Nessletter - No 161 - 2014

Magazine Overview

Title: NESSLETTER
Issue: 161
Date: July 2014
Publisher: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE
ISSN: 0204-7001

This issue of the Nessletter marks the 40th anniversary of its first publication in January 1974. The editor reflects on the journey of creating the Nessletter, expressing gratitude for contributions and noting how much has happened in forty years. The editor divides his life into 'pre and post Nessletter' eras, recounting his personal history including his marriage in 1974 and his career as a hard-rock miner for twenty years.

The Genesis of the Nessletter

The editor recalls that the idea for the Nessletter originated in August 1973 during a discussion with independent watchers, including Nick Witchell, at Strone. The LNI (Loch Ness Investigation) had been providing reports to members, but after their field operations ceased in 1972, the editor felt a newsletter was needed to keep interested people informed. Despite initial skepticism from others who believed scientists would soon provide answers, the editor proceeded to create the newsletter, leveraging his connections and access to information around Loch Ness. He notes the contrast with today's 'internet' and 'social networking' era.

Forty Years of Investigation and the Search for Answers

The editor reflects on the scientific efforts to answer the question of what inhabits Loch Ness, particularly mentioning the work of Bob Rines and the Academy of Applied Sciences. Despite extensive resources and equipment, the results, including sonar readings and underwater photography, remain debatable and have not provided a definitive answer. The work of 'The Loch Ness Project' under Adrian Shine is also acknowledged for increasing the understanding of the loch's ecology and currents. A significant development was the creation of an awesome underwater contour map by the Simrad sonar team. However, no 'monster' has been found, and some findings suggest such phenomena may not exist or no longer exist in Loch Ness. The editor expresses his belief that answers are still to be found.

Ken Wallis: An Extraordinary Life

This section is dedicated to the memory of Wing Commander Ken Wallis (Retired), who passed away in September 2013 at the age of 97. Wallis had an extensive flying career, from replica early aircraft to the Convair B-36 nuclear bomber. Despite initial setbacks due to eyesight issues, he qualified as a private pilot and later joined the RAF, flying Westland Lysanders and Vickers Wellingtons. He survived an abortive sortie to Frankfurt and a dangerous crash landing in England. His engineering skills were utilized as an Armament Officer, and he later converted to jet aircraft. He also served as an Armament Electronics Specialist with Strategic Air Command in the USA, flying various USAF aircraft. A key part of his legacy was his development of innovative autogyros, for which he patented 17 pieces of hardware and set 34 world records. His autogyro, 'Little Nellie', gained worldwide fame through its appearance in the 1967 James Bond film 'You Only Live Twice'. His connection to Loch Ness began when Tim Dinsdale suggested his autogyro could be used for aerial surveillance. Wallis arrived at Achnahannet in August 1970 with his 'Little Nellie' autogyro, a self-contained outfit capable of quick take-offs and landings. The editor recounts the surreal experience of Ken Wallis and Basil Cary using hover-mowers to cut a landing strip. Wallis flew for over twenty hours over several weeks, covering a vast area of water and taking photographs that, while not providing definitive evidence, were a 'marvellous try'.

Recent Sightings and Photographic Evidence

The issue discusses recent photographic 'evidence' of Nessie. A photograph from late 2013 showed a 'black object' on Loch Ness, which was identified as a boat wake. Another similar photograph from earlier in the year also depicted a boat wake. In mid-April 2014, a satellite photograph appeared, showing a large water disturbance with what appeared to be flippers, initially thought to be the Loch Ness Monster. However, after study, it was concluded to be a boat wake. The editor expresses disappointment with such conclusions, suggesting that fifteen minutes of common sense could identify these as boat wakes, particularly when considering the location and potential for boat traffic.

Book Review: 'The Man Who Filmed Nessie'

The book 'The Man Who Filmed Nessie: Tim Dinsdale and the Enigma of Loch Ness' by Angus Dinsdale is reviewed by Henry H. Bauer. The review highlights that Tim Dinsdale's 1960 film remains the strongest evidence for the existence of Loch Ness Monsters. The book, written by Dinsdale's youngest child, provides illuminating details about the circumstances of the filming and the photographer's trustworthiness. The reviewer admits to being biased, having known Tim Dinsdale as a friend, and emphasizes the genuine enthusiasm for establishing Nessie's reality and identity, supported by his wife Wendy. The book is described as recapturing the public interest of the 1960s and '70s, offering a readable account of happenings and memorable characters involved in Nessie-seeking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the long history of Loch Ness investigations, the ongoing search for definitive evidence, the personal reflections of the editor on the longevity of the Nessletter, and the contributions of individuals like Ken Wallis. The editorial stance is one of persistent hope and belief that answers can still be found, despite the lack of conclusive proof thus far. There is a critical perspective on recent 'sightings' that are quickly dismissed as boat wakes, emphasizing the need for careful analysis. The issue also celebrates the dedication of Nessie hunters and researchers over the decades.