Meteorological Service

Radio Record, Volume IV, Issue 16, 31 October 1930, Page 10

Meteorological Service

Radio .on Remote Island.

HH north coast of Queensland is from November till May frequently swept by violent cyclones, originating ‘near the small Willis Island, situated at a distance of approximately 345 miles from the coast of Queensland. It is naturally of great importance for the service in Australia to be constantly posted up as to weather conditions on the island. An observation post provided with a-radio receiving and transmitting installation has therefore been erected on Willis Island. IN . ¢

No natives inhabit the island, and as it lies off the course of ocean steamers, the three men spending half a year there in order to ensure greater safety for the lives of many Australians are certainly not to be envied.’ Volunteers can always ‘be found to do this work. A Government steamer makes a voyage to the island every half-year and lands a meteorologist and two radio operators, in addition to the victuals required, while the three men who have been on duty for half a year are taken back to Australia. Accurate barometer and thermometer readings are taken daily, while special study is made of the strength and direction of the wind. The results of these readings are instantly transmitted to the mainland.