Gibraltar Amateur Radio Society

The Gibraltar Amateur Radio Society (GARS) is currently facing a period of considerable change. The building occupied by the Society, together with the surrounding area, is due for demolition as part of a redevelopment of the site. The club is therefore hoping to be relocated shortly, ideally to a location offering good possibilities for antennas and continued amateur radio operation.

Ken, ZB2MD (also G4SGF), joined GARS at the end of 2023. The accompanying photographs were taken before he became a member and provide a glimpse of some of the Society's members and activities.

In the group photograph are several of the club's active members. ZB2RR is the Society's Treasurer, ZB2B its President, and ZB2JK its Secretary. Also pictured is Tony Wiltshire, ZB2TY/M0TNY, of Martin Lynch & Sons.

Another photograph shows the late Kevin, ZB2GI, operating with ZB3P. Kevin sadly died suddenly at the age of just 61. The photograph shows the pair operating through the QO-100 geostationary amateur radio satellite using a temporary setup, with the satellite dish resting on the ground immediately outside the club station, ZB2BU.

A third photograph shows a banner used by GARS during an exhibition earlier in 2026 to mark the Society's anniversaries. The banner also illustrates the club's historical connection with the Royal Air Force.

There are currently around 50 up-to-date amateur radio licences in Gibraltar, while GARS membership stands at approximately 20. As is often the case with amateur radio societies, a smaller core of members accounts for much of the regular on-air activity.

Ken hopes that contact between GARS and RAFARS can be arranged during 2027. He has also expressed an interest in the RAFARS morning 40-metre net on 7.155 MHz, with the possibility that, when propagation between the UK and Gibraltar is favourable, a ZB2 station might make an appearance.

For the remainder of 2026 Ken expects to spend relatively little time in Gibraltar, with visits to family in Sheffield and a forthcoming trip to Japan. Once things settle down in 2027, however, there should be an opportunity to arrange a scheduled contact between members of RAFARS and the Gibraltar Amateur Radio Society.