Inspiring the Next Generation at Science Weekend
Wednesday, 1st April 2026
Over the weekend of 14th and 15th March, the South Derbyshire & Ashby Woulds Amateur Radio Group (SDAWARG), based at the RePlan Centre in Moira, proudly took part in British Science Week—a nationwide celebration aimed at inspiring people of all ages to engage with science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The club opened its doors to the public and welcomed a steady stream of visitors
across the weekend. Families, local school children and scouts, all came along to
discover the fascinating world of amateur radio. The atmosphere throughout was lively
and engaging, with visitors enjoying both demonstrations and hands-on activities.
A wide range of exhibits showcased the depth and history of the hobby. These included
a collection of vintage domestic radio receivers dating from the 1940s through to the
1970s, alongside a striking high-voltage spark generator producing dramatic “lightning”
arcs across a 40–50mm air gap. The group’s modern operating shack was also on
display, featuring HF shortwave equipment capable of worldwide communication using
simple wire antennas, as well as VHF and UHF radios for more local contacts. Many of
the children that attended were amazed when they were able to speak on the air to
other radio amateurs – supported by club members. Visitors were particularly
interested in digital modes, where computers communicate via radio, as well as the
enduring appeal of Morse code, which continues to be widely used by radio amateurs
today.
One of the standout successes of the weekend was the involvement of local a local
Scout group – 4th Ashby Scouts. Young participants brought along receiver kits provided
through the RSGB and, with guidance from club members, successfully assembled fully
working FM radios and Morse code practice units. For many, this was their first
experience of electronics assembly, and the sense of achievement was clear to see.
Club member Nick (G5NIK) reflected on his experience helping one young Scout
(Junior), build his first radio receiver:
“It was important to let him take the lead, building confidence as we went. Together, we
identified each component and worked through the instructions step by step. Watching
his skills improve with every solder joint was fantastic—and when the radio came to life,
the pride on his face said it all. That moment will stay with me for a long time.”
Another member Nathan (M0NXD) shared a similar experience helping 12-year-old
scout - Harrison, who had had some soldering experience through school:
“Within no time at all, the penny dropped and he was producing excellent solder joints.
Seeing that level of enthusiasm and rapid learning was incredibly rewarding.”
The event also attracted families from local schools, including one particularly
enthusiastic 10-year-old who already spends his time dismantling old electronics to
salvage useful components and even volunteers at a local repair cafe. A couple of
‘vintage electronics mad’ members were amazed when he produced some valves! His
curiosity and passion perfectly captured the spirit of the weekend.
In addition to the technical activities, visitors were able to relax with free refreshments,
and a tombola featuring donated prizes, which helped raise funds for both the group
and their chosen charity, the East Midlands Air Ambulance.
Events like this highlight the importance of engaging young people in science and
engineering. As Nick noted, his own journey in amateur radio played a significant role in
his career as a former RAF aircraft engineer—demonstrating how a hobby can develop
into something far more impactful.
The weekend was widely regarded as a great success, with strong attendance and
enthusiastic participation throughout. The group hopes that the experience has inspired
many of its younger visitors to explore science further and perhaps even consider
becoming licensed radio amateurs in the future.
SDAWARG would like to thank all members who generously gave their time to support
the event, as well as everyone who attended and contributed to such an enjoyable and
inspiring weekend.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
M9JQY
Guess The Winning Football Team Winner!
Wednesday, 14th January 2026
The club regulariy runs competitions to raise funds for the club. Team 'squares' are sold at £1 and the winning team/sqaure gets £25. The Winner this time was Stephen Beacham M7HJN! Congratulations Stephen!
Richard Harlow
Chairman
G5RJH
Christmas Extravaganza
Wednesday, 24th December 2025
On 17th December, SDAWARG held its annual Christmas fuddle and quiz night, which proved to be a very well-attended and thoroughly enjoyable evening. Some members even made the effort to arrive in fancy dress or black tie, adding to the festive atmosphere.
With tables groaning under the weight of food and the sound of laughter filling the room, it was time for the Ridiculous Christmas Quiz, hosted by club chairman Richard G5RJH. After 35 truly terrible questions, the winners were finally revealed and prizes presented.
The prize for best fancy dress went to Dave “Mario” Fletcher M7JIG, while the winners of the quiz were the Co-Ax Crew: Jim G1JMT, Paul M1TRX and Nathan M0NXD.
It was an absolutely great evening, and a big thank you goes to everyone who attended, helped organise the night, and supported the club throughout the year.
As an aside, congratulations to all members who have taken and passed their Foundation, Intermediate, Full, and Direct to Full examinations at the club—an excellent achievement all round.
Richard J Harlow
Chairman
G5RJH
144MHz QRP Contest
Wednesday, 10th December 2025
The club has recieved a 144MHz QRP Contest Certificate for coming 34th in the contest earlier in the year.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
BiWOTA 2025
Tues, 2nd September 2025
The club has recieved a 'The Lock Award' Certificate for working more than 10 BiWOTA stations during the event
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
BiWOTA 2025
Tuesday, 2nd September 2025
British Inland Waterways on the Air 2025
As our busy lives rush by, it was no surprise to find BiWota weekend upon us once again. With fingers crossed for kinder weather than last year, we set our plans in motion. The venue was unchanged — Moira Furnace Museum and Country Park, just a stone’s throw from our clubhouse, with the Ashby Canal running right through it. A perfect setting for the South Derbyshire and Ashby Woulds Amateur Radio Group to fly the BiWota flag.
Come Saturday morning, with members briefed and ready, the tent, gazebo and antennas soon rose into place, and our stall was laid out. The Furnace is an excellent spot for public engagement, thanks to its steady stream of visitors drawn by the canal, museum, café and shops. With this in mind, we came armed with a good supply of leaflets — some from the RSGB and Icom, plus our own club flyer — ready to hand to curious passers-by. BiWota is, after all, a wonderfully relaxed event: plenty of time to chat with the public and introduce them to the rich and varied world of amateur radio.
On to the operating itself. A 133-ft end-fed wire was hoisted high into a tree, alongside a colinear on a push-up mast, and before long we were calling “CQ BiWota.” The Yaesu FT-991A took charge of 2m and 70cm FM and FT8, while an FT-710 handled SSB and CW across the HF bands. Early contacts were slow going — but then, as if a switch had been thrown, the logbook began to fill. Soon, BiWota stations were coming in thick and fast on HF SSB.
As evening drew in, BiWota activity tapered off, but the DX scene lit up. Through the early hours we logged some cracking contacts on both SSB and CW: Canada, plenty of US states from Maine down to the Carolinas and beyond, even Panama and Costa Rica found their way into the book.
Public footfall was lighter than hoped, but one visitor stood out. After a fascinated chat in the afternoon, he asked what time we were finishing. On learning we were staying overnight, he promised to return — and sure enough, around 9pm he reappeared, this time bearing bottles of beer! He stayed until after 11, and left saying he’d see us again at the club on Wednesday. If nothing else, that alone was a fine result. New members are always welcome.
Later that night, pizza arrived from a local takeaway, delivered to the locked park gates by a slightly puzzled driver, no doubt wondering what on earth was happening inside. Bellies filled and a couple of beers enjoyed, the remaining three of us carried on until around 3am, when the station was finally shut down.
Sunday dawned overcast but warm, with the first dog-walkers appearing along the towpath by 7.30. Several stopped for a chat and showed real interest in what we were doing. As the day wore on the weather lifted, more visitors appeared, and the log continued to grow. The atmosphere was spot-on: friends enjoying radio together, engaging with the public, and showcasing our wonderful hobby in the idyllic setting of the Ashby Canal and Moira Furnace. A brilliant way to spend the weekend.
So if you fancy a relaxed, easy-going event, why not give BiWota a try next year? We can promise — you won’t regret it.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
BiWOTA 2025
Thursday, 21st August 2025
British Inland Waterways on the Air takes place from Saturday 23rd - Monday 25th August 2025. SDAWARG shall be operating from Moira Furnace, just next to the Ashby Canal on the North West Leics/South Derbyshire border.
There are around 40 stations being activated for this special event this year. We shall be using our own club call G0SRC/GX0SRC as we are away from our club house. We are hoping to to contact many of the BiWota stations; we shall echanged signal and clarity of speech reports as well as our location; plus what is called our WAB (worked all Britain) square - which gives a more precise idea as to where we are in Britain.
The primary bands will be 40m (7MHz) and 2m (144MHz SSB and FM) but all bands will be acceptable. We shall be operating with voice, FT8 (a digital mode) and maybe even Morse code this year.
The aim of the event is to bring together Radio Amateurs who regularly use the waterways to celebrate their hobby and raise awareness of the UK waterways.
There will also be an event Facebook page for current information.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Science week 2025
Tuesday, 8th April 2025
The Club held an open weekend for this event on the weekend of the 15th-16th March and set up all
manner of objects to look at, have a ‘go’ at or listen to and have a tune through. Photographs over
the years of the club in action all around the walls; radios through the ages from a real vintage
crystal set all the way through to more modern ‘hand built’ transistor sets; a Windhurst Machine
(used under supervision of course) showing the generation of static electricity;
SDR Uno software,
by SDR play was running with an RSP dx dsp receiver on a computer and attached to a mag loop;
vintage record players – one playing the music of its era; home brew kits made by the club and vintage
Eddystone receivers to tune through.
The opportunity for kit building with support by members; G0SRC radio station set up and demonstrated to all visitors – welcome to send a message with support of club members; we set up a table to record climate change information with contacts that we were made. So, that is the set up in a nutshell: lots of stimulus and opportunities for engagement with plenty of club members on hand to support.
Our Chairman, Richard G5RJH arrived on the Saturday (after set up on the Friday), and commented that it looked spectacular. Well signed and a great display of equipment. All the visitors he spoke to were impressed and it gave them something to think about with regards to either taking up the hobby or starting out.
As usual Mark 2E0MGA, did his stuff on the airwaves, asking the climate change questions with very little response unfortunately.
Alan M7MAW found it interesting and being able to help a newcomer to the group with FT8, really made him feel a part of the event; great to pass on some of his knowledge for a change. Really out of his comfort zone, but felt really chuffed afterwards.
As there was plenty to see and get involved in, it was certainly interesting for member Nathan M0NXD’s 7 year old daughter Olivia. She was amazed to see transceivers being used and various radios from history. The Windhurst Machine was particularly interesting for her, helping her to believe that science works.
Building a kit excited her too, she was very keen to melt something with the ‘hot pokey thing’. She was so interested that her dad bought her a little electronics kit, which she dived into straight away. This is what it’s all about isn’t it – enthusing the youngsters to be the STEM experts of tomorrow.
Some comments we received:
‘Well done to everyone involved in the weekend; a lot of effort went to setting it up, and it showed’.
‘Nice to see people attend and say how much they enjoyed the event’.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Bletchley Park - Report
Tuesday, 21st February 2025
On Monday 17th February 2025, eight members of South Derbyshire and Ashby Woulds ARG, travelled south to visit Bletchley Park and the National Radio Centre. After an uneventful journey, except the usual M1 restrictions, we arrived at our destination.
With helpful volunteers at the gate directing us to car park, we hastily entered the warmth of the visitor centre. Quick and easy entrance was granted using our free passes from the RSGB website.
And, after a pit stop in the cafe for refreshments, a plan of action was decided upon and off we went to the NRC.
Greeted inside by yet another volunteer, we signed the visitor book and perused the excellent exhibits along the way to the ‘shack’. On arriving, yet more volunteers were busily explaining amateur radio to quite a crowd of keen onlookers of every age. The satellite demonstration seemed to be of exceptional interest to the younger contingent. There is such a lot to see, and a very impressive set up it is. Being able to operate the GB3RS callsign was a huge tick in Richard’s (G5RJH – and the group’s Chairman) personal box. Very knowledgeable and accommodating amateurs were in the NRC; so sorry we can’t remember their names or callsigns.
From the NRC we ventured on a guided tour of Bletchley Park; booked tours are free and last about an hour. Our tour guide - Peter Markham - was brilliant, easy to listen to and incredible with the amount of facts and figures he knew. If it’s a cold day and you decide to do the tour, do wrap up well’ as it is mainly outside!
After finishing the tour we returned to the main reception building and the cafe. A little sustenance, and a walk around the shop (good selection of books on the history of Bletchley Park) we returned to our vehicles for the drive home.
All-in-all a fabulous day, but we only scratched the surface as there are numerous buildings; we just didn’t get time to visit. The D-Day exhibition and the computing centre are for next time - plus much more!
If you are a member of the RSGB take advantage of the free admission and go visit what is a very worthwhile treasure.
Since the visit, many of us have revisited The Imitation Game – the story of the work of Alan Turing and the cryptography team he joined, to decrypt the Enigma code. It includes Alan’s development of his own machine - a prototype of the modern computer to decipher German codes.
Richard Harlow
Chairman
G5RJH
From left to right: M0NXD, G7JHW, G0HFL, M6YAD, G0RFD, M7HQF, G5RJH, M0JEO.
144MHz QRP Contest
Wednesday, 8th January 2025
The club has recieved a 144MHz QRP Contest Certificate for coming 17th in the contest last year.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
BiWota
Tues, 15th October 2024
The club has recieved a 'Tow Path Award' Certificate for working more than 5 BiWota stations during the event
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
2024 RSGB SSB Field Day Results
Tues, 1st October 2024
Well done to all concerned with second place in the RSGB field day - QRP section.
Richard Harlow
Chairman
G5RJH
BiWota
Thur, 5th September 2024
A huge well done to team SDAWARG for the effort put in to the BiWota event this weekend at the historic Moira Furnace in Leicestershire; especially Mark who has been a stalwart operator and made numerous contacts to GX0SRC. Plenty of Inter-G contacts were made, including 7 BiWota stations, plus Some very good contacts from overseas too - GI4RKC from Lisburn Ireland; PB5X from the Netherlands; W2QF from Maine; K9MBQ from Charlottesville, central Virginia all on 20 meters, later into the night. All-in-all 53 contacts: 5 extras who were on canals or near rivers, but not registered for BiWota.
The weather was very changeable during Saturday; early rain delayed antennas being put up which was frustrating and it became very cold from Saturday evening into Sunday. But, we carried on. Mark (2E0MGA), Phil (M7EIN) and Bob (G7JHW) have been a great team: supporting each other; operating (Mark in the main); erecting aerials and setting up (and taking down) base camp in wind and rain; making sure each other had a warm drink, biscuits and numerous other things. Paul (M7MAW), was very supportive and assisted in taking down the station. It was also, nice to see other members who came along to offer support: Gary, Fiona and Nathan (M0NXD).
Also on at the furnace on the Sunday was a car show which attracted many people, and was another interest for us. Lots of visitors came to basecamp, with a possibility of couple of new members which is great. The furnace was certainly an excellent spot for photos!
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Barton Under Needwood Steam Rally and Family Festival
Thur, 25th July 2024
On the 20th - 21st July, SDAWARG attended the ‘Barton Under Needwood Steam Rally and Family Festival’ at Needwood Rise Farm, Barton-under-Needwood. Staffordshire.
Stations were set up for HF, 2m and 4m.
The weather was good and foot fall past the pitch on Saturday was also good, with a fair bit of interest. One particular gentleman who came to talk to us told that he had never seen anything like our set up before, and he was extremely impressed.
Sunday however, was exceptional with the amount of people who came to see us. Icom had very kindly given us some brochures and pens to give away so we made up small bundles with our club details and flyers promoting the hobby. On entering the site, or waking up from our slumber in camp, there was an overwhelming sense of unity, family, support and appreciation of everything that had been put on for us all to enjoy. A fantastic series of memories made for all who took part in whatever way. We felt proud.
Thank you to all the public (including a lot of licensed amateurs who are now thinking of returning to the hobby) for venturing away from the other excellent stalls and exhibits to come and see what we are all about.
Sterling work was delivered by everyone concerned, especially Jacqui 2E0JQY who did the arrangements with the rally organiser. We are all now looking forward to next year and have been discussing other ideas that we can bring along to this amazing event!
Before that, we shall be showing off our hobby at Moira Furnace for the BiWota event on
August bank holiday. A venue close to our heart, as it is literally on our club's doorstep.
Present over the weekend were;
G5RJH Chairman
G7JHW Vice Chairman
M0TRZ Treasurer
2E0JQY Secretary
2E0MGA operator
M0JEO operator
G0RFD with Millie the dog
M7EIN caravanner extraordinaire
Plus family and friends.
Richard Harlow
Chairman
G5RJH
D-Day Celebration - GB8OO
Thur, 6th June 2024
Hi everyone,
The Club will be operating from Rosliston Forestry Centre, Rosliston, South Derbyshire to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of D Day operation. We have obtained a Notice of Variation to activate the special callsign 'Golf Bravo Eight Oscar Oscar' - GB8OO or Golf Bravo Eight Operation Overlord.
We look forward to hearing you on the air from 7pm until 9pm.
Contact me for more information.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Science Discovery Fun Day
Thur, 2nd May 2024
On Saturday 27th April, South Derbyshire and Ashby Woulds ARG set up stations at the Rosliston Forestry Centre, Rosliston, South Derbyshire, to support their science day.
We were active on HF voice, HF FT8 and 2m FM.
Interest from the the public was slow at first but as other activities outside finished, people began to move inside out of the cold wind and several people spent time around our tables. It was nice to be able to interact with the youngsters who showed interest in the hobby.
As the forestry centre had just been approved as a POTA site, Nathan M0NXD was able to be the first operator to activate the site.
Mark 2E0MGA did a sterling job on HF contacting a few SES around the country and Richard G5RJH manned the 2m QRP station. A visit from two new club members Gary and Fiona was much appreciated support.
All in all a very worth while event and our thanks go to the staff at Rosliston Forestry centre for asking us to join them and for their help on the day.
Richard Harlow
Chairman
G5RJH
Open Evening and On the Air Night
Wed, 27th March 2024
Open Evening and On the Air Night
Mon, 19th February 2024
We welcome visitors to our Club or our external events at any time. However, we have specifically set aside Wednesday, 27th March 2024 to welcome anyone with an interest in radio or a desire to find out more about Amateur Radio.
This evening will give you a friendly welcome to the Club, members will be available to chat with and we will open the Club shack and have some radio equipment available for use.
We look forward to welcoming you from 7pm until 9pm.
Contact me for more information.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Family Science Discovery Fun Day - Green Living
Tues, 17th October 2023
Don't forget the club will be attending the Green Science Discovery Fun Day at Rosliston Forestry Centre this weekend; the 21st October from 11am-3pm. For more information see Jacqui 2E0JQY
British Inland Waterways On The Air
Tues, 17th October 2023
After a very successfull weekend on the banks of Greenheart Lake at Rosliston Forestry Centre, the club has been awarded the Tow Path Award for its achievements in working British Inland Waterways On The Air stations.
British Inland Waterways On The Air
Wed, 30th August 2023
During the late August Bank Holiday weekend the Club took part in the British Inland Waterways On The Air (BiWOTA) event at Rosliston Forestry Centre on the banks of Greenheart Lake.
The club operated on many bands from UHF through to HF with the 40m band having the most activity. Many contacts were made through England but also into Ireland, Scotland, Brittany and Belgium. The BiWOTA highlights being GX3SRT on their canal boat “Janina” and G0HCP in Cambridgeshire on his narrow boat “Grumpy”.
Members had great fun trying out all sorts of antennas, many home made, having a fantastic few days out playing radio. Mark 2E0MGA had many many contacts, even working a pile up at one point operating from the boot of his car. Whilst Nathan M0NXD lifted everyones spirits during the rain by bring toasties and beer.
Members are already making sure their diaries are clear for the BiWOTA event next year.
Well done all!
British Inland Waterways On The Air
Thurs, 3rd August 2023
The Club will be at Rosliston Forestry Centre situated at various points around the Rolls-Royce Greenheart Lake. The British inland Waterways on the air (BiWota) event will be held over the August bank holiday weekend: 26 to 28 August 2023.
The event is open to all Amateurs who are boaters, cyclists, walkers and other users of the canals, rivers, towpaths, riverbanks, other waterways, for work or recreation. Many clubs and individual Amateurs on or near the UK inland waterways obtain Special Event Station (SES) callsigns. Others operate mobile or portable using their own callsigns. Many more like to contact the BiWota stations. It is also a good chance for WAB enthusiasts to get some rare WAB squares. The primary bands will be 40m (7MHz) and 2m (144MHz SSB and FM) but all bands will be acceptable. The aim of the event is to bring together Radio Amateurs who regularly use a variety of waterways to celebrate their hobby and raise awareness of the UK waterways.
Contact me for more information.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
RSGB VHF Field Day
Wed, 5th July 2023
Many thanks to all that contributed to the contest at the weekend, it was great to be out in the open doing what we love again.
Conditions were challenging with a lot fewer stations taking part from previous years. That being said the results for 4m and 6m are in and the contact maps are shown below, a fantastic result from both bands congratulations to all the operators involved.
Simon Jordan
Treasurer
M0TRZ
WSPR
Mon, 3rd July 2023
The club is now running a SOTABeams WSPRLite Antenna Performance Analysis System.
WSPR is a digital radio communication protocol designed for weak signal transmission. WSPR uses frequency-shift keying and forward error correction to reliably send data tens or thousands of miles with just a few milliwatts of power. WSPR encoding and decoding underlying WSJT-X is open-source, but implemented in C and FORTRAN.
The performance of the clubs antenna can be viewed on PSKReporter.
Contact Nathan M0NXD for more information.
RSGB VHF Field Day
Sun, 25th June 2023
As usual the club will be taking part in the RSGB's VHF National Field Day.
This year the field day falls on the 1st and 2nd July from 14:00 UTC on Saturday to 14:00 UTC on Sunday. We'll be transmitting from our usual site at Oak Tree Farm.
Current volunteers are Richard (6m), Vic (4m), Nathan (2m), Simon (70cms) and Bob (23cms). Phil is also going and will help with the overnight operation. I know Phil also said he is going and will help through the night, he is taking his caravan. Mark said he will be attending. More people required though so everyone gets a rest.
Contact me for more information.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Loughborough War Memorial 100th Anniversary
Thurs, 15th June 2023
Hello, Your members are invited to operate at the special event station to honour the 100th anniversary of the Loughborough War Memorial, GB3LWM. This takes place on the weekend of 22/23rd July at Queens Park in central Loughborough. Please contact me for more information. Les Bailey M0JVZ
Moira Replan Open Day
Sun, 4th December 2022
Thank you to every one that was able to take some time in supporting our wonderful Radio Home. I know that many of us wished to be there, and couldn't. Nevertheless, it is great to hear how much our presence was appreciated and how many people came along.
Have a read:
"On behalf of all the Trustees a huge thank you for all your hard work in helping to make Moira Replan’s first open day a great success. It was so good to see so many of you attending. Your displays were all brilliant and it was a delight to see you all working together to make the day go so well. Those of you who were unable to make it on the day thank you too for your pre-open day support.
Your displays earned you a good deal of interest, highlighting your individual group, creating some new members for some together with advertising exactly what Moira Replan has to offer giving others the knowledge spreading the word to family and friends.
We were able to log just short of a hundred people attending, difficult to give an exact figure as visitors were entering via both entrances. Both the MP and District Councillors who attended were very impressed and expressed their support in our attempts to purchase Replan to secure our future.
Are you up for us to do the same in the spring?
Thank you all once again.
If I don’t catch up with you before Christmas wishing, you all happy holidays.
Sincerely,
Mary (Chairperson of the Trustees of Moira Replan)
I would say, personally, another in the Spring would be great.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Air Ambulance Donations
Thurs, 27th October 2022
Latest update regarding our fundraising for our local Air Ambulance. Thank You and Well Done!
Moira Replan
Wed, 26th October 2022
Following a meeting of the Trustees this afternoon we would like to annouce that we have decided to proceed with a plan to seek Community Ownershop of Moira Replan Centre under the Right to Buy Government Levelling up Scheme. If successful, this will secure the future of the Centre for all current and future groups and users. Ensuring the continuation of our asset allwing us ownershop for reorganising with possible opportunites to offer increased facilities.
We have devised an action plan to take us to the end of the year with and Open Day on Saturday 3rd December 11am-3pm when we hope as many of you as possible will be able to attend to show the range of your work and chat with each other and with people who are inviting.
Currently Moira Replan Centre is owned by Northwest Discrict Council. We have held a lease with them for many years, paying a peppercord rent. They are responislbe for the maintenance of the outside of the building and we the inside.
As a registered Charity together with our registered Accreditied Community Asset status, out uniqueness offers your groups a safe welcoming place to meet. For many years we have worked with the uncertainty of closure. If this were to happen the facility would be lost forever.
So let us all come togehter to make this happen. We hope we can rely on your support.
More news will follow shortly
Mary Brealey
On behalf of the Chairperson and Trustees.
Vice Chairman Appointment
Wed, 19th October 2022
At this years Annual General Meeting the club appointed long term member Dave Turner G0VVF as the club's new Vice Chairman.
Chatsworth Air Ambulance Open Day
Sun, 25th September 2022
The Club took part in the Air Ambualance Open Day at Chatsworth yesterday. A great day was had by all that attended. Plenty of donations were collected for the Air Ambulance. A good number of contacts were made under the Special Event callsign GB2MAA. The high lights being USA and Finland using only 5 watts on the 20m band, a great result!
Thank you to the Chairman Vic M0VCS, Bob G7JHW and Richard G5RJH for making it all happen. Events like this really help put the club on the map.
Chatsworth Air Ambulance Open Day
Wed, 10th August 2022
Hi all,
You may already be aware of this, I have been in discussion with Tracey for a while, but only just had confirmation. SDAWARG shall be supporting the Air Ambulance at: 'Your local Air Ambulance Open Day' - Chatsworth House, Derbyshire - 24 September 2022.
It is to be a fun packed day, raising awareness of both the Air Ambulance and Children’s Air Ambulance, hopefully they will have both helicopters there.
There will be entertainment throughout the day and various stalls, things to do.
SDAWARG shall be putting on a stand to promote Amateur Radio as well as sharing our involvement in supporting our local air ambulance...
If you could let Richard know if you will be attending that will be great.
More info shall be shared when it has been obtained from Tracey.
One thing that I would like to know is - should I organise a Special Event call for the day?
Any ideas, questions please do say.
Thanks
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Moira Village Hall Community Day
Mon, 30th May 2022
The club has accepted an invitation to attend and participate in the Community day at Moira Village Hall to commemorate the Queens Platinum Jubilee on Saturday 18th June, commencing at 11am until 5pm.
The Community Day is being organised to enable all those that use the hall as well as new residents to the village, to enjoy a day of celebration as a community.
We will be displaying information about Amateur Radio and also providing a demonstration so that the community is aware of what the club has to offer the local community.
Invitations are being extended to our MP Andrew Bridgen and other distinguished guests in the area.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Supporting Our Local Air Ambulance
Wed, 20th April 2022
Wednesday 20th at 7.30pm was the agreed date for the handover…
Tracey Jones (Community Fundraising Executive for the Derbyshire area of the Air Ambulance) was very happy to receive the cheque on behalf of Derbyshire Air ambulance. Each mission of the air ambulance costs in the region of £1700 and it can do 4 or 5 missions a day with no Government funding of any form.
Members of the radio groups shared what the group involves and some of its history. As it was a group night, she was lucky to see the ‘Shack’ in action, as Rich G5RJH and Mark 2E0MGA were operating as G0SRC in an 80m contest on the same evening.
We have been very pleased to have been able to do some good in these very trying times – albeit on a small donation – but to be able to help, really warms our hearts.
Thank you to all involved.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
John Pedley
Mon, 18th April 2022
Good evening all,
I am very sorry to be the bearer of sad news once again.
Our very dear friend John Pedley (G1YBM) passed away this afternoon in Derby Hospital.
I shall let you have more information as soon as it becomes available to me.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Morse Code
Tues, 5th April 2022
Any members wishing to learn MORSE?
Mick Cotton (G4HBY), has offered to come to a group meeting sometime in the near future to teach more code to any members that are interested. Not sure how many sessions he is offering at this moment.
Please email me if you are interested; that would be great.
I do not have a date as yet, but as soon as Vic has got the date from Mick I shall let you all know.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Anne Mansfield
Tues, 5th April 2022
Good morning all,
I am sorry to be the bearer of sad news...
We have just been informed that Anne Mansfield, the lovely wife of Peter (M3GPM), has passed away. Reunited with her wonderful husband of many years.
I remember them both with very fond memories.
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY
Air Ambulance
Wed, 30th March 2022
Hi all,
Tracey Jones the Community Fundraising Executive for the Derbyshire area of the Air Ambulance charity, will be joining us on Wednesday 20th April - 7.30pm - to collect the cheque.
It will be great if as many of you as possible could be there. A fab and generous achievement of the group.
I have contacted the Burton Mail to see if they can attend/write an article for the paper. They cannot always attend, but will often accept decent photos from the public and I'll add in a write up too. (Will also send to RSGB).
So, if any of you can take some good pics and send them to me that will be great. I may not be be able to make it as I am currently suffering badly with Long Covid.
Thanks
Jacqui Johnson
Secretary
2E0JQY