Something has to be done – but what exactly?

According to official ARRL data, the average age of a US amateur is 76. Eight out of ten newly licensed hams leave the hobby after the first year.

I find this depressing. Is the situation much different in Australia? I doubt.

Last week I got an email from a young amateur who visited a local club for the first time. He found the atmosphere daunting; there was a lack of quality interaction, to the point that he was practically ignored. Yet despite the hostile disinterest, he returned a few more times. After the sixth, he decided that club meetings were not worth attending. “Most of the members were old men who were there for coffee and cookies. Or to run away from their wives. Zero conversation about radios, or actual operating.”

Yes, as a community, we are ageing fast.

But what happened to the enthusiasm? Or even basic communication skills: like introducing ourselves to newcomers, asking questions, and then listening to what they have to say?

The ARRL statistics also finds that most American clubs are dying, or already dead. But some new are formed, and some of them are actually growing. What is their secret?

Luckily, the young man who emailed, didn’t quit the hobby. He partnered with another newcomer and formed an online community. They now have 200 members – and they also meet ‘face to face’ organising various activities, when they bring their gear to a park or SOTA, they have fun and make contacts.

The next time you see a newcomer at your club meeting, grab him with both hands. Make the conversation “about him”, listen, and if asked for guidance – respond with enthusiasm.

To grow, it’s not about you. It’s about them.