In Russia’s Volga region, the Penza branch of the SRR (Union of Radio Amateurs of Russia) is neither the largest nor the flashiest, but it is one of the most disciplined in keeping local operators connected — both on the air and in person.
A Council that Runs Like a Net
At the helm is Valery Petrovich Kirilchik (RK4FW), who not only leads the regional branch but also chairs both the council and the qualification commission — a triple role that blends policy, standards, and practice. His deputies, Vyacheslav Vladimirovich Prelov (UA4FEN) and Elena Gennadievna Ovchinnikova (R4FBE), form a balanced leadership team, representing both long-time contesters and active community organisers.
The council is rounded out by Vitaly Nikolaevich Pustovalov (RW4FD) and Sergey Yuryevich Parshikhin (RW4FS), with oversight provided by auditor Sergey Nikolaevich Shornikov (RZ4FO).
On the Air, Every Wednesday
If Penza’s branch has a heartbeat, it is Wednesday evening. At 20:00 MSK, members gather on 1900 kHz for the HF roundtable, followed at 21:30 MSK by a local net via the RR4FF repeater (145.125/145.725 MHz, CTCSS 123.0 Hz). The nets are steered by RU4FM, ensuring both HF traditionalists and VHF/UHF operators have their slot.
The Physical Side of the Hobby
The branch meets face-to-face every second Saturday of the month at 10:00 MSK at Moscow Street, 32 in Penza. The QSL bureau, headed by Mikhail Lvovich Nikolaev (UA4FEQ), operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays, making it easy for members to exchange cards and confirm contacts.
Infrastructure and Coverage
Penza’s main repeater, RR4FF, covers the city and nearby districts, providing reliable local comms without overcomplicating the network. It is an unpretentious setup, but for a city this size, it works.
Why It Works
The Penza branch’s strength lies in consistency. The schedule is predictable, the leadership is accessible, and the infrastructure — modest but functional — keeps the community engaged. It is, in short, a case study in how a small, disciplined regional club can stay relevant without overextending its resources.
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