Which Frequency to Use

A simple rule of thumb for which frequency to use is as follows:
The higher the sun the higher the frequency.  The lower the sun, the lower the frequency.
For example, midday, use 5360 kHz or 5300 kHz.  At night, use a 2 MHz frequency (eg 2280kHz).

The primary day-time frequencies are 5300kHz (northern half of the State) and 5360kHz (southern half).  At night, the 2MHz frequency (see table below) at the site closest to you should be selected.

Derby	6945	5300	2792
Port Hedland	6960	4030	2280	5300
Carnarvon	6890	4045	2280	5360
Meekatharra	6880	4010	2280	5360
Kalgoorlie	6825	5360	2656

Remember, the above frequencies can only be activated by the Emergency Call button on your radio

HF radio can be fickle.  A frequency that works well today may be completely un-useable tomorrow.  Phenomena such as solar ‘sunspot’ activity and electro-magnetic interference from car ignitions and power lines can adversely affect radio waves.  Even severe weather conditions can affect reception.

Persevere, and if all else fails, wait a while and then try again.

If calls on the above frequencies fail to get a response after several attempts, select a frequency from the table above using the guidelines in the section “Communicating with HF Radio”.

Last Updated: 31/08/2007