Australian UFO Bulletin - 1984 06 - June

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Australia U.F.O. Bulletin, published by The Victorian U.F.O. Research Society, is dated June 1984. It serves as the official publication of the society, disseminating information on UFO phenomena, historical cases, and speculative future scenarios.

Society History

The magazine provides a historical overview of the Victorian U.F.O. Research Society. It traces its origins back to the early 1950s with the formation of the "Australian Flying Saucer Bureau" under Edgar Jarrold and Andrew Tomas, and the "Australian Flying Saucer Research Society" by Fred Stone in Adelaide. The society underwent several name changes and reorganizations, becoming the "Australian U.F.O. Investigation Centre" and eventually the "Victorian U.F.O. Research Society" in 1968. The publication highlights the society's efforts, including publishing the "Australian Flying Saucer Review" (curtailed in 1972) and the "Australian U.F.O. Bulletin," sponsoring a radio program, and maintaining the largest UFO library in the Southern Hemisphere. Membership is open to all genuinely interested individuals.

Office Bearers

• The issue lists the office bearers of the V.U.F.O.R.S.:
• President: JUDITH M. MAGEE
• Vice-President / Sightings Investigations Officer: PAUL NORMAN
• Secretary: MARK SAWYERS
• Treasurer: CLIVE YATES
• Membership Secretary: STAFFORD HALL
• Librarian: JOHN W. AUCHETTL
• Publications Officer: M. FERNANDEZ
• Officer: CAPT. JOHN BELL

Subscription Rates

• Full Membership: $5.00 per annum (includes free issues of magazine).
• Overseas Membership: $1.00 U.S.A.
• Single copy of magazine: 50¢ Aust. plus postage.

Welcome

The society welcomes reports of unusual Aerial Phenomena, promising to evaluate each report on its own merits and maintain strict confidentiality. They exchange information with similar organizations globally and disseminate information through their quarterly publication.

Editorial

The editorial section begins with quotes from 1957 and the "Fort Lewis Ranger" regarding the unknown nature of UFOs. It recounts the famous Kenneth Arnold sighting near Mount Ranier in Washington, USA, in 1947, which coined the term "Flying Saucers." The editorial notes the increase in interest following this event and mentions reports of visitations and abductions. It states that astronomers, pilots, and astronauts are at a loss to explain these phenomena. The editorial also notes the recent passing of a pioneer in UFO research on January 22, 1984, at the age of 58. It concludes by asserting that UFO interest and research continue, despite claims of "crashed saucers" by major powers, and that the problem has persisted since before the Common Era, with its origins and purpose still unknown.

A notice announces a VUFORS Discussion Night on Monday, August 6th, at the Royal Society in Melbourne, encouraging attendance and support.

Contents

• The table of contents lists several articles:
• Canadian Photo - Richard Haines
• Missing Without Trace - J. Magee
• This Computer Age - Frank Salter for the Australian
• On the UFO Trail - Paul Norman
• Magnesium Study Continues - APRO Bulletin
• Britain Says - It's Official.
• Australia Echoes! UFO Hunts are History
• Book Review.
• Society News.

Canadian U.F.O. Photograph

This section, dated October 1981, presents a photograph and related information from an "Unpublished Technical Report" by Richard T. Haines, copyrighted in 1983. The report analyzes a purported unidentified flying object (UFO) photograph taken on October 8, 1981, on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The analysis covered the photographer, camera, original negative, photography site, and other related subjects. Key findings include:

1. The original negative contains a "real" image of a symmetrical, well-defined object, corresponding to the color enlargement.
2. There is no evidence of a hoax or deliberate fraud.
3. The camera and lens were not the source of the anomalous image.
4. While the distance to the object is indeterminate, computer enhancements suggest it is not a Frisbee of known design. Even a small Frisbee would have been over 32 feet away.
5. The object photographed was very likely not any type of Frisbee and remains unidentified.

Historical Background (Canadian Photo Analysis)

Richard T. Haines discusses his approach to analyzing UFO photographs, emphasizing the credibility of the photographer. He explains how he came to receive the prints and original negative for study. He notes that anomalous images can arise from various technical issues like electrostatic discharges or faulty chemicals.

Conclusions (Canadian Photo Analysis)

Haines draws several conclusions:

• The aerial disc-like object is an actual image, not an optical flaw, though the possibility of a lab-created image on a duplicate film is considered but deemed elaborate.
• Photometric and geometric features are consistent with a three-dimensional object reflecting ambient light. Calculations suggest that even a small disc would have been over 32 feet away, and if at the same distance as a mountain, over 172 feet in diameter.
• The witness's high credibility and the story's consistency support the factuality of not seeing the disc at the time, with the "through-the-lens" aiming effect potentially explaining the lack of visual notice.
• No evidence supports the hypothesis of a deliberate deception by the witness; no motive like social acceptance or money was found.
• Traditional UFO field investigative techniques proved adequate for this case.

Missing Without Trace

This article by Judy Magee addresses whether the Bass Strait is another "Bermuda Triangle." While acknowledging numerous ship and aircraft losses in the area, Magee believes it is a rough stretch of water rather than a true Bermuda Triangle. She references a 1972 article by Ivan T. Sanderson in "Saga" that categorized ship losses under six headings: foundered, burned, collided, wrecked, missing, and other causes. "Missing" is defined as disappearing without trace, bodies, or distress calls. Between January 1961 and December 1970, Lloyds recorded 2,766 shipping losses, with 70 listed as disappearing. The article highlights the improved communication since WWII, making disappearances more unusual. It recounts the December 5, 1945, incident where 14 men in five Avenger torpedo bombers disappeared over the Atlantic after their compasses failed. A Martin Mariner seaplane with 13 men sent to search for them also vanished within 15 minutes.

The article continues by discussing other unusual happenings globally, including the Marie-Celeste and the Joyita. It notes that while many early ships were lost along Australia's southern coast due to difficult conditions, the Bass Strait does not possess the puzzling aspects of the Bermuda Triangle, particularly regarding electro/magnetic effects. Magee mentions that there are believed to be twelve such mystery locations globally. The "Devil's Sea" in the Western Pacific is mentioned, along with the Bermuda Triangle, both located at 36 degrees North latitude. The disappearance of two submarines and four small vessels in the Mediterranean and near Portugal/Morocco is noted. The disappearance of gold bullion transported by military planes to Iran over Afghanistan during WWII is also cited as a fourth area.

Sanderson's investigators found that areas from the West Mediterranean to Afghanistan and the Donin Sea were at 72-degree intervals, as was the distance to the Bermuda Triangle. They identified three "disappearance" areas in the Southern Hemisphere: off Argentina, off South Africa, and in the Tasman Sea (Australia). Further analysis suggested two more areas, one in the East Indian Ocean and another in the Southeast Pacific, also at 72-degree intervals from other locations. Despite these areas having significant shipping and air traffic, they have not experienced the strange phenomena associated with the Bermuda Triangle.

This Computer Age!

This section features excerpts from an article by Frank Salter of Griffith University, titled "WILL MAN SURVIVE THE EVOLUTION OF TECHNOLOGY?" The article explores two possible futures: one where humans are absent and another where they are present but impotent victims of cosmic evolutionary forces. It focuses on the non-human scenario, detailing the growth and evolution of artificial intelligence.

Four predictions are presented:

1. Homo sapiens will be replaced by intelligent machines.
2. An evolutionary process will take place among machines, leading to them colonizing the solar system. These machines will grow to immense sizes to reproduce themselves more efficiently and securely.
3. The stellar society of intelligent machines will become a gestalt intelligence, causing the whole solar system to act as a single organism. This could involve a central computer directing operations or specialization of function.
4. The galaxy will be colonized by Darwinistic von Neumann Machines. These machines will set out to colonize stars, and this process will continue throughout the galaxy. A "Gestalt Star" might achieve slight acceleration by expelling solar radiation. The strategy of traveling to neighboring galaxies will become rational, potentially leading to spacecraft capable of such tasks. This could also offer a solution to arresting the expansion or collapse of the universe.

The article poses the question of whether Gestalt Stars would choose universal collapse or entropy death, suggesting collapse might be chosen for the chance of a new beginning. It concludes that a galactic community of dark Gestalt Stars, motivated to reproduce and operating under a law-bound, cooperative economy, would emerge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena, the historical development of UFO research organizations in Australia, and speculative explorations of future technological advancements and their impact on humanity. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the mystery surrounding UFOs while maintaining a scientific and dispassionate approach. The society positions itself as a credible source of information and a hub for research in the field.

This issue of "UFO Reports" from The Canberra Times, dated Sunday, May 13, 1984, features a prominent headline "Many UFO reports are taken very seriously" and delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, investigations, and public perception.

Book Review: "Aliens From Outer Space" by Richard Garrett

The issue begins with a review of Richard Garrett's book, "Aliens From Outer Space." The reviewer, John Auchettl, a Librarian at VUFORS, describes the book as a standard overview of UFOs, collecting most major sightings and encounters. While acknowledging its up-to-date nature (as of 1983) and its accessibility for novices, Auchettl notes that Garrett writes in a simple way, disregarding details or major evidence. The book covers over 200 subjects in 137 pages across 10 chapters, with topics ranging from 'The Saucer' to 'Who on earth knows the truth?'. The reviewer concludes that the book is not recommended for serious UFO researchers but is a worthwhile read for a few hours for those new to the subject.

Magnesium Study Continues...

This section reports on the ongoing investigation of a UFO case from Ubatuba, Brazil, in 1957. A small disc-shaped object was observed diving and then exploding above the beach, leaving fragments. One witness retrieved some fragments, which were sent to a journalist. The late Dr. Clavo Fontes, APRO's Brazilian Representative, became involved and initiated a careful analysis. Scientists at Brazilian government laboratories and later at APRO studied the specimens. The Condon Committee attempted to prove the fragments were mundane magnesium, but failed. Dr. Walter W. Walker, APRO's Consultant in Metallurgy, conducted tests that bolstered the Brazilian findings. Currently, the material is under study using the most recent methods, and an APRO scientist has journeyed to Brazil for further documentation. The fragments remain mysterious, as no known technology at the time could have produced such pure magnesium, nor can it be produced at present.

On the UFO Trail by Paul Norman

This article details a journey to Africa, starting on March 26, 1984, where the author met Cynthia Hind, MUFON's Co-ordinator for Africa. Hind had invited the author to assist her on a joint lecture tour. The author recalls meeting Hind at a MUFON Symposium in 1981 and a FUFORA Congress in the UK. The article notes that Africa has an intriguing history of UFO cases, citing an incident in February 1951 near Kilimanjaro, where a large, long, bullet-shaped UFO was reported by the pilot and crew of an East African Airways flight. Passengers photographed the object, which was described as having vertical bands similar to an object seen by Lionel Browming at Cressey, Tasmania, in October 1960. Rev. Browning, initially skeptical, stated it was not a normal aircraft as it was descending below stalling speed.

The article also touches upon the Cressey sighting, mentioning an interview with the air force officer who investigated it. This officer disagreed with the official debunking statement, which attributed the sighting to reflections on scud tyre clouds. Professor McDonald, an atmospheric scientist, later investigated and found that climatic conditions at the time made scud type clouds impossible.

Cynthia Hind is actively interviewing people in communal lands in Africa who have seen UFOs. A recent report from forestry workers describes three humanoids in silver suits. The interest in the UFO subject is keen in Harare, Bulawayo, and Gweru, with new cases being uncovered.

The author also recounts being invited to the flight deck of two Air Zimbabwe airliners to discuss the Frederick Valentich disappearance, as the pilots had heard about the incident and were eager for firsthand details.

Britain Says: Its Official: There Are U.F.O.'s

This article, by Martin Bailey from The Observer (4.3.84), reports that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has officially acknowledged the existence of Unidentified Flying Objects. Copies of 16 reports on sightings over Wales have been sent to the British UFO Research Association. While the government stresses that there is no suggestion the objects come from outer space, this is seen as a significant step for UFO researchers. Previously, the government had refused to release UFO incident details. Following pressure from the House of Lords, the MoD has relented and is willing to consider providing reports to serious inquirers.

The article highlights a typical incident from the MoD documents: on September 14, 1982, David Mason of Cwmbran saw a bright light, described as half the size of the moon, hovering for 15 minutes before speeding off. The Masons reported it to the police, and the case was forwarded to the MoD. The MoD concluded there were no defense implications, but Mr. Mason expressed surprise at not being contacted for further queries.

The Cwmbran sighting is presented as typical of hundreds of UFO reports received annually by the MoD. The number of British sightings filtered through officialdom and reaching the MoD fluctuated between 1978 and 1983, ranging from 250 to 750 per year.

Mrs. Jenny Randles, investigation director of the UFO research association, stated that crucial information was still missing from government reports, with final sections containing investigation results excised. The ministry's primary concern is whether UFOs pose a 'defence implication,' essentially whether they are hostile aircraft.

Australia Echoes! U.F.O. Hunts Are History For RAAF

This article from The Melbourne "Age" (3.5.84) reports that the Australian Air Force (RAAF) will stop actively chasing UFOs. The Minister for Defence, Mr. Scholes, announced that the department will no longer investigate "Unusual Aerial Sightings" (UAS) unless they have "defence or national security implications." These are believed to be aircraft intruding on Australian airspace, not alien craft. In the future, the RAAF will simply record sightings and refer individuals to UFO research organizations. The number of UFO sightings reported to the air force peaked in the early 1960s, and for the past 10 years, it investigated 120 to 150 sightings annually.

An "Ed Note" comments on the media's portrayal of UFOs, suggesting that the invention of "little green men" has been used to make the subject appear foolish. The author believes earthlings are "greener" for not achieving what "Ufonauts" have managed centuries ago.

Sightings

• May 20: A lady in Somerville, Victoria, observed two 'coffin-like' objects with rounded ends hovering. One flew away and returned, followed by the other. They emitted a humming noise and had rotating lights. This report is under investigation.
• June 14, 1984: A woman in Murray Bridge, South Australia, reported seeing bright orange flashing lights and a shaft of orange light descending, followed by an object that took a zig-zag path. She could not estimate its shape or distance.

TIMESTYLE: Many UFO reports are taken very seriously

This article by Frank Cranston details the history of UFO investigations in Australia, starting with the first officially recorded sighting off Bass Point, NSW, on July 16, 1950. This sighting, involving lights moving from north-east to south-west, was taken seriously by the Directorate of Air Force Intelligence. However, an initial assessment by Mr. O. H. Turner of the Department of Defence was critical of the RAAF's approach, noting incongruities in the description and the estimated speed.

The article traces the evolution of UFO investigations, noting that by 1960, the investigation of "Unusual Aerial Sightings" had become a skilled art. The RAAF's stance evolved, with a decision to probe "Flying Saucer" reports only if national security was involved, referring others to interested civil observers.

During the Cold War, there was speculation that UFOs might be Soviet aerial machines. Another school of thought considered visitors from space. The advent of mass aviation and wartime rocket development made people more aware of aerial phenomena.

The article mentions various sightings and their official explanations, including meteors, aircraft, and even a cloud of thistles. It highlights the Woomera observations as particularly worrying, with reports of "white oval light-detected by doppier" and "white round objects." The article also notes that some sightings, particularly in northern Australia, have been assessed as drug runners, and some have been caught.

The closure of the RAAF's version of the USAF "Blue Book" does not mean the RAAF is no longer interested in receiving reports, but those without direct national security impact will not be further investigated. The article concludes that the detailed files compiled over years will now be diverted to areas of more productive defense interest.

The Last Lines of the Sighting Report on Page 13 Should Read:

"I know the times, because I glanced at the clock on the way out, and again when I went back inside. 'I had been very interested in UFQs, and delved into the subject quite deeply, but, because I am a Christian, I gave it up some time ago.'"

Membership/Subscription Fees

This section details the membership and subscription fees for VUFORS. It notes that over the past six years, printing and mailing costs have increased significantly, necessitating a reassessment of fees. From January 1, 1984, new fees were introduced: $6 for Australia and $8 overseas. The article highlights that this is the first fee increase in 6 years and only the second in 19 years, attributing this to the loyalty and support of VUFORS members, particularly through the sales of publications, windcheaters, T-shirts, car stickers, and cloth badges, which have helped keep membership fees nominal.

Windcheaters and T-Shirts

This section advertises VUFORS merchandise, including T-shirts (white with VUFORS emblem) and windcheaters (navy with a cloth badge). Prices are listed for T-shirts ($7.50) and windcheaters (children's $13.00, adults $15.75-$16.90), with postage costs specified. A 10% discount applies for orders of five or more garments. Orders can be taken at general meetings or picked up from committee members' houses. Members are reminded not to send cash through the mail and to send cheques or money orders instead. The section encourages support for the Society by attending functions and purchasing merchandise.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the increasing seriousness with which UFO reports are being treated by official bodies, particularly in Britain and Australia, albeit with a shift in focus towards national security implications. The issue emphasizes the importance of physical evidence, as seen in the Ubatuba case, and highlights the challenges of official debunking. There's a clear effort to present UFO phenomena as a subject worthy of investigation, contrasting with past media ridicule. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious but open-minded inquiry, encouraging public interest and support for organizations like VUFORS and MUFON, while also acknowledging the limitations and evolving policies of government agencies. The inclusion of book reviews and detailed sighting reports suggests a commitment to providing comprehensive information to readers interested in the UFO phenomenon.