Australian UFO Bulletin - 1982 12 - December

Magazine Overview

This issue of "THE AUSTRALIAN U.F.O. BULLETIN", dated December 1982, is the official publication of The Victorian U.F.O. Research Society (VUFORS). The cover features a prominent graphic of a UFO and the headline "U.F.O.'s ARE 'ROUND", along with the society's contact information.

Editorial

The editorial section notes that ufology is increasingly focusing on Close Encounter cases, contrary to popular belief. It highlights the importance of thoroughly investigated and well-documented cases. The bulletin is reviewing a report from "The (English) Flying Saucer Review" concerning the Falcon Lake sighting, also known as the Michalak case, which occurred on May 20, 1967. VUFORS committee members Judith Magee and Paul Norman have had their lecture material verified, including an account from a Canadian couple whose father was a friend of the Michalak case witness.

The editorial also touches upon the official attitude towards UFO phenomena, suggesting deception and a lack of transparency, which VUFORS aims to combat by presenting facts to the public. A section titled "PHOTOPROOF OF YOUR SIGHTING!" encourages members to carry cameras and outlines plans for future articles on improving UFO photography.

The Falcon Lake Incident (Part 1)

This article, credited to Chris Rutkowski and "Flying Saucer Review" of U.K., details the Stephen Michalak case. On May 19, 1967, Michalak arrived in Falcon Lake, Canada, for amateur prospecting. The following morning, he encountered two cigar-shaped objects with "bumps" that descended and glowed red. One object landed on a flat rock while the other departed. The landed craft turned from red to grey, resembling "hot stainless steel," and emitted a brilliant purple light. Michalak, wearing welding goggles, observed the craft for about half an hour, noting waves of warm air, a smell of sulphur, and the whirring of an electric motor.

A door opened, revealing lights, and Michalak heard human-like voices. He approached to within 60 feet and attempted to communicate in various languages. He then moved closer, directly in front of the craft, and peered inside, seeing a panel with a "maze" of lights and beams. As he stepped back, he noted the craft's thickness was about 18 inches.

Suddenly, three panels sealed the opening. Michalak examined the exterior, finding it highly polished with no visible joints. Touching it with a gloved hand caused the glove and his hat to burn and melt. The craft shifted position, and a blast of hot air set his shirt and undershirt on fire, causing severe pain. He tore off the burning garments and saw the craft depart rapidly and noiselessly.

After the craft left, a strong smell of burning electrical circuits and sulphur remained. He stamped out burning moss. His compass behaved erratically. Michalak felt nauseous and experienced a headache. The landing spot was clean but had a pile of mine needles, dirt, and leaves in a circle. He felt weak, vomited, and decided to return to his motel. On the way, he vomited several times. He flagged down an RCMP officer, who dismissed his story. Reaching the motel, he remained outside, feeling "contaminated." Around 4 pm, he inquired about a doctor and was directed to Lenora, Ontario. He decided to return home and went to his room to wait for the bus to Winnipeg, which arrived around 8:45 pm. He called his wife, and upon arriving in Winnipeg at 10:15 pm, was taken to Misericordia hospital.

The editor's comment notes that the Michalak incident is an example of cases that are often overlooked, emphasizing the importance of documenting such events.

The Falcon Lake Incident (Part 2)

This section continues the investigation into the Steve Michalak case. It acknowledges that the story has been garbled over the years and questions whether it was a hoax or accurately reported. The article states there is significant evidence suggesting something occurred near a swampy area of the Falcon Lake resort. Michalak's account has appeared in various books and journals, with recommendations for specific sources like Lorenzen, Cordon, Story, and Bondarchuk. This article is presented as a survey of the literature and research from a re-opened investigation by UFOROM (Ufology Research of Manitoba).

Physical Effects: The Site

The Condon Report raised concerns about Michalak's inability to find the site with officials. Michalak went on two expeditions with a friend, G.A. Hart, before finding it. Menzel and Taves cited this difficulty as a reason to label the case a hoax. Michalak explained disorientation due to the leaves on the trees, a common issue for hikers. He was initially transported by helicopter and told to find the site from an anonymous landing point. The second expedition was also unsuccessful due to the foliage and Michalak's unsettled state. The article argues these explanations are reasonable and that the site can be easily located by trailblazing, typically by heading north from the Falcon Lake townsite and following a creek. Reference points like beaver dams and claims markers are mentioned. Interestingly, a forest ranger tower nearby did not observe the landing, flight, or smoke from the UFO.

The Radiation

The discovery of radioactive debris at the site led many to believe Michalak suffered from radiation poisoning. Soil samples brought back by Michalak and an associate, along with Michalak's torn shirt and tape measure, were found to be radioactive. Stewart Hunt of the Department of Health and Welfare confirmed radiation in soil samples, noting a contaminated area of about 0.5 x 8.0 inches. The origin of this radiation was in doubt, though it was significant enough to warrant consideration of restricting entry to the area. Analyses by the Whiteshell Nuclear Research Establishment showed the radioactivity was consistent with "natural uranium ore." A specific photo-peak was initially thought to be anomalous but was later explained by the decay of natural uranium, particularly radon gas, which dissipates. Confusion may have arisen from overlooking the gaseous nature of radon.

On The UFO Trail

This section, by Paul Norman, discusses official UFO investigations and notes that not all information found is reliable. It recounts an incident in Arkansas where witnesses observed a UFO, leading to a pursuit by four USAF jets that were outmaneuvered. Another incident in Spain involved a military chase where UFOs were filmed by gun cameras, but the Spanish government has not released the footage. The article also mentions an encounter in Texas involving U.S. helicopters, which officials have denied despite witness accounts. Norman criticizes the USAF's announcement that the Condon Project had proved UFOs non-existent, stating that such claims do not deceive alert ufologists and that official credibility is undermined by a lack of transparency.

The New Zealand Radar-Visual Filmed UFO Encounter

This article describes a significant UFO event that occurred on January 1, 1979. Committee members of VUFORS heard news of a UFO activity that matched patterns of similar cases, including the Washington, D.C. radar/visual sighting. Despite contradictory conclusions from the scientific community, the film of the encounter was entrusted to Dr. Bruce Maccabee for investigation. The article also mentions that many books have been written about UFO sightings, but this book is by a witness who was present.

Book Review: "Let's Hope They're Friendly"

This review covers a book by Quentin Fogarty, detailing an encounter and filming of a UFO on the Argusy flight over New Zealand waters on December 31, 1978. The book is praised for its comprehensive data retrieval, including witnesses, radar tracking, and filming. It covers events leading up to and during the encounter, with a significant portion dedicated to film research, interviews, and the after-effects on the witness's life.

UFOS OVER SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Stafford R. Hall recounts his growing interest in UFOs, sparked by his father's reports of sightings on the Murray River in South Australia during 1971 and 1972. The sightings included lights and flashing lights, with one unusual close encounter involving a 20 ft diameter UFO that sat in the middle of the road. Hall expresses his belief that we are not alone, citing overwhelming evidence.

P.U.F.O.R.G. Sightings Register

This section announces the publication of a UFO sightings register by the Perth U.F.O. Research Group, chronologically listing major sightings in Western Australia between May 1978 and December 1981. It is described as a comprehensive publication offering excellent value.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO cases, the presentation of evidence, and the critique of official stances that may involve deception or dismissal of phenomena. VUFORS positions itself as an organization dedicated to uncovering and disseminating UFO-related facts, challenging what it perceives as a lack of transparency from authorities. The Michalak case serves as a central example, highlighting the complexities of investigation, the potential for physical effects, and the challenges of establishing truth. The publication also emphasizes the importance of photographic evidence and encourages member participation in documenting sightings. The overall editorial stance is one of critical inquiry and a commitment to informing the public about UFO phenomena.

Title: UFORUM
Issue: 11
Publisher: V.U.F.O.R.S.
Country: Australia
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFORUM, a publication by V.U.F.O.R.S., focuses on UFO phenomena, research challenges, and related astronomical and historical accounts. The magazine aims to present factual information and counter debunking efforts, as highlighted in an introductory piece.

Book Review: Quentin Fogarty's Encounter

The issue begins with a review of a book by Quentin Fogarty, described as a 'conscientious book' that cuts through debunkers with scientific facts and research. The reviewer, John Auchettl, praises the book for being easy to read and for presenting a detailed account of one encounter that threw Quentin Fogarty's world into turmoil. It is recommended as a worthwhile edition for anyone's collection, distinguishing itself from other UFO books that focus on numerous vague sightings.

Historical Sighting: 583 A.D.

A contribution from Dr. Willy Smith of Norcross, Georgia, details a historical sighting from a Sixth Century historical work, 'The History of the Franks', by Gregory, Metropolitan Bishop of Tours. On January 31st, 583 A.D., a great ball of fire fell from the sky during overcast and raining weather. It moved a considerable distance, shining brightly, before disappearing behind a cloud. This event is presented as evidence of the persistence of the UFO phenomenon through the centuries.

Astronomical Information: Alpha Centauri

Under the 'YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED' section, the magazine discusses the possibility of another earth. Astronomers at Mount Stromlo Observatory near Canberra have concluded that Alpha Centauri A is a sister to the sun. Light from Alpha Centauri took 52 months to travel 40 billion kilometers at the speed of light. Alpha Centauri A is described as our second nearest neighbor, 4.3 light years away, with remarkable similarities to the sun in terms of metal ratios. The possibility of another earth around this second sun is being investigated, though astronomers are cautious. Alpha Centauri A is identified as the outermost star of the two bright stars in the Southern Cross.

Witness Testimony: Temuka, New Zealand (1982)

A family of two adults and three children in Temuka, New Zealand, reported seeing UFOs on July 12th and 28th, 1982. They described the objects as being so close they could see inside, with one being 'like an empty room inside'. The first object was described as 'shaped like a football with its bottom sliced off'. On the second occasion, they paced the object in their car. This report is credited to S.A.F. Sweden.

Strange Lights Mystify Rockhampton, Australia (1982)

This section reports on a UFO sighting on a Saturday night in Rockhampton, Australia, that mystified police and seven residents. Four strange lights hovered for over half an hour, accompanied by a 'weird, crackling noise'. The lights were seen by a resident of Eton Street and within minutes, seven people were watching them 'dancing' above. Police were called and also sighted the UFO briefly. The Department of Transport reported no aircraft in the area. Mr. Kevin Dinsdale, a witness, stated he saw something very strange and would be looking for the lights every night. Constable Trevor Edwards saw four reddish lights 'in the shape of the Southern Cross' hovering above the street. The report is credited to 'Daily Sun', Brisbane, Queensland, dated November 16, 1982.

NICAP Report: Jimmy Carter (1969)

This section includes 'Exhibit #3 and 4' detailing a formal report filed by James E. Carter, then Governor of Georgia, with NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena) on September 8, 1973, regarding a UFO sighting on October 1969. The sighting occurred near Leary, Georgia, and was observed for 10-12 hours. Carter described the object as appearing solid, bluish at first, then reddish, luminous, and not solid. It seemed to move towards, then away from, then returned, and finally departed. He compared its brightness to the moon at one time. The report also notes that Carter had promised to declassify UFO documents during his presidential campaign and expressed that NICAP's views would help him develop his policy position, but his 'view' and 'policy' on the UFO problem 'BECAME SQUELCHED!' when he occupied the White House. The report form itself is included, filled out by Jimmy Carter, with his name being used for publication.

Publications List and Membership Information

The final pages provide a list of back dated publications available through The Victorian U.F.O. Research Society, including 'The Australian U.F.O. Bulletin' and 'The Australian Flying Saucer Review', along with other books and reports. Prices for ordering within Australia and outside Australia are listed. The magazine also includes reminders about subscription due dates and encourages members to assist the society. It also mentions that the society has an excellent library with books available for hire.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFORUM include the persistence of UFO phenomena across history, the challenges faced by UFO researchers in presenting factual evidence, and the potential for astronomical discoveries related to extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for serious investigation of UFOs, presenting detailed accounts, and encouraging public reporting, while also acknowledging the skepticism and potential suppression of information from official sources. The magazine promotes its own publications and membership, suggesting a focus on providing alternative information and fostering a community of interest.