The Golden Belt Amateur Radio Club has a long history of service to the Great Bend, Barton County, Kansas and surrounding areas.

Both ARES and RACES groups are associated with the GBARC as well as a wide area repeater. The ARES/RACES members have been active in local drills, Field Day and emergency activities. One of the projects of this dedicated group of hams was the design and construction of "MARTY", a portable antenna tower trailer, equipped with several accessories suitable for emergency use. David Doonon, KIONN, was primarily responsible for this project.