UFO Research Australia newsletter vol 3 no 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Research Australia newsletter, Volume 3, Number 2, published in March-April 1982, is a bi-monthly publication presenting the work of UFO researchers. It is noted as being independent of any UFO organization, and the material presented does not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine.

Contents

The issue features a variety of articles and reports:

• Editorial: A guest editorial by Mark Moravec titled "Responsibility in UFO Research" discusses the ethical obligations of ufologists towards witnesses and fellow researchers.
• New Zealand Review: This section, by John Knapman, details two significant UFO sightings in New Zealand.
• The first report describes an event on January 26, 1982, at Christchurch International Airport, where four men witnessed a nocturnal light exhibiting unusual speed and maneuvers.
• The second report details a Close Encounter of the Third Kind on July 11, 1981, witnessed by a mother and son near Dunedin, involving a football-shaped object with entities.
• A Proposal for a Network Linking the Information Resources of Australian UFO Groups and Individuals: This article by John Prytz outlines a proposal for a cooperative network to improve information sharing and resource utilization among Australian UFO groups and individuals.
• Where the Natural Meets the Supernatural: This piece explores the concept of 'naked singularities' in physics, as discussed by Professor Paul Davies, and its implications for our understanding of the universe.
• The Federal Hypothesis: Written by William H. Spaulding, this article examines a conspiracy theory suggesting that government agencies, specifically the CIA, may have promoted a pro-saucer viewpoint rather than suppressing UFO information.
• Organisation for Scientific Evaluation of Aerial Phenomena (OSEAP)
• UFO Research Publicity Board
• UFOs and the Royal Australian Air Force - the Inside Story: An article by Bill Chalker.
• The UFO Phenomena and its Investigation by UFO Groups within Australia: An article by Keith Basterfield.
• Profile - Keith Basterfield
• Reference Library

Editorial: Responsibility in UFO Research

Mark Moravec's guest editorial emphasizes the ethical responsibilities of ufologists. He outlines three key areas:

1. Responsibility to the Witness: This involves respecting the witness's rights and well-being, including obtaining permission for interviews, maintaining confidentiality, considering the psychological state of witnesses (especially children), and avoiding undue influence on their testimony, such as through hypnotic age regression. Empathy and reassurance are highlighted as crucial, especially in cases of traumatic encounters.
2. Responsibility to Fellow Researchers: Progress in UFO research requires honesty in documenting reports, a free exchange of information, and open-mindedness towards colleagues' ideas. This necessitates detailed documentation, honest appraisal of explanations, and dissemination of written reports.
3. Recognizing Diversity of Viewpoints: Ufology, being a field with few scientifically verified facts, should encourage free debate and constructive criticism, avoiding personal attacks. The editorial notes that most Australian researchers, particularly those associated with the Australian Centre for UFO Studies (ACUFOS), maintain a responsible attitude, but suggests a code of ethics should be recognized and adopted to enhance the field's esteem.

New Zealand Review

Christchurch Airport Sighting (January 26, 1982): Four men working at Christchurch International Airport witnessed a nocturnal light. Described as being as large as a basketball with a core of intense white light surrounded by a pulsating orange glow, the object approached from the south-east. Witnesses noted its unusual speed, appearing to move instantly from stop to go. It performed a series of maneuvers, including hovering and zig-zagging, before ascending straight up and vanishing. The sighting lasted fourteen minutes. The Meteorological Office reported light rain and a wind speed of 080 at 7 knots. The Airport Control Tower reported observing nothing on radar or visually.

Dunedin Encounter (July 11, 1981): A mother (Mrs T) and her son (Mr T) anonymously reported a close encounter. Mrs T observed a football-shaped object in a paddock, glowing and pulsating, approximately the size of a compact car. It had a bright light on its lower half. Two entities were visible inside, one piloting from a "glass" cabin and the other standing in a "glass" tube using an instrument. The entities were described as having grey coveralls, white skin, and no hair. The object emitted no sound or smell. A second, smaller object was visible in the distance. The objects maneuvered for about eight hours, descending, hovering, changing direction, ascending, and vibrating at high speeds. Mr T confirmed witnessing the objects but wished to remain anonymous due to fear of ridicule. The objects left no discernible physical trace.

A Proposal for a Network Linking Information Resources

John Prytz proposes the creation of a cooperative network for Australian UFO groups and individuals to address the "information explosion" and the increasing complexity of ufological issues. The proposal highlights several problems:

• Information Needs: UFO groups and individuals require accessible, timely, accurate, and reliable information for research and representation.
• Information Sources: Numerous sources exist, but integration is needed to overcome information overload.
• Common Problems: Many issues are shared among groups, leading to potential duplication of effort and resources.
• Technological Solutions: The article suggests leveraging technology, including computerized databases and telecommunications, to manage and disseminate information more effectively.

The network aims to provide shared access to resources, improve research capacity, and reduce costs. Key elements for successful cooperation include mutual benefit, voluntary participation, willingness to experiment, objective appraisal, and the implementation of common standards. ACUFOS is seen as a potential facilitator for this network.

Where the Natural Meets the Supernatural

This article delves into the concept of "naked singularities" in physics, as explained by Professor Paul Davies. A singularity is described as a point where physical laws break down, such as at the center of a black hole. A "naked singularity" is posited to exist outside a black hole, representing an unpredictable breakdown of known physics and potentially the interface between the natural and the supernatural. Professor Davies suggests that new physics might not be based on space and time but on more primitive components. He notes that while physicists formulate hypotheses like "cosmic censorship" to avoid naked singularities, the "big bang" theory itself could be considered a type of naked singularity. Professor Stephen Hawking believes such singularities would spew out matter and radiation chaotically.

The Federal Hypothesis

William H. Spaulding presents the "Federal Hypothesis," a theory suggesting that the CIA, since 1952, has commanded UFO investigations not to suppress information but to promote a pro-saucer viewpoint. The article reviews historical points, including the conception of modern UFO sightings in 1947, early Air Corps investigations, and the prevalence of sightings near military installations. It questions whether these sightings were truly interested in military strength or if they were misinterpretations. The hypothesis posits that the government might be using UFO phenomena to influence public perception or for other covert purposes. The article also touches upon the empirical nature of UFO data, the potential for biased judgment within the pro-UFO community, and the challenges in investigating UFO events due to time, money, and technique.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently focuses on UFO research within Australia and New Zealand, presenting detailed case studies and theoretical discussions. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of organized research, ethical conduct, and the sharing of information among researchers and groups. The publication appears to advocate for a more scientific and systematic approach to the UFO phenomenon, while also exploring more speculative theories like the Federal Hypothesis and the implications of modern physics for understanding the unknown. The editorial stance promotes open debate and collaboration within the ufological community.

This issue of 'THE FEDERAL HYPOTHESIS' delves into a controversial theory suggesting that UFO sightings and the associated public fascination are not primarily about extraterrestrial visitors, but rather a carefully orchestrated manipulation by intelligence agencies. The publication date is indicated as 1981, with the publisher being G.S.W. Inc.

The Federal Hypothesis Explained

The core of the article posits that the 'Federal Hypothesis' is a plausible theory, supported by basic 'saucer facts.' It suggests that the intelligence community, possibly starting around 1952, shifted from outright opposition to UFOs to a strategy of promoting, enhancing, and manipulating the UFO story. This was not necessarily initiated by the government with the sole purpose of creating a conspiracy, but rather as a response to the mystery these events posed to military and intelligence experts. Early investigations by the Air Force, through Projects Saucer and Grudge, tried to find an encompassing answer while maintaining secrecy. Crucially, these early projects concluded that the 'elusive saucers' were not alien spaceships nor weapons from a foreign power.

The strategy of promoting the UFO narrative is described as a 'domino effect,' where a few staged events could generate dozens of new incidents. The article suggests that the overall UFO situation might be composed of less than five percent staged events, with the balance attributed to 'pandemic commotion' including psychic experiences, fantasies, misinterpretations, and hoaxes. Scientific tests are cited as showing that induced hysteria is possible and can be remotely actuated in suggestible individuals.

Government Manipulation and UFO Research

The article outlines several ways intelligence organizations might nurture the idea of a cover-up, including intentional leaks of classified reports, deliberate funneling of misinformation to gauge public reaction, encouragement of UFO organizations through indirect funding, and the creation of UFO hysteria by playing up public reports and staging sensational encounters. The 'staging' can include 'close-encounters-of-the-third-kind' through witness manipulation, suggesting that psychological manifestations could account for many reported contact cases.

It is argued that this scenario doesn't require hundreds of conspirators but rather the staging and enhancement of 'special' saucer claims, which the 'saucer underground network' of enthusiasts would then amplify. The belief in the extraterrestrial hypothesis, coupled with a lack of positive proof for sensational events, makes this manipulation easier.

Specific incidents and organizations are highlighted as deserving additional study, including the formation of NICAP and its alleged ties to the intelligence community, contact reports from the early 1950s and their resurgence in the 1970s, the abduction syndrome of the 1970s and APRO's interest, the continual 'leaking' of UFO material to 'key' researchers, and the cyclic resurrection of crashed saucer stories.

The author questions why ufologists are often the recipients of 'secret' information and who the source of this information is working for. The motives behind releasing information and providing leads to UFO researchers are explored, suggesting they could provide missing evidence in the 'bizarre saucer mystery.'

Motivations for Manipulation

The article proposes that the source behind these manipulations must have specific, possibly ideological or sinister, reasons. Potential objectives include:

• Social Control: Shaping public attitudes and opinions.
• Real-time Testing: Analyzing national defense reactions to stimuli.
• Germ/Nerve Warfare Testing: Using cattle mutilations to test effects and public responses, masking the real modus operandi.
• Cover for Technology Development: Hiding advanced systems like drones or 'invisible' aircraft, with some UFO events generated to obscure the true source or cause.
• Psychological Games: Testing the public's reactions to stimuli and mind control.
• Political Maneuvering: Offsetting political crises or shaping attitudes on economic and foreign policy issues.

The article suggests that the best method to counter non-conventional movements is not eradication but encouragement and control through shaping beliefs, using aerial phenomena as a tool for government benefit.

Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) UFO Investigations

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the author's review of RAAF UFO files in Canberra in January 1982. The author, Bill Chalker, was granted access to 18 files, including 'Sightings' and 'Enquiries' reports. The RAAF's role was primarily to investigate UFOs for their 'Defence content,' with other aspects being a secondary concern.

The RAAF's public record consisted of 'Summaries of Unusual Aerial Sightings,' with nine produced covering 1960-1977. The practice was discontinued in 1978, with reports retained but access becoming more difficult. The author notes disappointment with the lack of pre-1975 'Sighting' files, attributed to the department's move from Melbourne to Canberra in the early 1960s and the difficulty in locating older records.

A breakdown of RAAF UFO investigations from 1960 to 1980 is provided, showing a total of 1258 reports, with 102 classified as 'Unknowns' (8.1%). The percentage of 'Unknowns' varied significantly by year, peaking at 33.3% in 1979 and 25.4% in 1978.

Case Studies and Organizations

The 'Enquiry' files contained information on cases like the controversial Drury film affair of 1953, which reportedly involved ASIO. The famous Tully incident of January 19, 1966, is described in detail: Mr G.A. Pedley observed a light grey, non-reflecting object rise vertically from marshland, leaving a distinct circular depression. The RAAF's most probable explanation was a 'willy willy' or circular wind phenomenon, supported by the hissing noise and the physical evidence.

New organizations are also mentioned:

• Organisation for Scientific Evaluation of Aerial Phenomena (OSEAP): A new UK organization formed by the amalgamation of MAPIT, FUFOR, and Anthony Pace, aiming for scientific and practical investigation of UFO phenomena. It will publish 'The OSEAP Journal' and 'Centre Update.'
• UFO Research Publicity Board: Established in October 1981, this board actively corresponds with the media regarding UFO coverage, aiming for accurate reporting and having succeeded in obtaining retractions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the 'Federal Hypothesis,' which challenges the conventional extraterrestrial explanation for UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be critical of the mainstream UFO community's reliance on the 'outer space visitor hypothesis,' suggesting that this focus might be a deliberate distraction from the true purpose of the phenomena, which the author believes is manipulation by powerful, possibly clandestine, groups. The article implies that UFO research itself may be part of a larger psychological experiment, and that the 'Federal Hypothesis' will only be discarded when the forces behind the alleged manipulation have met their objectives. The author advocates for further study into the social and technological implications of the 'flying saucer belief' system.

This issue of 'The UFO Phenomena and Its Investigation by UFO Groups Within Australia' delves into the historical context of UFO sightings and research within Australia, with a particular focus on the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) involvement and the evolution of Australian UFO investigation groups. The publication spans a significant period, from early historical accounts to the 1980s, and examines various types of reported phenomena, investigation methods, and the challenges faced by researchers.

RAAF and UFO Investigations

The article begins by referencing the 'Tully incident' and other documents from 'Enquiry files' that suggest the RAAF may not have been fully aware of certain UFO cases. It highlights a specific 1967 enquiry concerning an alleged UFO event over Butterworth RAAF airfield in Malaysia in 1959, where two F86 fighters reportedly fired on a UFO that exploded, with ash falling to the ground. Internal memorandums from 1967 indicated the RAAF base and Canberra were unaware of these events. Even the book 'Alien Honeycomb' referenced these files, with a 1980 memorandum from DEFAIR CANBERRA to HQOC-SOINT requesting a check of records for confirmation. A telex from HQOC to DEFAIR in September 1980 stated that summaries of unidentified aerial sightings prepared by the Department of Air between mid-1968 and mid-1969 did not mention the case, and that the HQ did not propose to take the matter further unless requested by command. The author suggests that the 'Alien Honeycomb' affair might be related to aircraft accident files rather than UFO files, as the 'fibreglass' component was identified.

Several surprising findings were made in the files, revealing insights into RAAF and Australian government policies on the UFO subject. The article promises a continuation in the next issue, with future highlights including restricted minute papers on RAAF UFO policy, criticism of the RAAF's approach from a scientific viewpoint, 'unknowns' from RAAF UFO files, and questions about a potential cover-up.

Historical UFO Phenomena in Australia

The article, authored by Keith Basterfield, provides a comprehensive review of UFO phenomena in an Australian context, detailing historical cases and the evolution of UFO group investigations. It begins by exploring the potential connection between UFOs and Aboriginal mythology, noting that while little in-depth research has been conducted, ancient rock carvings and lore might suggest interactions with anomalous aerial phenomena. Researchers like John Prytz and Bill Chalker have explored this area, suggesting a 'maybe' regarding early evidence of interaction between Aborigines and 'Ancient Astronauts'.

The review then moves to the 19th century, noting reports of 'balls of light' and 'ghostlights' (also known as Min Min lights, Dead Men's camp-fires, Jack-o-lanterns, and Debil-Debil), with reports dating back to 1883. Mark Moravec's study of these phenomena found 48 cases distributed across Australia. While many explanations have been suggested, a residue of unexplained events remains.

Several startling 19th-century reports are highlighted: a surveyor's vision in 1868 involving a floating head and an 'ark' in Parramatta, and a farmer's account in 1893 of a saucer-shaped object and a man who stunned him with a 'torch'.

Early 20th Century Sightings and the 'Flying Saucer' Era

Moving into the 20th century, the article notes an 'epidemic proportion' of reports of nocturnal lights and celestial visitors in New Zealand around 1909, with similar events in Australia around 1910-1911. A report from 'The West Australian' in 1910 described a coastal steamer's crew seeing lights in the sky. Pre-1947 reports include a 1919 incident where a man encountered an artifact and a 'man' who knocked him senseless, and a 1925 sighting of a saucer-like object in a paddock in Moora, Western Australia.

In 1932 or 1933, a boy in Nambour, Queensland, reported a small UFO, experiencing a 'tight feeling in the head' and developing blisters after a whitish mist appeared. A 1947 winter sighting in Maffra, Victoria, involved a 'dazzling golden ball' hovering above the road.

1947 is identified as 'The Year of the Flying Saucer', with a world-wide upsurge in interest, though Australia remained relatively quiet. By the global wave of 1954, Australia experienced a 'flap', particularly in Victoria, with scores of events, including airline pilot sightings. Ray Fischer and Les Bristol reviewed Victorian newspapers and unearthed about 200 sighting reports. Activity between the mid-1950s and early 1960s was less intense compared to 1954.

Notable cases from this era include:

• January 1, 1954, Melbourne, Victoria: An ANA pilot reported a semi-transparent, disc-shaped object flying speedily past.
• June 5, 1954, Dandenong, Victoria: A 16-year-old girl and her friend reported a cylindrical object hovering, emitting a drumming noise, and causing magnetic effects on nearby objects and personal items.

The Superintendent of Air Traffic Control in Melbourne requested UFO reports, stating, "We do not regard this business as a joke. People are definitely seeing objects, some of which have not been explained."

Early Australian UFO magazines and books reflected a prevailing belief in the extra-terrestrial hypothesis.

Moving Towards the 1960s and Beyond

UFO activity in Australia increased remarkably in 1959, with reports including:

• March 13, 1959, Purnong Landing, South Australia: Two men observed a dome illuminated by coloured lights, which went through regular colour changes before taking off.
• March 31, 1959, Port Elliott, South Australia: A glowing reddish-orange object with portholes was seen hovering near the road.

The 1960s saw a quieter period in 1960-1962, followed by a 'rash of tantalising reports' in 1963, including:

• February 15, 1963, Moe, Victoria: A strange object descended towards cattle pens, hovered, and then climbed away at a 45° angle.
• May 19, 1963, Mount Gambier, South Australia: A youth encountered an oval-shaped object with a bright light that dazzled him.
• June 28, 1963, Sandy Creek, South Australia: A blood red object blocked the road, then rose and sped away, trailing vapour.

1964 was quiet, but 1965 saw a 'world wide flood of sightings', with two high-merit Australian events:

• May 24, 1965, Eton Ridge, Queensland: Three men observed a black disc with brilliant lights hovering above trees.
• July 19, 1965, Vaucluse Beach, New South Wales: A man encountered a disc resting on the sand, which rose with a noise like air being released.

First 'Flap Area' and Subsequent Flaps

1966 marked Australia's first 'flap area' centered around Tully, Queensland, which became internationally known. The most famous report involved George Pedley hearing a hissing noise and seeing a blue-grey saucer rise from the ground, leaving a 10-meter diameter circle of dead reeds swirled clockwise.

A quieter period followed until another flap near Clare, South Australia, in the mid-north, with numerous events reported. The period from 1971 to 1973 saw few high strangeness cases.

Notable incidents from this period include:

• August 8, 1971, Kadina, South Australia: A PMG employee's car engine stopped as an orange glow illuminated the area. An orange disc was observed.
• July 3 & 25, 1972, Frankston, Victoria: A woman observed a blue disc hovering, and on a later date, a similar object appeared to take 'control' of her car.

Further flap areas occurred in 1973 (Tyringham, New South Wales) and 1974 (north-eastern Tasmania). The article mentions a May 26, 1977, close encounter at Orange, New South Wales, where thermoluminescence testing was used.

More Flap Areas:

• November 30, 1972, Murray Bridge, South Australia: A mechanic experienced car malfunctions near a diamond-shaped object with coloured lights, which later lifted off, leaving three holes in the soil.
• December 31, 1973, Lymington, Tasmania: Four people saw a moon-like object and a large yellow cigar effect, with subsequent claims of damage to property and effects on reporters.
• September 16, 1974, St Helens, Tasmania: A woman experienced weird effects including static, car stopping, electric shocks, and an invisible choking smell after the sky became brightly illuminated.
• September 22, 1974, Tayene, Tasmania: A woman reported a glowing orange-silver object descending, causing her radio to whistle.

From 1979 onwards, a decline in the number of good cases is noted, though isolated high-merit reports continue.

Summary of UFO Reports and Investigation Methods

In summary, Australia has a history of extremely tantalizing UFO reports comparable to world interest, encompassing nocturnal lights, daylight discs, close encounters, radar/visual, and photographic events. A notable exception is the field of abduction, with no fully fledged abduction cases documented, though memory loss cases exist. The article suggests potential explanations ranging from random sampling methods to sociological/psychological causes.

Investigation

The investigation of UFO phenomena in Australia is closely tied to the history of Australian research organizations. Looking back from 1982 over 30 years, the author notes the difficulty in unraveling the story of these groups. Edgar Jarrold began the 'Australian Flying Saucer Bureau' (AFSB) in 1951, which functioned until 1955. In March 1954, Jarrold met with a RAAF officer, who indicated the RAAF kept an open mind on extra-terrestrial craft. In South Australia, Fred Stone started the 'Australian Flying Saucer Club' (AFSC) in 1953, which later merged with Jarrold's group. In Victoria, the 'Australian Flying Saucer Investigation Committee' (AFSIC) investigated the 1954 flap.

By 1955, Jarrold resigned from the AFSB, handing it over to Andrew Thomas and David Moore. Fred Stone renamed his group the 'Australian Flying Saucer Research Society' (AFSRS). The 'Australian Saucer Record' (ASR) magazine, edited by Fred Stone, served as the official organ of the AFSRS.

Other groups mentioned include the 'UFO Investigation Centre' (UFOIC) in NSW, the 'Interplanetary Group of Tasmania', the 'Victorian Flying Saucer Research Society' (VFSRS), the 'Perth UFO Research Group' (PUFORG), and the 'Queensland Flying Saucer Research Bureau' (QFSRB). UFOIC was active from 1957 to 1959, documenting Australian reports. The first Australian UFO convention was held in Adelaide in December 1959.

By early 1962, Fred Stone resigned from the AFSRS presidency and by February 1963, edited 'UFO Phenomena in Australia', leading to the formation of 'Unidentified Flying Objects Phenomena Investigation Australia' (UFOPIA). These organizations primarily operated on a state level, focusing on scientific lines but also including social events. However, a lack of national coordination and a tendency to withhold information hindered progress.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical documentation of UFO sightings in Australia, the evolution and activities of UFO research organizations, and the RAAF's perspective on the phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, aiming to present factual accounts and historical context without overt sensationalism, while acknowledging the enduring mystery and the need for continued investigation. The author emphasizes the importance of scientific approaches to investigation while also noting the historical inclusion of more speculative or 'psychic' approaches by some groups.

This issue of a UFO-focused publication, dated approximately 1982, delves into the history and development of UFO investigation groups within Australia. It traces the formation, challenges, and eventual dissolution of various organizations, emphasizing the evolving methodologies and the pursuit of scientific rigor in ufology. The content includes a detailed profile of a prominent researcher, reviews of Australian UFO literature, and listings of available research materials.

History of Australian UFO Groups

The article details the efforts to establish unified UFO research bodies in Australia, starting with the Commonwealth Aerial Phenomena Investigation Organisation (CAPIO) in 1965, which ultimately folded due to internal differences. Subsequent groups like the Tasmanian UFO Investigation Centre (TUFOIC) in 1966 and Unidentified Phenomena Investigation Australia (UPIA) in 1967 are mentioned, with UPIA also having a short lifespan. A significant development occurred in 1968 with the founding of UFO Research in South Australia by Vladimir Godic and Crystal Walsh, who championed a scientific approach and business-like organization. By 1972, several groups were active in South Australia, including AFSRS, UFOPIA, UFO Research, APRG, UFORI, and SPACERS. In August 1973, a merger occurred, forming an enlarged UFO Research organization that introduced positions like Co-ordinator and Liaison Officer. This group is credited as the first in Australia to prioritize investigation and research. The article notes that other groups subsequently adopted similar scientific methods and retitled themselves, such as UFO Research (Queensland) and UFO Research (New South Wales). The formation of the Australian Co-ordination Section (ACOS) in 1974, linked to the Centre for UFO Studies in America, is highlighted, with groups joining ACOS to coordinate and disseminate information. Annual conferences by ACOS since 1975 have fostered research and documentation in the ACOS Bulletin. By 1980, the focus shifted towards research over dissemination, leading some groups, like UFO Research (SA) and UFO Research (NSW), to cease having associate members. In January 1980, ACOS changed its name to The Australian Centre for UFO Studies (ACUFOS), with its aim shifting to promoting Australian research rather than just feeding reports to the U.S.

Profile: Keith Basterfield

The issue features a profile of Keith Basterfield, born in 1950 and raised in England. His early interests in astronomy, sparked by asthma-induced nights, led him to explore UFO literature. Initially put off by what he perceived as 'nutty' claims, he was rescued by the works of Jacques Vallee, which presented a conflict with his astronomical knowledge. A significant UFO flap in the UK in 1967 fueled his interest. After moving to Australia, he pursued a B.Sc. at Adelaide University but later worked for the Australian Post Office. Between 1972 and 1976, Basterfield was actively involved with local UFO groups in South Australia, conducting hundreds of interviews and developing expertise in investigation techniques. His travels for investigations ranged across Australia. He recounts an amusing anecdote about investigating a 'catwoman' story near Cairns that turned out to be unfounded, and a humorous encounter with a sheep while investigating a flap area. Basterfield married in 1976 and continued his involvement with UFO Research (SA). In 1979, he became an ACUFOS Co-ordinator. He has been a frequent contributor to various UFO publications globally. In July 1981, he published his first book, 'UFOs The Image Hypothesis Close Encounters of an Australian Kind,' which reflects his interest in a psychological approach to the subject. Basterfield's current viewpoint is that after conventional explanations are removed from UFO reports, a small, inexplicable residue remains, though he is not committed to any specific hypothesis. He advocates for a more open debating forum and praises the professionalism of Australian researchers. His other interests include microcomputers, science fiction, stamp collecting, and travel. He resigned from UFO Research (SA) in 1981 to focus on his ACUFOS role, aiming to promote Australian ufology internationally and contribute to solving the UFO enigma.

Reference Library: Book Reviews and Publications

The 'Reference Library' section includes reviews of UFO literature. The 'Arcturus Book Service' is highlighted for its '1982 UFO Literature Reference Guide & Catalog,' described as comprehensive and reasonably priced, offering rare editions and material for researchers. The catalog is available from Arcturus Book Service in Scotia, N.Y., U.S.A.

A review of 'Australian Books on UFOs' covers several titles. 'The Devil's Meridian' by Kevin Killey and Gary Lester is discussed, focusing on its coverage of the 1978 Valentich disappearance in Bass Strait. While acknowledging its thoroughness on the case, the review notes a naive and uncritical attitude at times, deeming it a poor attempt at creating a 'Bass Strait Triangle.'

Another review covers Keith Basterfield's 1981 book, 'Close Encounters of an Australian Kind.' The book proposes a hypothesis that many UFO entity reports are instances of hypnopompic and hypnagogic imagery. It includes a catalog of nearly 350 close encounter cases and is highly recommended.

Publications available from The Australian Centre for UFO Studies (ACUFOS) are listed, including 'Who's Who in Australasianiology' and 'Psiufological Phenomena,' both available for Australian monies.

Technical papers available from Ground Saucer Watch, Inc. (GSW) are also listed, many resulting from legal action and Freedom of Information requests against U.S. government and military agencies. These include papers on UFO cover-ups, reasons for UFO research failure, electromagnetic effects in UFO encounters, computer analysis of UFO evidence, and psychological effects of UFO encounters. Prices and ordering information for these papers and back issues of the GSW News Bulletin are provided.

Stop Press

A brief 'Stop Press' item reports that the Fund for UFO Research noted an appeal by 'Citizens Against UFO Secrecy' regarding the NSA's withholding of UFO documents, which was ultimately declined by the Supreme Court. Peter Gersten is mentioned as suing the U.S. Air Force for UFO documents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the evolution of UFO investigation in Australia, moving from informal clubs to more structured, scientifically-oriented organizations. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of rigorous research, documentation, and the application of scientific methods. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational, evidence-based approach to the UFO phenomenon, as exemplified by the profile of Keith Basterfield and the reviews of books that attempt to analyze cases systematically. The publication also highlights the efforts of Australian researchers to gain international recognition for their work and contribute to solving the 'UFO enigma.' The pursuit of information through legal means, such as FOIA requests, is also presented as a valid research strategy.