Project Red Book vol 6 no 10

Magazine Overview

This issue of PROJECT RED BOOK, Volume 6, Number 10, published by the YUFOS YORKSHIRE UFO SOCIETY in 2003, is dedicated to exploring British UFO investigations and the phenomenon of Big Hairy Monsters (BHM). The cover prominently features an illustration of an alien and lists several key articles, including "MONKEY BUSINESS: JON DOWNES ON BRITISH BHM's!", "THE BIG GREY MAN (PART 4)", "THE JENNY RANDLES COLUMN", and "AUSTRALIAN UFOS". The price is listed as £1:50.

Contents and Key Articles

The table of contents on page 2 details the articles within this issue:

• 1) THE VIEW FROM BRITAIN: UFOLOGISTS IN DISGUISE by Jenny Randles. This article addresses critics of the book "Out Of The Shadows" by Dave Clarke and Andy Roberts, defending their approach to UFO research.
• 4) TOO MUCH MONKEY BUSINESS (part 2) by Jon Downes. This installment discusses Big Hairy Monsters (BHM) from the UK.
• 8) THE BIG GREY MAN OF BEN MACDHUI & OTHER MOUNTAIN PANICS (PART 4) by Andy Roberts. This article concludes an examination of BHM and paranormal reports from the Scottish mountain.
• 14) UFOs: SUB ROSA (part 7) by Bill Chalker. This is an extensive study of Australian military and government interest in UFOs, covering cases like 'The Cressy Affair' and the Darwin Radar/visual case of 1962.
• 19) BOLAM BEAST HAIR SAMPLES. An update from the Centre for Fortean Zoology regarding the Bolam BHM.
• 20) RECORD DAY FOR NESSIE SIGHTINGS/ BIGFOOT SPOTTED IN CHINA. A brief note on unusual sightings.

The issue also includes contact information for YUFOS, subscription details, and credits for the publication's team, including Editor Dave Baker and Web-master Richard Moss.

A VIEW FROM BRITAIN: THE JENNY RANDLES COLUMN

This column, originally published in The MUFON JOURNAL in May 2002, discusses the debate surrounding the UK Ministry of Defence's (MoD) UFO investigations in the 1950s and 1960s. Jenny Randles notes the difficulty in obtaining information due to secrecy laws. She highlights the success of researchers Andy Roberts and David Clarke in coercing the MoD to release documents, leading to their book "Out of the Shadows". Randles observes that Roberts and Clarke presented themselves as 'social historians' rather than 'UFO buffs' to gain credibility and media attention, a tactic that has generated some resentment among other UK ufologists. She acknowledges the value of their research in documenting how British society dealt with UFOs during the Cold War and admits to having considered similar tactics, such as using the acronym 'SANE' (Scientific Anomaly Network Enquiries) to rebrand UFOlogy.

Randles defends Roberts and Clarke's approach, stating that while they may not be convinced UFOs are extraterrestrial, they are willing to publish unexplained cases. She notes that their book provides a comprehensive account of the Lakenheath/Bentwaters (1956) case, incorporating new information and interviews, though she feels some prior research by the UFO community might not have received adequate credit.

TOO MUCH MONKEY BUSINESS (PART 2)

By Jonathan Downes (CFZ). This article explores the phenomenon of Big Hairy Monsters (BHM) in the UK, particularly in Scotland. Downes discusses the zoological possibility of undiscovered primates but leans towards paranormal explanations for BHM reports. He mentions the 'running man' sightings in Scotland and the legend of the 'monster of Glamis Castle', a hideously deformed heir. The article also details the 'Big Grey Man of Ben Macdhui' and other yeti-like creature reports. Downes rejects the idea that these are undiscovered species of Scottish primates, suggesting something less tangible is at work. He notes a connection between BHM phenomena and UFO activity in certain areas. The article also touches upon reports from the South West of England, including sightings of 'cave men' and 'green-faced monkeys', and links these to anomalous phenomena and crop circles. The author discusses the possibility of 'feral people' and 'animal ghosts' but ultimately categorizes these apparitions as BHM Zooform Phenomena.

THE BIG GREY MAN OF BEN MACDHUI & OTHER MOUNTAIN PANICS (part 4)

By Andy Roberts. This section continues the exploration of BHM and mountain panics. Roberts recounts an experience reported by Thurston Hopkins, involving a feeling of being watched and a "huge menacing form" enveloping the observer on Rhossilly Bay. Another account from South Wales describes a man feeling the raw edge of fear and the presence of unknown, invisible eyes on Foel Feddau. A particularly striking incident from the Derbyshire Peak District involved two boys investigating aircraft wrecks who witnessed a "grouse exploding out of the heather", "sheep and hares stampeding", and a "huge shadow-figure, a man-like silhouette, but far bigger than a man – as high as the cloudbank" emerging from a cloud bank. This event caused overwhelming terror and led to the witnesses fleeing in panic, along with the wildlife. Roberts notes that this incident, if it had occurred closer to Ben Macdhui, would be a prime example of the 'Big Grey Man' legend. He emphasizes the psychological impact and the response of wildlife as significant factors, suggesting that purely psychological explanations may be insufficient.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO phenomena in Britain, the exploration of cryptid reports (specifically Big Hairy Monsters), and the challenges faced by researchers in gaining credibility and public acceptance. The editorial stance, as expressed through Jenny Randles' column, suggests a pragmatic approach to research presentation, advocating for methods that maximize reach and minimize stigma, even if it means adopting alternative labels like 'social historians' or 'skeptical outsiders' over 'ufologists'. The issue highlights the importance of rigorous research, uncovering new information, and presenting findings objectively, as exemplified by the work of Roberts and Clarke. There's an underlying tension between traditional ufology and the need for broader acceptance in a modern, skeptical world.

Title: PRB
Issue: 6, # 10
Date: August 1999 (inferred from issue number and context)
Publisher: PRB
Country: Australia
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of PRB, subtitled 'UFOs: SUB ROSA DOWN UNDER - THE AUSTRALIAN MILITARY & GOVERNMENT ROLE IN THE UFO CONTROVERSY (part 7)', by Bill Chalker, delves into the complex history of UFO investigations in Australia, focusing on government and military involvement, as well as the experiences of civilian researchers and witnesses.

Mountain Panics and Earth Energies

The issue begins by exploring the phenomenon of 'mountain panics' – sudden, intense feelings of terror experienced in isolated natural areas. Various accounts are presented, including an experience on Higher Shelf Stones and an incident on Mt. Giluwe in Papua New Guinea involving mountaineer Bill Steele and his partner Dieter. The author discusses attempts to rationalize these experiences, suggesting they might be a 'late twentieth century defensive mechanism'.

An alternative explanation explored is the concept of 'earth energies' – energies locked into the landscape that can be tapped into intentionally or accidentally, potentially causing a range of psychological and physiological symptoms. This idea is linked to ancient concepts like Chinese feng shui and the idea of a 'genius loci', the spirit of a place.

Archaeologist Tom Lethbridge is cited for his theory of 'ghouls', which he attributed to 'place-fields' caused by underground water affecting the earth's magnetic field. Researchers like Albert Budden and Paul Devereux are also mentioned for their work on natural radioactivity and electro-magnetic fields influencing consciousness.

Critics are noted for dismissing these theories as 'new-age techno folklore', but the article acknowledges the existence of natural radiation and electro-magnetism and their potential effect on consciousness. The psychological aspect is also considered, with senses being stretched by exertion, beauty, and isolation, leading to phenomena that might cause panic. The concept of the Greek god Pan is invoked, with 'panic' fear being attributed to his presence, and the experience being described as a 'participation mystique in nature'.

Several anecdotes illustrate these panics, including a car journey experience described by Michael Cook and John Keel's encounter with a 'zone of fear' in West Virginia. The article also touches upon the idea of 'repeater' spots where such phenomena are more common, like the Cairngorms and North Skye.

Australian UFO Controversy: Government and Military Role

The latter half of the issue shifts focus to the Australian government and military's involvement in the UFO controversy, particularly through the work of Bill Chalker.

ASIO Infiltration

Stan Seers, president of the Queensland Flying Saucer Research Bureau, was approached by an ASIO agent named 'D D' in 1959. The agent sought to establish a covert relationship, offering Seers direct communication with Prime Minister Bob Menzies if significant UFO information arose. Seers found the offer 'hilariously stupid'. When Seers discussed the offer with his committee, the ASIO agent became furious, leading to the group's destabilization. Seers resigned but was later coached back, and the group continued to experience ASIO's attentions for eleven years until Seers' death in 1970. The article notes that ASIO's interest was in data acquired by clandestine means, and that intelligence analysts can sometimes misinterpret events, creating a 'clandestine version' that bears little resemblance to reality.

RAAF's Evolving Stance

The RAAF's approach to UFO reports evolved significantly. Initially open-minded, by 1955, the growing number of sightings led to the 'UFO problem' being viewed through public relations, military, and political dimensions. Controversy about unknown interlopers was not tolerated, and officialdom moved towards managing the problem, sidelining scientific approaches. Harry Turner's secret study of DAFI UFO files was rejected, and the military and political ethic began to dominate.

The Cressy Affair

In October and November 1960, the Cressy area of Tasmania experienced a wave of sightings. Reverend Lionel Browning and his wife witnessed a UFO, which was reported in the Launceston Mercury. The RAAF found itself in a difficult position due to the witness's credibility. Wing Commander Waller interviewed the Brownings, concluding they were 'stable, responsible and unexcitable' and convinced they saw actual objects. Despite this, the RAAF's attempts to explain the sighting away were considered hollow, especially given a report of a US Air Force JB57 aircraft encountering a UFO nearby on November 15, 1960. The issue also notes that Mr. Duthie, the federal member for the area, questioned the Minister for Air in parliament about these sightings.

Official Explanations and the Gill Testimony

The Minister for Air, Mr. Osborne, stated that nearly all reported UFO cases were explainable as weather balloons, high-flying aircraft, or stars, with only 3-4% remaining unexplained. He asserted that these unexplained cases provided no firm support for the belief in extraterrestrial visitors. The article contrasts the Browning sighting with the Reverend William Gill's testimony from Boianai, Papua New Guinea, noting that while both involved Anglican ministers and received positive press, the Browning objects were 'dull grey' while Gill's were 'brightly lit' and allegedly contained humanoid beings. A DAFI briefing paper concluded the Cressy sighting was likely a natural phenomenon associated with unsettled weather, similar to the Boianai case.

A Radar Visual Incident Near Darwin

In 1962, a RAAF radar unit at Lee Point, near Darwin, reportedly monitored a UFO. Service men observed an object that changed colour, dropped in altitude, and rose again. The Met office indicated no planes were aloft. The object was estimated to be about 5-6,000 feet high and the size of a house. It moved in a clockwise arc before disappearing near dawn.

The 1965 Ballarat UFO Convention

This convention, held on February 27, 1965, in Ballarat, Victoria, is described as a major turning point for civilian UFO research in Australia. It aimed to elevate the subject's respectability and foster unity among groups. Attendees included researchers, witnesses to famous cases like Rev. William Gill and Charles Brew, and even a representative from the RAAF, Mr. B. G. Roberts. Presentations covered topics such as 'Preparing for contact', 'History of UFOs', and 'Occupants of UFOs'.

RAAF's Assessment of Unidentified Aerial Sightings

Mr. B. G. Roberts of the RAAF's Operational Research Office addressed the term 'UFO' and objections to it. He argued for the term 'unidentified aerial sightings' (UAS) as more appropriate. Roberts stated that the Department of Air was responsible for assessing these reports and that 9 out of 10 sightings are explainable. He indicated that only about two sightings per year remained unidentified, and that further effort to identify them might not be warranted. He acknowledged that a small number of sightings might remain unexplained due to high-altitude phenomena unfamiliar to the untrained eye, making a 100% identification record impossible. However, he clarified that the Department of Air had never denied the possibility of extraterrestrial life but had found no evidence in Australia to support the belief that Earth was being observed or visited by machines from other planets.

Civilian Researcher Perspectives

The convention also highlighted the skepticism of civilian researchers regarding the RAAF's claims of lacking compelling UFO photos. The Drury film case was discussed, with conflicting accounts of its availability and fate. Former Air Marshall Sir George Jones questioned the RAAF's approach, suggesting that everything could be explained away. The convention led to the resolution to form a national organization, C.A.P.I.O. (Commonwealth Aerial Phenomena Investigation Organisation), to deal with the government and public on a top level.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the psychological and environmental factors contributing to unexplained experiences, particularly 'mountain panics', and the complex, often secretive, role of the Australian government and military in investigating UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to present a critical perspective on official explanations, suggesting they are often unsatisfactory and driven by a desire to manage public perception rather than uncover the truth. There is an underlying emphasis on the importance of credible witnesses and the need for a more open and scientific approach to UFO research, while also acknowledging the limitations of current understanding and the potential for psychological interpretation.

Title: PRB
Issue: Vol. 6, # 10
Date: June 2003
Publisher: Centre for Fortean Zoology
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of PRB magazine, published by the Centre for Fortean Zoology, focuses on recent investigations and sightings within the Fortean realm, including analysis of anomalous hair samples, notable cryptid encounters, and upcoming events.

Bolam Lake Hair Samples

The lead article by Jonathan Downes details the analysis of hair samples collected during an expedition to Bolam Lake in January. Despite initial skepticism, three sets of samples were sent for analysis. One set sent to Lars Thomas in Copenhagen has reportedly disappeared. The two samples that reached their destination were analyzed by Darren Naish at the University of Portsmouth and Chris Moiser at Plymouth College of Further Education. Both researchers concluded that the hair belonged to a small carnivore, with Darren suggesting dog and Chris suggesting cat. They definitively ruled out Hominid or primate origin. Chris Moiser also found traces of ground-growing lichen amongst the hair, suggesting the creature may have lain on the ground for some time. A theory proposed is that a small dog or cat died, possibly from road kill, and its remains were moved to the fence where the hair was found by a carnivorous bird. The full test results and electron microscope photographs are expected to be published in the next issue of 'Animals & Men'. The Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ) still has a small amount of the hair available for other institutions to examine, but they are satisfied that the samples are unrelated to the 'BHM Phenomena'.

Record Day for Nessie Sightings

This section reports on an exceptionally active day for Loch Ness Monster sightings on a Sunday in June 2003, with three sightings recorded in eight hours in the Fort Augustus area. The skipper of the cruise boat Royal Scot reported a fast-moving wake at around 2 pm, estimating its speed at 30 to 35 miles per hour, possibly chasing salmon. A second sighting occurred at 8 pm and lasted 35 minutes, witnessed by 25 passengers and three crew, describing the top of a hump four to five feet long and five or six inches out of the water. A third sighting was reported by a fisherman at Borlum Bay, describing an object resting on the surface for three to four minutes before submerging, noted as almost black and seal-sized. Gary Campbell of the Loch Ness Monster Fan Club commented that this was a record number of sightings for a single day.

Bigfoot Spotted in Central China

An article reports on the sighting of an ape-like beast, approximately 1.65 meters tall, in the forests of central China on June 30, 2003. The creature was described as having shoulder-length black hair and was suspected by locals to be a 'bigfoot'. The report notes that Bigfoot is commonly known as the Yeti or 'abominable snowman' in the west, and locally in Nepal and Tibet as 'migou'. Chinese wildlife officials launched an investigation after six people, including a reporter, witnessed the animal in the Shennongjia nature reserve. The creature was seen moving fast across the road. Following the sighting, investigators found 30-centimeter-long footprints, newly broken branches, and a three-meter-long patch of foul-smelling urine-like liquid. Hundreds of local people have reported 'bigfoot' sightings in the Shennongjia area over decades, with searches conducted in the 1980s and 1990s yielding no hard evidence.

Weird Weekend Convention

Details are provided for the fourth annual Weird Weekend, a Fortean convention scheduled to take place from Friday, October 3rd, to Sunday, October 5th, at the Cowick Barton Inn in Exeter, Devon. The event is described as the largest Fortean convention in the Westcountry. A list of speakers is provided, including Dr. Karl Shuker, Colonel John Blashford-Snell, Reg Presley, Mark North, Chris Moiser, Adam Davies, Tim Matthews, Steve Jones, Jon Downes, and Richard Freeman. Ticket prices are listed as £15 for the full weekend, or £10 for individual days. Contact information for tickets and more information is provided, including the Centre for Fortean Zoology's address, phone number, website, and email address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers anomalous phenomena, cryptids, and Fortean investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific curiosity and rigorous investigation, as evidenced by the detailed analysis of the Bolam Lake hair samples and the reporting of multiple sightings with supporting details. There is a clear interest in documenting and disseminating information about unexplained events and creatures, encouraging further research and participation in Fortean events like the Weird Weekend.