In the heart of Sydney’s eastern suburbs, the Waverley Amateur Radio Society (WARS) stands as a living piece of Australian communications history. Established in 1919, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously licensed amateur radio club in the country, serving enthusiasts from the CBD to the inner suburbs.
A Legacy of Innovation
For over a century, WARS has been a cornerstone of amateur radio, fostering a community of operators, experimenters, and newcomers alike. "We’re not just about nostalgia—radio remains a vital skill, especially in emergencies," says John Buckley, the club’s president.
Members enjoy access to exclusive repeaters (VK2BV, VK2ROT, VK2RBV, VK2W), technical workshops, and a tight-knit network of like-minded hobbyists.
Monthly Gatherings & Social Buzz
The club meets every third Wednesday at Easts Leagues Club, Bondi Junction, with an optional dinner beforehand. For those who prefer hands-on tinkering, Project Days run on the first Saturday of each month, while midweek social working bees at the Spruce Goose Diner in Centennial Park keep the camaraderie alive—fueled by strong coffee and even stronger signals.
Hybrid meetings (in-person and via Zoom) ensure no one misses out, and the club’s online calendar keeps members updated on events, contests, and field excursions.
Learning from the Best
WARS runs Foundation Licence courses every three months, with upgrade assessments conducted at the ARNSW site in Dural. "Whether you're starting out or levelling up, we’ve got the expertise to guide you," says Raffy Shammay (VK2RF), the club’s training coordinator.
Join the Airwaves
From historic Morse code to cutting-edge digital modes, WARS bridges generations of radio enthusiasts. Visitors are welcome—check the website for the next meetup or tune into the club’s repeaters.
Contact:
📞 0412 196 976 (Raffy VK2RF)
🌐 www.vk2bv.org
📍 Easts Leagues Club, Bondi Junction / Spruce Goose Diner, Centennial Park
In an age of instant messaging, WARS proves that the magic of radio is alive and well—one transmission at a time.
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