VERON Afdeling Zaanstreek: Where Industrial Heritage Meets Radio Innovation

VERON Afdeling Zaanstreek: Where Industrial Heritage Meets Radio Innovation

WORMERVEER – Nestled in the historic industrial heart of the Zaan region, VERON Afdeling Zaanstreek (A46) has been a cornerstone of Dutch amateur radio since its founding on 15 March 1945—making it one of the oldest VERON branches in the Netherlands. Meeting monthly in "De Groote Weiver," a former industrial site turned community center, this club blends technical experimentation with deep regional roots.


A Legacy of Innovation

  • Founded in 1945, just months before the national VERON was officially established.

  • One of the original 28 local branches of the Dutch amateur radio association.

  • PI4ZAZ callsign: A nod to the Zaan region’s industrial and maritime heritage.

"We’ve been here since the days when radio was still a revolutionary technology—now we’re keeping that spirit alive with digital modes and experimentation."


Monthly Gatherings in a Historic Setting

📍 Location: De Groote Weiver, Industrieweg 1a, Wormerveer
📅 When: 2nd Wednesday of the month (except July & August)
🕢 Time: *19:30–23:00* (socializing, tech talks, and equipment swaps)

What Happens at Meetings?

 Tech Talks (e.g., DATV presentations, fox-hunting transmitters)
 QSL Card Exchange (for members who collect confirmations)
 Contest Planning (regional and national competitions)
 "Eraan/Eraf" Section (buy/sell/trade radio gear among members)

🔹 Special Feature: The Zaanse Ronde – A Sunday morning net at 11:30 on 2m via PI3ZAZ, connecting local operators.


Upcoming Highlights (2025)

📡 June 2025: DATV (Digital Amateur TV) Workshop (recap from PA1RAM’s presentation)
🦊 November 2025: Fox-Hunting Transmitter Tech Deep Dive
🎙️ Monthly Convo Newsletter – Packed with club news, technical guides, and historical features.


How to Join?

🔹 Drop by: De Groote Weiver on the 2nd Wednesday of the month.
📧 Email: a46@veron.nl for visitor info.
📻 Tune in: PI3ZAZ repeater for the Zaanse Ronde net.


Why This Club Matters

In a region known for windmills and historic trade, VERON A46 preserves a different kind of heritage—the art of radio communication. From Morse code to digital modes, they bridge generations of amateur operators.

"We may meet in an old industrial building, but our signals reach the world."

🚀 Follow for more Dutch tech heritage stories!


[Did You Know?] The club’s PI4ZAZ callsign has been used in contests reaching as far as Japan. The Zaanse Ronde net sometimes picks up unusual propagation, linking members with stations across the North Sea.

Reading next

VERON Afdeling 47 – Zeeuws-Vlaanderen: A Thriving Amateur Radio Community
VERON Afdeling West-Friesland: Keeping Tradition Alive on the Dutch Coast

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