Young radio amateur receives Platinum certificate in RSGB Brickworks scheme
Samuel, MI9WHD, became licensed in 2024. Since then, the 15-year-old has been on the road to discover as much about amateur radio as he can. He regularly joins the RSGB Outreach Team’s fortnightly DMR youth net and has already achieved the Radio Surfer Award. Added to his list of achievements is the Platinum certificate for the RSGB Brickworks scheme. We asked Samuel a few questions about what he did to achieve this.
How did you hear about Brickworks?
I found a leaflet on the RSGB stand at the Bushvalley Amateur Radio Club rally, and asked club members about it. The Bushvalley Brickworks Champion then did a presentation to the club about the scheme.
What activities have you taken part in and which did you enjoy the most?rs
Getting 50 HF contacts really helped with my confidence on the air. Calling CQ POTA from the beach was a fun way to add to my HF log. I loved trying to make contacts via the ISS repeater, using APRS, and receiving ISS SSTV. I was operating at a local picnic spot and it was fun chatting to tourists about amateur radio.
Are there any skills you have learnt along the way that you may not have otherwise given a go?
I took part in the RSGB FT4 contest last year and discovered I quite like the digital modes. I also gave a presentation to the club on “Some SSTV from Space”, and I enjoyed showing club members some of the images I captured from the ISS and the Fram2 polar expedition.
How ha Bushvalley Amateur Radio Club and its members supported you?
They helped me with my SOTA activation on Slieveanorra, as the radio beacons on the mountain made it quite difficult on 2m. They also provided opportunities to set up and operate Special Event Stations, my favourite being GB25YOTA! It helps being a member of a very supportive club.
Any tips or recommendations to other radio amateurs thinking of giving Brickworks a go?
The activities are fun, and you might find something different that you enjoy.
What’s next for you?
I would like to complete all 23 Brickworks activities and achieve the Diamond certificate.
Find out more about Brickworks
Category: Your stories
