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The Surrey Amateur Radio Communications Society (SARC) is one of Canada’s largest and most active emergency-oriented amateur radio organizations, focused on community service, emergency preparedness and responsiveness, and known for pushing the envelope in both capability and ambition. Our Constitution and Bylaws, established at SARC’s founding in 1974, state our purpose succinctly: to promote and encourage interest and activities associated with amateur radio and to assist the community in the event of an emergency or through public service wherever radio communications may be required.

SARC is a partner of the Surrey Emergency Program's Amateur Radio division (SEPAR), utilizing joint facilities and resources generously provided by the Surrey Fire Service of the City of Surrey. 

SARC actively promotes amateur radio innovation. We offer certification courses, host technical events, and maintain a strong, welcoming community, all driven by volunteers committed to excellence.  The size of our membership and the success of our programs are a testament to the dedication and skills of our members.

The Surrey Amateur Radio Communications Society promotes technical excellence, community service, and lifelong learning in amateur radio. Through education, mentoring, hands-on activities, constant practice, and emergency communications support, we empower individuals of all backgrounds to develop radio skills, serve their communities, and advance the science of wireless communication. We operate and maintain a network of communications facilities, repeaters, and mobile infrastructure, all of which are critical to Surrey’s emergency preparedness.

We are committed to outreach and education. SARC runs multiple certification courses each year, participates in community events and Field Day demonstrations, and partners with local schools to introduce students to amateur radio. Through our active involvement with the Kwantlen Park High School program, students can earn academic credit for achieving their Basic certification, fostering early interest in communications, electronics, and public service. 

The Communicator is SARC’s flagship digital publication, released bi-monthly and read in over 150 countries. Each 120+ page issue features a rich mix of technical articles, event coverage, historical insights, and news. Edited by John Schouten VE7TI for the last 20 years, The Communicator showcases the depth and diversity of knowledge within our community, serving as a valuable resource for both new and experienced amateur radio operators.

Together, SARC and SEPAR maintain a robust communications infrastructure across Surrey. We operate multiple VHF/UHF/220 repeaters at two high-elevation sites, providing wide-area coverage with analog and digital capabilities including Echolink, IRLP, and WIRES-X. Our Operations and Training Centre in South Surrey serves as a venue for member training, contesting, and emergency preparedness, while our radio room at Surrey Firehall 1 supports municipal communications needs. As a key node in the BC WARN network, our facilities play a vital role in regional emergency communication resilience. 

At the heart of SARC is a strong, welcoming community built on friendship, mutual support, and shared passion for radio. Our members form lasting personal connections through regular social gatherings, events, and hands-on activities. Newcomers are warmly welcomed and supported by experienced mentors eager to share their knowledge and enthusiasm. Whether you're brand new or returning to the hobby, you'll find SARC to be a friendly, inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to learn, participate, and belong.