The Beginning
For a long time amateurs in South Bristol had discussed the need for meeting facilities in the area. On each occasion, the lack of a suitable venue prevented any further action. Matters came to a head on 28th August 1983 when Len (G4RZY) booked accommodation at the Whitchurch Folkhouse and formed the South Bristol Amateur Radio Group. Mark (G4KUQ) acted as temporary Chairman, and meetings were arranged for each Wednesday, starting 31st August 1983.
These meetings proved very popular, with membership rising to nearly 40 within 4 weeks. An informal meeting of paid-up members on 21st September 1983 agreed that a General Meeting should be held on 5th October 1983 to officially create the SOUTH BRISTOL AMATEUR RADIO CLUB (SBARC).
Since the formation of SBARC, the membership peaked at 90 but has now stabilised at at a lower number. The COVID pandemic has reduced the pre-pandemic membership count and we would welcome new members. We pride ourselves on being the largest and most friendly club that welcomes new members, whether experienced ‘old-timers’ or raw ‘newcomers’, licensed or unlicensed.
Up to the year 2000, SBARC sponsored and organised the Bristol Computer and Radio Rally on the first Sunday in September. All club members were mobilised to provide an excellent show for 1000 – 2000 visitors. We also take part in national events such as Airfields on the Air, Mills on the Air, Intrnational Lighthouses and Lightships on the Air and Railways on the Air and contests such as VHF National Field Day. Each month we have some form of activity or lecture that will appeal to a substantial part of the membership. Subject matter is not limited to Amateur Radio and suggestions are always welcome.
The Club Today
Extensions to the Whitchurch Folkhouse had meant extra space becoming available. Such that SBARC then had a wide range of facilities: bar, meeting room, lecture room, radio shack, RAE room and Morse training room. However, the Folkhouse Social Club also expanded and finally it became necessary to find new premises. From 1st June 2009 the Club relocated to the Novers Park Community Centre, restoring the space and facilities previously enjoyed. In 2024/25 the meeting rooms were completely redecorated.
Having established itself at the new premises, the Club is actively seeking new members and new challenges. Please come and meet us one evening for a drink and a chat, join us, take a course and become licensed – the world is your oyster. Events, and there is usually something planned for each month, normally start at 20:00 however, the radio equipment can be switched on from 19:30. Members attending are entitled to use the Community Centre Bar, where one will find a convivial atmosphere after (or before) the exertions of the hobby.