Wee Jasper Nature Reserve VKFF-2017

With a nice sunny day and a forecast of rain in the next few days decided to go out and activate a park. Wanted to go to a park I've not yet activated, Wee Jasper Nature Reserve, VKFF-2017. Drove to Yass first to fill up with cheapish fuel, then on to Wee Jasper. Stopped on the Southern outskirts of the village. 

On the map was marked the Hume and Hovell walking track, which runs through the Nature Reserve. At first could not see it, there was only a fence for the local rubbish tip... Then spotted the markers for the track, running down a path between the tip and a nearby farm fence.

Followed the path, with more track markers. At the back of the tip it followed the fence line of the farm. Disturbed a group of cows relaxing near some car wrecks...

The track eventually passed the farm and headed into Wee Jasper Nature Reserve. Walked in around 700m, following a dry creek for a while, then started climbing. As had good mobile coverage decided to set up in the bush off the track. Used a tree stump for squid pole mast support.

Operating spot. Map from Google Maps

Checked the antenna for resonance on 40m. A bit low in the band on 7.035 Mhz but fairly flat SWR across the band.

Radio on a nearby log, also a seat.

Got on 7.144 Mhz, just in time to hear VK4SMA/p Mark making final calls from park VKFF-1190 Bellthorpe National Park. Worked him for a park to park. After he went clear called CQ parks on 7.144 and got several hunters calling, most good strong signals.

VK3BBB, VK2CCP, VK2IO, VK3CA, VK7QP, VK4KC, VK4MAD, VK4DOG, VK3PF, VK3SQ, VK3MTT, VK5PAS, VK3ZLP, VK2VW, VK2HFI, VK3FIMD, VK5FANA.

Packed up and walked back to the car. As in the area decided to go activate SOTA summit Mt Wee Jasper, VK2/ST-017 next.