In the historic spa town of Bad Homburg, nestled at the foot of the Taunus Mountains, a group of amateur radio enthusiasts is keeping the spirit of wireless communication alive. The DARC-Ortsverband Bad Homburg F11, part of the German Amateur Radio Club (DARC), is a vibrant community of operators who share a passion for radio, technology, and camaraderie. Known as the birthplace of the DARC, the F11 club has a rich history and continues to be a hub for innovation and tradition in amateur radio.
A Legacy of Connection
The F11 club holds a special place in the history of amateur radio in Germany, as it is the birthplace of the DARC. Founded in 1950, the club has been a cornerstone of the amateur radio community, fostering connections both locally and globally. The club’s members are dedicated to exploring the many facets of amateur radio, from long-distance communication on the shortwave bands to local networking on VHF and UHF frequencies. Whether it’s through voice communication, Morse code, digital modes, or even satellite communication, the F11 club is a testament to the versatility and enduring appeal of amateur radio.
The Limes Diploma: A Unique Tradition
One of the F11 club’s standout initiatives is the Limes Diploma, a special award that celebrates the club’s connection to the historic Limes, the ancient Roman border fortifications that once ran through the region. The diploma is available to licensed amateur radio operators and shortwave listeners (SWLs) and recognizes contacts made with stations located along the Limes. Points are awarded based on the distance and rarity of the contacts, and the diploma can be earned by achieving a specified number of points. This unique tradition reflects the club’s commitment to blending history with the modern practice of amateur radio.
Monthly Gatherings: A Tradition of Togetherness
The F11 club’s monthly OV-Abend (local chapter evening) is a cornerstone of its community. Held on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 PM local time, these gatherings take place at the Hotel & Restaurant Wennhof on Seestraße 62 in Scharbeutz. The meetings are a chance for members to discuss projects, share ideas, and enjoy good company. Guests are always welcome, making the F11 club an excellent entry point for anyone curious about amateur radio.
In addition to the monthly meetings, the club hosts a weekly OV-Funkrunde (radio roundtable) every Wednesday at 8:00 PM local time on the 2m OV frequency 144.575 MHz. This informal gathering is a great opportunity for members to check in, share news, and stay connected.
A Focus on Innovation and Education
The F11 club is deeply committed to innovation and education. Members regularly participate in contests and field days, showcasing their skills and competing with operators from around the world. The club’s emphasis on self-building and experimentation reflects the core values of amateur radio, encouraging members to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
One of the club’s standout initiatives is its involvement in APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System), a digital communication system that allows operators to share real-time data, such as location and weather conditions, over the airwaves. The club’s DB0MAR repeater is a hub of activity, providing reliable communication across the region.
A Commitment to Community
The F11 club is more than just a group of radio enthusiasts; it’s a community that values connection and collaboration. Members often gather for spontaneous meetups and workshops, working together on projects and sharing their knowledge. The club’s QSL manager ensures that members stay connected with operators around the world, handling the exchange of QSL cards with care and efficiency.
Looking to the Future
As the F11 club looks ahead, it remains committed to its core values of innovation, education, and community. With a dedicated leadership team, including Chairman Klaus Woyczehowski, DL9WO, and Deputy Chairman Michael Beth, DJ5LB, the club is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence in amateur radio.
For those in Bad Homburg and the surrounding area, the DARC-Ortsverband Bad Homburg F11 offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of amateur radio. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a curious newcomer, the club welcomes you to join its journey through the airwaves.
To learn more about the DARC-Ortsverband Bad Homburg F11, contact Chairman Klaus Woyczehowski, DL9WO, at dl9wo@darc.de or attend their next OV-Abend on the second Wednesday of the month at the Hotel & Restaurant Wennhof in Scharbeutz.
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.