Meirion ARS was formed in 1979 to promote amateur radio in South Gwynedd around the Dolgellau area. In May 1980 MARS obtained a full A class licence callsign GW4LZP and due to recent changes the callsign has now become GC4LZP, and is held on the clubs behalf by Bob Smith GW0AYQ. MARS is a small, friendly club, with 20+ full members on the register, who meet at about 19.30,on the first Wednesday of each month at The Royal Ship Hotel in Dolgellau.
The membership of MARS, come from a wide range of backgrounds and ages, with the more experienced operators able to give guidance and help to our newer members. We are lucky to have a very active training scheme with an envyable pass rate, and an approved examination venue for foundation, intermediate and advanced licences. New students are always welcome and encouraged, we aim to give the most informative training possible, enabling everyone who passes to operate confidently and safely, with their new callsigns.
Every month at our meetings, we try to have a different talk, demonstration or event to make each one a special evening. The main emphasis of MARS is to have fun with amateur radio, we all like a pint or a cuppa, and an informal chat about what we have planned or done during the month, and this will always be our way. Familys are not forgotten by MARS, and we hold an annual barbeque in the Summer, and a Christmas meal at the end of the year for everyone to get together.
MARS is a very active society, taking part in special events throughout the year such as Railways On The Air, The RNLI SOS week, and our Mayday Gala weekend at The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway (Porthmadog), to name a few. We also take part in the VHF field day competition (making the best of the landscape in our area) and we hold regular club competitions.
Meirion ARS is small compared to some societys, but we have a large amount of enthusiasm, and welcome anyone who likes to "play radio". Everyone is very welcome to join us, visitors who holiday in our area can come and share the hospitality of our club night, and we are always on the lookout for new members.
