VERON A12 Dordrecht: Preserving Heritage and Fostering Connectivity in the Dutch Polder

Dordrecht, Netherlands — In the distinctive landscape of the Dutch polders, where historic windmills stand as sentinels of a bygone era, the VERON Afdeling 12 Dordrecht continues to bridge tradition with contemporary amateur radio. This chapter, officially known as the Vereniging voor Experimenteel Radio Onderzoek in Nederland afdeling 12 Dordrecht en omstreken (Association for Experimental Radio Research in the Netherlands, Section 12 Dordrecht and Surroundings), demonstrates a robust commitment to both public engagement and operational excellence, notably through its annual "Molendag" (Mill Day) and upcoming Field Day.

The Molendag 2025, held on May 21st, saw members deploying their equipment at two historically significant windmills. Arie, PD0ARI, maintained his customary position near the Scheiwijkse Molen in Hoornaar, a structure dating back to 1638. This location, renowned for its public accessibility, facilitated numerous "eye-ball QSOs"—face-to-face interactions that are crucial for public relations and recruitment within the hobby. The Scheiwijkse Molen, decommissioned in 1974 after nearly 350 years of operation, now grinds on a voluntary basis under the stewardship of the SIMAV (Stichting tot instandhouding van Molens in de Alblasserwaard en de Vijfheerenlanden – Foundation for the Preservation of Mills in the Alblasserwaard and Vijfheerenlanden).

Meanwhile, for the second consecutive year, Rob, PA3BXR, and his colleagues were hosted by mill operator Adrie at the Middelmolen in Molenaarsgraaf. This windmill, likely constructed in 1655 and the sole survivor of three original structures vital for local land drainage, offered a more secluded but equally picturesque setting. Its layout proved ideal for deploying an EndFed antenna for HF operations and a vertical antenna for VHF in the cap—demonstrating the adaptable nature of amateur radio deployment in diverse environments. A symbolic inaugural QSO from Molenaarsgraaf was, as in previous years, established with PD0ARI/mill in Hoornaar, underscoring the fraternal bonds within the chapter. The special callsign PA6MM, signifying "Middelmolen Molenaarsgraaf," was again employed, emphasizing the unique identity of this operational point.

Looking ahead, the chapter is set to convene its Field Day on Saturday, June 14, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM. This annual event will return to its familiar locale in the Brandwijk polder, utilizing the gracious permission of farmer Spruijtenburg. The choice of location is strategic: the Dutch polder landscape offers expansive vistas and, critically for radio communication, a low ambient noise (QRM) level. Described as a "drive-in field day," it encourages spontaneous participation from anyone interested in operating, observing, or experimenting with radio and antenna systems. This informal approach fosters an inclusive atmosphere, catering to serious operators, curious onlookers, and those simply seeking collegial conversation. The precise culinary arrangements for the evening will depend on the day's weather and enthusiasm, but the overarching objective remains the cultivation of a pleasant and productive day for all involved. The specific coordinates for this gathering are the field between Brandwijksedijk 36 and 37 in Brandwijk.

Through these initiatives, VERON A12 Dordrecht not only engages in the core activities of amateur radio but also actively participates in community outreach, connects with local heritage, and provides a crucial platform for technical experimentation and social interaction in the digital age.