Calling All East Coast Hams! Whakatane Radio Club Keeps Bay of Plenty Connected

Whakatane, NZ – For the dedicated radio enthusiasts of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, the Whakatane amateur radio club (Branch Number 51) stands as a vital hub for communication, camaraderie, and community service. With regular meetings and a strong focus on emergency preparedness, this active group keeps the airwaves buzzing across the stunning eastern coast.

The club holds its monthly gatherings at 32 Waiewe Street, Whakatane 3120, a central point for members across the region. Their postal address is 24 Churchill Street, Whakatane 3120.

Dedicated Leadership for a Connected Community

The Eastern Bay of Plenty branch is guided by a committed team of officers:

• President: Lance Putan (Callsign ZL1LDP) leads the charge, and can be reached at steel.fab.ltd@gmail.com.
• Secretary & AREC Group Leader: John Bell (Callsign ZL1JWB) handles the administrative duties and spearheads the vital emergency communications efforts. He can be contacted at secretary@radioclub.nz for general inquiries or gleastbop@arec.nz for AREC matters.
• AREC Deputy Group Leader & Exam Supervisor: Christian Anderson (Callsign ZL1AFK) plays a dual role, assisting with emergency preparedness and guiding aspiring radio amateurs through the licensing process. He can be reached at dgleastbop@arec.nz or chris@stillway.co.nz.

The Club Call sign trustee for the branch is Karl Hunt (ZL3RUM), ensuring the proper management of the club's on-air identity.

Regular Meetings for All Enthusiasts

The club convenes on the second Wednesday of each month, at 7:30 PM, providing a consistent opportunity for members to gather, share knowledge, and discuss the latest in amateur radio. The only exception to this schedule is the month of January.

Whether you're a seasoned "ham" looking to connect with local operators, an aspiring radio amateur seeking guidance for your exam, or simply curious about the vital role of amateur radio in emergency services, the Eastern Bay of Plenty group offers a welcoming environment.

For more details on the Eastern Bay of Plenty amateur radio club, their activities, or how to get involved, mark your calendar for their next meeting or reach out to their dedicated officers.