Preparations to put VK9MT on the air from Mellish Reef continue. The VK9MT team is moving forward with plans to activate this rare DXCC entity in late March and early April 2014. The current schedule calls for 10 full days of operation on 160 through 10 meters, CW, SSB, and RTTY, with 10 operators. “Team Mellish” reports it already has written permission to land on the island.

“Australia’s Commonwealth Marine Reserve Operations Department reviewed our DXpedition project plan and requires that we follow their documented environmental protection regulations,” a team announcement explained. “Effective July 1, 2014, Mellish Reef becomes part of Australia’s new Coral Sea Marine Reserve Management Program, which implements additional restrictions to further protect the area’s ecology; we appreciate the Australian government’s cooperation and spirit of partnership in making this DXpedition possible.”

Six members of the successful ZL9HR operation from Campbell Island in December 2012 are among the team members. Last activated in 2009, Mellish Reef is located in the Coral Sea, approximately 1100 kilometers northeast of Brisbane, Australia. It is currently number 24 on ClubLog’s DXCC Most Wanted List.

The team has selected the 25 meter passenger expedition yacht Evohe from New Zealand to transport the operators and gear to Mellish Reef. The DXpedition participants plan to take their meals and sleep on the vessel.

The DXpedition budget is estimated at $110,000, not including operators’ individual expenses. “We will exercise full financial transparency in all aspects of the project,” a team announcement said. “When the books are closed, clubs and foundations that supported the project will receive a financial accounting.”

Contact the DXpedition via e-mail.