When you’re out exploring the tracks, UHF CB radio is one of the most important tools for safe and effective communication. Whether you’re coordinating with your convoy, warning others of hazards, or simply having a friendly chat, knowing which channel to use is essential.
Here’s a simple breakdown of UHF CB channels in Australia and what they’re commonly used for.
🚗 Common Road & 4WD Channels
- Channel 10 (476.575 MHz) – 4WD and Off-RoadingUsed widely by 4WD enthusiasts for convoy comms on tracks and trails. Many national parks and 4WD clubs recommend it for recreational off-road driving.
- Channel 18 (476.875 MHz) – Caravans and CampersThis is the go-to for caravan and motorhome travellers to chat with each other and share road information.
- Channel 40 (477.400 MHz) – Highway Channel for Truck DriversUsed by truckies for road conditions, hazard warnings, and general highway communication. Handy for long drives to know what’s ahead.
🚦 Safety and Emergency Channels
- Channel 5 (476.525 MHz) – Emergency ChannelStrictly for emergencies only. Monitored by volunteer organisations and repeaters in many areas.(Channel 35 is also reserved for emergencies when using repeaters.)
⚠️ Important: Misuse of these channels can carry penalties. Only use them in real emergencies.
🔁 Repeater Channels
UHF repeaters extend your range by re-transmitting your signal from higher locations such as hilltops or towers.
- Channels 1–8 (and 31–38) are repeater channels.
- If you’re using repeaters, always leave channels 5 and 35 for emergency purposes.
🎯 General Chat Channels
- Channels 11–21 & 22–30 – General conversation, but note:
- Channels 22 and 23 are data only – no voice comms.
- Avoid channels allocated for specific purposes.
- Channel 29 (477.375 MHz) – Highway channel used in some parts of Australia (mainly NSW & QLD) as an alternative to Channel 40.
🛑 Channels to Avoid for Voice Comms
- 22 & 23 – Data transmission only (telemetry/telecommand).
- 61, 62, 63 – Reserved for future use – do not use.
💡 Club Tip for Members
For Pajero Club SA events and convoys, we’ll let you know the official channel to use for each trip in the event details. Make sure your UHF is working, and do a quick radio check before hitting the tracks.
A good rule of thumb:
- Convoy comms → Channel 10
- Caravan travel → Channel 18
- Highways → Channel 40 (or 29 in some regions)
- Emergencies → Channel 5 or 35
📢 Final Thoughts
UHF CB radios are a free, no-licence communication tool that every off-roader should have. Using the right channel keeps our communications clear, safe, and effective – and ensures we all have a great time out on the tracks.
If you’d like to learn more about UHF use or need help setting one up, chat with one of our experienced members at our next club event!
