SARL celebrates 85th anniversary

'Happy 85th birthday SARL!' said SARL President, Dennis Green, ZS4BS.

In his message, Dennis says "on Wednesday 20 May 1925, a group of radio amateurs got together in Cape Town and formed the South African Radio Relay League. It was, I am sure, a momentous occasion for these radio amateurs.
I wonder what the challenges were that faced the SARRL in those first years. The organisation grew and later the name was changed to the South African Radio League.

"We can think back of many highlights that the SARL has had over the past 85 years, of many radio amateurs who have served the organisation as members with honour and dedication and what has been achieved. We think of the radio amateurs who have served on branch or club committees and on the council of the SARL. I would like to acknowledge every radio amateur that has and is playing a role in promoting amateur radio and the South African Radio League.

"As we look to the future, we are faced with some challenges to the organisation and to the hobby. I think the recruitment of members is important, not only the young people, but also those more settled. Are the clubs effective in promoting amateur radio? Do we take amateur radio to the public?

"Technologies change very rapidly and we as radio amateurs must stay abreast of development, we must be part of that development, we must take the lead. Our hobby has so many facets, there are some many things we can get involved in, the sky is the limit.

"In our 85th year, I ask you to take up the challenge and let us strengthen the South African Radio League by being radioactive, developing technologies and increasing our membership base. Are you with me?"