Nessletter - No 138 - 2001

Magazine Overview

Title: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE NESSLETTER
Issue: 138
Date: January 2001
Publisher: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE
ISSN: 0204-7001

This issue of the Nessletter continues from a previous cut-off, detailing events and research from August 1999 and early 2000. It covers personal experiences at Loch Ness, a cryptozoology symposium, book reviews, and recent sightings.

Loch Ness Research and Personal Experiences (August 1999)

The author recounts a period in August 1999 involving research at Loch Ness. This included deploying a camera rig on the loch bed off Abriachan Pier with Dick Raynor and Stuart Leadbetter. The rig's positioning was adjusted, and the author monitored the camera feed from a van. A birthday celebration for Dick Raynor involved repositioning the camera rig and a barbecue on the beach.

The author also attended the 'Loch Ness 1999: an International Cryptozoology Symposium' held at the Drumnadrochit Hotel. Speakers included Richard D. Smith, who defended the 'Surgeon's Photograph'; Professor Henry Bauer, who emphasized the role of amateurs; and Loren Coleman, who discussed his book 'Cryptozoology A-Z' and called Loch Ness the 'epicentre of Cryptozoology'. A notable account was from retired police detective superintendent Ian Cameron, who reported a 30-foot creature sighting in the loch on June 15th, 1965, lasting an hour.

Following the symposium, some speakers took a trip on the loch aboard 'Nessie Hunter', with Dick Raynor acting as captain/tour guide. The author notes the irony that these passengers, despite their interest, may not have fully recognized Dick's extensive qualifications in Loch Ness research.

Other personal accounts include visits from friends, showing them research gear, and attending birthday parties for both Dick Raynor (50th) and Adrian Shine (50th).

Observations on the 'Loch Ness 2000' Exhibition

Steve Feltham, a local contact, shared his observation that tourists visiting him at Dores felt the new 'Loch Ness 2000' exhibition projected a negative image, suggesting there was 'nothing there, except perhaps a big fish'. The author expresses concern about this approach, recalling a past conversation with Adrian Shine where he advised against alienating the public's interest in the monster.

The author clarifies Adrian Shine's role at the Loch Ness 2000 exhibition, stating he is the designer, content creator, and curator, not the owner. The Bremner family owns the exhibition and the first shop, though these are now leased to other firms.

Book Reviews

'The Complete Visitor's Guide to Loch Ness' by Andy Owens

This book is described as a useful guide for newcomers to the Loch Ness mystery, covering amenities, transport, and activities, with sections on the history of the mystery and a list of sightings. However, for dedicated followers, it offers little new information. The author notes that some listed sightings may have been explained in previous Nessletters. The hardback format is considered unusual for a guide book that typically requires updates.

'Cryptozoology A-Z' by Loren Coleman & Jerome Clark

This encyclopedic work covers a wide range of cryptids, locations, researchers, and a cryptozoology timeline. Loch Ness receives five pages, with mentions of Tim Dinsdale and Professor Roy Mackal. The author points out omissions such as the 'Surgeon's Photo', the Tim Dinsdale film, the Loch Ness Phenomena Investigation Bureau, and Bob Rines, despite their significance.

'Out of the Shadows, Mystery Animals of Australia' by Tony Healy and Paul Cropper

This book documents Australia's mystery animals, including extinct and extant creatures like the Tasmanian Tiger, Marsupial Tiger, and Alien Bigcats, as well as the 'Yowie' and 'Bunyip'. It includes forensic evidence, sketches, and eyewitness accounts. While not directly about Loch Ness, it is considered interesting and well-researched, with the author finding Tony Healy to be a credible source.

Sightings and Lack Thereof

The author expresses concern about the lack of recent sighting reports, noting that even misinterpretations are scarce. A dubious source claims twelve reports for 2000, but these are unconfirmed. The author discusses photographs taken by a family from Dorset in June 2000, which were identified as a water bird, despite a verbal account suggesting otherwise. This highlights how easily visitors can be misled.

Steve Feltham provided information about two photographs taken in Autumn 1999. One, by Alex Crosby, is believed to be a seagull on the water. The other is thought to be a shot of a hotel barge taken at extreme distance. The author trusts Steve Feltham's judgment due to his extensive experience with the loch.

Tail Ends

The Abbey at Fort Augustus has been bought, with potential for a bright future. Jan Sundberg and a GUST team are planning to return to Loch Ness in March with a trap.

The author thanks readers for their forbearance regarding the delay in publishing Nessletters and encourages them to submit news and views.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ongoing research into the Loch Ness Monster, the broader field of cryptozoology, and the importance of documenting evidence and experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of dedicated investigation, a critical evaluation of information, and a desire to keep the public informed about developments, while also acknowledging the challenges and occasional disappointments in the search for definitive proof.