LA Caithness Amateur Radio Society held its first field day since the coronavirus pandemic struck more than 18 months ago.
The club installed a mobile unit at the Wick Pilot House and used a converted caravan as a studio. The event, which drew radio enthusiasts and shortwave listeners from around the world, was “very successful,” according to club spokesman Hamish Duncan.
He said: “Many locals and visitors came to see what the main mast which carried the transmitting antennas was about, many were amazed to hear our members talking to people from other countries without a mobile. It was an event. very successful and we thank everyone for their support. “
Mr Duncan stressed that the club was to be closed due to Covid-19 but pointed out that tuition fees by Skype and Zoom continued
“This is very successful with new members locally and beyond benefiting from these unique one-on-one lessons provided by our Caithness Club. The number of local members has doubled and we have developed amenities and plans that will be of interest to schools indicating that the electronics as a career is indeed a very desirable path to consider.
“One-to-one online lessons continue and we are also running an ‘on air’ network on Wednesdays and Saturdays so members can stay in touch. Other people from outside the region are also joining us. maintain the success of the club. “
He added: “We participated in the 2021 Lighthouses Live global event in Noss Head and Stroma and we are delighted with a very good result. We have managed 268 contacts in 37 countries from Noss and 162 in 18 country from Stroma. “
Mr Duncan said the club has two websites. “One is just for general information https://www.facebook.com/CaithnessARS/
“The second and most informative one we created in March 2020 is for club members and those interested in radio. It can be accessed at: //www.qsl.net/ms0fnr/.”
