VERON A11 Zuidoost-Drenthe: Navigating Modernity While Honouring Tradition

Emmen, Netherlands — In the world of amateur radio, where enthusiasts bridge continents with invisible waves, local chapters serve as vital nodes of expertise and community. The VERON A11 Zuidoost-Drenthe section, representing the southeastern Drenthe region and boasting approximately 125 members, exemplifies this enduring commitment. Its recent activities underscore a dynamic engagement with both the technical evolution of the hobby and the social bonds that sustain it.

The chapter's calendar, however, has recently encountered some unforeseen interruptions. A scheduled lecture for Friday, June 6th, 2025, was regrettably cancelled due to illness, a minor setback that members hope will be rectified at a later date. More significantly, the hobby evening slated for July 11th has been postponed as the club's venue, located at Oude Roswinkelerweg 112 D, 7814 RT Emmen, will be utilized for an event by Sagittarius. Such logistical adjustments are a common feature of community-based organizations.

Amidst these minor disruptions, the club continues to foster vibrant engagement. A recent highlight was the detailed account by André, PA5OES, of his recent sojourn to the United States. His narrative offered a compelling glimpse into the transatlantic amateur radio landscape, noting the distinct operational nuances of American clubs. André observed a prevalent emphasis on emergency communication preparedness among U.S. amateurs, many of whom affiliate with repeater groups or DARES-like organizations. The American club meetings, often commencing with individual introductions and discussions on field day participation, contrast with typical Dutch formats. A particularly intriguing aspect was the "Get On The Air" (GOTA) station concept at field days, designed to facilitate licensing exams and encourage new participation—a model perhaps worth wider consideration. The demonstration of portable, low-power fox-hunting transmitters and the communal post-meeting social gatherings in sports bars further illustrated the varied cultural expressions of this global hobby. André's newfound membership with the C.A.R.C. underscores the enduring international collegiality of amateur radio.

Closer to home, the annual "Mills on the Air" weekend, held on May 10th, 2025, proved a resounding success for VERON A11. Operating from "de Bente" windmill in Dalen under the club callsign PI4ZOD, Marijn and Jarno (PD0DP) capitalized on vastly improved atmospheric conditions compared to the previous year. Their station, featuring an ICOM-7300 with an end-fed antenna and a Raspberry Pi running WSJTX, demonstrated the seamless integration of modern digital modes like FT-8. The inclusion of a Starlink satellite internet connection ensured robust Wi-Fi, facilitating digital operations amidst the logistical challenges of a busy public venue. With 28 visitors to the mill and numerous on-air contacts via Phone, FT-8, and SSTV, the event not only yielded impressive operational results but also served as an effective public outreach initiative. The prospect of Marijn obtaining his N-registration promises continued activity from this historic location.

VERON A11 Zuidoost-Drenthe, under the secretariat of Eddy Wolters (PD1EW), exemplifies the dynamic nature of amateur radio. By balancing traditional practices with an openness to digital innovation and international exchange, it continues to serve as a vital community hub, ensuring the hobby's appeal for both seasoned operators and prospective newcomers.