RADIO TRANSMITTERS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 16 February 1939, Page 9

RADIO TRANSMITTERS

MASTERTON BRANCH. SERVICE GIVEN BY AMATEURS. In the absence of the chairman (Mr C. R. Dahlberg). Mr E. J. Mannell presided at the fortnightly meeting of the Masterton branch of the New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters. Despite other attractions the attendance was very good. After club business had been disposed of a special Mors.e session was held for the benefit of the less experienced members. Subjects such as transmitting and receiver construction were discussed, bringing to mind the service rendered by the amateurs in the pioneer days of radio. In connection with the numerous instances of sterling services given by amateur operators was a case where in February, 1931, Nova Scotia was isolated from the mainland, normal communications having been severed. However, amateurs quickly restored contact by means of emergency radio equipment. Six operators worked day and night, receiving assistance from outside sources. In the same month a severe snowstorm isolated the city of Salisbury, U.S.A., when all wireless contacts were disrupted. Once again the amateur came to the rescue. Regarded by some as wearisome and tiring work, it is the thrill of contact with other countries that makes the amateur keen on radio. International brotherhood among the amateurs stimulates wide interest in their activities. Every fortnight instances of services given freely by amateurs in times of stress will be given.