40 years of Nonstop RAAWG
A celebration filled with memories, people, and a shared love for radio communications
This year’s New Year’s Cake Ceremony of the Radio Amateur Association of Western Greece – SZ1A, held a special significance. It was not simply another annual gathering, but a celebration rich in meaning. A moment to look back, reflect on the journey so far, and acknowledge that RAAWG has completed 40 years of continuous and active presence.
On Sunday, February 1st, 2026, shortly after 1:00pm, members of the Association, along with their families and friends from Aigio, Athens, and other parts of Greece, came together at a well known venue in Agrinio to celebrate the occasion. The atmosphere was warm and familiar. Conversations flowed easily, smiles were shared, memories were revisited, and new stories were created around the same table. All the elements that allow a community to remain strong and connected over time.
Marking 40 Years of Continuous Activity and Community
The President of RAAWG, Thanasis Kapsalis (SV1CQK), addressed the audience, extending New Year wishes to all radio amateurs and their families, and reflecting on the long standing journey of the Association. From its founding in 1985 to the present day, Radio Amateur Association of Western Greece has completed four decades of uninterrupted activity in amateur radio, maintaining a steady presence on the airwaves and achieving notable recognition at an international level.
His remarks served as a reminder that behind the frequencies, stations, and call signs are people. Individuals who have dedicated their time, knowledge, and passion to keep the Association active and thriving throughout the years.
Honorary plaques and meaningful recognition
The New Year’s Cake Ceremony also included the presentation of honorary plaques to members of the Association, as a small but sincere expression of gratitude for their contribution to RAAWG and to amateur radio.
Honorary plaques for outstanding service were awarded to:
- Vasilis Kontothanasis (SV1DPJ)
- Giorgos Epitropou (SV1HLA)
- Dimitrios Providas (SV1TBW)
- Giorgos Chrysikos (SY1DOB)
- Stathis Anastasiadis (SY1EDF)
A particularly meaningful moment was the recognition of Association members from abroad, who have actively supported the SZ1A contest station at Kokkinologgos, Sargiada, through equipment donations, financial support, and voluntary work. Honorary plaques for outstanding service were presented to:
- Jef Claes (DD2CW)
- Garo Molozian (G0PZA)
- Dirk Martens (ON3UN)
Their presence and contribution serve as a reminder that amateur radio knows no borders, and that a shared passion for communications brings people together beyond distance and geography.
The lucky coin, smiles, and appreciation
Following the customary feast, the ceremonial cutting of the New Year’s cake took place. The traditional lucky coin for the year was won by Association member Giota Kaskaveli (SV1TIY), who received a brand new Yaesu FT-4XE VHF/UHF handheld transceiver, kindly offered by Freebytes.
At the same time, ten members of the Association won discount vouchers for purchases from the well-known manufacturer Messi & Paoloni, adding even more smiles to an already memorable day.
Support that has real substance and continuity
RAAWG extends its sincere gratitude to Freebytes, which has been an official sponsor of the Association and the SZ1A contest station since last year. Freebytes is the largest radio telecommunications equipment supplier in Greece, with long-standing experience, specialized technical staff, and an in-house service and repair laboratory. Its ongoing support plays an important role in strengthening the activities of RAAWG.
Warm gratitude is also extended to Messi & Paoloni, a leading global manufacturer of high-quality coaxial cables and professional RF connectors. Their support of the SZ1A contest station is not only symbolic but also practical, clearly demonstrating a genuine commitment to amateur radio and to demanding contest station applications.
Such collaborations go beyond sponsorship. They are relationships built on trust, contributing directly to the quality, development, and future of the Association.
Together today and for the next 40 years
This year’s New Year’s Cake Ceremony was much more than a formal annual event. It was a celebration that highlighted continuity, cohesion, and the human side of RAAWG. A reminder that the true strength of the Association lies in its people and in their shared love for radio communications.
We wish everyone health, happiness, and a year filled with meaningful contacts, both on the air and beyond.
Below are commemorative photographs from the event:
