Using a VHF radio 

Know the Basics

• Switch on the radio and select the correct channel:
  • Channel 16: For emergencies and calling other vessels.
  • Channel 71: Used by Frankston 
  • Channel 67: Weather and safety information.
  • Channel 72/68: Working channels after establishing contact on 16.
• Adjust volume and squelch for clarity.

2. Standard Protocol

• Make a call:

  • Say the name of the station or vessel you are calling three times.
  • Follow with your vessel's name three times and include your call sign (if you have one).
  • End with “Over.”

  Example:

  “Frankston Yacht Club, Frankston Yacht Club, Frankston Yacht Club, this is LG, LG, LG. Over.”

• Wait for a response.

  • If no response, wait 1-2 minutes and repeat.

3. Responding

• If you're the recipient of a call:

  • Acknowledge by repeating the name of the calling vessel and your own vessel name.

  Example:

  “LG, this is Frankston Yacht Club. Over.”

4. Conversation

• Keep messages short and clear.
• Speak slowly and clearly, and avoid unnecessary words.
• Use standard terms like:
  • "Over" – Finished speaking, awaiting response.
  • "Roger" – Message received and understood.
  • "Say again" – Repeat your last message.
  • "Out" – End of conversation (do not say "Over and Out").

5. Emergency Communication

• For emergencies, use Channel 16:

  • Begin with MAYDAY (for grave danger), PAN-PAN (urgent situation), or SECURITÉ (safety message).
  • Provide details:
    1. Your vessel name and call sign.
    2. Location (latitude/longitude or description).
    3. Nature of emergency.
    4. Number of people on board.
    5. Other relevant details.

  Example (MAYDAY):

  “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY, this is Yacht Victoria, Yacht Victoria, Yacht Victoria. Position 38°18'S, 144°40'E. We are taking on water and require immediate assistance. 4 people on board, all wearing life jackets. Over.”

6. Sign Off

• When finished, confirm communication is ended:
  • Example: "Yacht Victoria, standing by on Channel 16. Out."

7. Listen and Follow Rules

• Monitor Channel 16 unless actively communicating on another channel.
• Avoid misuse of emergency channels.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure clear and effective communication on a VHF radio in Victoria.

Leaving the creek

• Radio check with FYC Tower

• Send/receive strength 
• Declare how many POB 

•Know your speed limits

• Manage and observe ALL other water users

•  Eyes peeled for sandbars and swimmers

• Radio check-in with Race Management EG • Mako, Mako, Mako this is Lg, Lg, Lg On our way to course area – standing by 

• Minimise unnecessary radio use - chatter

FYC Call Signs

Tower - Frankston Tower

Start Boat - Mako

Course Boat - Gradnell 

Safety Boat - LG