Marton Hams: Connecting the Rangitīkei Region with Bi-Monthly Meetings and Active Leadership

Marton, NZ – For radio enthusiasts in the Rangitīkei district, the Marton amateur radio branch (Branch Number 23) serves as a vital hub for communication and camaraderie. With regular bi-monthly meetings and a strong focus on community engagement, including emergency preparedness, this dedicated group fosters a thriving local "ham" community.

The club holds its meetings at the Carter Room, Bulls RSA, located at 55 High Street, Bulls. This accessible venue provides a comfortable space for their gatherings. For postal correspondence, their address is The Secretary, 358 State Highway 3.

Dedicated Leadership and Technical Support

The Marton branch is guided by a committed team of officers who ensure smooth club operations and a focus on crucial amateur radio functions:

• President, Repeater Trustee & Club Callsign Trustee: Royden McCall (Callsign ZL4HSV; also listed as ZL2VS for repeater trustee) leads the branch, oversees its repeater infrastructure, and manages its on-air identity. He can be reached at zl4hsv@gmail.com.
• Secretary & AREC Group Leader & Repeater Trustee: Brian Purdie (Callsign ZL2ADL) efficiently handles the club's administration, spearheads its vital Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC) efforts, and contributes to repeater maintenance. He can be contacted at brianpurdie@outlook.com for general inquiries or glmarton@arec.nz for AREC matters.
• Web Master: David Fraser (ZL3AI) manages the club's online presence.

Regular Bi-Monthly Meetings and Annual Milestones

The Marton branch offers a consistent schedule for its members to gather, learn, and connect:

• General Meetings: These are held bi-monthly on the fourth Wednesday at 7:30 PM, commencing in January. The schedule includes meetings in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Visitors are always welcome, and if in doubt about a meeting, it is advised to call the Secretary.
• AGM (Annual General Meeting): The AGM is held on the fourth Wednesday of November, providing an opportunity for members to review the year's activities and elect officers.

Fostering New Talent: Dedicated Exam Supervisor

The Marton branch is committed to growing the amateur radio community. A.L. Fraser (Callsign ZL3TNT) serves as an Exam Supervisor, guiding aspiring radio amateurs through the licensing process. He can be reached at zl3tnt@yahoo.com.

While specific net information was not provided in the details, the presence of repeater trustees suggests an active on-air presence for local communication within the club's area.

Whether you're a seasoned "ham" looking for a vibrant local community, an aspiring radio amateur keen to earn your license, or simply interested in the world of wireless communication, the Marton amateur radio branch offers a welcoming and active environment in the Rangitīkei region.

For more details on the Marton amateur radio group and their activities, reach out to their dedicated officers or consider attending one of their upcoming bi-monthly meetings!