UFO Research Australia newsletter vol 1 no 2

Magazine Overview

This is the March-April 1980 issue, Volume 1, Number 2, of the "UFO Research Australia newsletter". The cover features a stylized atomic symbol with a silhouette of Australia and a flying saucer, set against a red background. The newsletter is published on behalf of various UFO research organizations across Australia.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Holly I. Goriss, addresses the current state of UFO research in Australia. It emphasizes the need for researchers to remain vigilant against carelessness and sloppiness, and to counter the "flosinocity" perception of UFOs held by a segment of the public. Goriss stresses the importance of educating the public about UFOs and related scientific fields to improve the quality of reports and reduce misidentifications. She quotes Einstein's formula for success (Work, Play, Keep your mouth shut) and advises against making premature statements, citing the media, government bodies, and some "so-called" UFO investigators as guilty of this. Drawing on Kahlil Gibran, she advocates for acknowledging "a Truth" rather than "the Truth," recognizing that conclusions may change with new data. Goriss also highlights the pitfall of assuming one's own perspective is universally obvious, urging open-mindedness and the consideration of others' observations. The editorial concludes by calling for cooperation and active research within the field.

Letters to the Editor

Two letters are included. The first, from H. Griesberg and K. Basterfield of the Australian Centre for UFO Studies, congratulates the publication on an excellent first issue, believing the newsletter will serve as a valuable vehicle for Australian UFO researchers to reach a global audience. The second letter, from David Reneke, Research and Sightings Director of UFOR (NSW), also commends the newsletter's quality, presentation, and printing, stating it is comparable to any produced internationally and could easily be a news-stand item. Reneke highlights its value for researchers to share investigations and for the lay reader to be enlightened about the work of Australian researchers. He offers complete support for future issues.

A Letter from the Editors

This section clarifies that the "EDITORS" heading (plural) is intentional, as Holly I. Goriss has joined Vladimir Godic as co-editor. They thank readers for constructive feedback, which incentivizes them to continue. They welcome all feedback to gauge their performance and ensure they are printing relevant content. The editors also invite readers to submit articles on UFO phenomena and are interested in book reviews. They apologize for the delay in publishing this issue, attributing it to the challenges of setting up a new publication, and promise the next issue (Vol. 1, No. 3) will be out shortly, aiming for timely publication thereafter. To manage costs, they encourage new subscriptions and mention that subscription forms are enclosed.

Far North Queensland Sightings

Strange Light in Suburb (Caravonica)

On February 23, 1980, in Caravonica, an outer suburb of Cairns, residents reported a pulsating, brilliant orange light making a whirring, droning sound. The incident occurred on a dead-end street. Witness Mr. Frank C. and his wife Judy, along with friends, observed a pulsing glow reflecting off a caravan. Frank investigated and saw a stationary, bright rectangular orange light about two meters off the ground, approximately 30cm x 20cm, emanating a downward glow. Judy heard a pulsing sound. The light extinguished, and then an orange glow appeared behind the houses. The phenomenon pulsed a few times before disappearing. Two people noticed the glow, and one heard the sound. A resident opposite thought the light was from a car's hazard lights. Residents in two houses experienced television interference. The object's path is traced from Mr. C.'s house across the road to the front yard, then to the rear of the houses. No physical traces were found.

The Smithfield Objects

Four days after the Caravonica sighting, on February 27, 1980, a similar sighting occurred in Smithfield, north of Cairns. Local press initially suggested the objects were the planets Jupiter and Mars, but the witness, an engineer named Mr. A. (who spent 15 years in the RAAF), stated they were different in position, elevation, size, brightness, and movement. Mr. A. observed two large lights from his home at Holloways Beach. The objects were stationary at about 20° elevation, intensely bright, and appeared as silver-white lights surrounded by an orange-red aura. He heard a 'dull humming' sound. After a few minutes, the objects moved west, one in a zig-zag trajectory and the other directly. They moved slowly. Mr. A. went inside and upon returning, found the objects had disappeared. One object's trajectory was directly above the Cairns airport radar installation. No observations were made from the airport. The UFOR (FNQ) expressed dismay that no one else reported seeing these objects in the populated area.

UFO at Tully?

On January 8, 1980, around 8:25 p.m., a farmer, Mr. F., in Tully, observed a huge, round, amber light in the sky that changed color multiple times. He watched it for about 35 minutes before it faded and reappeared brighter, then disappeared. The following night, January 9, at 8:30 p.m., a similar object appeared as a faint glow that intensified into a huge ball in the sky, festooned like a fireworks display and multi-colored. Small objects, like stars, shot out from it. The family watched until it faded. On Thursday night, visibility was poor due to clouds, but the phenomenon reappeared as a faint glow at 8:45 p.m., becoming brighter around 9:00 p.m. It was multi-colored and reportedly came down very low. Mr. F. described the object as frightening at times and spectacular when multi-colored. A sketch of the object was supplied by Mrs. Clare Noble.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed eyewitness accounts of UFO sightings in various Australian locations, emphasizing the need for careful observation and reporting. The editorial stance, as articulated by Holly I. Goriss, is one of rigorous, evidence-based research, advocating for open-mindedness, critical thinking, and collaborative efforts within the UFO community. The newsletter aims to be a serious yet engaging platform for disseminating information and fostering a more informed public understanding of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of 'new south wales' magazine, published by UFO Research (NSW), covers a period of relatively low UFO activity in Australia, with a focus on case investigations, upcoming lectures, and a critical examination of UFO theories. The publication details specific sightings and incidents, providing analysis and conclusions where possible.

UFO Activity in New South Wales

The introductory section notes a general lull in significant UFO cases brought to the attention of UFO Research (NSW) over the past 12 months. Many reports, when investigated, were found to be attributable to mundane factors, imagination, or media distortion. An example cited is a recurring UFO activity report from a railway camp at Dombarton, near Woolongong. Despite initial reports of sporadic nocturnal light activity and close encounters, detailed investigation by a UFOR (NSW) team found the evidence sparse and suggested that the main percipient may have seen something, but the events were likely exaggerated. While the area was noted as potentially conducive to such sightings due to its isolated locality, the events were largely dismissed as 'much ado about nothing,' though the area will be monitored.

1980 UFO Research (NSW) Lecture Series

Public meetings for UFO Research (NSW) were scheduled, featuring a new series of lectures running into 1981. These lectures aim to provide a logical, comprehensive, and reliable introduction to the UFO subject for members, readers, and the general public. The scheduled lectures included topics such as 'UFOs - An Introduction,' 'Observing and Preserving the Inexplicable,' 'Perception, Photography and UFO,' 'UFO Landings and the Physical Evidence,' and 'The UFO Entities - The Ultimate Encounters.' Meetings were to be held on Wednesday nights at the McMahon Point Community Centre in North Sydney, with a nominal fee for members and non-members, and coffee provided. Membership arrangements were also being reorganized.

South Australia Reports

Personnel Update

UFO Research (SA) Inc. announced a personnel update. Mr V. Godic stepped down from his position as Liaison Officer to concentrate on publishing the 'UFO Research Australia Newsletter.' His position was taken over by Mr K. Basterfield. The official address for the group also changed to GPO Box 497, Adelaide SA 5001.

Quentin Fogarty and the New Zealand UFO Film

On March 17, UFO Research (SA) hosted Mr Quentin Fogarty, who presented a film of mysterious lights observed over New Zealand in late 1978 and early 1979. The film reportedly showed objects behaving in a manner consistent with many UFO cases, including fading, changing shape and color, and performing extraordinary maneuvers. The report suggests that while the film may not definitively identify UFOs, it demonstrates their reality and might encourage scientists to take UFO research more seriously. The article thanks Mr. Fogarty for sharing his experience.

Follow Up: Tree Incident of February 7, 1980

This section provides an update on a previous report concerning a tree incident that received significant media coverage in the Adelaide 'News.' UFO Research (SA) concluded that the damage was due to natural causes, specifically a large limb breaking due to water buildup and a knot hole, and that the associated visual observation was a momentary misperception of dust and debris. Consultations with the Department of Woods and Forests and CSIRO supported this conclusion, ruling out any UFO involvement.

Vehicle Followed Near Blanchetown

On February 12, 1980, two men traveling between Truro and Blanche Town, South Australia, reported observing an object with unusual white lights following their car. The lights, occasionally tinged with blue or green, appeared above the following vehicle. When the occupants of the observed car stopped and signaled, the other driver, who was Greek, did not understand. The object then appeared to pass their vehicles, causing the occupants to panic and drive away. Investigations were ongoing at the time of publication.

Elliptical Shaped Object Reported from Tea Tree Gully

A lady reported seeing a 'mushroom' shaped object with lighter, circular patches and occasional streamers falling from it. The object appeared to have a hard outline but was also described as transparent or nebulous. It was observed moving in a stop/go jerking fashion. Her husband, however, could not see the object when he came outside. Investigations by UFOR(SA) suggested the object was approximately 10-15 degrees elevation, bearing South, with an angular size estimated at 6-7 degrees, considered large. The object was described as light blue with white-rimmed grey patterns and moved Eastward against a NE wind. Possibilities like an aircraft, balloons, meteors, stars, planets, or an Aurora were ruled out. Dr F. Jacka of the Mawson Institute for Antarctic Research stated that the sighting did not resemble an aurora and it was unlikely one would appear at that latitude given the low geomagnetic disturbance.

Another Vehicle Report from the Country

On April 14, 1980, Mr H was driving from Adelaide to South Kilkerran when his vehicle experienced power problems, which he associated with the visual observation of extremely bright lights in the sky. He saw a row of 7-8 lights flashing in sequence, comparable in brightness to Venus. The lights were uniform yellow and did not illuminate the surroundings, suggesting they were distant. The lights suddenly moved behind and to his right, and then moved away. During this time, his car's engine cut out multiple times, preventing acceleration, before returning to normal operation. The car had no prior issues, and none have occurred since.

Forum: UFOs Under Research

This section features two articles discussing UFOs. The first, 'UFOS UNDER RESEARCH,' published by UFO Research (QLD), presents five propositions about UFOs:

1. Proposition 1: UFOs are mechanically constructed, metallic space craft, with circular and cigar-shaped forms. Other reported shapes are the glow or force-field.
2. Proposition 2: Propulsion is by electromagnetic energy, with theories to explain observed effects and flight patterns.
3. Proposition 3: Occupants of UFOs are human-like, suggesting humans are 'cosmic basics.'
4. Proposition 4: Origins of UFOs are other planets, within or outside our solar system.
5. Proposition 5: Censorship of UFO information is applied by authorities due to UFOs representing a threat to economic and political establishments.

The second article, 'UFOS UNDER RESEARCH - A CRITICISM,' by B. Plath and H.I. Goriss of UFO Research Far North Queensland, critiques these propositions. They argue that the article is not open-minded and lacks sufficient data to support any single theory. They question the basis for classifying cigar-shaped UFOs as 'carrier craft for travelling deep space' and express skepticism about the electromagnetic propulsion theory, requesting evidence. They also criticize the 'human-like occupants' proposition, suggesting it stems from fictional representations like 'Star Wars' and is a form of self-glorification. Regarding Proposition 4, they ask for data supporting extraterrestrial origins and question why other theoretical origins were disregarded. The authors conclude that UFO Research (QLD)'s committee is compromising its impartiality by making such definitive statements, which could render its data questionable.

The Benboyd UFO Movie: History and Evaluation

This article by David Reneke details a sighting that occurred prior to filming the solar eclipse on October 23, 1976. Mr Nicholas Flaskas and two companions observed a formation of unusual disc-shaped objects from Taola Point lookout near Eden, New South Wales. They captured movie film and still photographs, though the photographic evidence was considered of poor quality. The witnesses reported approximately five objects in a line formation, hovering above the horizon, moving in a 'buffeting' manner. Frank Zonaras focused his movie camera on a closer object, describing it as dome-shaped and grey, rotating anti-clockwise, with no discernible surface features. The article aims to present facts objectively for the reader to assess the validity of the findings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and critical analysis of UFO reports. There is a clear distinction made between unexplained phenomena and those attributable to mundane causes or misinterpretation. The publication promotes a scientific approach to UFO research, encouraging readers to form their own conclusions based on evidence. The critique of UFO Research (QLD)'s propositions highlights a tension within the UFO community regarding open-mindedness versus premature conclusions. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based reasoning and a cautious approach to extraordinary claims, while acknowledging the ongoing mystery surrounding some sightings.

This issue of THE BENBOYD UFO MOVIE delves into a significant UFO sighting and photographic case from Australia. It presents detailed analysis of a film taken by witnesses during a solar eclipse, alongside investigations into other unexplained aerial phenomena and a review of a book claiming to present 'physical evidence' of UFOs.

The Benboyd UFO Movie

The main focus is on a UFO sighting and subsequent film footage captured by witnesses Frank, Nicholas, Bill Zonaras, and Nick Flaskas. The event occurred during a solar eclipse. Frank described the object's lower portion as 'dull alloy' and noted it was turning 'anti-clockwise'. Nicholas confirmed the turning motion. The camera panned to capture smaller, more distant objects. After the eclipse, the objects were no longer visible.

Evaluation and Computer Enhancement

The projected film was a disappointment to the witnesses due to poor clarity compared to their visual observation. Photographs taken by Nick showed only small, indistinct dots. Upon receiving the original film, duplicate copies were made, and frames were inspected using a homemade micro-viewer. This inspection suggested two dissimilar objects were photographed: one hat-shaped and the other like an inverted bowl. Drawings based on this examination were favorably compared to the witnesses' descriptions.

The original film was sent to Ground Saucer Watch Inc. in Phoenix, Arizona, for computer enhancement and analysis. The goal was to obtain output photographs and a technical critique. The still photographs were also to be analyzed. The decision to pursue the stills was made because individual photos might exist within the motion picture film, offering potentially clearer evidence.

Observed Shape of Object in First and Second Sequence of Footage

It was noted that a break between filming one object and another might explain the two shapes seen. Due to the film's short duration and normal running speed (18 frames per second), distinguishing the shapes was difficult. However, at stop framing, the shapes were discernible, making it suitable for computer enhancement.

GSW Critique

The analysis involved various computer enhancement modes, including computerization, edge enhancement, color contouring, and digitizing. Three individual frames were selected for analysis. The UO (Unidentified Object) image was determined to be over a mile away, based on foreground/background features. Its size was estimated at approximately 30-40 feet in its largest dimension. The surface was described as dull and bland in coloring. The main image could not be compared to any type of helicopter or aircraft. Digital densitometry suggested a protrusion on the object, similar to a dome, which became more obvious when magnified in pseudo-color mode. The object appeared to be affected by low horizon atmospherics, supporting the distance estimate. Smaller objects were barely discernible. The image was described as having three-dimensional proportions and appearing as a structured shape.

Conclusions from GSW Analysis

The GSW technicians concluded that the UO image represented a structured object of unknown origin, without signs of misinterpretation as a conventional object or phenomenon. They noted the film was in bad condition with numerous anomalies, which was a major problem for the analysis. The closeness of the UO's color to the sky was also mentioned. Despite the witnesses not reporting protrusions, the reconstruction pictures were felt to represent the object's 'real' proportions and size. The edge-enhanced and color prints clearly showed the commonly reported disc shape, indicating three-dimensionality and curvature. The pixel configuration supported the visual observation and witness statements that the objects were close to the visible horizon.

Additional Points

There were at least four other unrelated witnesses to this sighting. A small group of people, described as 'hippie' type, were observed conducting a religious ceremony on a ledge overlooking the sea. They also appeared to have seen the objects. Despite newspaper attempts to locate these individuals, no additional confirmation of the sighting was found. The original witnesses did not notice any other people in the vicinity.

Other Analyses

To the author's knowledge, only two other items of photographic evidence from Australia had been analyzed by the GSW technique: The Alice Springs photograph (birds in flight) and the Manifold Photo (unknown). The author lamented the lack of good photographic material in Australia and suggested a concerted effort to retrieve and analyze such items to build a valuable data bank. The Computer Enhancement technique is highlighted for its ability to retrieve latent or poor images and determine the true nature of objects.

Conclusion (Benboyd Film)

The Benboyd film is considered the best Australian photographic evidence to date for the existence of UFOs. The author aims to seek out and evaluate similar material in 1980, potentially culminating in the formation of a special study group.

Are the Russians Flying UFOs Over Australia?

This section investigates the possibility that UFO reports in Australia could be due to aircraft from other governments overflying the country. The author references an agent's report from the 1950s about high-flying reconnaissance planes overflying Russia from a secret base in Canada, and another report of a military air base in Florida with unmarked vehicles and planes.

The author recalls press clippings from December 1978 concerning a New Zealand movie, which mentioned that U.S. U-2 high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft and other U.S. military aircraft make periodic flights over Australian airspace. It was also noted that Russian 'Bear' bombers had been sighted over Australia, and with aerial refueling, could potentially fly from Russian bases near Japan into the Southern Hemisphere.

'Mystery Planes Over Centre'

This section details an incident where two unidentified aircraft were alerted on a Saturday morning over central Australia, crossing the coast near Derby, Western Australia. The alert followed an Israeli tip-off about potential Black September movement activity. A Quantas aircraft was used to gauge the altitude of the unidentified aircraft without success. The Alice Springs airport manager described them as 'flying objects closely resembling aircraft'. Police and DCA officials observed the aircraft, which flew in radio silence and headed south. No military planes were involved in checking the aircraft.

'Sky Object Sighted Over Alice Springs'

Three commonwealth government departments were investigating reported sightings of two unidentified flying objects over Alice Springs. The sightings were linked to an earlier report from Western Australia. The Department of Civil Aviation reported hearing what sounded like a high-speed, high-flying aircraft. The Alice Springs airport was put on semi-alert. Observers spotted lights in the sky at 5:45 a.m. and thirty minutes later, estimated to be at about 35,000 feet. Mr. Miers stated they closely resembled aircraft, and the sky was dark. The Defence Department stated sightings would be checked against satellite and flying information, noting that 90% of UFO sightings are accounted for by known phenomena, with 6-8% attributed to military or civil aircraft.

'Centre Planes Mystery'

Department of Civil Aviation officials remained mystified by the two unidentified aircraft over Alice Springs. A security alert was called off. The details suggested two unidentified aircraft passed over Alice Springs on September 8, 1973. The Government's conclusion was not officially announced, but a 1973 Summary of Unusual Aerial Objects by the RAAF suggested they were satellites, an explanation deemed ridiculous by the author given the airport manager's description. The proximity of the top-secret American Pine Gap establishment near Alice Springs is noted as a potential attraction for foreign aircraft. The fate of the aircraft after passing Alice Springs is unknown, with the sparsely populated desert terrain offering cover for them to turn North or West and disappear.

Reference Library

'Alien Honeycomb - the first solid evidence of UFOs' - a book review by Bill Chalker

This section reviews the book 'Alien Honeycomb' by John Pinkney and Leonard Ryzman, which claims to present the 'first solid evidence of UFOs'. The book describes a UFO that exploded over a desolate timber property in Queensland, Australia, scattering intricate wreckage. Officers from the RAAF allegedly collected most of the pieces and sent them to Pentagon laboratories, while the authors retrieved some wreckage. The book reproduces commentaries from scientists perplexed by the material and summarizes a U.S. research project indicating 'unknowns'.

The reviewer, an industrial chemist, examines the book from a scientific and critical viewpoint. The book makes extraordinary claims, demanding extraordinary proof. The reviewer questions whether the authors have fulfilled this criteria, concluding that on scientific grounds, the answer appears to be no. The book does not provide detailed scientific analyses of the fragments, relying instead on subjective comments from anonymous scientists and a quote from an engineer who stated the fragments were 'not from an aircraft, rocket or satellite' and had 'some unknowns'.

Pinkney and Ryzman appealed to the United Nations, asking for a committee to investigate UFOs and analyze their material. They offered to provide actual physical evidence. The reviewer notes that the resolution of the fragments' nature is left to the U.N. or requires open analyses, which Mr. Pinkney has declined, believing the U.N. will undertake the task. The reviewer offers to have open analyses done but was declined. Without quantitative and qualitative analytical results, the case presented in 'Alien Honeycomb' relies on the authors' documentation, which the reviewer finds to be anecdotal and overstated. The book claims 'thousands of (UFO) rings' scar fields, which the reviewer contrasts with the limited data available.

The review also discusses other UFO cases mentioned in the book, including a 1977 incident in Orange, NSW, and a 1976 event in Lompoc, California, noting that the book's description of these events is based on limited data and potentially inaccurate.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena, focusing on photographic evidence, witness testimony, and scientific analysis. There's a clear interest in distinguishing between genuine UFO sightings and misidentified conventional aircraft, including military planes. The publication appears to favor rigorous investigation and critical evaluation of evidence, as demonstrated by the detailed analysis of the Benboyd film and the critical review of 'Alien Honeycomb'. The editorial stance leans towards acknowledging the possibility of UFOs while demanding strong, verifiable proof, and it highlights the challenges in obtaining such evidence, particularly in Australia. The theme of potential government secrecy or lack of transparency regarding UFO incidents is also present.

This issue of 'Reference Library' is a collection of notes, reviews, and announcements related to UFO research, primarily focusing on Australian cases and publications. It appears to be a newsletter or journal section dedicated to providing critical commentary and information for UFO enthusiasts.

Content Analysis

Notes and Critiques

The issue begins with a critique of a book titled 'Alien Honeycomb'. The author recounts an anecdote about a material sample from Farnborough that was not tested for carbon, leading to a missed opportunity for a simple explanation. This is contrasted with the 'Greenbank fragments' mentioned in the book, which are described as lacking hard data and relying on aesthetically pleasing descriptions. The appeal to the United Nations for intervention is questioned due to the perceived weak evidence. The authors of 'Alien Honeycomb' are identified as Messrs Pinkney and Ryzman.

Several numbered notes provide specific critiques and corrections regarding UFO research and reporting:

1. John Pinkney's Speculations: John Pinkney is quoted as suggesting Bass Strait might be Australia's 'Bermuda Triangle' and an underwater UFO hide-out. This speculation is based on disappearances over the strait, but the author argues that the evidence is insufficient to justify such an exotic theory. The photos taken on the same day as the Valentich disappearance are offered as evidence, supported by a GSW computer study, though the study's techniques and conclusions are subject to criticism and controversy.
2. Errors in 'Alien Honeycomb': This section points out factual errors in the book. The first UFO investigation group in Australia was founded by Edgar Jarrold and his Australian Flying Saucer Bureau, not by Pinkney and Norris as stated. The RAAF did not investigate the Bungawalban trace and therefore could not supply conclusions. Thermoluminescence is not being widely used by UFO researchers, contrary to assurances in the book.
3. Evidence for UFO Landings: The presence of unusual ground marks and suggestions of UFO activity do not constitute strong evidence for a UFO landing. Scully's 'crashed flying saucer yarns' are considered suspect, despite Stringfield's contrary suggestions. The authors' suggestions regarding the prevention of information release about the 1944 Beaufort bomber incident are deemed unfounded, as details originate from a crew member.
4. 1976 Incident Near Nowra: The events of May 24, 1976, near Robertson (north of Nowra), involving re-entry of rocket debris, bush fires, a red glow, and alleged burn marks, are explained as a spurious account of a UFO crash. The burn marks were identified as fungi, and the red glow was observed in a different direction.

New Publications

Journal of the Australian Centre for UFO Studies: A new Australian publication is announced, titled 'The Journal of the Australian Centre for UFO Studies'. It aims to be a vehicle for researched papers by Australian investigators for the global UFO research community. Volume one, number one, published in February 1980, included papers on the Australian Physical Evidence Study Group, imagery as a psychological explanation for encounters, early sightings, and the UFO question. The subscription is AUST. $5.00 per annum for six issues, directed to PO Box 546, Gosford NSW 2250, Australia.

'An Indepth View of Australasian UFO Related Entity Reports': This 110-page publication is a review of sixty-seven ERA events from Australia and New Zealand. It includes case summaries, an analysis, location maps, and sketches. It is available for AUST. $12 (including postage and package), from The Australian Centre for UFO Studies, PO Box 546, Gosford, New South Wales 2250.

UFO Research (SA) Publication List: Additional publications from UFO Research (SA) are listed:

• "A reference catalogue of interesting cases reported to the Australian Centre for UFO Studies in 1978." (13 pages, over 40 cases, Price Aust. $2).
• "A report on observations of UFOs by aircraft crew members in Australia" (25 pages, Price Aust. $3).
• These are available from UFOR (SA), GPO Box 497, Adelaide, South Australia 5001.

WANTED: UFOR (SA) is seeking copies of UFOIC Newsletter (Nos 1-9, 11, 26-30) and Central Coast Research Bureau No 1 to complete its library sets.

Book Review: 'Situation Red: The UFO Siege' by Leonard H. Stringfield

Reviewed by Mark Moravec, this section discusses Leonard H. Stringfield's book. Stringfield, a veteran UFO researcher, is described as a regular contributor to the MUFON UFO Journal. The reviewer notes the book's sensational title and its focus on conspiracy paranoia, quoting Donald Keyhoe's call to end the 'cover-up'.

Stringfield presents the views of Hynek and Vallee, contrasting them with the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH) supporters Friedman and Keyhoe. The debate centers on explaining cases with paranormal aspects.

The book reviews the "siege of 1973" of UFO sightings across North America and Stringfield's earlier investigation in Ohio. In 1955, Stringfield unofficially cooperated with the air force in screening UFO reports, learning of radar-visual sightings and attempted interceptions.

The reviewer finds the presentation of unconfirmed rumors of shot-down UFOs and recovered entities questionable and believes it does not contribute to UFO research's respectability. The reviewer feels Stringfield is too willing to believe stories of crashed UFOs.

The book concludes with an account of the 1976 Stanford, Kentucky, time lapse case, where three women, under hypnosis, claimed abduction by UFO entities. An appendix by Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle details the hypnotic regression and his conclusion that the experience was "real".

Despite its flaws, 'Situation Red' is considered an interesting book for those interested in the UFO mystery.

Library and Publication Information

This section lists back issues of the Ald Flying Saucer Research Bureau Newsletter and VUFORS UFO Bulletin that are being sought for donation to the UFOR (SA) library. Contact information for the Liaison Officer at UFOR (SA) is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are critical analysis of UFO evidence, the promotion of Australian UFO research and publications, and a cautious approach to sensational claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated theories and a preference for rigorous investigation and documented evidence. There is a clear effort to correct factual inaccuracies in published works and to encourage a more scientific approach to the study of UFO phenomena. The issue also highlights the availability of new resources for researchers interested in Australasian UFO reports.