How We Started

Over the period from 1997 to 2003 a group of licensed amateur radio operators, some whom were retired persons, met for breakfast each Saturday at various restaurants located in either St. Albert or north-western Edmonton.

The group started as a small handful of radio operators and eventually grew to a number in excess of twenty. Over the period the group felt they should get involved in some communications activity, which would be useful to the community.

In late 2002 several of the operators felt there was a need to provide emergency communications to the community at large and began making enquiries of various groups who might use two way radio communications in the eventuality of an emergency and received support from fire, police and other community service groups.

In December 2002 several members of the group obtained a copy of the Societies Act and began gathering information as to the requirements to establish a not for profit amateur radio club.

The club was officially registered on March 7, 2003 with objectives and by-laws in place. Since the time of registration the group has been developing terms of reference and guidelines for ethical policies and practises related to fund raising and the expenditures of such funds.

The membership has grown to over forty and continued growth is anticipated as more licensed amateur radio operators hear of our plans to provide emergency services.

Committees have been established and planning is in progress for a variety of activities including the training and eventual use of these unique communications services.

The membership is eager to provide their services and many of the newer members are middle aged and feel there is a need and support the type of service this club will eventually provide.

Development of a weather watch service will also be provided in support of the federal government volunteer weather watch services. Many hours of planning have gone into the initial stages and we envision our training and efforts will be of significant benefit to the community at large.