Pyrénées-Atlantiques: The ARPA, A Vibrant Hub for Amateur Radio

ESPES UNDUREIN, Pyrénées-Atlantiques — In the scenic Pyrénées-Atlantiques department (64), the Association des Radio-Amateurs des Pyrénées Atlantique (ARPA) stands as a dynamic focal point for local radio enthusiasts. Located at Le Bourg, 64130 Espès Undurein, at the residence of M. Salvatge, this local REF (Réseau des Émetteurs Français) affiliate is dedicated to fostering the hobby, facilitating communication, and building a strong community among its members.

The ARPA is presided over by M. Gérard Biancalana (F6ENL), who can be reached via email at gerard.biancalana@orange.fr. The association maintains a robust online presence through its website, http://arpa.r-e-f.org, which serves as a comprehensive resource for information and updates on their activities.

For the crucial task of QSL card management, M. Christian Saint Arroman (F4WBN) takes the lead, ensuring that contacts made by ARPA members are efficiently confirmed and processed. This dedicated role highlights the association's commitment to supporting its members' global communication efforts.

Transparency and Activity: The ARPA's Online Presence

The ARPA's website is a testament to its active and transparent operations, offering various sections for members and interested individuals:

• Association Statutes: Providing insight into the formal framework governing the ARPA.
• Board Members (CA): A list of the individuals responsible for the association's governance.
• Active Members List (2017): A roster of current active members (though noted as last updated in 2017).
• "Les Échos de l'ARPA" Bulletins: Access to the association's regular newsletters, keeping members informed.
• Latest ARPA Articles: Featuring recent news and updates.

The association has a busy schedule of recent and upcoming events, reflecting its consistent engagement:

• TM64REF: A special event scheduled for May 17, 2025.
• National REF Merit: An event acknowledging national recognition, held on May 11, 2025.
• 2025 General Assembly Report: The minutes from the 2025 Annual General Meeting, also from May 11, 2025.
• F6KDU Extraordinary General Assembly: Held on April 26, 2025.
• REF40 2025 General Assembly: Attended on April 13, 2025.
• Echos de l'ARPA 266 Special AG 2025: A special edition of their bulletin released on March 31, 2025, focusing on the 2025 General Assembly.

These frequent updates and events underscore the ARPA's dynamic role as a central resource for amateur radio in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, fostering continuous learning, community building, and participation in the wider amateur radio world.