS-100 training course.  This course will take about the same amount of time as the 4 modules above.  Go to the following link to set-up your account;

          https://training.emergencymanagementonta...e.dll/Home
 
Once your account is set-up, log in and make your way to the course catalogue for the left menu and then select Incident Management System (IMS) for the IMS course listings.  Scroll down and select the following course;

          IMS 100 Introduction to Incident Management System (E-Learning)

Complete this comprehensive training that is focused on how Ontario prepares for and responds to various levels of emergency with differing organization structure that is important to understand for the RAC AUXCOMM training.  Download your copy of the IMS-100 certificate of completion once done and send it to me.

Once I have received a soft copy of the 5 certificates of successful completion, I will be able to confirm by personal invitation confirmation letter your seat as one of the 25 on the course.

I look forward to seeing you all there in February.]]> <![CDATA[AUXCOMM Emergency GO KIT]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1478 Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:34:52 -0400 VA3-GUF-Frank]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1478
The following link, AUXCOMM GO KIT presentation, will get you access to the AUXCOMM GO KIT presentation I gave at the May 2025 GBARC technical presentation.  This presentations was for the purpose of making GBARC members aware of the RAC radio GO KITs contents purchased for Ontario deployment as well as the essentials for a 72 hour period when deploying in AUXCOMM support to an emergency zone.  

The radio equipment in the Ontario RAC GO Kit is extensive and I have for simplistic sake gathered all the radio equipment operator manuals in one location for the convenience of those interested in learning more about these radios and modem. This link, AUXCOMM GO KIT essentials, leads you to these documents I have copied from the manufacturers download site including the above mentioned AUXCOMM GO KIT presentation.  From time to time this internet drive directory will have files added that in this authors view would make up part of the evolving essentials equipment list for emergency AUXCOMM preparedness.

I shall endeavor to keep the material in this internet drive as current as possible within reason and would suggest that those individuals that wish to ensure you have the latest and most current document to go to the equipment manufacturers website and download those documents instead of these in this documents links.

I thank you for your time and dedication to AUXCOMM amateur radio support in the rare event of an emergency.

Cheers

Frank

VA3-GUF
GBARC Member
Grey County ARES/AUXCOMM coordinator]]>
The following link, AUXCOMM GO KIT presentation, will get you access to the AUXCOMM GO KIT presentation I gave at the May 2025 GBARC technical presentation.  This presentations was for the purpose of making GBARC members aware of the RAC radio GO KITs contents purchased for Ontario deployment as well as the essentials for a 72 hour period when deploying in AUXCOMM support to an emergency zone.  

The radio equipment in the Ontario RAC GO Kit is extensive and I have for simplistic sake gathered all the radio equipment operator manuals in one location for the convenience of those interested in learning more about these radios and modem. This link, AUXCOMM GO KIT essentials, leads you to these documents I have copied from the manufacturers download site including the above mentioned AUXCOMM GO KIT presentation.  From time to time this internet drive directory will have files added that in this authors view would make up part of the evolving essentials equipment list for emergency AUXCOMM preparedness.

I shall endeavor to keep the material in this internet drive as current as possible within reason and would suggest that those individuals that wish to ensure you have the latest and most current document to go to the equipment manufacturers website and download those documents instead of these in this documents links.

I thank you for your time and dedication to AUXCOMM amateur radio support in the rare event of an emergency.

Cheers

Frank

VA3-GUF
GBARC Member
Grey County ARES/AUXCOMM coordinator]]> <![CDATA[Auxiliary Communications online presentations by RAC ACS Golden Horseshoe section]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1427 Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:42:12 -0400 VA3-GUF-Frank]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1427
A series (4) online presentations on a variety of subjects pertaining to Auxiliary Communications has been scheduled for those Amateur Radio enthusiasts interested in by confirming your registration before the deadlines provided by sending an email to reupva3rie@gmail.com:

Fusion 
April 16 2025 19:00 – 20:00 Hrs
Presented By Mike Crabtree VA3MCT
ACS GH Technical Resource & Support
Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) is a digital communications mode for amateur radio that transmits voice, data, and pictures. It uses C4FM 4-level FSK technology, which is a type of frequency modulation. YSF is designed to provide high-quality digital audio. Discussing the history and underlying technology, C4FM, DMR and D-Star compared, C4FM Digital Voice and Data, Transceivers, Repeaters, WIRES-X (for worldwide connections), Rooms, Nodes, and Hotspots.
Register before April 14 2025

APRS 
April 23 2025 19:00 – 20:00 Hrs
Presented By Eric Brown VE3EB
Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a radio-based system for real time digital communications.  Discussion of the APRS history, devices used and various applications.
Register before April 21 2025

Batteries & Solar Power 
May 7 2025 19:00 – 20:00 Hrs
Presented By John Leonardelli VE3IPS
Just in time for Field Day - Ham Radio use with batteries, solar panels, with a discussion on controllers and sizing.
Register before May 5 2025

GO KITS & PREPAREDNESS 
MAY 21 2025 19:00 - 20:00 Hrs
Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT
RAC Community Services Officer
May 4-10 2025 is National Emergency Preparedness Week.  Protect yourself, your family and your community during an emergency.  The theme this year is Be Prepared, Know Your Risks.  Jason is a renowned first responder, we encourage you to join us for a training presentation on preparing your personal and communications equipment kits that should be GO Ready for 72 hours up to and beyond 7 days.
Register before May 20 2025

I encourage each of you to register for these presentations.]]>
A series (4) online presentations on a variety of subjects pertaining to Auxiliary Communications has been scheduled for those Amateur Radio enthusiasts interested in by confirming your registration before the deadlines provided by sending an email to reupva3rie@gmail.com:

Fusion 
April 16 2025 19:00 – 20:00 Hrs
Presented By Mike Crabtree VA3MCT
ACS GH Technical Resource & Support
Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) is a digital communications mode for amateur radio that transmits voice, data, and pictures. It uses C4FM 4-level FSK technology, which is a type of frequency modulation. YSF is designed to provide high-quality digital audio. Discussing the history and underlying technology, C4FM, DMR and D-Star compared, C4FM Digital Voice and Data, Transceivers, Repeaters, WIRES-X (for worldwide connections), Rooms, Nodes, and Hotspots.
Register before April 14 2025

APRS 
April 23 2025 19:00 – 20:00 Hrs
Presented By Eric Brown VE3EB
Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a radio-based system for real time digital communications.  Discussion of the APRS history, devices used and various applications.
Register before April 21 2025

Batteries & Solar Power 
May 7 2025 19:00 – 20:00 Hrs
Presented By John Leonardelli VE3IPS
Just in time for Field Day - Ham Radio use with batteries, solar panels, with a discussion on controllers and sizing.
Register before May 5 2025

GO KITS & PREPAREDNESS 
MAY 21 2025 19:00 - 20:00 Hrs
Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT
RAC Community Services Officer
May 4-10 2025 is National Emergency Preparedness Week.  Protect yourself, your family and your community during an emergency.  The theme this year is Be Prepared, Know Your Risks.  Jason is a renowned first responder, we encourage you to join us for a training presentation on preparing your personal and communications equipment kits that should be GO Ready for 72 hours up to and beyond 7 days.
Register before May 20 2025

I encourage each of you to register for these presentations.]]> <![CDATA[Golden Horseshoe Presentations and Events by date]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1426 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:54:21 -0400 MD7323]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1426 Fusion April 16 2025 19:00 – 20:00 hrs
Presented By Mike Crabtree VA3MCT, ACS GH Technical Resource & Support
Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) is a digital communications mode for amateur radio that transmits voice, data, and pictures. It uses C4FM 4-level FSK technology, which is a type of frequency modulation. YSF is designed to provide high-quality digital audio. Discussing the history and underlying technology, C4FM, DMR and D-Star compared, C4FM Digital Voice and Data, Transceivers, Repeaters, WIRES-X (for worldwide connections), Rooms, Nodes, and Hotspots.
Register before April 14 2025
 
APRS April 23 2025 19:00 – 20:00 hrs
Presented By Eric Brown VE3EB
Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a radio-based system for real time digital communications.  Discussion of the APRS history, devices used and various applications.
Register before April 21 2025
 
Batteries & Solar Power May 7 2025 19:00 – 20:00 hrs
Presented By John Leonardelli VE3IPS
Just in time for Field Day - Ham Radio use with batteries, solar panels, with a discussion on controllers and sizing.
Register before May 5 2025
 
GO KITS & PREPAREDNESS MAY 21 2025 19:00 - 20:00 HRS
Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT, RAC Community Services Officer
May 4-10 2025 is National Emergency Preparedness Week.  Protect yourself, your family and your community during an emergency.  The theme this year is Be Prepared, Know Your Risks.  Jason is a renowned first responder, we encourage you to join us for a training presentation on preparing your personal and communications equipment kits that should be GO Ready for 72 hours up to and beyond 7 days.
Register before May 20 2025
 
Q&A You can ask technical questions and discussions focused on technical aspects of amateur radio, such as:
     * Antenna design and construction
     * Transceiver operation and maintenance
     * Digital modes (Winlink, D-Star, Fusion, DMR)
     * Software-Defined Radio (SDR)
     * Electronics projects
     * Troubleshooting equipment issues
by logging into the following link Ham-Cdn-Tech-Help@groups.io | Home  (copy and paste into a browser) or send a direct email to Ham-Cdn-Tech-Help@groups.io

Quote:Hi Rosemary.  Please sign me up. 



Is it OK to post this on my club's forum?


73
Dave, ITS & PREPAREDNESS MAY 21 2025 19:00 - 20:00 HRS
Quote:
Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT, RAC Community Services Officer
May 4-10 2025 is National Emergency Preparedness Week.  Protect yourself, your family and your community during an emergency.  The theme this year is Be Prepared, Know Your Risks.  Jason is a renowned first responder, we encourage you to join us for a training presentation on preparing your personal and communications equipment kits that should be GO Ready for 72 hours up to and beyond 7 days.
Register before May 20 2025

]]> Fusion April 16 2025 19:00 – 20:00 hrs
Presented By Mike Crabtree VA3MCT, ACS GH Technical Resource & Support
Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) is a digital communications mode for amateur radio that transmits voice, data, and pictures. It uses C4FM 4-level FSK technology, which is a type of frequency modulation. YSF is designed to provide high-quality digital audio. Discussing the history and underlying technology, C4FM, DMR and D-Star compared, C4FM Digital Voice and Data, Transceivers, Repeaters, WIRES-X (for worldwide connections), Rooms, Nodes, and Hotspots.
Register before April 14 2025
 
APRS April 23 2025 19:00 – 20:00 hrs
Presented By Eric Brown VE3EB
Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is a radio-based system for real time digital communications.  Discussion of the APRS history, devices used and various applications.
Register before April 21 2025
 
Batteries & Solar Power May 7 2025 19:00 – 20:00 hrs
Presented By John Leonardelli VE3IPS
Just in time for Field Day - Ham Radio use with batteries, solar panels, with a discussion on controllers and sizing.
Register before May 5 2025
 
GO KITS & PREPAREDNESS MAY 21 2025 19:00 - 20:00 HRS
Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT, RAC Community Services Officer
May 4-10 2025 is National Emergency Preparedness Week.  Protect yourself, your family and your community during an emergency.  The theme this year is Be Prepared, Know Your Risks.  Jason is a renowned first responder, we encourage you to join us for a training presentation on preparing your personal and communications equipment kits that should be GO Ready for 72 hours up to and beyond 7 days.
Register before May 20 2025
 
Q&A You can ask technical questions and discussions focused on technical aspects of amateur radio, such as:
     * Antenna design and construction
     * Transceiver operation and maintenance
     * Digital modes (Winlink, D-Star, Fusion, DMR)
     * Software-Defined Radio (SDR)
     * Electronics projects
     * Troubleshooting equipment issues
by logging into the following link Ham-Cdn-Tech-Help@groups.io | Home  (copy and paste into a browser) or send a direct email to Ham-Cdn-Tech-Help@groups.io

Quote:Hi Rosemary.  Please sign me up. 



Is it OK to post this on my club's forum?


73
Dave, ITS & PREPAREDNESS MAY 21 2025 19:00 - 20:00 HRS
Quote:
Presented By Jason Tremblay VE3JXT, RAC Community Services Officer
May 4-10 2025 is National Emergency Preparedness Week.  Protect yourself, your family and your community during an emergency.  The theme this year is Be Prepared, Know Your Risks.  Jason is a renowned first responder, we encourage you to join us for a training presentation on preparing your personal and communications equipment kits that should be GO Ready for 72 hours up to and beyond 7 days.
Register before May 20 2025

]]> <![CDATA[Winlink Works Again]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1421 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 11:02:11 -0400 MD7323]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1421


On Tuesday morning March 11, I started my day by having breakfast and checking email. Breakfast was fine but the internet was not available for reasons unknown.

While I could not send or receive email using my local service provider I could, and did, send email to my Winlink Tuesday mail group, using the Winlink network. Had I wished to do so I could have also sent email to any email address anywhere in the world using the Winlink software and network. 

At one time, some internet email providers offered a gateway for SMS messages sent from email. I have successfully used this feature to send an SMS message directly from Winlink. I have not used this method for sometime so am not certain if it still works. If it does work then this adds another means by which to let friends or relatives know you are fine in the event of a prolonged internet outage. 

I can only speak for myself in saying that I’m reassured that if the internet were out for any length of time I can still communication with family friends or others in my emergency communication contact list. That is a very nice feeling.

73
Marvin VE3VCG]]>


On Tuesday morning March 11, I started my day by having breakfast and checking email. Breakfast was fine but the internet was not available for reasons unknown.

While I could not send or receive email using my local service provider I could, and did, send email to my Winlink Tuesday mail group, using the Winlink network. Had I wished to do so I could have also sent email to any email address anywhere in the world using the Winlink software and network. 

At one time, some internet email providers offered a gateway for SMS messages sent from email. I have successfully used this feature to send an SMS message directly from Winlink. I have not used this method for sometime so am not certain if it still works. If it does work then this adds another means by which to let friends or relatives know you are fine in the event of a prolonged internet outage. 

I can only speak for myself in saying that I’m reassured that if the internet were out for any length of time I can still communication with family friends or others in my emergency communication contact list. That is a very nice feeling.

73
Marvin VE3VCG]]> <![CDATA[AuxComm training explained]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1420 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 11:53:33 -0400 MD7323]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1420
The following video is 1 hour and 30 minutes long, a portion of which is a Q and A section. The main presentation is just over 40 minutes can covers many of the main points about how AuxComm courses are being created and run in various US states. The video is now out of date, but all information presented basically remains valid. 

AuxComm training course explained

What is important to note is that AuxComm is not about amateur radio, it is about emergency communication in aid of Public Safety. This is much more than simply supporting "served agencies". AuxComm is about working with Community Emergency Manager Coordinators and community emergency response NGO's or civilian emergency response groups, to build "off-grid" emergency communication networks. These are not simply backup communication networks but proper functional parallel emergency communication systems.

This is a US video and so does not apply directly to Canada. However, the AuxComm Canada (RAC) ACS will be modified to both Canadian amateur radio licensing and the organizational structure of Public Safety Agencies here. There will be enough overlap between US and Canadian systems to allow AuxComm operators to operate cross boarder during international emergencies.

73 Marvin  

AuxComm operators will work with "Stakeholders" including Public Safety Agencies to create and maintain these parallel emergency communication network. These networks will allow them to work with community volunteers when needed in response to a disaster or emergency event.]]>
The following video is 1 hour and 30 minutes long, a portion of which is a Q and A section. The main presentation is just over 40 minutes can covers many of the main points about how AuxComm courses are being created and run in various US states. The video is now out of date, but all information presented basically remains valid. 

AuxComm training course explained

What is important to note is that AuxComm is not about amateur radio, it is about emergency communication in aid of Public Safety. This is much more than simply supporting "served agencies". AuxComm is about working with Community Emergency Manager Coordinators and community emergency response NGO's or civilian emergency response groups, to build "off-grid" emergency communication networks. These are not simply backup communication networks but proper functional parallel emergency communication systems.

This is a US video and so does not apply directly to Canada. However, the AuxComm Canada (RAC) ACS will be modified to both Canadian amateur radio licensing and the organizational structure of Public Safety Agencies here. There will be enough overlap between US and Canadian systems to allow AuxComm operators to operate cross boarder during international emergencies.

73 Marvin  

AuxComm operators will work with "Stakeholders" including Public Safety Agencies to create and maintain these parallel emergency communication network. These networks will allow them to work with community volunteers when needed in response to a disaster or emergency event.]]> <![CDATA[HAM + GMRS nets explained]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1419 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:59:15 -0400 MD7323]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1419
One of the concepts behind AuxComm is that it is a "whole-of-society" approach to emergency communication. The Community Communication "HUB" is a meeting place where residents with no cell or internet service can come to get official information about the emergency. Depending on the scope and length of the event, it might also provide a means of sending health and wellness messages out to friends and relatives outside the impacted area. 

Community Communication hubs are organized by local community groups and while radio will be used in these locations, a Community Community Communication HUB is not exclusive to radio communication. 

HAM + GMRS radio nets explained]]>
One of the concepts behind AuxComm is that it is a "whole-of-society" approach to emergency communication. The Community Communication "HUB" is a meeting place where residents with no cell or internet service can come to get official information about the emergency. Depending on the scope and length of the event, it might also provide a means of sending health and wellness messages out to friends and relatives outside the impacted area. 

Community Communication hubs are organized by local community groups and while radio will be used in these locations, a Community Community Communication HUB is not exclusive to radio communication. 

HAM + GMRS radio nets explained]]> <![CDATA[HAMwan explained]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1418 Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:35:20 -0400 MD7323]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1418
I have recommended to Bruce County that having such a high speed digital/voice network can be very useful when having off-grid communications is important in a grid down emergency event.

https://hamwan.org/]]>
I have recommended to Bruce County that having such a high speed digital/voice network can be very useful when having off-grid communications is important in a grid down emergency event.

https://hamwan.org/]]> <![CDATA[ACS in practice]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1417 Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:25:59 -0400 MD7323]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1417
In this video the presenter also show a node used in their HAMwan system. 
ACS explained in Seattle ]]>
In this video the presenter also show a node used in their HAMwan system. 
ACS explained in Seattle ]]> <![CDATA[AuxComm Hubs explained simply]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1416 Sun, 09 Mar 2025 12:49:02 -0400 MD7323]]> https://www.gbarc.ca/ForumBB/showthread.php?tid=1416
This new concept is rarely well explained and so becomes confusing. Effectively AuxComm is a "hybrid" communication network which is normally managed by licensed amateur radio  operators. Various kinds of radio gear can be used in this hybrid "Community Communication Hub" network including bubble pack FRS/GMRS type walkie talkies, CB's or other non-ham radios.

The Community Communication Hub is simply the communication component of a Community Disaster/Emergency Response Hub. As is explained in this video, these "Community Disaster and Emergency Response Hubs", organized and staffed by volunteers, would stand up during blackouts or other disasters or emergencies. The amateur radio component of this response could be considered an expanded version of Field Day.

Here is the video.
AuxComm and Community Hubs]]>
This new concept is rarely well explained and so becomes confusing. Effectively AuxComm is a "hybrid" communication network which is normally managed by licensed amateur radio  operators. Various kinds of radio gear can be used in this hybrid "Community Communication Hub" network including bubble pack FRS/GMRS type walkie talkies, CB's or other non-ham radios.

The Community Communication Hub is simply the communication component of a Community Disaster/Emergency Response Hub. As is explained in this video, these "Community Disaster and Emergency Response Hubs", organized and staffed by volunteers, would stand up during blackouts or other disasters or emergencies. The amateur radio component of this response could be considered an expanded version of Field Day.

Here is the video.
AuxComm and Community Hubs]]>