Nessletter - No 131 - 1995

Magazine Overview

This issue of the NESSLETTER, dated September '95 (with a cover date of September '97), details the author's holiday experiences in Scotland during the summer of 1997. The newsletter, published by NESS INFORMATION SERVICE with ISSN 0204-7001, focuses heavily on personal accounts, observations of Loch Ness, and ongoing research into potential anomalous phenomena in the area.

Holiday Reflections and Personal Losses

The author begins by recounting their arrival at the Abriachan Old Pier on July 27th, 1997, with family. The holiday mood was tinged with sadness due to the recent deaths of dear friends, Alistair and Isa Borland, who passed away within days of each other in January 1997. This personal loss significantly impacted the author's pleasure in returning to a place associated with fond memories.

Loch Ness Observations and Sightings

The newsletter chronicles various observations and reported sightings related to Loch Ness. The author notes the usual activities, including water skiers and jet skis in Dores Bay, whose noise was comparable to motorbikes. A significant event was the report of two humps appearing in the water, observed by Arnold and later by Richard White, who took photographs. These were generally attributed to boat wakes, though the author notes the potential for more significant findings.

Research Expeditions and Sonar Activity

A considerable portion of the newsletter is dedicated to the activities of researchers and expeditions. The author mentions the presence of a film crew from BBC Natural History unit, working on a series about 'X-animals', and their use of underwater TV cameras. The Loch Ness Project, led by Adrian Shin, is also featured, with their research vessel 'M.V.Deepscan' being advertised for tourist trips.

Richard Carter, an independent researcher, shares accounts of sonar activity in Loch Lochy, reporting strong contacts of 18-foot objects at depths of 400 feet. These findings are presented as impressive and are displayed on the boat's equipment. The newsletter also touches upon the 'Edwards Deep' anomaly in Urquhart Bay, with researchers like Bob Rines and Adrian Shin attempting to locate it using underwater TV, without success. The possibility that sonar signals might be reflections from the loch side wall is raised.

Encounters and Personal Interactions

The author recounts several personal encounters, including meeting with Steve Feltham, who is actively monitoring the loch. They also interact with other researchers and visitors, such as Paul Covell, a former member of the NESS organization. The newsletter highlights the challenges of trying to organize a large, coordinated 'Monster Hunting Expedition', with a general preference among members for individual pursuits.

Technical Aspects and Equipment

Discussions about sonar equipment and its interpretation are frequent. The author mentions the use of hydrophones and tape recorders, and the challenges of interpreting sonar readings, especially when the equipment automatically changes scale. The effectiveness and limitations of sonar in detecting potential anomalies are explored.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring mystery of the Loch Ness Monster, the personal impact of loss and remembrance, and the ongoing efforts of researchers and enthusiasts to document and understand the phenomena associated with the loch. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious observation, personal reflection, and a continued interest in the unexplained, while acknowledging the practicalities and challenges of research and the possibility of misinterpretation.