*DX NEWS* 337DA0 Austral Islands, Coming Soon

The Dx Adventure Radio Club (DA-RC) is proud to announce an exciting and long-awaited DXpedition to the Austral Islands — an isolated and rarely activated DXCC entity situated in the South Pacific.

This high-value radio adventure is locked in for November 2025 and will be led by seasoned DXpeditioner 41DA981 Giovanni.

Also known as Tuha’a Pae, the Austral Islands haven’t been active on freeband frequencies for over 15 years, making them one of the most sought-after locations for serious radio enthusiasts.

In accordance with DA-RC’s callsign protocols, this operation qualifies for a /0 callsign allocation, reflecting its rarity and significance.

See:

https://www.delta-alfa.com/about/dxpedition-callsign-protocol/

Giovanni will be operating from one of the inhabited islands in the archipelago in the Rurutu and Rimatara Islands (OC-050) IOTA Group.

He’ll be equipped with a high-performance radio setup that includes a quality transceiver, ACOM amplifier, a Skypper antenna, and a 10-meter mast, ensuring strong and stable signals from this distant location.

His setup and intended location by the sea are well-suited to deliver excellent coverage to multiple DX markets across the globe.

Situated more than 700 kilometers south of Tahiti, the Archipel des Australes represent the southernmost island group in French Polynesia.

Known for their stunning natural beauty, these IOTA DX gems are characterized by volcanic peaks, dramatic limestone cliffs, vibrant lagoons, white sand beaches, and a deep-rooted Polynesian heritage.

The region is divided into two primary island groups which are scattered over an area some 1300 km:

• Tupua’i Islands — Rimatara, Rūrutu, Raivāvae, Tubuai, and Îles Maria
• Bass Islands — Rapa Iti and Marotiri rocks

Giovanni will reach the  Îles Australes via Air Tahiti, which services several islands in the group.

He’ll be staying in a small local village, where he’ll set up his base for DX ops in ham friendly accommodation.

The remote QTH and low ambient noise make this an ideal setting for a productive and rare DX activation.

This project represents a rare and valuable opportunity for DX Hunters around the world to log a contact with a seldom-heard DXCC entity and secure a new IOTA reference.

Further details — including the final island destination, operating schedule, QSL manager information, links, and sponsorship options — will be announced soon, in the right-hand side menu under DXpeditions.