MTF Hastings donate to AREC Hawkes Bay Group

MTF Hastings recently ran a giveaway where they asked the community for nominations of a local charity, sports club, school, or community group, who could use the support. Hawkes Bay Group Leader John Newson nominated the Hawkes Bay group, who were chosen as the lucky winners of $300.

George Wilson, MTF Hastings Owner says of the donation “The team at HB Amateur Radio provide an incredible volunteer service, helping keep our community connected and supported during emergencies and events”.

Group Leader John Newson commented on how the group support the community, “We support Police, Land Search and Rescue and Emergency Management by providing operators as needed. AREC train formally twice a month and do radio checks for Emergency Management weekly as well as assisting our partner organisations with their training and events as required. Any funds received are put towards easing the commitment our volunteers give.“

“It’s amazing to be a recipient of this donation from MTF Hastings. It is recognition of AREC growing in size and influence and enables us as a team to be able to support the local community in times of stress and, using sports events as training, during normal times. 

90 Years of Service

During 1931 Amateur Radio operators provided communications links for the authorities during the aftermath of the Napier Earthquake. Following this and the need for communications for a Search in the Arthur’s Pass area a pilot Section of Radio Emergency Corps (REC), as AREC was first known, was established in Christchurch by Norm Laugesen, ZL3AS.

In January of 1932 NZART approved the formation of REC and urged the formation of Sections across NZ as soon as possible.

By the end of February 1932 REC Sections were formed in nine districts around the country.

There will be various activities to celebrate our 90 Years of Service to the community from February. This presentation (PDF version) is available for meetings and events, to request a copy of the PowerPoint file click here.