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Update: John Moyle Field Day Microwave Bands — Response From WIA Contest Committee

Following on from the recent publications of my blog posts regarding the proposed removal of microwave bands from the John Moyle Memorial Field Day (JMFD), there has now been an official response and rule update issued by the WIA Contest Manager.

This update was released on 20 January 2026 by Diane VK4DI and can be found on the WIA contest pages here:

News Release: https://www.wia.org.au/newsevents/news/2026/20260120-1/index.php

Firstly — and importantly — this is a positive step.

It shows that feedback was heard, discussed internally, and acted upon. A summary of the rule changes are available above – but critically – microwaves are allowed in the contest.

Why This Matters

This update directly addresses one of my main concerns: the complete removal of microwave activity from JMFD.

That outcome has been avoided and that is a win for experimentation, progression, and long-term band engagement.

However, this also reinforces the core point raised in my original article

  • When participants speak up, outcomes improve.

Still One Outstanding Issue: Process

While the technical outcome is positive, the process remains the bigger concern. These changes only occurred after public feedback and discussion.

The original rule modifications were still released without broad consultation, advance notice, or structured feedback channels. That approach continues to create unnecessary friction and uncertainty for contest participants who invest time, money, and effort into station preparation. In fact, some of the discussion is still happening on Facebook – not the best place!

If participation is truly the goal — and according to WIA’s own contest mission statement it is — then consultation must become part of the workflow, not something triggered after backlash.

“Trial Run” — And That’s Fair

The Contest Manager has described the 2026 JMFD rule changes as a trial run, with further refinement possible next year.

That is a reasonable and pragmatic approach. Contests evolve. Scoring models change. Technology changes. Participation patterns change.

What must not stay static is how decisions are communicated and tested. Trial runs work best when the community knows they’re happening.

Now it’s over to us – get out there and enjoy the 2026 JMFD Contest and if you have microwave bands – GET ACTIVE!

Final Thoughts

This update shows that feedback can lead to action — and that is encouraging. So now it’s over to us to get active on this contest. Would it help participants if there was a video on how to log? N1MM isn’t really designed that well for beginners. Perhaps Wavelog or even how-to converting VKCL to the proper Cabrillo format?

I remain supportive of the WIA’s role in representing Australian amateurs and acknowledge the volunteer effort behind contest administration. But constructive criticism exists for a reason: to improve outcomes for the people actually getting on air.

Let’s keep the constructive dialogue open. Let’s keep consultation visible and most importantly, let’s keep stations on the air.

73
Hayden VK7HH

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