VERON A21 Achterhoek: A Legacy of Radio Hobbies Since 1951

Haarlo, Netherlands — In the serene eastern reaches of the Netherlands, the Achterhoekse Radio Amateur Club (ARAC), operating as VERON Afdeling 21, maintains a vibrant community for radio enthusiasts. With a history stretching back over seven decades, ARAC has consistently served as a hub for both seasoned operators and newcomers, fostering technical expertise and camaraderie.

A Journey from General Hobbies to Radio Focus

ARAC's origins trace back to March 4, 1950, when a "Vereeniging van Nuttige Vrijetijds Besteding" (Association for Useful Leisure Activities) was established in Ruurlo. While initially encompassing diverse interests, the most active members gravitated towards electrical subjects and construction projects. This natural inclination led to the formal establishment of ARAC as an independent radio hobby club on March 16, 1951.

For the initial years, the club operated without licensed radio amateurs. This changed in 1955 with A.J. Schutte becoming PA0AJS, followed by L.H. van Bergen (PA0MAI in 1956) and B.M. Kerperien (PA0FHB in 1957). By the early 1960s, ARAC boasted six licensed members. This growth culminated in a significant decision on July 1, 1960, when ARAC officially affiliated with the VERON, becoming its Afdeling 21. The club's call sign, PI4AJS, stands as a tribute to its first licensed member.

Meetings and Activities in 2025

The ARAC holds its regular meetings on the last Tuesday of each month at 8:00 PM, with exceptions in July and December. All gatherings take place at Kulturhus ’t Stieltjen, Wolinkweg 12, 7273 SL Haarlo. These sessions offer a blend of formal and informal activities:

• Lectures: Regularly featuring presentations on various amateur radio topics.
• QSL Card Service: Facilitating the exchange of contact confirmation cards.
• Experience Exchange: Providing opportunities for members to discuss their projects and insights.
• Socializing: Fostering informal conversations about the hobby.

The 2025 calendar includes several key events:

• January 7: New Year's gathering (for ARAC members and partners only).
• January 28: Annual General Meeting.
• September 6: Field Day, a highlight for outdoor operations.
• November 25: Used equipment sale, allowing members to trade gear.

Community Engagement and Communication

The majority of ARAC members hail from the eastern part of the Achterhoek region and several municipalities in Twente. The club actively encourages communication among its members through various channels. An ARAC WhatsApp group allows for quick updates and discussions; interested members can join by providing their callsign, name, and WhatsApp number. Additionally, an on-air ARAC 2-meter QSO takes place on 145.325 MHz, providing a regular opportunity for members to connect.

For ARAC members who maintain their own "hamradio" websites, the club offers a service to link to these personal pages from the ARAC site, further enriching the community's online presence. The chapter also promotes participation in the national VERON Afdelingscompetitie.

Through its long history and active program, VERON A21 Achterhoek continues to be a central pillar for amateur radio in the region, bridging the technical with the social.