Nessletter - No 143 - 2002

Magazine Overview

This issue of NESSLETTER, number 143, dated July 2002, is published by the NESS INFORMATION SERVICE and features a cover headline dedicated to Ronnie Bremner. The publication covers various aspects of Loch Ness research, personal accounts, and recent events related to the mystery of the Loch Ness Monster.

Ronnie Bremner Obituary

The issue begins with a poignant obituary for Ronnie Bremner, a significant figure in the Loch Ness community, who passed away on December 1, 2001, at the age of 59, after a battle with aggressive cancer. Bremner was described as a 'very good friend and Loch Ness Patron'. He had taken over the Drumnadrochit Hotel from his parents in 1964 and was instrumental in its rebuilding after a fire in 1984. He also opened the first Loch Ness visitor centre in 1980 and supported the Loch Ness Project's scientific work for nearly 25 years, providing a home and laboratory facilities. The article highlights his role in Operation Deep Scan in 1987 and his patronage of the Loch Ness Project. Bremner was also noted for his business acumen and his sporting achievements, including representing Scotland in table tennis. The funeral in Drumnadrochit was attended by over 500 mourners, and his passing has left a significant void.

Andreas Trottmann's Research Plans

Andreas Trottmann writes about his recent poor health and his plans for a cryptozoological research trip to Loch Ness in October 2002. He intends to recreate experiments from the early 1970s by playing back recorded sounds through an underwater loudspeaker, using specific flavoured oils and powders as an attractant. He recalls a past 'smelly experience' with fish oils and hormones during an expedition in 1970 or 1971. Trottmann also plans to conduct minor sonar searches and night observations using infrared beams and night goggles.

Holidays '01 - Personal Accounts

The author recounts his holiday experiences from 2001, detailing his visits to Loch Ness and surrounding areas. He mentions assisting Adrian Shine with a swimming attempt from Loch End to Fort Augustus, which was hampered by rough conditions. The author also describes his involvement with the Loch Ness Project's activities, including the deployment of a large ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) and an experiment involving the release of fish oils and other ingredients to attract potential subjects. He also details a sonar experiment with Dick Raynor, using a camera rig to explore the loch floor. The author reflects on the importance of calm conditions for such experiments and the challenges of working in varying depths.

Sightings and Video Evidence

The newsletter notes a dramatic fall in reported sightings of the Loch Ness Monster. It discusses the William Hill prize for the 'best Nessie video '01', awarded to Robert Pollack for a video shot in August 2000. The video, shown on television, was described as jumpy and difficult to interpret, with the 'dark blob' being unclear. The article offers advice on filming and photography techniques for monster hunting, emphasizing the use of telephoto lenses, tripods, and practicing in various conditions.

NIS at the Lochside

Several personal accounts from members are included. James Kitwood from Leeds mentions his family's regular stays at a chalet near Loch Ness and recounts a 'Fortean experience' in October 2001, where he heard something large descend from a tree near Urquhart Castle, which he described as not being like a deer.

Gordon Strange from Cupar Fife reports on his visits to Loch Ness, noting a large concentric circle splash off the Inverfarigaig shore as the highlight of his year. He speculates it could have been a very big fish.

Research Plan and Expedition Details

The issue includes details of the 2001 Loch Ness Expedition conducted by the Academy of Applied Science. The research plan outlines objectives for two phases: April 3-12, 2001, and July 15-August 15, 2001. Key tasks included refurbishing and deploying underwater video and sonar stations, upgrading equipment, and conducting thorough side-scan surveys of the loch. The plan also mentions ROV exploration, photographic and video recording of the loch floor, and the use of attractants like strobe and fish oil. Ancillary projects included video documentation, liaison with geologists, and a 'Territorial Imperative' system for recorded underwater sound playback.

Plesiosaur Theory and Fossil Discoveries

The newsletter discusses the theory of plesiosaurs inhabiting Loch Ness and how recent fossil discoveries in Coober Pedy, Australia, have provided evidence that these giant marine reptiles lived in polar conditions. This challenges the previous assumption that they were confined to tropical environments, potentially weakening the argument against their existence in Loch Ness due to its ice age history. The article highlights that these Australian fossils are often opalised and three-dimensional, offering detailed reconstructions.

Subscription and Contact Information

Finally, the issue provides updated subscription rates (UK£3.00, USA $10.00) and contact information for the publisher, R.R. Hepple, at his address in Weardale, Co Durham. Members are encouraged to send in their news and views.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing mystery of the Loch Ness Monster, the scientific research efforts to understand the loch and its potential inhabitants, and the personal experiences and accounts of those involved. The editorial stance appears to be one of continued investigation and a balanced reporting of both scientific endeavors and anecdotal evidence, while acknowledging the challenges in obtaining definitive proof. There is a clear emphasis on the community surrounding Loch Ness research and the importance of shared information.