The 2023 Doric Film Festival
29th June 2023
A short film produced by members of the Society has won a top award at the 2023 Doric Film Festival. The film was joint winner in the Groups category of the prestigious festival that showcases the distinctive Doric language and culture, most closely associated with North-East Scotland.
The winning five-minute production, with all commentary in Doric, was written and filmed by Society member Mike Lowson, MM7MWL, and narrated by the club’s secretary, Fred Gordon, GM3ALZ. Other members to take part in the filming included George Anderson GM0VGI; David Wilson MM0MVX; Nigel Paterson GM4JOJ and Pete Weller GM3XOQ. 
The festival, which is supported by the Scottish Government, has an enviable reputation for attracting a diverse field of work from individuals, groups and schools. It culminated in a splendid showcase awards ceremony at Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University, hosted by award-winning broadcaster, Frieda Morrison, who created the platform to celebrate the Doric language and its cultural identity.
Mike Lowson MM7MWL (left) and Fred Gordon GM3ALZ (right) are seen here having been presented with the award by Jim Brown.
In the run-up to the presentation of the awards, Mike said: “To quote some Doric words, I was stammygastered (astonished) and dumfoonert (stunned) that we won the award, but fair tricket (delighted) for the radio club. We filmed extensively across the north-east over a 10-month period which included footage of club nights, field days, special events, SOTA and in members’ own shacks, too.”
Fred added: “It was a great example of teamwork from club members and I hope the successful film will be not only a snapshot of our activities in 2023 but also spread the word about the club across the area.”
In addition to a wooden trophy (shown above), which now hangs in the shack in Aberdeen, the winning entry also won a cash prize which will go towards a new item of club equipment.
AARS is now in its 77th year and in addition to weekly club nights on Thursdays we run two 80m and daily 2m nets every week, plus nets on 4m and 6m. We are also active on field days and in contests. Additionally, our informal Saturday morning training sessions provide guidance to those preparing for their licence exam.
Amateur radio is a fascinating hobby and has something for everyone of all ages to enjoy. You can start by just listening and then consider obtaining your transmitting licence. We hope you will join us!