Exploring Ham Radio in New Brunswick: Your Club Awaits!

Welcome ham radio enthusiasts in New Brunswick and surrounding areas! Whether you're a seasoned operator or just beginning your journey into the world of amateur radio, this blog is your guide to the local clubs that can support your passion.

International Repeater Group (IRG) Inc.

• Focus: Broad ham radio interests with a strong emphasis on repeaters.
• Serving Area: Covers all of New Brunswick and surrounding areas.
• Website: http://ve9irg.net
• Contact: Rick MacMillan, VE9MTB / W1MTB ([email address removed])
• Meetings: Last Sunday of April and September (details on website).
• Repeaters: An impressive network of 25 VHF/UHF repeaters linked via microwave (see website for details).
• Events: Semi-annual meetings with presentations and potlucks, emergency communication support and exercises, daily and weekly nets, and advocacy for amateur radio.
• Additional Notes: IRG provides members and others with comprehensive repeater coverage throughout their service area. Members also volunteer communication support to various agencies.

Club de Radio Amateur du Madawaska, Inc.

• Location: Edmundston, New Brunswick
• Website: http://ve9crm.weebly.com/
• Contact: Gerald Pelletier, VE9GLP (506.739.6997)
• Mailing Address: P.O. Box 605, Stn Main, Edmundston, NB E3V 3L2 2Z9
• Meetings: 1st Tuesday of each month (except June, July & August) at 7:00 PM, 450 Rue Principal, Edmundston Cartier Saint-Basile au dept. feu (location coordinates provided).
• Classes: Information not available on the website, but you can contact the club to inquire.
• Examiners: Yes, the club has accredited examiners for licensing.
• Repeaters: VE9EDM 146.780 (-)
• Events: Field Day, Canada Day Contest, Winther Contest.

Choosing Your Club

Both IRG and Club de Radio Amateur du Madawaska offer welcoming environments for ham radio enthusiasts. Consider these factors when making your choice:

• Location: If you're near Edmundston, Club de Radio Amateur du Madawaska might be a convenient option.
• Focus: IRG seems to have a broader range of activities and a strong emphasis on repeaters, while Club de Radio Amateur du Madawaska highlights specific events like contests.
• Meeting Schedule: Consider which meeting schedule best suits your availability.

The Joys of Ham Radio Clubs

Joining a ham radio club offers a wealth of benefits:

• Connect with fellow enthusiasts: Share your passion, learn from others, and build friendships.
• Gain knowledge and skills: Participate in educational events and access support from experienced members.
• Get involved in your community: Contribute to emergency communication initiatives and public service events.
• Expand your horizons: Discover new aspects of the ham radio hobby.

Start Your Ham Radio Journey Today!

New Brunswick boasts vibrant ham radio communities. With the information above, you can reach out to a club that aligns with your interests and take your first step into this exciting world of communication and connection. Remember, the most recent update for these listings was December 27, 2017, so it's always a good idea to check the club websites for the latest information.

Happy Hamming!