History of Swale ARC By Club President Mike Elliott G4VECAt around 1982, a number of amateur radio enthusiast's in the Swale area were meeting once a month at the Wyvern hall in central Sittingbourne. Membership was approximately 25 but amenities were basic, there was no possibility of installing or operating radio equipment, and the cost of hiring the hall was proving expensive. Thus, when the opportunity was given for us to use a large room on the top floor of Nina's Little Hotel & Restaurant in the High Street, free of charge, we were able to meet once a week every Monday except for bank holidays. We were also given a smaller room which we used to install VHF & HF radio equipment, and plenty of space outside for antennas. Due to our elevated position, we made some impressive contacts on all bands and modes using the club call signs G4 SRC & G6 SRC. Active membership increased to about 40, and the club went from strength to strength. All this came to an abrupt end, when on New Years Eve 1984; a large fire caused severe damage to the restaurant, and destroyed most of the upstairs area including our radio rooms and all the equipment. For a couple of months, a number of members met at various public houses in the area, while we hunted for a permanent meeting place. Eventually we found what we were looking for at The Ivy Leaf Club who offered us similar facilities which we had enjoyed at Nina's. However, the Ivy Leaf was forced to close in 2004, and once again we had to search for another venue.After a few months, we managed to secure a room at the Woodstock Club, December 2004, which was about 2-miles from the Town centre, which increased the journey for those travelling from the Isle of Sheppey. After only a few months in May 2005, due to a change of ownership, we had to look for another suitable meeting place. This proved very difficult, but we managed to hire the Bobbing Village Hall in June 2005, but due to costs, and status of membership, it was decided that meetings would be held the second Monday of each month, and although we lack some of the comforts we had at previous places, we all enjoy a chat, and are able to operate radio equipment on a portable basis, and the kettle is always on for a cuppa.Well that?s how we are at the present and we have room for anyone with an interest in radio or the need to know more, if so please e-mail for more information.
Greetings Gentle Folk - November 2008
Where did our Summer go, it seems only last week that temperatures were pleasant and managing a /portable operation at the beginning of last month fooled me into thinking the warm and sunny weather was to continue, alas no, making me realise winter approaches.One visitor in our garden recently is one we see but rarely, ?the greater spotted woodpecker? he certainly seemed to be enjoying picking bugs from the bark of our apple tree. We are also being told that our bird population will again need your help with feeding this winter so get out those bird feeders.With the colder weather it does mean some of the regular grass cutting here at Marant will slow down but the head gardener tells me there is still some cutting back and shredding to do.Here in the shack at least it is warm and some operating will be the order of the day and hopefully a modicum of home brewing which I enjoy.Well that?s it again chaps but keep listening and working those stations even if dx seems to elude us, I find there are always European operators out there calling cq so I do manage to keep my key busy hi.Remember that our next meeting is on Monday the 10th of the month when I hope to see you all, have fun.73 Tony GØPEH - Chairman
?No warmth, no cheerfulness, no healthfulness,No comfortable feel in any member-No shade, no shine, no butterflies, do bees?,No fruits, no flowers, no leaves, no birds,-November!? Thomas Hood.On the 21st November 1783 the first flight by man in a hot air balloon was achieved.
Swale Amateur Radio Club G4SRC
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