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.
Well chaps February already, where do the months go, and what a blast of winter it has been with those low temperatures and snow. Here at Marant we have made sure our bird feeders have been topped up and not forgetting their water bowl, removing the ice each morning and topping up. Talking of birds the end of January saw the RSPB?s ?Great Garden Bird Watch? so again this Sunday morning whilst the Club webmaster was busy in our kitchen doing the ironing yours truly was in our lounge with paper and pencil and binoculars. Plenty of activity so quite a few different species to record. Since then Marion has e-mailed the result to the RSPB.The beginning of the year saw the completion of my second Small Wonder Labs home brew transceiver. As you know my first one was the SW 40+ but this time it is the SW 30+ for 10 MHz, which is my own favourite cw band. Forays during the month with this little rig have been good fun with qso?s all around Europe. Considering its small power of 1.5 watts it certainly gives one a sense of achievement.I must take this opportunity to wish our Dennis G1JQH a speedy recovery from all of us now he is back home after his hospital visit. He had to go in for an operation but he assures me all is going on ok and he is now under the tender care of daughter Susan.It was good to hear so many members on our club net and keeping in touch when this inclement weather is with us, none of us I am sure wish to travel further than at all necessary at this time. Talking of which our next club meeting is planned for February the 8th so lets hope our weather allows this to go ahead. We will obviously make a final decision nearer the time.That?s it again chaps, take care and keep warm.73?s Tony GØPEH.
Greetings Gentlefolk - February 2010
Use the talents you possessfor the woods would be a very silent place if no birds sang except the bestHenry Van DykeIn February 1892 Dorothy Stimson Bullitt was born,a pioneer of radio and television broadcasting.
Swale Amateur Radio Club G4SRC
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