Dr Bob Whelan, G3PJT - Silent Key

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It is with great sadness that we share the news that Dr Bob Whelan, G3PJT became a Silent Key on 4 December 2025.

Bob’s contribution to amateur radio was extensive. First licensed in 1961, his main interest was in HF/LF CW operation. In this he soon became a strong supporter of the Commonwealth Contest, operating from a number of DX locations for the contest over many years. He wrote the book “Reflections in a Rosebowl” which covers the history of the Commonwealth Contest, and he put much effort into building an online Commonwealth Contest community.

Bob also played very significant roles in the RSGB, IARU and FOC (First Class Operators Club). For the RSGB, he started his volunteering as a member of the RSGB HF Committee and Management Committees and later was President from 2002-2003 and again from 2013-2014.

The RSGB Accessibility Champion

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The RSGB is looking for a proactive and knowledgeable volunteer to serve as its new Accessibility Champion. This important role will focus on ensuring that people with disabilities can fully participate and enjoy everything that amateur radio has to offer.

Key responsibilities of the role will be engaging with the amateur radio community, serving as a point of contact and signposting people to resources that can help them, as well as raising awareness of the challenges faced by individuals and sharing inspiring stories.

If you have a strong understanding of accessibility issues, ideally with personal experience or professional expertise, and are passionate about inclusion within amateur radio, the Society would love to hear from you.

If you’re interested in finding out more, including having a chat about the role, please firstly read the full role description on the RSGB website and then contact RSGB Board Director Nathan Nuttall, 2M0OCC.

RSGB Appoints a New Volunteer Brickworks Champion

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RSGB Board Director, Ben Lloyd, GW4BML is delighted to announce Derek Hughes, G7LFC as the new volunteer RSGB Brickworks Champion. The Brickworks scheme consists of 23 tasks that give an insight into different aspects of amateur radio. Derek brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role, having previously been involved in the development and running of the Brickworks scheme. He currently serves as Chairman of the Quantum Amateur Radio & Technology Society. Derek is committed to building strong relationships with clubs across the UK, including those already engaged with RSGB initiatives.

Individuals and clubs are encouraged to contact Derek via brickworks.champion@rsgb.org.uk with their suggestions about how to develop the reach of the RSGB’s Brickworks programme. Find out more about the programme by going to rsgb.org/brickworks