20/02/2024
Vale Peter Sturt.
You will be sadly missed by the amateur radio fraternity...
The following has been shared from Westlakes ARC:
It is with profound sorrow that I announce the passing of my dearest friend, Peter Sturt VK2ZRT / VK2ZTV, on the night of Monday, February 19th. Peter's departure is not only a personal loss but also deeply felt by the thousands of individuals and Radio Amateurs in the Newcastle and surrounding areas who admired and respected him.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to Robbie and the entire family, including Clint, Trevor, and Katie, during this incredibly challenging time.
Peter and I began our journey in amateur radio in the Seventies, an era filled with boundless enthusiasm and possibilities. With Peter's leadership, we believed that nothing was beyond our reach. Together, we embraced new challenges and technologies, setting the world alight with our ambitions.
Our shared passion led us to establish "The Newcastle Amateur Radio and ATV Group." Alongside Peter (VK2ZTV), Barry (VK2AHE), myself Spero (VK2YHX), Glen (VK2FC), and Gus (SK), we worked tirelessly to pursue our collective vision. Peter's technical prowess was evident in his construction of the 4CX250B ATV repeater, which we proudly installed at the base of my tower in Bar Beach. I remember vividly the days when we transmitted color TV pictures across Newcastle, delivering noise-free images over 100km to the west, thanks to Peter's ingenuity.
Peter's innovative spirit did not wane over the years. He spearheaded the development of early 2-meter radio repeaters, eventually situating them at Mount Sugarloaf, providing comprehensive coverage to the Newcastle area. His relentless pursuit of excellence continued recently with the purchase and installation of DMR radio repeaters on every mountain top within Newcastle and the Hunter Valley.
In addition to his technical achievements, Peter co-founded a successful communications business, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the field. His decision to retire and embrace life's pleasures was a well-deserved culmination of decades of hard work and dedication.
Peter's legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on the amateur radio community. His memory will be cherished, and his spirit will continue to inspire us.
May Peter rest in peace, knowing that his contributions have enriched our lives beyond measure.
Sincerely,
Spero Davias VK2YHX
