The Quarterly Journal of the Association of Australia

. Volume 6 Numbt r 3 October 1995

Published by the Fleet Air Arm Association of Australia Inc. - Print Post Approved - PP20 1494/00022 Editor: John Arnold - PO Box 662, NOWRA NSW 2541, Australia - Phone (044) 2320 14 - Fax (044) 2324 12 Slipstream - October 1995 - Paze 2

FOREWORD

By of the Fleet Sir Benjamin Bathurst GCB

I was delighted when invited to provide the foreword for Slipstream . Indeed, after reading a recent edition , it brought back many happy memories of a wonderful two years I spent at Nowra.

Nearly thirty years on, I have now retired from the Navy having had both the luck and the privilege of being Chief of Naval Staff and First Sea Lord; only the second naval . aviator to hold that appointment, the first being Admiral of the Fleet, Sir Caspar John . Although I had to keep my tribal loyalties carefully concealed, this did not matter since throughout my time in office, naval aviation was in the forefront of the RN's business with our Carriers on back to back deployments to the Adriatic . As I write, Sea Harriers are involved in the current bombing campaign over Bosnia , and 845 Squadron Sea Kings have provided the backbone of the UN's helicopter force ashore for at least two and a half years.

I left the Ministry of Defence with the initial funding for the replacement for the Sea Harrier approved via participation in the USA's JAST programme, Merlin helicopters in production , and the Lynx 8 coming into squadron service. Replacement Carriers were under active discussion and the new Commando carrier , HMS Ocean, is about to be launched. So the Fleet Air Arm is in a far healthier state than it was in the dark days of 1981, and long may it continue .

This August, the veterans of the British Pacific Fleet gathered in to celebrate VJ Day. Many of the shared memories were of the unstinting , unflagging support and the overwhelming hospitality given by the people of Australia to our Carrier Fleet. So it was h.ere that the long connection between our two Fleet Air Arms could be said to have begun. The late forties saw the birth of your Fleet Air Arm and our Carriers and their Air groups worked closely together during the Korean War. A succession of common aircraft , Fireflies , Sea Furies, Gannets, Sea Venoms and Wessex , meant continual interchange among our aircrew on courses and through a very healthy exchange programme . Both our Services have seen swings of fortune over the last fifty years, but the ease with which our people have moved from one to another is a testament to that closeness.

I was lucky enough to be one of those exchange pilots and my two years instructing with 723 and 725 squadrons was without a doubt the most varied , exciting and challenging of my career. Looking through my Log Book, you got your pound of flesh; over one particular 6 month period 335 hours. Few Fleet Air Arms offer the opportunity to be Senior Pilot, Duty QHI, Duty SAR pilot , Chief Ground Instructor , and eat a sandwich lunch whilst putting together next days Flypro all within the same hour . It was all tremendous fun and I believe I developed a professional edge to my flying which I would not have done had I stayed at home. I made many good friends and I remember with much sadness colleagues and students who flew and died so gallantly in Vietnam shortly after I left.

I suspect that when I did leave Nowra in 1966, I never said a proper thank you to all those who made Sarah and I and our young family so welcome, norto those who taught me so much about how naval aviation should be conducted. Can I do so now and wish your Association the best of all possible luck . My time with you was a formative moment in my career and I am immensely proud of having served with you . Slipstream - October 1995 - Paze 3

EDITORIAL A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE ASSOCIATION Well , this is the last Slipstream for 1995, and although the past year seems to have zoomed along at an Whoever said that life wasn't meant to be easy certainly knew what he was alarm ing rate much has been talking about. A number of issues have recently surfaced which are of great achieved . Our membership has concern to your national executive, but we will try, as usual, to resolve them by increased, our National Incorporation talking them through. Hopefully we will find a middle ground which will prove to has been finalised, and our own 'Taj be satisfactory to all parties. I do not intend to elaborate at this stage as the Mahal', the Naval Aviation Museum , Federal Council is meeting in Tasmania later this month and that august body has really blossomed . It is all very wili have to apply their vast knowledge and experience to sorting th ings out. rewarding. Could you please check the list of donors to the FM History Fund which Sir Victor and Lady Smith honoured appears below. To those whose names do not appear , may I ask that you give us with their presence at the Museum some serious thought to contributing to the Fund . As I have said before, if we recently, it must have all been quite an want the history written then we have to put our hands in our pockets and eye-opener for them, the last time they provide the means to get the project started . We cannot expect outside sources visited, the memorial plaque had to be to fund the writing of the history, although we may get some assistance , if we anchored to a rock in the absence of a do, then that's a bonus. wall to adhere it to. I should advise you that the format of the history is an agenda item for your I received a phone call from Gordon delegate at the Council Meeting. McPhee relating to the aircraft prang In conclusion may I remind you about the 1996 FM Reunion to be held on and the Jeff Craske letter on Pg22 of the Gold Coast. Please help the organising committee by registering now. the last Slipstream . He admitted to Thank you. being the 'driver ' of that particular 'Toz' Dadswell - National President aircraft. When I asked him what the extenuating circumstances were , he DONORS TO THE THE 'HISTORY OF NAVAL AVIATION IN AUSTRALIA' told me that it was just 'finger trouble' . On the basis that he is the first pilot I've spoken to who hasn't blamed the Les Anderson Ian Ferguson Gary Northern maintainers, -I'm forwarding him the Alan Andrews Peter Fleming Danny O'Keefe unclaimed Angus and Robertson book John Arnold Paul Gaynor J.G.Pollard voucher from Swampy's recent quiz. Bill Barry A.J.'Nat' Gould Brian Poole For the sake of the record books , the Mick Blair Peter Harman Fred Randall incident occurred on 03 March 1950. Daniel Bowden Lee Harris George Riches Errors that have occurred in the two John R. Brown Tom Henry Albert Riley previous Slipstreams are as follows : Monty Brown Don Herman David Robertson The author of the "Musings from Eric Bruce Owen Holston RM.Robertson 1851 Squadron '(April) was Maurie Bob Bryce Reg Holton Graham Rohrsheim Weston .The photograph on the back Syd Bull page of the July edition was not of Les Jordan A.J . 'Weed' Smith Maurie and Gwenneth Weston but James Caldwell Jim Kelly Sir Victor Smith Max and Margaret Punton . Please Ron Christie Stan Laughlan Clive Smithers accept my apologies . Alan Clark Barry Lister Ken Staff Of some concern at the moment is David Collingridge Barry 'Dooley' Lord Les Swebbs the rising production costs of Clem Conlan Michael S. Mack Ron Tate Slipstream . Paper and printing costs Andrew Craig George J. Mackenzie George Taylor are on the increase and postage is Bill Cregan Bob Marsh A.G . 'Slug' Whitton expected to rise shortly. If you have Toz Dadswell W.J. 'Jack' Mcloughlin Phillip 'Mick' Wurtz any bright ideas, please write to the Jules Ducret Peter McNay Gerry York National Secretary . Ben G. Dunn Charles Morris Alan Zammit In conclusion , all the very best Trevor Epis Len Murray Len Zuch wishes for Christmas and the New FAAA (ACT) Division Arthur Nixon Year to you and your loved ones. Ed. FAAA (WA) Division Paul Norris

DISCLAIMER A LAST FAREWELL

All rights reserved. Reproduction in BRUCE Don - 'Dad' - 8 July 1995 part or whole is forbidden without JAMES Gerald - 8 July 1995 the express permission of the FULLER Noel - July 1995 Editor in writing. CLAYDON Ted - July 1995 The views and opinions expressed LEWIN Henry - 'Harry' - 16 August 1995 in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views and COKER-GODSON Geoffrey - LtCdr RAN (Rtd) - 3 September 1995 opinions of the Association or FORBES Richard - 5 September 1995 Committee of Management . BODDAM-WHETTAM A.P. - LtCdr RN DSC (Rtd) - 6 September 1995 ROSS Norris A. - 'Norrie' - 24 September 1995 Slipstream - October 1995- Page 4

to go ahead . "We are lookin g at inc reasing hard HMASALBATROSSUPDATEstanding areas for parking aircraft , An interview with a reporter from the Shoalheven and Nowra News Chronicle new hangars, new accommodat ion, new workshops, galley upgrades and Commanding Officer of HMAS seen of the Shoalhaven . changes to our explosive storage area Albatross, Commodore Graham "I'm very impressed with the to make it more modern . Sloper, has seen a number of potential for the Shoalhaven , but I "We are also looking at improv ing important changes during his first don't believe it has been realised to its facilities for washing off and fue lli ng few months at the base. full extent due to a large number of aircraft so there will be less potential "It has been a very busy and circumstances ," he said. for spill. enthusiastic base - the four squadrons "These include the area being at "We are going to increase the area have been kept extremely busy ." the end of the railway line ; socio­ that we reticulate our sewerage water Commodore Sloper said . "We've had economic factors ; the lack of facilities into so it will also be used on the golf some success with lodger units and to cater for tourists ; unemployment course and sporting fields . associated bodies winning awards . levels and employment opportunities ," "W e are also doing a survey of our "For example, the Naval Reserve he said . accommodation to find out from the Cadets were recently named the Best Commodore Sloper said the base's married people where they want to Naval Cadet Unit in NSW . proposals for new facilities in a bid to live, what style of house they want to " One of the big highlights was the provide pre-Olympic Games training live in, and then we will start replacing success of the Community Services ' facilities were progressing well. houses in the married quarters outs ide Support Dinner which raised $9000 for "We have had a recent value the base . the palliative care unit at David Berry management study where we put up "For those who aren't married and Hospital. what we see as the future of Albatross are living ashore , we want to find out "The Albatross Australian Rules until 2005, " he said . why they are living ashore and , for team won their competition . "Representatives from all other those living on board , find out why and Regrettably the rugby team didn't do functional areas came in from what sort of fac ilities they would like. quite as well, but I'm sure we will next Canberra and Sydney and the issues "Something that has come out of year . were all debated . the survey already, is that people "The opening of the new hospital "Then we will go to a Facil ities onboard, or just off the base, don't and medical centre is a milestone and Forum in Octobe r to discuss each of have access to a store, so we will be our agreement w ith the Shoalhaven our facility proposals in detail. looking at establishing a small sto re in District Hospital is progressing . "If the proposals are successful a recreation complex. " I have been amazed with the they will then go before a four structure "They would also like to have some interaction we have with so many planning policy committee meet ing sort of bus serv ice to and from Nowra, different groups , not just on the prior to going before the Federal but we will have to examine if this military side ." Parliamentary Works Comm ittee next proposal is cost effective ." Another exciting proposal year . Commodore Sloper said that he Commodore Sloper said that the base "People have realised that sees Albatross remaining as the major is examining is the establishment of a Albatross has been let run down , it air base for the RAN . new child care facility . wasn 't a deliberate policy , it was just "There will be aviation support "It is planned to the best facility the that there were higher priorities with facilities built for the Navy in Western South Coast will have ever seen," he the moving of the Navy to the west and Australia and in the Northern Territory, said . the Army to the north. but we will stay here and see the "We are proposing it will be built Commodore Sloper said the base ANZAC helos starting from here and somewhere adjacent to the primary isn't looking for any facilities express ly then probably being deployed to the school at Nowra Hill. for the Olympics . west," he said . "It will provide four levels of child "If we have facilities here that are "The next comba tant coming along care - babies to two year olds ; three suitable for the Olympic athletes to will be the offshore combatant and , if and four year olds ; four and five year use prior to the Games they can use we end up in a joint venture with olds; five to twelve year olds for before them as a training venue. Malaysia, it will be known as a joint and after school care and holiday :A new swimming pool is a patrol vessel and will have a sim ilar programmes . possibility, a new gymnasium another , helicopter to the ANZACS . " It will effectively mean the 'K it is possible that some of our "There will be an increased number Hangar' [Child care on base] and the superseded accommodation may be of flight deck trainers and we will pre-school will close down and made available . continue to operate a fixed wing become incorporated under one body ." "Meanwhile we have offered component. Commodore Sloper said his stay at council a spare parcel of land if they "The current agreement with New Albatross had been a lot busier than would like to develop it for athlet ics or Zealand expires in June, 1996 , and we are currently undertaking negot iations anticipated . hockey or something like that. with them ," he said . "I was aware of the civilian "There is great scope for the area ." community interaction , but wasn't A number of areas around HMAS * This article first appeared in the aware of the full extent of it," he said . Albatross have been earmarked fo r Shoalhaven and Nowra News Chronicle, 2BSEP95, as a supplement Commodore Sloper said that he updating. Commodore Sloper said for Navy Week. had been impressed with what he has that he is very keen for these proj ects Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 5

Widows - 7 pays at the pre­ WELFARE OFFICER'S REPORT widowhood rate, then 5/8 rate . If by Ivan 'Chips' Gray JP - NSW Division commuted previously , 5/8 of rate prior to commutat ion. ROUGH GUIDE TO VETERAN Commonwealth Employee's There is provision for w idows to AND DEFENCE SERVICE Compensation, Commonwealth commute portion of their pens ion in ENTITLEMENTS Employee's Rehabilitation and certain circumstances. Eligible Service and Peace Time Compensation Act replaced by Serving Members Should Service Safety Compensation and ensure that service caused , or Rehabilitation Act (SCRA), often aggravated conditions are recorded in Repat Act (1920) : Introduced to called COMCARE, introduced to medical records . I after a reasonable cover War Service , amended by cover the Public Service and peace time there are residual effects , or there Veterans Entitlement Act (1948) time military service, post WW2 to is a possib ility of deterioration in the VEA , further amendments from time April 1994. future , lodge a claim under VEA or to time to introduce cover for special Military Compensation Scheme: MCS depending on 'peace t ime circumstances, peace keeping forces Introduced in April 1994 , adds certain serv ice' or 'operational service ' being etc. provisions to the above Acts (SRCA the cause . If the injury/condit ion is due to service during period , December The above Acts are admin istere d 1988), to cater for military service but 1972 to April 1994, lodge a claim on by the Department of Veteran Affairs . also removes entitlement to 'defence both VEA and SCRA. If successful To gain benefits under these Acts , service' under the Veterans with both you will be required to broadly the veteran must: Entitlement Act as in ( b ) ( c ) ( d ) above after April 1994. choose as generally benefits can only Have 'eligible service' - be rece ived from one source . It is often Entitlements: Medical treatment a. Service in a war or campaign preferable to accept VEA as Disability for service caused conditions ( classed approved as eligible service Payments are not taxable . Reject as 'on duty') and payments for loss of b. Be serving on a 3 year or more offers of lum p sum payments of earning ability in certain engagement as at December 1972; or compensat ion without first seeking circumstances . c. Have at least three years competent advice . 1. Widow entitled to lump sum if service after 1972 and before April Veterans with War Service - If death due to on duty service caused or 1994; or under the age of 60 , it is a wise idea to aggravated condition . d. Was discharged on medical lodge a claim for 'entitlement for Money received for loss of earning grounds with a service caused or Service Pension' by writing to the ability etc. is taxable. Lump sums , eg. aggravated condition that prevented Department of Veteran Affa irs. This to widow, not taxable . service as defined in 'b' and 'c'. way , before you reach 60 , you will Medical and pharmacy accounts ( a ) is war or operational service. know how you stand . You may have to have to be claimed ( b ) ( c ) ( d ) are defence service . distribute some assets if you have too Claims should be lodged as soon much . As the asset levels are the Disability pension and medical as the condition manifests itself or the same as for the age pens ion, the treatment for accepted conditions are injury becomes apparent , as the financial adv isory service at the available under VE Act. Amount of Commonwealth can apply the Statute Departme nt of Socia l Securit y are pension received varies depending on of Limitations (may reject claim after 7 availab le to give advice . the percentage of disability, and is not years). taxable and not counted as an asset In all cases - DON'T TRY TO GO when assessment is being made for DFRB - DFRDB - MSBS IT ALONE - consult any experienced Service or Age pension . Entitlements: Pension after RDFWA or RSL advocate BEFORE Additional entitlements for those qualifying length of service or invalidity you submit your claim forms. with operational service : irrespective of 'on duty' or 'off duty' ( except in cases of injury/death whilst 1. Service pension at age 60 IMPORTANT ADDRESSES engaged in illegal or treasonable acts (assets test and benefits similar to against the Commonwealth) . age pension) . Service Records can be obtained from : Pension: After 20 years full time Director of Service Records 2. Service pension prior to age 60 Department of Defence service . if medically unfit for work ( not PO Box E33 necessarily related to service) . If discharged for medical reasons, Queen Victoria Terrace the degree to which unfit for civilian (Service pensions can be available CANBERRA ACT 2600 for certain veterans of Commonwealth employment (UFCE) is assessed . Category A invalidity - 60% or Department of Veteran Affairs : armed forces who served in theatres of Safety Rehabi litation & Compensation more UFCE 76.5% of pay as pension. war that Australian forces were Section : involved in, subject to 10 years Category B invalidity- 30% I 59% Regular Defence Force Welfare Assoc iation: residency .) - UFCE 381/4% of pay as pension (if In each Capital city phone book . (Defence service as defined in ( b ) service is over 20 years, then pens ion ( c ) ( d ) have no entitlement to serv ice is for that period if higher than Commissioner for Superannuation 381/4%) . ComSupe r pension .) PO Box443 3. W idow has pension entitlement Category C invalidity - 29% or BELCONNEN ACT 2616 (members death must be due to less UFCE - refund of contributions x disease or injury caused by 2 1/2 . If served over 20 yea rs, then RSL Welfare Officer : operational service .) pension is for the period served . Local RSL Sub Branch Slipstream - October 1995- Page 6

US HONOURS TO BE RECOGNISED BY RAN GLIDING AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Australian servicemen can now accept and wear US military awards earned REUNION during service in the Vietnam War . The Minister for Administrative Services, Mr Frank Walker, said the Government decided to formally recognise these US military awards following The Royal Australian Navy last year's Committee of Inquiry into Defence and Defence Related Awards . Gliding Association (RANGA) will Records show that some 400 Australians received US military awards during be hosting a reunion for past and the Vietnam War, but at that time Australians were not allowed to officially accept present members of the club over or wear foreign awards . the Easter break 1996. Mr Walker said both the United States and Austral ian Governments had An informal dinner will be held agreed that these men should be able to receive and wear their awards with at the Australian Naval Aviation honour. museum on the Saturday night. "This recognition is something that veterans have sought for a long time and Gliding activities will occur over I hope that, as it becomes widely known, more recipients or their families will the duration of the weekend , also apply for their awards," Mr Walker said . on the programme will be tours of Application forms are available from the US Embassy , the Vietnam Veterans' the museum and HMAS Albatross. Association of Australia, the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam RANGA has been in operation Association, and the Returned Services League of Australia . now for forty years , recently Media Statement -23 August 1995 located time sheets for the first flying day are dated 24 July 1955. HEADSTONES The glider was a Slingsby T 31 G 'Tandem Tutor' . The average flight It is not widely known that anyone who served in the Australian Military forces for the day was three minutes and is entitled to have their Service emblem used on the headstone . The Office of the weather was recorded as 'dull Australian War Graves acts as agent of the Department of Defence to give its and calm'. The only thing that permission to those who wish to have the Rising Sun , the RAAF or Navy hasn't changed to the present day emblems on their headstone. All that is needed is for the War Graves office to sight a copy of a Discharge Certificate or other documentat ion which proves the is the July winter. veteran's service and permission will be granted without delay. RANGA is still going strong For further information telephone 06-289 6511 . and has a fleet of five aircraft • With thanks to Vetaffairs and Ron Baxter . which includes; a Piper Super Cub tow aircraft , two Blanik trainers, a VIETNAM VETERANS NOMINAL ROLL Pilatus single seater and a Cirrus compet ition glass glider. Advice has been received from the Department of Veterans Affairs that the Still operating most weekends, Department proposes, in the near future, to publish a nominal roll of Australians RANGA provides the opportunity who served in the Vietnam war between May 1962 and July 1973. The roll for Defence personnel and contains the names of 59,053 men and 484 women . The roll will be made public, civilians to enjoy a fantastic sport. but before this can happen the Department needs to make sure that no one on This year a scholarship was the list will consider this to be an unwarranted invasion of privacy . initiated for junior sailors and was If any FAAA member who served in Vietnam objects to their name and details presented to AB Doug Tebbit. The being published , they should contact the Department of Veteran Affairs on the toll scholarship entitles the member to free number 1-800-026-185 extension 4806 by 30 November 1995. free flying up to solos standard and is aimed at promoting the RANGA HMAS ALBATROSS SENIOR SAILORS MESS REUINION and aviation amongst the Junior Sailors. On 3 November 1995, commencing at 1830 . All past and present Mess members welcome . A bus service will be provided to and from Nowra . If further For further information on the details are required, please contact CPO Andy Brown - (044) 211870 reunion or club in general , please contact the president , FLTL T 'Stew' Murphy (Air Traffic Control There are only two things to worry about ; Either you are well or you are sick . RANAS Nowra) on (044) 211 755 If you are well there is nothing to worry about; during business hours. Limited on But if you are sick there are only two things to worry about; base accommodation can be Either you will get well or you will die. provided so please be early. If you die there are only two things to worry about ; For spec ific information on Either you will go to Heaven or you will go to Hell: our normal flying weekends, If you go to Heaven there is nothing to worry about. please contact Bob Bowler (044) But! If you go to Hell, you'll be so damn busy shaking hands 552 287 or the CFI , Bill Mcinnes with friends, (044) 674 213. You wont have time to worry . Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 7

was hit, with 15 killed, Storey , on the Commande r Storey was one of the few The with bridge at the time, had a narrow on the bridge not to be killed or Nine Lives escape . For two hours the 6,000 ton wounded . light fought at fantastic odds He transferred to HMAS Shropshire By Alan Zammit against one of the most powerful and on 25 October, 1944, was on afloat. In the evening the Shropshire 's bridge to take part in the Commander A.S. 'Dank' Storey , Italian ships headed for home. Of battle of Surigao Strait when the DSC and Bar RAN (Rtd), aged 86, has 26 ,000 tons of supplies, only and Australian , with the Amer ican a record of escaping death , beaten approximate 5,000 tons reached warships and the Australian only by a few who are alive today . Malta . Arunta , opened fire on the Japan ese In March 1942, he was Gunnery On 21 October (Trafalgar Day) 1944, battlesh ip Yamashiro and its escorts. Officer of the 'Fighting' 15th Cruiser at Leyte Gulf in the Philipp ines, The Yamashiro was sunk in the last Squadron under Admiral Vian , Commander Storey was Staff Officer -aga inst-battleship act ion in escorting merchant ships to Malta . Operations to Commodore Collins history . The battered island was During the Lingayen on the verge of famine, Gulf landings off and food and Luzon, Storey was ammunition were Commodore (Fearle ss imperative for the island Frank) Farncomb's to survive the German Staff Officer Operat ions and Italian onslaught. on the open bridge of When Commander HMAS Austral ia, when Storey 's ship, HMS the cruiser received five Naiad was sunk by more Kamikaze hits German U-Boat U565 which killed 39 of the \ " on 11 March, 1942, with crew . the loss of 77 men, he At Vice-Admira l Sir transferred to the light Philip Vian's request, cruiser Cleopatra with Commander Storey Admiral Vian . served on his staff in Eleven days later, four HMS Indomitable light cruisers , an old during the Ok inawa anti-aircraft cruiser and campaign where he a flotilla of British survived two more escorting Kamikaze hits, then on four merchant ships, HMS Formidable when came under attack from the carrier was off the German Luftwaffe . Japan at the cessation Heavy Italian warships of host ilities . were also approaching, onboard HMAS Australia when a As a thirteen year old naval cadet at including the modern 35,000 ton Japanese Kamikaze aircraft dived into Jervis Bay in 1923, Arthur Stanley battleship , Uttorio, with nine 15 inch the ship 's foremast, exploded and Storey was given the nick-name guns, and supportive cruisers and showered blazing gasoline and debris 'Dank ", because of his initials, A.S .S. destroyers . over the bridge . Thirty of the crew were If they only knew , they could have The British ships turned to attack killed and sixty wounded , called him the 'Kamikaze Kid'. To have while the convoy headed away under Dechaineux and the Squadron survived 8 Kamikaze hits must surely the cover of a smokescreen . At the Navigating Officer, Commander be a world record . height of the action, Cleopatra's bridge Rayment , died of the ir wounds , while

VP 50 CELEBRATIONS together with the visiting USS Rentz . I put the question , "Were you able Midway through the proceedings I to see anything of other parts of the IN TOWNSVILLE became involved in a conversation country before being posted to New By John Ahern - Northern Slipstream with an ex-Army Airforce pilot who was Guinea?" He answered, "Yes . I got to Reporter among the first combat fliers to reach Brisbane and Sydney . But the best six Australian shores early in 1942 . He weeks of the war was spent at a little During the recent VP50 and his mates had left San Diego and town on the south coast of NSW ." celebrations in Townsville , I was 31 days later, after experienc ing Which town?" I asked . "Nowra ", he fortunate to obtain a media pass which attacks by the Japanese finally arrived replied . "I was there as part of a enabled me to attend all events in Brisbane . Bob's first recollection of torpedo training exercise early in '42." unhindered by either participants or Australia was the Bulimba Brewery This revelation called for a photograph spectators . This magic pass opened and Fourex signs on build ings along and more talk . When I told him that I many doors which otherwise would the banks of the Brisbane River . Ever had also been stationed at Nowra and have been 'no go; areas to the general since then , he assured me, he was a knew the area fairly well , he asked , "Is public. dedicated XXXX fan . However , I did the Nowra Hotel still there? I had a One of these doors was the Civic notice that the can of Fosters he was great time there ." Reception for the veterans of the 5th drinking from didn't last too long It was at th is point that he drew my USAF (founded in Townsville in 1942) either. attention to the ...... continued over .... . Slipstream - October 1995- Page 8

'SILVER FLEET' patch on his jacket. THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF VICTORY IN THE PACIFIC After I pleaded ignorance as to its significance , he gave me the details . BY Alan Zammit On Sunday 20 August 1995, a ceremony to commemorate Commonwealth Apparently, the day after reaching Nationals who died in World War II was held in the Sydney War Cemetery , their base in New Guinea, they tuned Rookwood . in to hear the latest from 'Tokyo Rose' and were amazed to hear her Amongst the overseas visitors were ex -CPO's Dick Sweet and Gil Trotter welcoming their unit to the front line DSM, both of whom served on HMS Formidable , with ex-S IG James Baberstock , with the 'Silver Fleet' of aircraft they who served on HMS Indomitable . They laid wreaths in memory of 85 of their had brought with them . This was a shipmates who are buried in the Sydney War Cemetery . reference to their squadron of tr • , ,"'1,°I uncamouflaged, unpainted, 826 Martin Marauders .

J

L-R: Dick Sweet - Gil Trotter - James Baberstock Sydney War Cemetery -Rookwood Photo Alan Zammit

VPSO visitor, Bob Marshall. An Air Gunner . BRITISH PACIFIC FLEET VISITORS AT AUSTRALIAN he flew 49 combat misions on B26's and 6 on B29 Liberators . Photo J.Ahern NA VAL AVIATION MUSEUM

Hopefully , Bob Marshall, ex-22nd On 15 August , a group of British Pacific Fleet veterans from the UK, visited Bombardment Group, US Army Air the Australian Naval Aviation Museum at Nowra . Corps will return to these shores Two of the visitors , Bob Taylor and Cyril Cox , both ex-Telegraph ist Air sometime in April 1996, if you bump Gunners, met up with one of their war-time classmates , 'Chicka' Edward, who is into him, please buy him a Fourex . resident in the Shoalhaven area . [ Bob Marshall hopes to visit Nowra The last time they had been together was in 1943 at Worthy Downs. and the Museum on his next visit. Ed] VIETNAM DISPLAY DEDICATION CEREMONY

The Australian Naval Aviation Museum held a dedication ceremony of the Vietnam Display in the main museum display hall on 19 August. The Vietnam display from the old museum has been relocated to reflect the significance of this conflict in our history . Admiral Ralph was the guest of honour and officially opened the display . See photograph elsewhere in this L-R : Bob Taylor , an ecstatic 'Chicka' Edward and Cyril Cox at the ANAM edition of Slipstream . Photo Peregrine Publishing Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 9

him . A flurry of leaves and branches and he was safe .... or All tNTHE DAYS WORK was he? Looking down he realised ~c;RH that he was still 30 feet from the deck suspended from a branch. A Reprinted from the RANAS even now his radio was being Tarzan swing enabled him to reach Nowra Magazine - vintage early 'D-F'ed' and a rescue team being the trunk of the tree and, having 1950's summoned . But he also knew that grasped it in a loving embrace , it it was by his own efforts alone that was but a matter of seconds to he would get clear of the burning release the harness and shin down The uneventful dive-bombing aircraft. Brother! An ejection seat to terra firma . exercise was completed and the would certainly have been a help Shortly afterwards rescuers were Sea Fury was heading for base . just then. He went into action ..... at the spot and the pilot was soon The pilot was feeling hot and sticky open the hood a fraction , down on his way back to the Air Station in the cramped cockpit and the head, pull the jettison lever . The little the worse for wear . thought of a long cool beer at engine and slipstream noises A straight forward bale-ou t is lunch-time made him moisten his increased so the hood must have lips in anticipation. grim enough but it became gone . He glanced to starboard and apparent during the subsequent However , there were more saw another Fury which had seen inquiry that the pilot had important things to think about. his plight and was standing by. experienced one of the luckiest Airspeed, altitude , fuel and sundry Disconnect Rff lead , release escapes imaginable. The auxil iary other gauges all demanded safety harness and, yes .... this parachute had torn away from the frequent attention. Their mute was it! Two thousand feet to go. main canopy and was never found. evidence was 'as per the book', till From a crouched position on the The main chute was oil stained and his eyes came to the oil cockpit seat he hurled his body burned in places. Evidence proved temperature gauge. The needle head-first over the port side. fairly conclusively that the pointed to a figure cons iderably A horrible thought ..... supposing parachute had developed higher than it should have been . the tail plane hurtling through the premature ly and had been caught Check the cooling shutters ...... air at 140 knots should hit him! It on the aircraft. Fortunate ly only open as they should be ...... What had happened before. Then he one cord snagged and this broke, the hell???? sensed , rather than saw, the tail thus freeing the chute and pilot. Then the rev counter started a plane pass overhead and his mind Short ly after this event occurred slow but steady skid around the switched to the next problem . His at HMAS Albatross, the same pilot clock and the pilot's blood pressure right hand already grasped the rip­ did a repeat performance whilst climbed with it. Movement of the cord out of its housing . Several serving in Korea . pitch control lever failed to reduce hours later . ... or was it only the now dangerously high revs so seconds ..... his fall was viciously Hair raising ? Yes .... but all in the the pilot eased back on the throttle arrested as the parach ute day's work for aircrew . lever . Sure enough, the revs developed and he was swaying dropped but the loss in power peacefully in the air with the other [Okay , I found the story , you tell caused the aircraft to lose altitude . Fury orbiting above him. me the date and the names of the A call to base cleared the field for Below him was thick bush and a pilot and GRM, the author. Ed] an emergency landing, but hardly landing in the had he finished the transmission trees was when thick smoke belched from inevitable. First the exhaust and a stream of oil of all a pull smeared the windscreen. The down on the engine was vow coughing and rear lift webs to spluttering . Tongues of flame slow his drift licking back from the cowlings then, just settled the matter ...... a few more before hitting minutes and he must leave the the trees, legs aircraft . up to protect Good training now overcame any the family tendency to panic; the moment for j ewels and which he had rehearsed many tummy, arms in times hadd arrived and the front of the emergency procedure was clear in chest and his mind . He transmitted a 'May hands in front Day' or distress call , fixing his of the face . The position and height and stating his tree to ps R eprinted from Sydn ey "Bnll etin." intention to bale out. He knew that rushed to meet Slipstream - October I 995- Page IO

No.3 Naval Air Crew Course - HMAS Cerberus 31 May 1951 L-R Back row: Max Glenn - Des Giles - Roy Prior - John Sutcliffe - Peter Zafer - Ivor Janz - Barry Thompson - Rick Boughton - 'Spewey' Richards - John Cook L-R Front row: John Dudley - 'Slug' Whitton - 'Dooley' Lord - Kevin Knowles - Keith Potts - 'M,mka' Gleason- George Barron - 'Flossie' Gully (Photocourtesy Barry 'Dooley ' Lord)

ALBATROSS ATHLETIC CLUB - at the end of the club's first season in the Sydney athletic competition 1952 Back row L-R: 'Chas' Baldwin - John Elliot - ? - ? - Ken Hyde - Jim Hawkins - Charlie Morris - Raoul 'Ned' Kelly Centre: 'Prof Edwards - Ernie Rowe - Joe Love Front: Frank McCaffrey - ? - LtCdr 'Bash' Kirkwood - Ron Hay - Kevin Foot - ? (Photocourtesy Charlie Mor ris) Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 11

No.12 NAR CLASS-April 1949 - HMAS ALBATROSS Back row L-R: ? -'Bluey ' Thompson - Ray Leroy - Tom Jenkins - Ron Reed - Don Graham - Don Eldridge - R. McDermott - Max Fleming - Jimmy Watts Front row: 'Chuck ' Doherty - Billy Brown - Joe Dawson - 'Mechanic' McCullough - Alex Wardrop Missing from photograph Clive Tanzer and 'Tex' Nankivell (Photo courtesy Don Eldridge)

NAVAL AIRMAN AH3 COURSE No.67 March 1958 Back L-R: Ken Hickey - Leo 'Fury' Kirkman - Don Hume - Glen 'Grogan' Harris - Maurie Mankoph Front L-R: John Baker - Kevin 'Butterballs ' Prew - PO Smith - Ken Staff - Tony 'Slim' Smith (Photo courtesy Ken Staff) Slipstream - October 1995- Page 12

Dear Ed, Dear Ed, I was fascinated to see the Ferguson/Litchfield/Sycamore story. As you 17 September 1995 will see from the enclosed signal and photograph, Sycamore XD 654 seems Next Saturday we leave England to have had a habit of going for a swim. This one was its final plunge. and go to stay in Amsterdam for two months , with the excitement of The photograph was taken from HMS Hermes and the scene was the middle of the Indian Ocean . It's too long a story to tell but probably worth a mention . VE and VJ Reunions in England still strong in our memory. Yours sincerely , 'Nobby' Clarke On 31 August we travelled to Portsmouth and called upon Bill Crozer in his penthouse overlook ing 'Pompey ' Dockyard . Bill was UNCLASSIFIEDMESSAGE St l2Cd recovering from his recent 80th birthday party and was in fine spirits. Although he admits to slowing down a bit, he still enjoys a pint with his mates R 11 041030Z each lunchtime . m. MELJIOORF.E I had thought of joining Bill at the TO ACMB INFO FOCAP Fleet Air Arm Reunion at Lee-on­ FOICEA Solent the following day, but Bill NAB NC1RRA advised me that the weather would be foul. He was correct! After three weeks !FAA ART 602 of sunshine there was a torren ti al A! SYCAMORE 11K 51 XD 654 HRS 1084.25 B LEONIDES IIX 17302 Him 239.15 downpour for the event and thousands C IDIAS li!XI.BOO.RN&723 SQDN D NIL of old sailors were drenched . Bill and I E LT (SL) JOHNRAYIIOllD DA COSTA(P) Rf\N were absent - but dry ! ' F LT CDR II C REEVES RAH LT CDR Iii A Jli,iK CH ..RKE ( 0) RAN LI CDR DJ ROBERl"flON (P) RAN LT CDR l K JOOSELYU (P) MN The following two days were given 1:~: DEGB 27 111ml N 86 DEOS 42 MINS e 04031 OZ over to a British Pacific Fleet and East (d 'l'HE PILO'l' AT'l'BIIP'l'ED TO HOVER ALONGSIDE IJMS flERlffl$ PRtoR '.'.'O Indies Fleet Reunion. plus many more LANDINGON• THERBWAS IMIUFFIOIENTWIND TO 14AINTAINHEIGHT small , unofficial reunions of old AT TllE AIRCRAFTS ALL UP WEIGHT • THE AIRCRAFT DITCHED BEFORE THE PILOT COULD RECOVER FRml TliIS SITUATION shipmates . These were held on NA (K) HA Southern Common . LJJ Ajg ZZ KNO ZZ f!.I YES (Il) NO (0) NO (P) NO More than 10,000 ex-Navy vete rans had converged on Portsmouth for the DIS1' P F1 24 X X1 0 W S A O !I VJ events . The two day events cost BS PL Tel> I/T lf./3/61 about £330,000, with Portsmout h City Council providing £100 ,000, P&O sponsored the events with £90 ,000 , while the Midland Bank , Shell and Swires all chipped in. After a drumhead service on Sunday 3 Septemb er. I was led grumb ling and complain ing to join a march past where Prince Phillip took the salute. Following the march all veterans were given a special ale brewed by Horndean based Gale and Co. The NAAFI mounted a huge catering operation (fr ee to veterans ) serv ing more than 8.000 sandwic hes and 20,000 cups of tea. Although we all enjoyed ourselves greatly , it was generally agreed that this was the last 'big-one ' as many 1939- '45 veterans could just not manage to attend any more , Age and health had finally caught up. After our stay in Holland we go to New Zealand for Christmas and the New Year, then return home to 'Aussie ' in January . Hopefully we will meet up with you soon after that. Kind regards , Stan Brown - ex-PO Electrician (Air) (Not the other one!) [Thank you for the enclosed newspap er clippings , Stan. Ed) Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 13

Dear Ed, Referring to Geoff Litchfield's article in the last edition of Slipstream, I would like to confirm the correct would have been October 1955 as I witnessed the ditching and left he Navy in 1956. Geoff's story was correct, but he failed to mention the Safety Equipment bods who were assisting in this operation . Kevin Wolstenholme , who was on the larger dinghy we were using, dived over the side, watch and all, and swam to assist the aircrew. I was o'n the shore and went in for the same purpose, fortunately the air crew were out quickly and we made our way to the shore. Many months later (August 1956) I was paid £2-5-11 compensation for damage to clothing, Kevin also received compensation for cloth ing and his watch . Geoff can thank his lucky stars he wasn't on the end of the winch line. he could have finished up anywhere in the Basin! Regarding the Gliding Club, I am enclosing a photo of a badly bent glider. I can't remember the date of the prang but it would have to be before September 1956. As far as I can remember it was involved in practice for an Air Show when the wings started flapping and down it came into the trees . I don't remember the name of the pilot but he was okay. The photo may jog a few memor ies, I hope it helps in the history of the Albatross Gliding Club. All the best, Kevin (Chick) Hawkins - ex-Safety Equipment

Dear Ed, Dear Ed, shot. This had resulted in a spillage of The Slipstreams of April and July HMAS Sydney- 5th January 1952 the shot on the cockpit floor . 1995, pp9 and 19 respectively, This is a sequel to Lt P. Goldrick An inquiring voice from the Port side contained material seeking landing on the ship after being (from the Batsman , RN Loan type) identification of HMAS Albatross wounded. asked 'Muscles' what all the debris sporting teams in the early 1950s. After the flurry of activity associated was on the cockpit floor . He was told Readers may be interested to know with the recovery of the aircraft serial, that it was buckshot. The response that two of those in the Albatross with Flight deck crews dodg ing the from the Batsman was instantaneous , Athletic Club group photograph, occasional 20mm round and 6" rocket "The dirty bastards , putt ing buckshot Tommy Joyce (Back row -second hang-ups whilst aircraft were being in their bullets!" from left), and Maxie Boyed (Front arrested , Pilot's Mates manned the Regards, W.J. 'Jack' McLaughlin row - third from right) were REMs cockpits for re-spotting or striking PS: I noticed in the RN Navy News, on loan from the RN. Both were my below. May 1995, that LtCdr A.P . Boddam­ contemporaries, and at various 'Muscles ' West manned the cockpit Whettam DSC had passed away. He times, the 'best of mates'. of the aircraft in which Lt Go ldrick was the Training Officer of the RANAS On return to the RN, both continued incurred his wound. The projectile Nowra Airmanship Schoo l from its to pursue outstanding all-round which had caused his injury had inception for the first classes, NAR 5 sporting careers . Tommy's principal entered the cockpit on the mid and 6 in September 1948. Other claim to fame was in the football Starboard side , in doing so, it had officers were Lt Routley RN and Mr Bill domain , (real football , of course , passed through the message dropping Crozer RN. played with the feet - erroneously bag which was weighted with lead called 'soccer' in Australia) in wh ich he gained just about every Service Great Britain's 400 -metre hurdles' member - Surgeon Lieutenan t John honour possible throughout the rest of representat ive for the 1960 Rome Wrighton . Remarkably , he too was a his lengthy career in the Navy, both as Olympic Games . Sadly he didn't figure '400 - metre' individual and '400 - a player and in later years as an in the medals , nevertheless it was an metre medley relay' events. The team administrator . outstanding achievement when was successful in reaching the 'final' of Maxie Boyes also achieved high considering the lim itat ions the latter , only to experience the acute representative honours in the football automatically imposed by the disappointment of finishing 4th ! domain, but unlike Tommy , he also 'exigencies ' of service life. Incidental ly. 1960 was the Games in continued down the athletics track (no Coincidentally , the captain of the wh ich Herb Elliot won the 1500 pun intended) , and his brillian ce was British Olympics team in the 1960 metres . eventually rewarded when selected as Rome Games was also a serving RN Regards, Tom McDonal d Slipstream - October 1995- Page 14

Dear Ed, AN AMBULANCE The enclosed photo was taken on a bus trip from DOWN IN THE VALLEY Nowra to Braidwood in the early SO's. The bus was owned and driven by a Ralph Rolton of Nowra. 'Twas a dangerous cliff, as they freely confessed , Unfortunately my memory seems to have receded in direct Though to walk near its crest was so pleasant ; proportion to my hairline, as the majority of names escape But over its terrible edge there had slipped me. However, Len Zuch, 'Rip' Lamont, Jeff Lancombe and A Duke, and full many a peasant. 'yours truly' (Owen 'Baldy' Holston] are certainties, with The people said something would have to be done . possibles being 'Sherlock' Hood, Jim Lee and Kevin McKay. But their projects did not all tally ; Maybe some of our readers will remember the rest. Some said "put a fence 'round the edge of the cliff. " Friends of Rex Grennan {formerly Hounslow), are advised that Rex passed away a couple of years ago. Some: "an ambulance down in the valley. " The following incident may jog a few memories : 'The setting was 'F' Hangar - 805 S.quadron in the days of The lament of the crowd was profound and was loud, CO 'Digger' Bourke, 'Kitty' Bluett, Litchfield, Cooke, Rogers, As their tears overflowed with their pity; O'Grady, Smith , Waite, just to name a few that come to But the cry for the ambulance carried the day, mind. As it spread through the neighbouring city. At the time I was in the AEO's office talking to Lt. Jarvis, A collection was made , to accumulate aid, when the deafening roar of a Sea Fury suddenly became a And the dwellers in highway and alley deathly silence. Gave dollars and cents - not to furnish a fence - Lt. Jarvis commented, "That sounded bloody expensive!" But an ambulance down in the valley. We raced outside to see one Sea Fury, complete with rearranged props, standing on its nose amid chunks of torn­ "For the cliff is alright if you 're careful", they said; up tarmac; hot footing it off in the opposite direction was one naval airman, still clutching his two-gallon foam extinguisher. "and if folks ever slip and are dropping, Making an equally hasty exit from the cockpit was CPO It isn't the slipping that hurts them so much, 'Darky' Hodges (actually looking fairly pale at the time). As the shock down below - when they're stopping. " It appeared that an injector fault had over-ridden all his So for years (so we heard) , as these mishaps occurred efforts to throttle back. Quick forth would the rescuers sally, Congratulations on a terrific publication. To pick up the victims who fell from the cliff , Kind regards to all, Owen 'Baldy' Holston With the ambulance down in the valley.

Said one, to his please, "It's a marvel to me That you'd give so much greater attention To repairing results than to curing the cause, You had much better run at prevention. For the mischief, of course , should be stopped at its source , Come neighbours and friends let us rally , It is far better sense to rely on a fence Than an ambulance down in the valley."

"He is wrong in the head, " the maj ority said , "He would end all our earnest endeavour, He's a man who would shirk this responsible work , But we will support it for ever. Dear Ed, Aren 't we picking up all, just as fast as they fall, And giving them care liberally? With reference to the 'Black Panty' item mentioned by the 'Mirriwinni Mafia' in the last edition of Slipstream. A superfluous fence is of no consequence, These were actually flown from C in C Portsmouths If the ambulance works in the va lley. " masthead and caused quite a deal of trouble for Commander Bill Cook, the Executive Officer of HMAS Melbourne . The story looks queer as we've written it her e Who were the culprits? Midshipmen from the Melbourne . But things oft occur that are stranger. They were also responsible for hoisting the Australian Flag More hum ane, we assert, than to succour th e hurt above the White Ensign on HMS Victory, and for removing Is the plan for removing the danger. some of the cannon balls from the same ship . The best possible course is to safeguard the source Quite possibly 'Billy' Cook could advise you of his very But attending to things rationally ; torrid session with C in C on Christmas morning , relating to Yes, build up the fence and let us dispense these incidents and some other particularly nasty incidents in With the ambulance down in the valley. which the Officers of Melbourne were involved. 'Curley' Fahey - CMDR RAN (Rtd) From RAN Aviation Safety Digest November 1986 Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 15

Dear Ed, Dear Ed, As always, I was very pleased to receive the latest I refer to the Quarterly Journal Vol.6 No.2 and the (July 1995) issue of Slipstream . It is a great magazine photograph of the young officers on PS. and you are to be congratulated on the interesting and I imagine that you may have had quite a bit of a reaction nostalgic articles that appear in each issue. to this as a number of those featured are alive and well and I am writing in reply to your query about the lovely some are active with the Association or the Museum . photograph on page 11. It must have been taken in the However , I can tell you that the photo was taken during a latter half of 1950, as 'Jock' Cunningham, our Squadron Short Service Officers ' Course early in 1955. The course CO, went back to the UK in November 1950. (I was one of was at Cerberus and Penguin and I think a bit of time was the original pilots who joined 805 Squadron at Eglinton on spent at Watson . The course members were mainly from 28 August 1948.) No.16 Pilots ' Course but there were some SD officers , The names are as follows : observers and a couple of university entry engineers , I cannot remember everyone but - Back row L-R: Jimmy Bowles - Senior Pilot [Note: the names appearing in square brackets [ J are Fred Sherbourne suggested by 'Curley ' Fahey. Ed] Tony Robinson 'Jock' Cunningham RN - CO 805 Squadron Back row L-R: Ronald? Manners-Clarke RN - AEO 20th CAG - NK [ Bill Hill - Commissioned Engineer) George Jude - Mike Astbury (Retired at Captain) Dickie Dyke - NK [David Parr - Commissioned Engineer) - Warren Browne (Killed in Firefly crash a year later) ,,,....,_ Centre row L-R: - Frank O'Grady (TAA then ANA)

\ \ Mike Stanley RN - NK John Robatham RN -NK - Bob (Jerry ) O'Day (Retired at CMDR) Front row L-R: - Ken Henry (Killed in Sea Fury crash a year or so later) Peter Seed - Les Shaw (Resigned a few years later Dougie Baker RN - Leigh Cooper (Resigned a few years later)

The chap leaning against the old car - I can remember the Front row L-R: face but can't put a name to it! - John Selby (Retired as Capta in) [Jack Birch - I hope this is some use to you . Commissioned Mechan ician) - Jim McClelland? [Surgeon Lt (D) Neville Merrifield) Yours sincerely, Tony Robinson CMDR RAN (Rtd) - Des Rodgers (Retired LCDR lives in Canberra ) - Tony Eccleston (Retired as Captain - was DNI) ..... and on the same subject Roy Allman had this to say: - Graham Stevens (QANTAS in about 1959) 'Commissioned Warrant Officer , Harold Kent, spoke to - NK [Jack Levy - Commiss ioned Gunner) me about forming a Gliding Club - late 1949, but to the best - Geoff Coker-Godson? of my recollection, the club had not formed by October - Curley Fahey 1951 when I was posted back to the UK.' - NK ..... and , in a letter to Ken Bullock , the Gliding Club - Dick Lea (Retired as Capta in 1983) 'historian', Gordon McPhee said that after consultation with Henry Young , who was an RAN pilot in 805 Squadron I am sure that this and other info that you receive will during that period, they had come up with the list of names soon complete the picture . I think the photo was taken at [asper above) . He also added: Penguin but I am not sure . 'The glider was sent to Austra lia by an RNer , prior to hs Best regards , Dick Lea arrival at NAS Nowra . I cannot remember his name , he did Dear Ed, not join a squadron . But I do remember that his brother was a UK, if not world, gliding champion at the time. Prior to the I wish to inform you of the recent death of a former RNer's arrival, Harold Kent took the glider up and the so­ Fleet Air Arm member who passed away on 16 August, called landing resulted in Harold breaking both legs. 1995, at Coffs Harbour. You may be interested to know that 'Jock' Cunningham His name was Henry Francis Lewin and his Service No. was CO of 805 Squadron at the time. Earlier this year, 47649 , he was known to all as 'Harry ' Lewin . Harry and I Henry [Young) had spent time with him in the UK and joined the FAA in 1952 at the time of the Korean War and France. He also spent time with Peter Seed, now living in served for six years. He served on 808 Squadron , travelling the UK. to the UK on the last trip of the Vengeance , and returning I have a strong feeling that the civilian in the photograph on the Melbourne in 1956. After discharge , he and I both was a tradesman from Nowra town and more than likely a joined QANTAS as Aircraft Engineers , Harry was to remain plumber.' with them until his retirement. [Peter Walsh, our Nowra 'Mitre 1O ' man , confirms that the We last met two weeks before his death when he visited civilian with the 'T' Model Ford was a plumber , his name me at Callala , I was fortunate to have taken him out to the was Jack Ellison . Museum to rekindle old memor ies. He was not a member of the FAAA , but was active with the Naval Assoc iation in [ Thank you for the information . Ted Silsby a/so his capac ity as President of the Coffs Harbour Branch . contributed on the same subject. Ed] Ted Drinnan - 46884 Slipstream - October 1995- Page 16

Dear Ed, Dear Ed, Dear Ed, With a Federal Election possibly I was interested to read in the I am enclosing some photos and in the offing, and certainly no later April issue "Musings from 1851 old paper clippings you may want to than March next year, I thought this Squadron' about the Mosquitos in use in your Slipstream or Museum. issue of Slipstream would be an Striker and Bill Wilson's letter in the The photos are of the bus accident in opportune and suitable vehicle for July issue. I know nothing about February 1954. referred to on page 25 updating interested parties on just that particular exercise, but, as Bill of your July issue . I was also on the what the present Government is Wilson says, operating Mosquitos bus that day , as a membe r of th e doing with regard to the awarding from an escort carrier would be Guard of Honour for HRH Queen of the British Naval General Service virtually impossible. Elizabeth . Medal and/or the Australian Service · I flew nearly 400 hours in Mosquitos I am also including some photos of Medal (ASM) 1945 -75 to RAN at Dale and Stretton from 1946-49 . HRH when she disembarked form the personnel who served in the Far Some people will remember that Royal Yacht Gothic and inspected the East Strategic Reserve between Winkle Brown did deck landing trials in Guard of Honour at Farm Cove and 1955 and 1970 during SEATO a Mosquito on a fleet carrier in the HMAS Penguin, then finally as she re­ deployments. In a word, NOTHING! Channel in 1946. this was before embarked at Circular Quay . Repeated letters to the Prime angle decks . It was found that the Yours sincerely, Frank Hamilton Minister have brought only the starboard wing tip missed the island [ The guard photos and other standard replies from Public Service by 6 feet and on one take-off the port enclosures will appear in another undercarriage was bouncing off the bureaucrats stating that the edition . Ed] Government is satisfied with the top of the port side gun turrets . After outcome of the Inquiry into Defence about six tries, everyone decided it and Defence Related Awards and does was much too dangerous . not intend to re-open the matter . At no As a gentle little line - we used to stage have they made any attempt to have fun landing at RAF Airfields. The answer, let alone correct, the many RAF used to wheel land Mosquitos at anomalies and inconsistencies raised 150 knots and take the whole runway . by myself and numerous other We used to three -point them on the concerned ex-service personnel. It is end at 95 knots (they stalled at 93) difficult, if not impossible , to with lots of power, and then it was a understand the logic behind their matter of honour that you turned off at stance . Why any politician would the first intersection . I think it put the choose to antagonise and possibly fear of God up the RAF Air Traffi c alienate tens of thousands of voters by controllers ! blindly defending a document as Kind regards , blatantly flawed as the Committee of Basil Nash - Ex (A) RN Inquiry into Defence and Defence Related Awards Report is well beyond service to 30 days. Anyone who is not Thank you for a fantast ic mag , my comprehension . covered by at least one of the above I although a sad one at times w hen I Then again , not all politicians are would suggest never went to sea. read 'A Last Farewell' . completely happy with the Report . On Now. wh ilst the award of the ASM Don Roberts 27 September 1995 , Mr Wilson 1956-75 for any of the above service Tuckey, Shadow Minister for Veteran can probably be said to rank below the Dear Ed, Affairs and Defence Science and nation's $180 billion foreign debt in Personnel. issued a media release With reference to Frank overall importance, the fact of the headed, 'COALITION MAKES ITS Donnelly's remarks accompanying matter is that the current regime is not OWN AUSTRALIA REMEMBERS his photograph of NAR 6 in the last doing a hell of a lot to fix either of COMMITMENT BY WIDENING Slipstream, where he mentioned them . I am not going to tell you how to SERVICE MEDAL ENTITLEMENT' , that few of the class signed on vote at the next Federal Election , For those of you who may have again . Heaven forbid , but if you are in any missed it. the Coalition will , when way uncerta in or wanting more The early days at Nowra were, to say elected to office , extend the award of the least , primitive . The 'mossies' information on either the medal or the the ASM 1945-75 to cover service in were in plague proport ions , as were National Debt, please do not hesitate the BCOF - Japan between 1 July the blowfl ies and mice . We even had to drop me a line or give me a ring and 1947 and 28 April 1952; the Korean to find broken glass to scrape the paint if I am not available, try the Prime War between 29 June 1950 and 27 from the floors, and the grease traps Minister or your local Federal Membe r. July 1953; Malayan Emergency hadn 't been cleaned out for years. Barry Roberts between 31 May 1950 and 31 July One pub in town wou ldn't serve 1960; Far East Strategic Reserve 14 Berith Street WHEELER HEIGHTS NSW 209 7 sailo rs, and one of th e local butchers between 2 July 1955 and 30 October was paid five quid a head to destroy a 1966; and the Indonesian Dear Ed, TB infected herd, wh ich he prom ptly Confrontation between 24 December For the sake of historical cut up and sold to the Air Station. Our 1962 and 11 August 1966. It also accuracy, Don James did relieve technical tra ini ng was attemp ted by covers the Berlin Airlift and Ron Robb on the PTA Unit, I took RN inst ructors from obso lete Air standardises all previously Publications , and notes that were circa recommended qualifying periods of over from Don in September 1965 onboard HMAS Anzac. WW2 . The air com ponent was a Tiger Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 17

Moth, a Wirraway and a Spitfire in a Dear Ed, crate. I recently dug out this old snap that I am enclosing. You may find it The DFRB was yet to come in and interesting enough for comment or display in the Museum Gallery. we were on a gratuity , 240 Pounds It was taken aboard HMAS Sydney and possibly in the Hervey Bay area , after 12 years service, and another around 1949/50 . 120 Pounds for 6 years in the Fleet Reserve. That's me as a PO No.1 Director in the landing area. As you can see, the wheel tore loose as the aircraft landed. I can't recall who the pilot was. or the name of Recruiting figures were so low that the duty photographer who took the picture. However , he was credited in having the Navy reduced the initial the shot published in the RN FAA publication, 'Flight Deck'. engagement time to six years and encouraged an influx of RN personnel. The runaway wheel whipped past me as I continued to back pedal into the This resulted in the encouragement of safety net. The deck hook to arrester wire relationsh ip showed it to be an obvious these people to sign on through barrier job . promotion and trips all over the world Regards to Slipstream and Museum crews - doing a great job ! to bring back new ships and train for ER.Bush - ex-CAAH new aircraft . The RANES failed whole classes of the original Australian trained personnel. The late 1950's saw the projected demise if the Fleet Air Arm, for me to re-engage I would have had to change categories to 'stoker', of course, this did not eventuate until much later . Despite spending eleven of my twelve years at Nowra going absolutely nowhere , I am a Foundation Member of the FAAA formed in Western Australia , and a Foundation Member of the Naval Aviation Museum . Yours aye, B. Worthington (Once called 'String Bean' now a 'Broad Bean') MUSEUM MANAGEMENT Dear Ed,

Recently we have had some FAA Association Members confused as to where they fit into the scheme of things, and who's in charge of the Australian Naval Aviation Museum, especially at weekends. The museum article in this issue may resolve some queries members may have. It is very obvious that our separate organisations have common goals and bonds and that Association Members should always feel welcome and visit us with ,,-.., a sense of belonging and deja vu . The museum is operated with the following structure :

* CHAIRMAN (Commodore NAS) * BOARD OF DIRECTORS * MUSEUM DIRECTOR * OPERATIONS MANAGER - CURATOR - CATERING MANAGER - SHOP MANAGER

(As a matter of interest, the Board is made up of business men and Naval personnel , and includes Max Altham , President of the NSW Division of the FAA Association .)

The museum is open seven days a week except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day, to cover the weekend periods we have a roster of Duty Managers . This duty is designed to be a point of contact for all matters concerning the museum 's activity, so please, don't be shy , say hello when you visit. Don't be surprised if you find the Duty Manager helping out in the galley , fork-lifting spare parts, or helping Don Parkinson and his restoration team - it's the nature of weekend activity . Not withstanding, we are always pleased to meet members of the FAA fraternity . Please remember that we have a well stocked Museum Shop full of souvenirs - it only takes a phone call to get mail orders moving. With kine regards, Mike Lehan Museum Director Slipstream - October 1995- Page 18

Dear Ed, There was another British Centre Burning Petrol I am enclosing herewith a copy of above David Jones, or was it Grace Bros in Pitt Street? a letter 'Another time, another Casualties from both these were place', contained in the June issue Eric Manuel three killed and nineteen wounded of the RN Navy News. I doubt four seriously . At 1657 a third Zek~ whether its author will object to its ANOTHERTIME, made a pass at Victorious , but then inclusion in Slipstream. In fact, if shifted target to Howe which was next one reads his final paragraph, I feel ANOTHER PLACE in line ahead , approach ing her over sure that he would be delighted. the starboard quarter . I feel that it would also complement Due to the International Date Line Then gunfire from Howe, Victorious the write-up in the last issue of your we, in the British Pacific Fleet, were 24 and Formidable hit the Zeke, wh ich very informative magazine , by Alan hours ahead of the UK, so we learned burst into fames as it flew over Howe's Zammit on 'The Forgotten Fleet'. It will of VE Day on 9th May. quarterdeck , crashing into the sea a further bring to the notice of the This was the day when the whole of hundred yards beyond. 'Doubting Thomas' element of the Britain was rejoicing and celebrating At 1705 , a fourth Kamikaze , with Australian public and matelots that Victory in Europe . It was a day we overload fuel tanks under each wing, there was an RN presence in this area could not celebrate. We were far too approached Formidable from dead of the world during the last war . I think busy. In position 23°29N, 125°49E, we astern about thirty feet above the the HMS Hermes was sunk by the had been at Action Stations since water . Though repeatedly hit, it dived Japs off Colombo in 1942, or was it 0515. We stayed there until 2045. into aircraft parked aft, sweeping the 1943? MONAB 6 was entrenched in Here is a brief report of our VE Day: flight deck with flame and explosion, Manus before war's end, but to argue destroying six Corsairs and and . 'Four bomber strikes, two on each 1snot my object in writing this . Avenger and damaging two Corsairs . 1s!andtotalling seventy-three Avengers Alan mentions the personnel billeted with rocket armed Fireflies and escort. Burning petrol fell through a blown at Golden Hind, Warwick Farm Lt. D.Cameron of 1834 Squadron out plate rivet hole into the hangar Racecourse. What he doesn't mention failed to return . Runways were below, start ing another fire which was is that the princely sum of sixpence a cratered , motor vehicles and grounded then extinguished by spraying the day 'hard lying' money was paid, aircraft shot up. hangar, but not before three or four without their consent, as a contribution more Avengers and eight Corsairs At 1145, CAP fighters were to the British Centre in Hyde Park , were damaged by fire and water . Sydney. The majority of these hands unfortunately unable to catch a high flying snooper to the west and at 1645 With only several wounded were in tents on duck boards , not in casualties were lighter than on 4 May wooden huts or under the grandstand ! a group of low flying bogies was detected westwards at twenty-eight though a hurt ling wheel decapitated I remember the British Centre very miles . one rating on the flight deck . well but cannot imagine how they All fires were put out within fifteen could have served so many meals with Six minutes later, four Seafires piloted by Silts F.Hockley, Gall, minutes and an hour after the attack such a small kitchen area. To arrive the Capta in signalled at 1775 that th~ here from a starved UK and to be able Gradley and Taylor RNVR of lndefatigable's 894 squadron shot ship could land on aircraft . Admiral to buy steak, eggs and chips for a 'bob' Vian had reason enough to praise the was like walking into the Hilton . down one Zeke at fifteen miles but apparently allowed themselves to be steadfast courage of the gunners who I befriended a UWran whilst visiting drawn away from the other four bogies faced this truly fearsome form of the British Centre one evening . We which closed the Fleet at 1650. attack . They remained serving their were doing what young people tend to guns undismayed, but for which fact A large Fleet course alteration of 60 do at an earlier age today, in more Kamikazes would have scored degrees at 22 knots to starboard did Rushcutters Park (she was billeted in direct hits. not prevent a Zeke 52 diving towards the YMCA) when an old fellow walking Task Force 57 emerged from today's his dog came along . He tapped me on Victorious and despite being hit, went over its starboard quarter onto the attacks with four carriers still intact but the bare part of my anatomy and said the state of the carrier air groups and "You shouldn't do that here son !" i ~light deck forward abreast B (port) 4.5 inch gun turrets . flight decks required a programme didn't realise I was on the footpath ! reorganisation . The Commander Fifth A parachuted 5001b bomb it released On a recent trip to Sydney, I stood Fleet was signalled of Adm iral at about 300 yards from the ship where I remembered the building to Rawlings intention to withdraw to area expl_oded a hole into the flight deck, be, opposite the Roman Catholic Cootie and make good damage , to putting the catapult, a 4.5 inch gun Cathedral, but found it impossible to return on the 12 and 13 May. At 1915 and a forward lift motor out of action. orientate myself . Trees grow! the course to Cootie was set. Whilst involved with various T_he .resulting fire was quickly extinguished . A few minutes later at organisations in Sydney, I enquired as Executed to the whereabouts of the building . It 1650, . a second Zeke approaching was acquired by a Councillor Storey , V1ctonous from astern in a shallow power glide was hit and set on fire but Shire President of Hornsby Council for 0 In his book , 'The Forgotten Fleet' , fifteen shillings and was transferred to still continued , hitting the flight deck a John Winton wrote : Hor~sby . Hospital as the maternity ~landng blow and burning furiously as 'The reports of bullets fired from section (1t probably enjoyed its new 1tskidded over the side. burning aircraft , the towering columns positio_n _after its experiences) . On my This damaged one arrester wire unit of smoke and steam , visible for many last v1s1t to the hospital, the front but wrecked beyond repair a 50mm miles and the sound and smell of the entrance was still there, lions and all. director and four parked Corsairs . fires , contr ibuted to one of the most Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 19 dramatic scenes in the war at sea.' considerable time behind the When we withdrew from the Action bar and was often responsible Zone that evening, we were of course for it staying open into the tired as usual. Our thoughts were now early hours. centred on our families and our home He stayed longer than the towns back in the dear old UK and the majority of we loan persons Commonwealth. and was involved with the We imagined what it was like, with RANES (Exam Board) . the lights shining again and people He returned to the UK, laughing . We felt relieved that they became a civilian 'Schoolie' were now safe and hoped and prayed and was a teacher in hat soon we would be able to join Canberra for a short while . He them . continued teaching in the UK Some of course did not make it. We until his retirement and now suffered many more casualties and on enjoys his home brew, home the very last day of the war, two of our made wine and the company aircrew were shot down, captured and of his good wife, Shirley . executed. They were S/Lt (A) Freddie His eyesight is on the wane , Hockley, a Seafire pilot, and S/Lt (A) but it does not prevent him Johnnie Bonass, Observer , 820 being a Councillor, British Avenger Squadron . Legion official and a much We remember them, together with travelled holiday-maker in many others, including the Europe. 'Palembang Nine' who had been shot The enclosed photo was down over Sumatra in January 1945, taken at Sembawang in 1945. imprisoned at Changi and executed at I was on MONAS 9 as a very the war's end. young POAF/A. 'THE VICTOR' Eric, on the tailplane of a Japanese 'Bessie', Oh yes - we remember them . We Eric Manuel the tailfin insignia indicates 'No.1 - Leader' hope that others who are living in peace will also. S.Eadon - Ex Lt RNVR, Chairman of Dear Ed, BPF/E IF 5oth Anniversary Reunion Keep up the good work with Slipstream, it brings back many memories to Committee . myself and my wife, who loves to read it as well. Maybe there could be a section in Slipstream where the ladies could contribute some of their Dear Ed, stories about being a 'birdies' wife, life at Albatross, or maybe just to be I'd like to further refer to the photo able to get in touch with some of their old friends. I am sure that they also of various bodies and a bus [April made many friends during their 'Navy' days. edition Page 9] in a previous issue I have also enclosed a story that may be of interest to the many people who and subsequent letter from Charlie carried out the duties of 000 during a certain period at Albatross. Morris . John Ward -ex-WOAVN I make a point of copying and [Thank you for the enclosures, John. I think that the idea of tontribut ions from forwarding parts of Slipstream to a the ladies is a good one. BUT - NO recipes, knitting patterns etc. Ed.] very good friend of mine in the UK, ex CAA Peter Bunn. COLOURS On receipt of the Charlie Morris The duty of 000 was not particularly looked forward to , especially at 0800 when letter, Pete immediately wrote back to Colours took place. clarify and deny certain remarks made One particular Commodore , I wont mention his name but it started with the in this 'scurrilous' article [July edition letter 'L', was rather keen on this particular ceremony. Many OOD's had received Page 20]. I quote his letter verbatim : extra duty because the timing had been out by a few seconds . It was reported that 'I decided to make sure that I was on on the weekends, when he went outside his house to pick up the paper, he waited the bus ready for an early start . Having for Colours, blasting the 000 if things hadn't been to his satisfaction . been to a party in the cinema the night One Saturday morning whilst 000 , I was determined not to get caught. I got before, I felt that I'd better sleep in the the two Flag Hands together , fifteen minutes before Colours, and told them to bus, ON the back seat, NOT under it! hook up the flags and come back for a fina l brief . I don't remember falling off during the Off they went to carry out the task and soon returned to the Guard House. Once night.' He writes with tongue in cheek! again I ran through the routine for them. During my brief, I was interrupted by one Charlie was always a romantic of the sailors who informed me that he wouldn't have any trouble because his flag except when truthfully telling of his was already UP! It appears that he had misunderstood the difference between fights with Red Back spiders . 'Hook' up and 'Haul' up. The flag pole was about a hundred and fifty paces away Peter Bunn had several claims to - I'm sure he covered the distance in five in his turn of speed to get the flag down. fame. His daughter, Lesley Jane, was There was no phone call! As it turn ed out, the paper boy had been early that the first babe christened in the Chapel morning and the CO must have thought it was too long to wait for Colours and at HMAS Nirimba . He also enjoyed went back inside. riding his landlady's autocycle around After that episode, when duty on Friday nights , I always endeavoured to have the C&POs Mess - inside! He spent a his paper delivered early. JW Slipstream - October 1995- Page 20

Dear Ed, Dear Ed, Just a comment on the picture in July's Slipstream of a A wave of nostalgia is stirring the land due to World Blackburn Firebrand of 813 Squadron and the statement War II memories of 50 years ago. that they never saw the sea. The July issue of Slipstream has encouraged me to join Together with 801 Squadron (Sea Hornets), we formed the the mood and promote a few memories of the FAA early 1st CAG and, for the record, were embarked on HMS days. What prompted me was a photo of No.6 NAR Implacable from January 1949 to March 1950. Class which ushered into remembrance a couple of mess The faithful 'Box Brownie' captured a couple of take-offs and mates that more than likely have not given me a thought a fairly impressive landing - the 'driver ' went for a 'Bex' and a in 40-odd years. good lie down! Tommy Lew and George Self seemed to leap out as if The picture of Harrys Cafe de Wheels was taken about 1950 to speak and say, "it's time you emerged from the shadows" . Tom invited me home once to his parents when the Sydney was in dry dock. Gourmet cooking wasn't in at that time . house in North Sydney and I remember the weekend well. The most lasting memory was that his father at one stage Keep up the great work. won Tatts , which was worth ten thousand pounds in Bob Marsh those days, he lamented that he had nothing left to show for it. Was he having me on? I remember Tom some time later in , 'running­ in' a mess mate who had shaved with an electric razor which had resulted in some sort of pollution to Tom's breakfast (the RN had us eating in all sorts of odd places). Tom was the Leading Hand of the mess and issued an order to refrain from further shaving . This lawful command was disobeyed, so Tom had the offender on an insubordination charge, a most serious indictment that would ultimately lead to the Capta in's Table . I was involved by being Off icer of the Day (a role I always had difficulty in discharg ing, unlike some ) and was looking forward to the end of a trouble-free watch , but Tom was insistent upon spo iling what was going to be a restfu l forenoon . I dismissed the RN discipl inary staff, then proceeded to calm tempers and got to talking about the 'good old days ' when we were all sailors together at Nowra (the offender was also of our ilk), and then it was 'give way together lads' prattle . When the RN Master-at-Arms deputy returned , at my command the charge had been assorted and there was to be no aggrieved Commander's Table with 'off-caps ' for us. I was often counselled that this sort of performance would never qual ify me for non-stop promotion . Only recently at a FAA Association reunion on the Sunsh ine Coast, I heard Tom's name mentioned so I presume he is alive and well . George Self was not one of us. He didn't drink alcohol, swear , or make lewd remarks about the opposite sex. He was always working on his fitness, had an air of well being about him, and always turned out immaculate . I remember once going ashore with George , it was either in New Zealand or Tasmania, it was probably my most economical run - ever! We played badminton until I was dead. We concluded with a long lemon squash to empower me with adequate strength to get back on board . I was in the Met Office in those days , living in constant fear of one CPO Croft . It was later on when I swaggered around as an Officer, that I realised he was fairly harmless and could be kept quiet by leaving a tin of fags lying about. Bernie Brennan (who became an Observer and now lives on the Sunshine Coast) and I had a trick packet of Benson and Hedges , when opened it allowed a rather large imitation hairy spider to jump out. We left it for CPO Croft to help himself . We in turn suffered a bit - but it was worth the laugh at the time . My main reason for writing is that I am enclosing a photo of No.3 Naval Air Crew Course that started tra ining Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 21 atCerberuson31 May, 1951. 'Flossie' since . Was this an February 1953 for Anti-Sub tra ining . unenlightened moment in our lives?? During the course of interpreting [This story now ties in with the The six phlegmatics who were strange noises from non-d irectional photograph on Pg10. Ed] programmed for Observer train ing sonobuoys , they witnessed 'Piwi' Wren arrived in England in February 1952. fly his Firefly straight into the sea, Kin George VI had just died and the which ended his career and his life. Roy Prior , John Sutcliffe, 'Spewey' land was in mourning. They hurried Does anyone remember 'Piwi'? Richards, 'Dooley' Lord, Keith Potts, into Canberra House , expecting tickets In the meantime, one L TCDR 'Snow' George Barron and 'Flossie' Gully, to Cornwall. A droll PO Wr iter O'Connell in Navy Office , Melbourne , were recruited from the Fleet and the informed them that no one knew of this consistently attended mass, praying remainder were brand new recruits. urgent plan and that the next that Dudley , Lord, Potts and Prior , There was only one 'casualty' during Observer's Course would not start until would get safely back to Austra lia to Bull Ring bashing and that was May that year. Once again ineptness make up the deficiencies in 816 and 'Munka' Gleason . He was a lad from in planning changed the course of six 817 Squadrons . These four were never Broken Hill and seemed to have some lives. Were they predestined by Navy 'scrubbed ' pilots , and each would have difficulties in sensing right from left. It confusion or by some sovereign act of been just as successful if they had was noted on many occasions that the God to play out some vast eternal completed pilot training . They arrived squad, in perfect order, were heading plan? back in Australia in May, 1953 , as in one direction and 'Munka' in Probationary Acting Sub . another . He was given a ticket to Regardless of the hypothesis of that After a 'knife, fork and spoon ' course Broken Hill, never to be heard of debate , the Navy, in flexible style , with Peter Wyatt and Andy Powell , again. soon had them onboard the Training Ship HMS Indefatigable , which was they were attached to squadrons . Our Course Instructor, PO Phil alongside in Plymouth, to mess with In the meantime , all sorts of drama Stilwell, thought that the remainder the National Service Upper Yardmen, was befall ing the assemblage still in were equipped to continue and were a most unusual experience. Their Austral ia. Des Giles, Rick Boughton , drafted to Point Cook for initial flying Divisional Officer, LT Coleman RN 'Slug' Whitton and Ivor Janz were training (02 October 1951 . From (supposedly of the mustard clan), casualties of the overworked 'Scrub ' memory , I think we became part of soon wearied of their presence and Board and were doing Observer No. 9 RAAF Course and known as attached them to HMS Indomitable training at St. Merryn . Oh for a crystal Navy Flight. We arrived in time to hear which was an operational Fleet Carrier ball on the night a decision had to be all about a colleague by the name of about to do duty in the Mediterranean . made concerning who was to go to Sweeney, who had managed to That enterprise, by the way, is not on England for 'urgent' training ! 'Spewey' unsuccessfully barrel-roll a Wirraway any official Navy record. They enjoyed Richards must have offended once too at 'dot' feet somewhere in the Werribee the time and even got the odd flight in often and I think he went back to his area, this resulted in his death along Barracudas and time ashore at Malta 'sparker ' vocation , or maybe even numerous innocent sheep . Peter Zafer and Gibraltar . Max Glenn developed a discharged . John Sutcliffe , Barry was the only one to show any medical problem, which was a pity Thompson , John Cook , Kevin Knowles compassion and was soon comforting because he had all the virtues to and George Barron were awarded pilot Sweeney's girlfriend who was a become a high ranking officer . He was wings . George soon went by the way serving member of the WAAF's . sent back to Australia and discharged . due to chronic asthma . George always Numbers soon thinned . The Senior In time the remaining five arrived at had asthma and how he ever got Naval Officer , L TCDR Nunn RN St.Merryn to commence training on 11 through the medical net is a puzzle . announced to the class towards th~ May 1952 . The Course Officer for John and Kevin became Firefly pilots end of 1951, that the Navy had an initial training was LT Andy Phillips and Barry and John Cook , Fury urgent need to train Observers and RN, who was soon to find his way to drivers . George was also a Fury man that five men would be selected from Nowra to join 723 Squadron . He - but not for Jong. our course to travel immediately to St. emerged from that experience as the The 'Looker ' fraternity mostly went Merryn NAS, Cornwall. We had until 'Uckers' Champion of both navies . The into 816 and 817 Squadrons and , the next morning to sort it out. That Course Officer for final training was LT withthe exception of Des Giles and evening , it was decided amongst Jerry Mulland RN, who had already Ivor Janz , received short term ourselves that the following wou ld served in the RAN with the 20th CAG. commiss ions . Des and Ivor became abandon pilot training and volunteer Later, Jerry went down in the Irish Sea Chiefs . Rick Boughton and 'Slug' for Observer training . They were Max and proceeded to die from Whitton for a while were also non­ Glenn, Roy Prior , John Dudley, hypothermia . This piece of informat ion commiss ioned , but time sorted that 'Dooley' Lord and Keith Potts . This shattered all confidence in immersion out. was accomplished with no ill will and, suits forever . in hindsight , was short of a miracle . 1955 was a big year in the FAA One more lad, Peter Zafer , failed . He history . The Melbourne was to be At about the same time, L TCDR used to get air sick and also had some commissioned, with 816 and 817 Nunn severely reprimanded us for difficulties in locating St. Merryn after Squadrons to be converted to Gannets what he descr ibed as disgraceful navigational exercises . One problem and 808 Squadron to Sea Venoms . conduct in as much that we had may have led to the other . His Some of the group helped to steer the 'hounded out' one of our numbers departure left many broken hearts in Vengeance back home , and then take 'Flossie' Gully. 'Flossie' was an ex ~ the WRENS Quarters. Roy, John, up duties in those squadrons at Sick Berth Attendant who had decided 'Dooley' and Keith persevered and Culdrose in Cornwall, and Yeovilton in that a life tending to the sick would be ultimately won their wings on 31 . From memory they were more peaceful than being tormented January 1953. (816), John Sutcliffe, 'Dooley ' Lord , daily by us. I have never heard of They arrived at Eglinton on 2 'Slug ' Whitton (808) Barry Thompson , Slipstream - October 1995- Page 22

Keith Potts, and possibly John Cook . Barry Thomson, alas with Keith long term personnel. He is now retired In three days we lost Peter Wyatt and Potts, were killed in a Sea Venom in Queensland , enjoying life. He has 'Spanky' Brown during take-off in fog accident off Hervey Bay in 1956. It was had a couple of medical scares of late, conditions at Yeovil, and Van Gelder to be a routine exercise flying off the but has come through in typical 'Slug' the Younger (a cousin of Van Gelder Melbourne. For some unexplained fashion . the Older}, Dave Padget, and one reason they nosed into the sea from For myself , 'Dooley', it was to be a other whose name escapes me, when the catapult and did not come up. continued tense life of aeroplanes and their Gannet disappeared into the Barry was the only child of a wealthy aerodromes . I went into DCA not long English Channel. (Aircrewman couple in Sydney and had great after discharge and became an Air N.J.Self. Ed] I remember receiving the potential. Keith was respected by all. A Traffic Controller to serve in any part latter news from 'Soapy' McKean book could be written about his of Australia and PNG . I passed whilst attempting to pot the pink in a impulsive 'Walter Mitty' capers and his through the main gates of Albatross in centre pocket at the JASS Wardroom, . death had much impa ct upon us all, late March 1957, to be discharged Londonderry. LTCDR Nunn, now well even to this day. from HMAS Torrens . I distinctly recall and truly passed over, was reading the Rick's career came to a sudden halt that God's vast eternal plan for me Londonderry Time s in the background . one night in Manila . The incident has was adopting a scary pose, for the I presupposed he was surveying the never been fully aired and maybe one Navy had been my home since Situations Vacant column. day Rick may tell us all about it. He September 1948 . Fortunately I was 'Soapy' also included into the was asked to seek other employement soon back in the comfort zone, active conversation that my collar was soiled - this he did. He flew for a while with with other like types , ma inly WWII and I needed to sharpen up. Further Adastra and then became an Air aviators , ex RAAF and RAF who inference to my unsuitability to high Traffic Controller with DCA, after warmly welcomed me into their midst, rank. Now, 40 years later, I resentfully working in Papua New Guinea and even though being a Navy man . read in the July '95 issue of Slipstream Western Australia he retired . I saw a There was a handful of us ex FAA that Commodore 'Nobby' Clarke is recent photo of Rick and he had grown who went into Air Traffic , Rick being described as a scran bag. There but thin on top and fat everywhere else. one, 'Blue' Bolton another , and one of for the grace of God go I. 'Spewey' just disappeared . the odd breed of third seat men in What became of them all? I have John Cook stayed in the Navy, went Gannets , by the name of Peter Davey. some sketchy information about most out, then came back in for a while , with There was also an ex RN 'Looker ' who of them but certainly could not fill in some perseverance would have was a Training Observer 40-odd years. become an Admiral for sure. He was about Rick Broughton's vintage , by the Max Glenn became a school teache r polished, well presented , always name of George Edwards. I remember in the Northern Territory and did well. caught the same wire, and self George well. Cyclone Tracey had just My last understanding was that he assured . I used to see him some time devastated Darwin . I was 'Boss' of the went to Canberra. Des Giles spent flying for King Ranch . He was always Civil staff in Darwin and was at the many years in the Navy and his good for a free meal when in town and Airport Operational Control Centre progress from about 1958 is hearsay had more credit cards than anyone I when I noticed a figure march ing with only . I am told that he now lives in knew . John also had some connection a pronounced limp towards the Kia ma. with Av iation Companies that dealt in building . As he got closer I recognised Roy Prior left the Navy after a short guided missiles and the likes, so he by the stooped gait (a long term term and melted away into the world of may have an office in Zagreb or some aggravation resulting from the ditching commerce . Did he become an such other place . of a Barracuda in 1952) that it was accountant? John Dudley was our artistic talent, George. He had just had his home destroyed, 90% of Darw in was laid John Sutcliffe stayed employed as a he could paint , sketch and sculpt. He waste , the airport wiped out, not to pilot. He had an interesting career in did a rather long course at Navy mention the loss of my precious flying New Guinea with many hair raising expense to learn Chinese at Point log book , and there he was , at 'the incidents to relate, firstly with Bobby Cook . Upon completion the Navy attention' to report for duty . He also Gibbs Sepik Airways and then with thought it best that he be appointed to enquired if there were , in view of my Mandated Airlines, which was bought 816 Squadron where that talent would circumstances , any special duties that out by Ansett . He finished his flying doubtfully be used . They were more I may have for him . I played out my days with East West although he may into Double Dutch . However, upon part by officially standing him down still be seen in the skies flogging about discharge the Australian Broadcasting from further responsibilities and his banner towing aircraft . John and I Commission must have thought it informed him that arrangements would flew together for many hundreds of worth some thing, for John became a be made for medical attention to his hours in Fireflys and Gannets . manager in the Radio Australia part of the ABC that beamed propaganda to severely wounded leg which was still Peter Zafer became a schoo l bleeding profusely . This was a tr ue teacher and was last heard of some China . John was a Reservist for some time, attending parade nights at navy man ! George died of cancer in years ago somewhere near Frankston the late 1970's and it was reported to Lonsdale under the watchful eye of its in Victoria, married and happy with me that in the end he was so ill that he Captain , LTCDR Guy Beange . life. Peter was the athlete, never drank had been placed on a life support 'Slug' Whitton was the only career alcohol except on one occasion, and system. It was further reported that he officer . I have never worked out always did well on sports days . called in his family to bid them farewell whether he was the smartest or th e Ivor Janz stayed in the Navy for and then instructed the medical staff to mosr insecure . The former for sure ! He some time and I believe paralleled switch off the support system so that was the youngest and his duration in Des's career. Maybe someone may be he could move into afterlife the Navy is well documented and able to bring me up to date with Ivor. obligations . common knowledge, especially with Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 23

I retired in 1985 and now live at 8 were mostly Subs like David Orr , Neil days before discharge . It was in a Sunset Court , Alice Springs . I have not Ralph, with maybe the odd exception battered old Firefly piloted by one become a recluse and would welcome like Norm Lee and John Mathews . SBL T Browne . At the conclus ion of the any fan mail. Boy! A bit of future 'heavy metal' flight I mused that the pilot had an Kevin Knowles was the most amongst that little lot! One day, one of intrinsic essence of danger entertaining of the group. He was an the Subs, Darcy Kimber RN (Bensen languishing about his person , nothing enigma . He used to keep us all Haywood was his RN twin) and I that I could identify , but I was a little enraptured with far fetched yarns , crewed for squadron formation flying, relieved when the flight was over. Two especially in our more na'ive days , after take-off it was noted that we were nights late r SBL T Browne and his spending hours reminiscing about life falling behind the rest. Darcy pleaded Observer were killed instantly when on the Bulolo gold dredges. The spicy that there was something wrong with their Firefly hit high terrain in the bits about how he would spend 2,000 our Firefly, everything seemed in order Kiama District. (Observer MIDN (0) pounds in a few days on high living in but it had no acceleration . JD, curtly I.T.Caird . Ed) the 'Cross', allowed our imaginations and caustically advised that with the I hope you can make some use of to flow as we speculated how we could wheels down most Fireflies were this letter in Slipstream for it may flush stretch our scant finances to re-enact sluggish! After an embarrassing out a bit more about life in those days . his wastefulness . I went ashore with silence, the wheels were tucked away As a post script , I am enclos ing a him on a few occasions , but those and without further comment and more up to date photograph of myself. times never seemed to live up to his added energy we hurried to number I did eventua lly get my own Squadron . four position where all Suos should be. erstwhile stories . He married a rich This photo was taken on Anzac Day American widow , so the story goes , This incident must have lodged in 1995 at Redcliffe, Queensland , and and is supposed to have been made a JD's subconscious that aeroplanes portrays myse lf and Tony Frodsham , Director of Optics with NASA. always operate better with the wheels a RAF veteran , also a hero of Cyclone Apparently this came about after he up. During a landing some time later, Tracey days , leading the Redc liffe read a book on lenses whilst with this conviction being locked into Squadron of the Australian Air League recovering from some minor ailment in his mind , he managed a wheels up with banners held high . One of the hospital , saw an advertisement that landing with Steve Wilson in the back troops sporting his great grandfather 's NASA was seeking some suitable screaming , "Wheels - Wheels - VC. So once more I reflect in others person, so 'Knowlesy' dobbed in for it Wheels" . And so the fallibility of JD glory . and got it. This seems a far fetched became apparent and thus he joined Yours faithfu lly, story, I saw him once bustle through the ranks of us mortal men. Barry 'Dooley' Lord Port Moresby, he was investigating the My last flight in the Navy was a few possibilities of setting up a factory off­ shore to make springs . I thought that an odd thing to do but I was never interested in working or making money so that probably explains my reaction . They were a great bunch of men . Most of them are mid-sixties coming up to seventy years now and it's possible that one or two have passed on. I only know that when I look at the youthful images in the photo that it does not seem possible . I would suggest that , and dare I say it, that we were a mediocre (derogatory description of average ) bunch, but regardless of strengths and weaknesses , when given a job to do, helped to make up a dynamic defence force which was in keeping with Government policy of the day. I have many personal memories of the early FM days, most of which would be classified as trivia, but collectively these moments of trivia enacted out by Second from right - SQUADRON CO 'DOOLEY' LORD us all is the real history of the FM . Dates, times and statistics are pretty . .... once more reflecting in other 's glory ..... dry reading and are merely the backdrop and set the stage to expose There is Dick Tate who wants to control everybody. Ro Tate the consequences of human who tries to turn things around. Agi Tate who stirs up trouble interaction that took place during those and lrri Tate who helps. Hesi Tate and Vege Tate always short heady years. procrastinate. lmi Tate mimics everybody. Devas Tate likes to I must mention in closing, destroy things and Poten Tate wants to be a big shot, but it's J.D.Goble . He was CO of 817 Squadron in 1953, Dave Robby SP Facili Tate, Cogi Tate and Medi Tate who save the day. and Des Harvey SO . The rema inder Which one are you? Slipstream - October 1995- Page 24

WA; Leon Penn. NATIONALSECRETARY'S REPORT VIC; Harry Farmer, Ian Leach, and Associate Shirley Thompson. NSW; B.Cunningham , M.Herbert , This item is being prepared for the and is a requirement of State D.(Joe) Mumford, Laurie Jago, A Fyfe, fourth and last edition of Slipstream for Incorporation Acts. A (Bert) Glossop, B.Melville, B.Jose, 1995. Thus we are almost at the end The second is a Voluntary Worker Owen Nicholls, Ted Evans , Colin of yet another year . policy and provides for injuries and Andrews , N.Thomas, Michael Aylmer , The decals I mentioned in the last loss of Salary etc, in the event of an Vic Levitt , Eddie Lamb , Len Connell , edition are now available to all accident while working on behalf of the Len Bolden , Polly Perkins , and members direct or from Division Association . This avoids the necessity Associates Effie Lamb , Eunice Secretaries at $1 .50 each . They are of each Division having to take out Groome and Guy Beange Jnr. made to fix to the inside of the car separate policies which together cost QLD; Alan Martin , Ray Godfrey , Ed window and depict the Association a little under $1000. This represents Thompson , Ross Herbert, Paul Baker, Flag. Which has the Australian White quite a significant saving to each Brian Dutch , Bob Proud , Andrew Ensign in the upper hoist and the Division. Perry, Brian Chadwick , Ian Strachan , Association Logo in the Fly on a blue There has been a very good influx Peter May, Barry Costa, Ken ground . They measure 100mm by of new members in the past three McKenna , Tony Halpin , Ray Schealler, 65mm . months, although as usual there have Barry Mills , Reg Turnbull, John The Fleet Air Arm Association of been far to many who have been McWha , Brian Roberts , Graham Australia is now registered with the dropped for not renewing their Husband, Bill Heaney, Bob Christ ie, Australian Securities Commission . As membership . This very is Ern Chiverton , Robert Renneck, Brian Australian Registered Body Number disappointing , for a fair percentage it Keating. 071 291 677 . For the benefit of those must be just an oversight. Following Last, but not least, I wou ld like to people who have recently joined , the are the names of new members who wish all members and the ir fami lies a Association has two insurance policies have joined since the last edition of happy and healthy fest ive season. Til which provide protection for members Slipstream ; next time . in all Divisions throughout the country . ACT; Roy Edgar and Associate Ian Ferguson The first is Public Liability Insurance Merron Matthews . Hon Nationa l Secretary

by the anti-biotics, the prosthesis was first time in twenty years that there NEWS removed and it was found to be the wont be one. source of the infection . His leg has There are only three more meetings FROM THE now been immobilised in plaster for for th is year, so all other planned .,, the next six weeks until the infection is evenings have been cancelled and we DIVISIONS cleared up, then another operation will will revert to just the ord inary be required to replace the knee joint meetings . It was an exercise that the once again. He has also sustained a committee had hoped would bring a WESTERN AUSTRALIA partial sight loss due to the rupture of social atmosphere to the meetings, it blood vessels behind his eyes as a appears that it is not wanted . If you are result of the high blood pressure . We not happy with the way the Division is Here we go again! Another attempt all hope that this will improve as his being run , all positions for Office at an article to let all those who have health gets better. If it hadn't been for Bearers will be open at the AGM in not been able to forward any the good clean living in his younger 1996 , please come forward and information on their happenings since days he might not have been able to nominate . the last issue of Slipstream. We must cope and pull through. All best wishes all live very humdrum lives in the Geoff Vickridge will not be carrying from all of us and looking forward to out the job as Treasurer as his new j ob West, it appears that nothing ever seeing you up and about again. happens to anybody. entails being away quite a bit. My job Incidentally, the Swan Brewery has as Secretary is also available , I am Hilton Devereux has been in hospital stood down another ten men due to afraid I have nothing more to give and for surgery, but is now on the mend . the drop in consumption of their feel sure that there are those out there We look forward to seeing you at the product since your hospitalisation . who can do a better job and get the next meeting, Hilton . The social programme the cooperation of the members. Please The news on Lou Burns isn't so committee developed to encourage get together and start things moving. good. After spending twelve weeks in member participation in a more social Next year the reunion in Queensland hospital having his knee replaced, he gathering at meetings, has been a is being held at the same time as the came down with a Staph (that's not complete failure . When you , the Federal Conference , these events will one of the nursing staff) , it very nearly members , received your copy of the also co incide with the twent ieth did for him. After many doses of anti­ programme, if there were things you anniversary of the founding of the FM biotics and tubes hanging out didn't approve of why didn't you let the Associat ion of Australia Inc., so try to everywhere, he was eventually committee know? Changes could have get there and make it a good show. considered well enough to go home. been made along lines suggested. But There are stil l some of the foundation He was suddenly rushed back to not to attend the meetings without any members around , I hope they will be hospital with his blood pressure word what so ever is a bit much . As no able to attend . reading 200 over 90. It appears that one attended to help or advise on the Ron Tate wi ll be our only delegate to the infection was not being contained Annual Dinner , this year will be the the conference in Tasmania this year,

I~ Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 25

Geoff Vickridge had to pull out Wh ilst writi ng because of business commitments, this, our hilarious health problems prevent my Scottish Night is attendance . I am sure that Ron w ill do almost upon us. I us all proud , he is the only person from have been WA who has not missed a meeting volunteered to be since we started . We hope that Ron MC and so the and Aileen have a wonderful holiday . remain in g Bill Strahan has moved to Mandurah members and and is in contact with other ex-birdies wives atten ding down there , all playing bowls. He was should take fair going to send me an article for th is warning . Who edition , I haven't received it yet and the could imagine deadline prevents me waiting any being dragged up longer. to dance above Ron Tate will be our offic ial crossed swords photographer whilst in Tasmania . with the lovely During a recent trip to Esperance Ron Leonie? photographed all the scenic beauty A visit to RAAF spots , on his return it occurred to him Edinburgh on that the film was lasting an extra long Sunday 05 time , he checked the camera and November should discovered that he hadn't put a film in. promise to be full All members attending the conference of interest to all are asked to ensure that Ron has a members film loaded - he can easily recognise remotely them , they come in small metal cases interested in and fit in the back of the camera . aviation . Lunch To the delegates , we hope you have will be with the a good meet ing and trust that your WO and deliberations wi ll benefit us all in the Sergeants and at Members at the Cooper's barbecue years to come . a great price of $8 for three courses , Back L-R: Dick W idger - Ralph Lehmann - Roger Harrison - I've had a phone call from Leon would you Tom Turner - Ken Bryant - John Saywell Penn, Cloverdale WA, about believe ! The visit Centre: Tom Turner 's Mum - Joan Berry - Moira Saywell - Jo Bryant­ becom ing a member . The papers are Jean Lehmann - Marg Richards - Bob Vargesson has been on the way, Leon. Welcome aboard . Front: Dinsley Cooper - Sadie Brooks - Mary Raynor & grandaughter ­ arranged by one It was a bit of a shock to hear that John Berry - Ron Richards of our new Sitting in front: Junice Cooper Dick Prentice had a heart attack wh ilst members, Photos courtesy Dinsley Cooper in Queensland . I am pleased to hear Andrew McCabe . that he has recovered and wish him all Andrew is in fact, still serv ing his early, catching most of us completely the best. Queen and Country. If you missed the off guard . Our President , Mary From all those who are privileged to response time for this invitation - 'tuff! Raynor, did offer a reason but it be living west of the Rabbit Proof Details relating to Sea Venom WZ escapes me now. I can only guess that Fence, to all those who live in fore ign 939 restoration viewing at Parafield the remaining programme will remain climes east of there, we wish you all Aerodrome (love that old word) wi ll as before . good luck, good health and all the best soon be provided via our internal Speak ing of the 'White Ensign', are for the Festive Season . newsletter . November has been members with dual membership Theo Bushe-Jones - Secretary earmarked for the visit. The (FAAA and Naval Association) 'newsletter', by the way , is posted to receiving their copies of the you from the busy desk of our magazine? If not, please contact Mary SOUTH AUSTRALIA Treasurer, John Saywe ll. Lovely Raynor eirect. Moira , of course, does all the typi ng I have to report that our Assoc iation Greetings to you all from everyone and hard work while John dictates. has suffe red the death of one of its here in South Australia . Our kindest Our last meeting saw another members , Mr Gerry James of regards to Sir Victor Smith and 'Toz' . financ ial member j oin our Divis ion. His Clapham . He passed away on 8 July. As the winter of our discontent starts name is Kevin Max Evans , and we Flowers and wreath were presented by to thaw, one can view the exciting welcome him aboard. our past President , John Berry. renewing cycle of life. Blossoming fruit Navy Week over here got off with a John and Joan have also suffered tress and flowers, overact ive doves , a bit of a wh imper . As mentioned in my this year with the untimely death of noticeable increase in the sun's rays , last correspondence to Slipstream, their daughter, Susan . Our collective all be it - straight through the ozone Navy Week was to begin on 20 thoughts of sympathy go out to both layer. Life in general starts to pick up Septembe r with the overs ize White families as they struggle to adjust with the tempo . See this as a call for all Ensign being raised on Port Road with this personal loss. members to be more supportive of due ceremony . Well , so much for the Mary Raynor is also our delegate to Division functions no matter how big theory side . In fact the Ensign was the Federal Council Meeting in or small. rushed up the pole a week and a half Tasmania . A 'general alert' to all other Slipstream - October 1995- Paze 26

States attending the meeting, as Mary The next item on the agenda was a opportun ity to wish everyone a Merry and her Committee have a bee in the visit to the Cerberus Museum which Christmas and a Health y, Happy, and collective bonnet concerning the houses a very interesting collectio n of prosperous New Year . Constitution and Incorporation . One of naval memorab ilia. Ron Christie - Hon. Secreta ry the committee members, who shall We then proceeded to the WO's and ..... and from Victoria rema in nameless, has removed the Senior Sailors Mess for an informal feather from her knickers so she wont luncheon , where all partic ipated in the be smiling quite as much as she facilit ies of the Mess. It is alleged that Lest We Forget normally does . Good luck for the certain members , who shall remain meeting . anonymous , were still enjoy ing the · Extract from the funera l service for It is pleasing to be a witness to the conviviality at 2130 ! What I am Richard A ndrew Forbes , ex-FAA dramatic progress of the Austral ian allowed to say, is that the Thompsons (LEMAW) , who died on 5 September Naval Aviation Museum . Where would and the Christies would like to thank 1995, from asbestos related cancer. we all be if we didn't have these hard the Mess members for their company working members toiling away behind and great hospitality. 'Not so long ago, two short years, the scenes . Most of us know who they All in all , a very successf ul and had the pleasure of speaking for Rick are. Many thanks lads . enjoyable day was had by all who on the occasion of his marriage . By the way, has any thought been attended . Now it is my privilege to once again given in producing a handsome binder Sunday , 10 September , saw a new speak for him. for all these precious Slipstream innovation to the Division with the magazines we receive? introduction, on a trial basis, of our We were all young , bright eyed Finally , one more 'Naval Blunder' to open Committee Meetings being teenagers eager for adven ture when dwell on as you reach for the Port and conducted on a Sunday . I think this we first met in the Navy almost forty cigars: will become the norm, with attendance years ago with not a care in the world. We of course got into all kinds of "The system of several ships sailing of Jim and Rose Fletche r from together in a convoy is not Ballarat , Bill Martin from Mt. Eliza and adve ntur es and scrapes (of which recommended in any area where new membe rs Ian Leach and his wife , there will be no detail}, and laughed submarine attack is a possibility ." all very encourag ing to say the least. and lived for the day. An Admiralty Memorandum on Our next Meeting/Christmas break­ By the time we were twenty-six or so Convoys -1917 . up is scheduled for Sunday , 10 it was finished , we retu rned back to our origins and turned to family life. Their Lordships of the Admiralt y Decembe r, commencing at 1200 at were very slow to come to terms with the Melbourne Naval Centre , 146 No one was to know that during this the threat posed by Ger man Toorak Road (W est), South Yarra . On time the seed of a terrible ordeal was submar ines . It took a younger completion a barbecue, or whatever planted in the core of many a young generation of naval office rs, aided by takes your fanc y, and bar facilities will man. the common sense of politicians like be available. Pencil the date in your In the service of your country and in David Lloyd Geo rge, to convert the calendar right now. I hope to see you the heat of battle, men and women are there! Admiralty to the use of convoys . awarded medals and honour for their Roger Harrison - Hon. Wh ipping Boy Sorry to hear that Anne Taylor is not bravery and devoti on to duty. too well at the moment, but is making There is no medal for Rick, and yet good progress on the road to recovery . he has fought with great courage , We wish you well , Anne . The same VICTORIA humility and hum our an enemy over wishes are extended to other members which there is no victory . I and many of on the sick list who we are not aware you here know this to be so. Greetings to one and all. of. There is no medal for Dian - what The Division conducted its Annual It is with sadness that I report the Remembrance Service at HMAS death of Norris A Ross , who passed devotion to duty , love and care she Cerberus on Sunday, 27 August , w ith away (sudden ly) on 24 Septe mber. gave to Rick in his time of need. There thirty two members in attendance . 'Norrie' was one of the first of the NAR is no measure . Proceedings started with a service in Classes that went to UK aboard HMAS Fare well, Rick, may your last voyage the All Denominations Chapel which Kanimbla . be in peace .' was conducted by RAN Chaplains, Looking forward to meting up with * Rob Taylor Gary Lock and Graeme Watk inson , those who will be attending the Federal ably assisted by Alan Clark and Bernie Council Meeting in Tasman ia, also old Butler. Alan gave a short address on acquaintances at the All Ships TASMANIA the history of the RAN Fleet Air Arm Reunion that follows. and Bernie read the lesson, their Sorry we didn't send a report for the efforts were greatly appreciated . The Victorian contingent, twelve in all, will be going down (unfortuna te last issue of Slipstream , we're making On completion, a wreath layi ng choice of words ) aboard the Spirit of sure that we don't miss this edition, service was conducted at the RAN Tasman ia, departing Melbourne 25 even though t here isn't much news FAA Memor ial Plaque located in the October, returning 8 Novembe r. I'm from thi s beautiful island State. Memoria l Ga rdens between the two sure that it wi ll be a very enjo yable We held our AGM at Orford (East chapels . We were delighted that the period for all. Coast) in the early part of August , all Commanding Offic er of HMAS the office bearers we re re-elected, Cerberus, Captain N.M.Carson RAN As this will be the last edition of mostly unopposed . Division President, and Mrs Carson were able to attend Slipstream this year, on behalf of the Barry Simpson , is doing a good job, our ceremony . Victor ian Division may I take this Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 27

his illness worries now appear to be over and he's handling his new leg as if he's had it all his life. It's good to see! Due to another commitment I was unable to attend the meeting, but from all accounts a good weekend was enjoyed by all. The hosts of the Blue Waters Motel are to be congratulated for their hospitality to all ex-matelots . I had a phone call from Don Mills, an ex-stoker who served on the Sydney in Korea . I haven't seen Don since we both lived at Longford (Northern Tasmania) over thirty years ago . He had been reading some back-copies of Slipstream and had spotted my name, after a few enquiries he had tracked me down. Don belongs to the Naval Association - Tasmanian Division . It just goes to show that it's not only 'birdies' who read the journal! I'm told that Bill Lowe, ex-POAH wasn't at the AGM . The last time r anyone saw him , he was heading west towards Adelaide . Bill has become a 'latter-age' bikie at the grand old age of 67, it would appear that 'birdies' take a lot of stopping. Not too long ago, he did a trip through Victoria and NSW and had himself a ball. Our Div ision is having a plaque made for placement in the Remembrance Area of Shropshire Park at Ulverstone . 'Big Island' visitors to the 'All Ships Reunion' in November will be able to cast their eyes upon it. Preparations are falling into place for the National FAAA Conference to be held here this month . A good effort has been put in by all and should be well rewarded . All best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. 'Jake ' - (Matt Jacobs)

NEW SOUTH WALES

Greetings to all members . A number of activities have been undertaken by the Division since our last report in Slipstream . The Family Air Day held at the Naval Aviation Museum in August was very NSW members , Jim Napier and Clive Smithe rs at the 47th Anniversary Dinner successful. Perhaps not as well held at the ANAM Function Centre . attended as the one held in June, but 'Get yer 'ands out of yer pockets!' there was a great crowd who seemed Photo Peregrine Publishing to be really enjoying themselves . The our band of workers , including some October 29 is our next Air Day, a food from our stalls was very much in from the ACT Division , for their time Museum Wings and Wheels Air Day demand and our share of the profits and support . Our share of the tak ings where the aviation and car buffs meet was (as usual), very welcome . from days such as this are an on common ground . From past The members and friends who were important revenue raiser for the experience , it is expected to be a very able to staff the food outlets worked Division . Providing Slipstr eam at no big day and we will welcome all those very hard - non-stop for five hours or cost to the NSW members is just one members and friends who can assist more, satisfying the hunger needs of of the benefits achieved by this with all the various duties . These the patrons . I personally thank each of fund raising . range from car park ing attendan ts ,

I_ Slipstream - October 1995- Page 28 serving and cooking on the stalls to a of the year when the FAA Association, Roberts (Vice President), Jim Lee variety of other tasks, not forgetting Naval Association, WRENS (Public Officer ) and John Arno ld the all important job, cleaning up Association and the Vietnam Veterans (NSW PRO) will be there , I wish them afterwards. Association , join together for the well. In July, another very successful camaraderie . The sorting and cataloguing of old George Blondel Memorial Yulefest Our Social Committee arranged a aircraft stores is still going on, thanks was held at the Bomaderry Bowling very enjoyable RAN FAA 47th to Les Matterson and his helpers . Club. Up until now, this function has Anniversary Dinner which was held at There is still a long way to go but the been organised by the local RDFWA the ANAM White Ensign Function job is progressing well. Anyone able to Contact Group, the NSW Division has Centre - a good night was had by all assist with this task, no matter for how now taken over that responsibility . For who attended . long or how often, should contact Les this year, the committee of the two So far this year we have signed up at or John Arnold . Your help would be organisations pooled their resources least three new members at each of most appreciated . and a great night was had by all those our monthly meetings, this 1sjust great To anyone on the sick list , I hope who attended. Our official guests for and we hope that the trend continues . that you have a quick recovery . the evening included the CO of HMAS Later this month the meeting of the This being the last edition before the Albatross, Commodore Graham Federal Counc il will take place in end of the year , may I take th is Sloper AM RAN and Mrs Sloper, the Tasmania . To the National President opportunity to w ish all the readers a CO of the Army Parachute School and and the Council Members , I hope you Merry Chr istmas and a Happy New his wife , and representatives from the have a product ive and enjoyable Year . Bomaderry RSL. This is the one night meeting . Our three delegates , Barry Max Altham - NSW President

Canberrans seem to hibernate from 'Nobby' Clar ke has recovered well Australian Capital Territory June to September . A great night was from his hip surgery and it was great enjoyed by 30 members and the ir to see him at his first social outing at partners at the dinner at the Yamba the Yamba Club . We hope to see him Unfortunately I start this article with Sports Club on 30 June . The weather at more events later in the year. sad news. Geoff Coker-Godson that night was absolutely miserable I recently vis ited the Naval Av iation passed away at his home on 3 with heavy rain and some sleet , but Museum, and once again I am even September . Geoff will be well the atmosphere inside the club was more impressed with the standard and remembered for his 30 years of very warm and convivial. variety of the displays , and the dedicated service to the RAN and the The next social event will be a Mess standard and size of the comp lex. Fleet Air Arm . He joined as an ERA 5th Dinner at the Joint Services Staff What makes it even more incredible, Class in January 1946 and retired as College at Weston on Friday , 20 is that it has been achieved from Lieutenant Commander. He served in October 1995 . Any interstate mainly voluntary donations . What a HMA Ships, Albatross , Nirimba , members in town at that time would be great monument to the Fleet Air Arm Carpentaria , Vengeance and Sydney most welcome to attend . Details can and asset for the Shoal haven area! and HM Ships Condor , Hermes, be obtained from our Social Secretary , P.Schilling - Hon , Secretary Daedalus , and three years as Base Daphne Clarke , on (06) 286 3940 . Engineer Officer at HMAS Tarangau , Manus Island . He served with the 20th CAG , 724, 725 , 808 and 816 Squadrons . He joined the Fleet Air Arm Association in 1991 and served on the committee in several positions . Geoffs funeral was well attended by stalwarts of the Fleet Air Arm and personnel from Tidbinbilla Tracking Station where he worked after retiring from the Navy . The funeral service was conducted by former Air Engineer Commander, Gary Basset , who is now a full time Church of England Chaplain . He will be sadly missed and our sincere condolences go to his son , Geoff, and daughters , Julie and Francis . To move to a happier note , the Division welcomes two new members. Roy Edgar and Merron Mathews (wife of Ben). We wish them both all the best and hope that they enjoy their membership of the Association . The Austra lian Naval Aviation Museum Function Centre bar which was The social scene has been a little constructed with the fianc ial support of the ACT Division . quiet over the winter months , Photo Peregrine Publish ing Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 29

QUEENSLAND

The year is moving along at a rapid rate of knots; it seems only a coup le of days since last Christmas , and here we are, almost there again ! We part icipat ed in the VP50 celebrations in Brisbane and Townsville . The Brisbane parade was excellent, Len Zuch carried the flag, but the rest of us got lost in the general naval contingent. My thanks go to 'Snow' Tite, 'Blue' Ditcham and Betty and Ron Baxter, for helping me try and find my wife, Marian . We eventually located her in the park near the Eternal Flame in company with an old timer who had lost his wife - he reckoned that he'd been trying to lose her for some years ! Anyhow , all's well that ends well and it was a great day. Plans are well in hand for our Christmas get-together on the weekend of 1 - 3 of December at the Caloundra Power Boat Club . On Friday, we have golf organised at the Caloundra Championship Course, those with an official handicap can partic ipate in a 'chook run'. For the bowlers , arrangements have been made at the Mooloolaba Bowls Club . There will be a bus tour on Saturday to the New Sunshine Plaza (Myers) at Maroochydore, then to Montville on the Maleny Range and to the Mary Cairncross walk-rainforest etc. There is an excellent menu for the dinner on Saturday night, the 'Pelican Room' overlooks the water (Bribie Passage) . We're expecting a good roll­ up, so please return the chits and the dollars to Ian Henderson as requested in the Division Newsletter . Our whale watching weekend at Hervey Bay at the beginn ing of September was a great success . Most of us met at the RSL on the Friday night for dinner . Mick Blair dragged himself away from his penthouse to meet us, he walked around the RSL for a half hour or so, couldn't find any FAA people so went back home all forlorn - little did he know, that wew were all grouped together at the far end of the dining room so that we could be as far away as possible from the loud music. Anyhow , on the next day we cheered him up and let him have his photo taken whilst being cuddled by Mimi McPherson (sister of Elle] on her whale watch boat, the 'Matilda' . The weather was perfect and we were able to get close to a couple and WHALE WATCH TRIP ABOARD 'MAT ILDA II' whales and then a mother whale with L-R: Tom Christopher - Pat Christopher - John Stewart - Sharon Reid - calf. The lunch was excellent and we Brenda Stewart - Dulcie Blair Photosc ourtesyM ick Blair Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 30 were looked after very well indeed. If local 'beauty', to being spat you haven't participated in such a on by a local 'ugly'. The cruise, I can definitely recommend that 'ugly' then proceeded to you put it on your itinerary . hide from the Police and On the Sunday, about 75 of us commenced throwing gathered for a barbecue at the stones at them . Des, you'll Botanical Gardens . Tom Allwood and have the floor at the the Naval Association put on a good Christmas Dinner ! meal and refreshments . The setting We have recently was very pleasant and everyone enjoyed the company of enjoyed the day. The Naval "Toz' and Gwen Dadswell, Association President, Bruce Swain as well as John and Ros reckons that he should have been a Crawley (Editor, please 'birdie' - he sends his kind regards to note that I will get his 'Toz'. Our thanks are extended to membership yet ! BL) [ IF Bruce and members. you do, it will probably be in We were sad to hear that Geoff 'deeners' and 'zacs'! Ed] Coker-Godson had passed on. At the Ray Larson and sons are barbecue we held a minute's silence in coming up in November , his memory. He was my first AEO on enroute to Fraser Island . 724 Squadron and cleared me to run Ray's brother , Greg, is Sea Furies and Fireflies . We met last joining them (Greg is the year when he came up to visit 'Snow' father of State of Origin Nicholls at Caboolture. player, Gar y Larson ). The Naval Reunion in Toowoomba Some th irty odd years ago, Frank and Margaret Collins - Hervey Bay BBQ on November 11, with the RSL as the Ray , brot hers Alan and venue, appears to be attracting large Greg , Mick W ynnum and numbers , the FAA attendance is myself , planted a paddock expected to be pretty high. of tobacco on their farm . At our recent committee meeting at Greg brought a couple of the Corrparoo RSL, the secretary , cartons of beer from town Frank Nielson, was able to report that and the planting developed our financial membership stands at into a dangerous mission , 202. We are delighted with the result , particularly if you were as we had targeted a figure of 200 by driving or locked onto the the end of 1995. Unfortunately , 20 of planter . Later on, Ray's our members are unfinancial and will father reckoned the zigzag no longer receive the Newsletter or rows looked quite striking, Slipstream. except when picking commenced and everyone The support for the writing of the got lost. FAA History is strong, all are happy with the voluntary funding During th is episode I can arrangements . recall stripping off and jumping into a 44 gallon FAA Reunion '96 planning is drum of water to clean up, progressing well, Bob Bryce has whilst in there ttie family nearly 400 registrations so far and we turned up, they pinched all should have another information my clothes and drove off. package ready for distribution shortly. This resulted in a very Brian Sargeson and Alec McMurtrie at the I will be attending the National tricky 3/4 mile dash Hervey Bay BBQ Council Meeting in Tasmania at the through the scrub before I managed to now informs me that he will be on his end of October. My wife will only go if sneak into the bathroom . she can go by train! Maybe we'll have way north to see us! Anyhow , I'm Peter Ryan (Main Street Realty , a 'chunnel' one day ! taking Marian by rail to Canberra on Caloundra) and I, took part in the 10th After selling my office in the XPT (for fun???) . She still wants to Anniversary Sunstate Air Race in early trav el to Melbourne by tra in, but my Maroochydore, it was quite a relief to August. A fairly long Navex around the settle back into the Caboolture office . memories of such trips in the early back blocks ; fou r hours on the first day '50's are still strong enough for me to Caboolture was once a jink on the and three on the second day - finished keep away from that one for a bit Bruce Highway, it is growing into quite up in the middle of the bunch - once longer yet ! a metropolis with over $500 million again! W reckon that next year , we Time to shut down once again. As currently being spent on developing would rather spend the time flying thi s is the last edition of Slipstream the infrastructure for growth over the somewhere pleasant inste ad of before the end of the year, I would like next ten years. 'Snow' and Lorra ine spending the money looking at the to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Tite have just relocated there . drought conditions and try ing to find a and a much better New Year . Des Kelly is doing a bit of taxi driving windmill in a 1,000 acre paddock ! Regards to all , of late and has some good tales to tell, Marian and I will be in Sydney mid­ they range from being kissed by a Novemb er (to see son George), who Barry Uster - President Slipstream - October 1995 - Page 31 j THE AUSTRALIAN NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM j

Many members have asked how the Previously, the museum was not preservation and display of Australian Australian Naval Aviation Museum provided with this form of leadership Naval Aviation'. This theme and title came into being, its subsequent and guidance , relying heavily on the were transferred with the process of growth and plans for the future , to enthusiasm of voluntary staff and the incorporation in order to retain the answer this question, the Museum continuing endorsement of Base museum's true identity in the tradition Director, Cmdr Mike Lehan RAN (Rtd), Commanding Officers. established by the origina l charter. produced the following article . Ed. Located on Commonwealth land at In September 1988 , A National the North Eastern boundary of HMAS Campaign Committee to raise the Albatross on a concrete area known as necessary development funds formed HMAS Albatross, located in Nowra, the 'Dummy Deck', which had been the in Sydney under the chairmansh ip of New South Wales, commissioned as training ground for sailors of the Rear Admira l Robertson , who had an Australian Naval Air Station on 30 Aircraft Handler Branch, the museum, retired from the RAN some years August 1948 to support the carriers until quite recently, had comprised of previously. The committee cont inued HMA Ships Sydney, Vengeance and five fibro, timber and galvanised through the very difficult recessionary Melbourne . After the Korean War , the buildings . Whilst most of the years of the early 1990's to raise RAN commenced its first re­ memorabilia was housed inside these almost $6 million by 1993. This equipment programme, selling off the buildings , the aircraft were parked in gigantic effort enabled successful obsolete aircraft on the open market. the open, exposed to the elements and development of the first three stages of However, some of the aircraft deteriorating quite rapidly . The the construction plan and the remained at Albatross as 'gate guards' Heritage Trust, recognising the establishment of a viable business to and trainers . Others remained importance of preserving and operate the museum . Fundrai sing because there were no buyers . displaying this significant continues unabated to this day in an Successive Base representation of Australia's naval effort to complete the $10 million stowed these machines away in far aviation history, agreed to progress facility . corners of the airfield, creating a the development of new facilities. variety of aircraft 'grave yards'. On 6 June 1990 , the Aust ralian A number of decisions were made in Naval Aviation Museum was That was until the early 1970's when an effort to progress the establishment incorporated as a public company, the then Base Commander, of a first class museum . Specifically , limited by guarantee with the following Commodore Andrew Robertson these were: objectives : decided to gather all the old aircraft and surviving items of memorabilia * Change the name to the Australian * To take the funds and other assets into one of the old World War 2 Naval Aviation Museum, and liabilities of the 'Heritage Trust' the hangars, and set about the first, albeit * Incorporate the Heritage Trust as a object of which Trust has been to rudimentary, Australian Naval Aviation Company Limited by Guarantee , ensure that as the years pass the story Museum . Known then as the Fleet Air called 'The Australian Naval Aviation of the developm ent of Austral ian Naval Arm Museum , the exhibit was a Museum Foundation' , and , Aviation is faithfu lly recorded, culmination of years of voluntary * Commence raising funds (known preserved and presented with energy, efforts. Housed in and around a as the Capital Campaign) from the thoroughness and dedication for the surplus aircraft hangar at the RAN Air corporate sector, Government and benefit of Australia and the Royal Station, the museum was opened in private sources, to finance the Australian Navy . 1974 by Admiral Sir Victor Smith, the development of new museum * To ensure that the story of Aviation then Chairman of Chiefs of Staff facilities . in the Royal Australian Navy is Committee and recognised as the In its decision to change the name of recorded by various media and th at it 'father' of the Fleet Air Arm . Although the museum from its previous tit le of will contin ue to be so recorded . the collection had previously been the Fleet Air Arm Museum to the * To ensure that the histo ry of stored on the Base, this was the first Australian Naval Aviation Museum, Aviation in the Royal Austra lian Navy time it was open to the public . the Heritage Trust considered a of yesterday and today wh ich is On 1O August 1982, Commodore number of factors. The term 'Fleet Air essentially the story of the deeds and 'Toz' Dadswell, the then Commanding Arm', is normally applied to the body sacrifices of the many men and Officer of HMAS Albatross, of aviation specialists who served the women who have served t heir established the Heritage Trust of the nation and the RAN since 1948. sovere ign and their country , in peace Royal Australian Navy Fleet Air Arm. Australia's naval aviation precedes and war , is preserved for the benefit of The Trust's activities were based upon that time involving Australians who the people of Australia . the Charter of the Fleet Air Arm . This served with the 's Fleet Air * To ensure that the Naval Aviation Charter was an agreement by serving Arm prior to and during both World Museum at the Royal Australian Navy officers , appointed by their position , to Wars as well as Air Force personnel Air Station , Nowra, New South Wales further the aim of preserving the who served on Australian ships prior to (the Museum) is preserved , history of the Fleet Air Arm . 1948. The Trust therefore considered maintained and expanded in Formation of the Trust was the first that a more meaningful title for the furtherance of the objects of this step in providing the already museum would be one that Company . established Fleet Air Arm Museum encompassed the total history and * To ensure the Museu m will always with a formal basis to plan and which more aptly linked with the theme contain , and serve as a memo rial to conduct its future operations. of the Heritage Trust Charter, ie, 'the those who have lost their lives in the Slipstream - October 1995- Page 32

service of Naval Aviation in peace and Due to their efforts and that of the very * 23 June 1996 war . small museum staff, the facility boasts * 1 Septembe r 1996 * To ensure that all of the aircraft, a first class and vibrant 120 seat * 27 October 1996 Function Centre, a souvenir shop and equipment and paraphernalia The Museum Foundation has formed the finest collection of restored naval presently in the Museum is at all times a Society of sponsors who are aircraft in Australia . fully maintained and properly dedicated to preserving and presented to the public and that as and Our aim is to promote the museum developing this aspect of our nation's when the opportunity arises the as a family event and as an attraction heritage . Various levels of acclamat ion Company will acquire by purchase , gift for all ages . We have a high quality are awarded depending on the level of or otherwise or accept on loan all shaded children's playground installed sponsorship and names are recorded further aircraft , equipment and and a cabin module for children to on our Honour Boards, displayed paraphernalia which the Company 'embark' . Visitors can sit in the cabin prominent ly throughout the museum . consider appropriate and will restore, of our fully restored DC3 and watch Many benefits are also available to preserve and present or display in the continuous play videos , and most Society Members for a basic Museum such further items thereof as aircraft on display have a cockpit membership donation fee of $125 per the Company might consider access for viewing . Our regular Family year . The Museum is a Registered appropriate in furtherance of the Air Days are a popular feature for Charity and all donations are tax objects of the Company . aviation enthusiasts and their fam ilies, deductible . who come to enjoy the relaxing and * To assume and maintain execut ive Our main fundraising focus is now secure environment of the museum control of the Museum and to take all towards building a 150 seat Theatr e enclave, which is turned into a food steps necessary as desirable from and Admin istration Building at a total venue and a free children's time to time for the efficient building cost of $1 .5 million . entertainment arena . The aircraft administration , management, Completion of this facility will enable flying is first clas s with top qual ity maintenance and expansion of the us to conduct sem inars and performances by the Base operat ional Museum and all the exhibits therein . conventions and enhance our already aircraft , War Birds and the RAN * To ensure that the Museum shall successful school visit programme . Historic Flight aircraft . World standard be accessible and open to the public, Additionally, the administrat ion aerobatics and parachute displays by with or without a charge for admission, complex will provide us with additional the Army Red Berets are also at all times and from time to time as meeting facil ities, kitchens , plus our performed . Joy flights are also might be decided by the Company . first purpose designed curator ial available at modest prices. All this for The museum has now developed to library and storage. When completed $15 a car entry, and the chance to win a stage where it is recognised as the we will be able to enlarge our public a free flight for five in a Lear Jet on the foremost tourist attraction on the reference and conservation faci lity. day! More information on our South Coast of New south Wales, programme is available from the As further funds become available, generating the necessary capital to museum by dialling (044) 21 1920, theme capsules will be added to the meet the ongoing objectives of the however, the flying programme for the main museum display hall, to depict Company . next twelve months is as follows : significant aspects of Australian Naval The ability to progress and maintain Aviation history , including stor ies of * 29 October 1995 - Wings and the displays and historical collection our carriers , squadrons and the men Wheels would not be possible without the and women who served in them . * 26 January 1996 - Australia Day dedicated and enthusiastic support of Mike Lehan -MuseumDirecto r our cadre of volunteers and sponsors . * 17 March 1996

1963 - 1965: 724 Squadron - training 1966: Sold to the Royal Navy I 1967: Collected by HMS Victorious and taken to the UK 1?U~~ome' Returned to the factory for a Mk5 ?tu,,~ (4 tk ~ conversion .

Gannet aircraft - Gift from the Royal Navy RN SERVICE

Sponsored by P&O Containers Australia , ex-RAN Anti 1969: Delivered to 849 Squadron Submarine Gannet Aircraft , call sign XG 888, arrived from 1970 -1978 : Served at RNAS Lossiemouth , RNAS England this month aboard the C S Auckland, which berthed Bawdy as a trainer at the Botany Bay Container Terminal. 1978: Taken out of operational service The aircraft was built by the Fairey Aviation Company at 1978 - 1985: RNAS Culdrose - long term storage Hayes in the UK, as a Trainer MK2, and delivered to the 1985 - 1995: Hangared at RNAS Lee-on-Solent RAN in HMAS Sydney on 20 December 1957.

FUTURE RAN SERVICE

Offered as a gift by the Royal Navy to the Austra lian 1957 - 1959: 816 Squadron - operational. Naval Aviation Museum . The airc raft will be repainted in its 1959: 724 Squadron - training RAN colours and placed on publ ic display . 1959 - 1963: 816 Squadron - operational Slipstr eam - October 1995 - Page 33

was soon heard and secured. As the ship's bow buried into the seas, you MEMORIES OF TYPHOON RUTH could hear the water cascad ing along By W .J. Jack McLoughlin the flight deck and emptying into the forrard lift wel l. By daylight the after fligh t deck was HMAS Sydney, 14 October 1951, the forrard cafeteria and enjoying the in disarray , one Firefly had Sasebo Harbour No.8 buoy. break. UPM Mick Thomas was sitting disappeared over th e Port side, and a opposite and his brew slid off the table Sea Fury had collapsed onto its centre into his lap. He quickly disappea red secti on and dama ged a cou ple of Sunday morn ing routine , Div isions and returned shortly afterwa rds adja cent aircraft . and Church interrupted by a pipe over wearing his inflatable life vest. the loud speaker system -' Due to In the book. 'Austral ia in the Korean It was then back to the hangars to deter iorating weather conditions the Wa r 1950-53 Vol. 11 Combat ship will proceed to sea'. double lash th e aircraft . The ship's Op erations ' by Robert O'Neill, these movement was causing amounts of events are me ntioned on pages 472 Soon afterwards, the Sydney and high octane to be vented from the -473 where it quotes our Captain , several other ships were clearing aircraft tanks so they had to be D,H,Harries . W orth mentioning is the harbour for the Yellow Sea. defuelled . Then it was back t o tractor referred to, it was a fork lift with Another pipe was made for the crew retension ing the bottle -jacks on th e solid rubber tyres , alth ough locked in of the Sea Fury to report to the flight lashings , the adjustments of wh ich gear, it broke free of its lashings and deck. Before long , the late UPM Pat were very primit ive in those days. left skid marks across th e flight deck (Nigger) Maloney and myself , were All th is activity was constantly being fo rra rd of the island before attached to life lines securing external interrupted by Emergen cy Parties disappearing near P1 sponson . No.1 control locks on the aircraft and any attending reported fires, Bomb Room, and No.2 Motor Cutters were stove in other tasks , under the superv ision of Wardroom Galley, Main Switchboar d as all the heavy weath er was taken on POAF(A) Bill Bailey RN. etc . The re were some worry ing the Starboard side. Early in the afternoon it was a Duty thoughts as you headed to the most Eventually it was 'Hands to Watc h situation, Frank Donnelly and I recently reported fire . It t urned out that Breakfast ', in the forrard cafe was a were the A/E part of the Emergency there were no major proble ms, ju st fo ot of water and all the tab les and Party and LAAH 'Ace' Kleidon was the plenty of water in the ventila tion fans. stools lashed down . Duty UH, we were on the flight deck The night was spent in the hangars, I did enjoy the skinless sausages with instructions to secure anyth ing fire curtains lowered , any loose gear and the brew. that moved. A call came from one of the Handlers, ' A w a y Skimm er', as the craft , which was norma lly c r adled outboard of the flight deck c r ane , suddenly appeared on the crest of a wave off the ship's side. (The Skimmer was an 18' long (approx) carvel built power craft wh ich could carry about six passengers .) Early Tea in

Photo courtesy Bert Glosso p

THIS IS TRUE! delivering stores to the inaccessible areas. do about it. 'Pancho' Walter told me a story the other Whilst the waters were at their height, a The radio operator conferred with his day about when the Brewarrina floods were in voice came crackling through the ether to the superiors , then told the stockman that they full swing some years ago. Army two-way radio system. It originated from would send two DUKS out to him in the The Navy "choppers' were up there pulling a stockman who was isolated some twenty morning. out the 'bods' when and where required, the miles out of town. He told the Army radio "Two, bloody ducks!" , was the reply. I've Army were also there with their amphibious operator that there was no tucker left, was got six kids here, they wont last through vehicles, the DUKS, being utilised for 'bloody famished' and asked what they could bloody breakfast! Slipstream - October 1995- Page 34

l\hutc.e MANILA - AND MY FIRST REAL KNEE TREMBLER By John Ahern fnr On 22 October, 1956 , Melbourne It was in this condition that we were 111!1.ehh.eh1Slhl6 was anchored a couple of miles off eventually put ashore on the Manila Manila, on the way home after visiting waterfront. Now came the big Men who are everlastingly wed to the Singapore and Hong Kong as part of decision . What to do? Return on witching waters of the world, but who Exercise Albatross . It was a perfect board , get changed and try again? Not incidentally have a wife based on land, may tropical day and I considered myself likely!! OK, press on into town and fathom the helmsman tactics in a marriage whilst doing so try to ignore the feeling contract unearthed by an Edinburgh lawyer pretty fortunate to be in the watch that from an old deed box. Drawn up by a was to be first ashore . When the that everyone is looking at you. seafaring man, it envisages each mate 's magic words , 'Liberty men fall-in on Temporary sanctuary was found duties in a shipshape union: the flight deck' was piped, I, along with in a taxi that eventually disgorged it's 'Having read to her the Articles of War, I a couple of hundred other eager steaming contents on to a Manila explained to her the conditions under which sailors , fell in so that the OOD could footpath . It was here that my we were to sail in company on life's voyage, satisfy himsel f that all hands were of companions and I parted company . namely: a fit and proper appearance to be They headed for the fleshpots of the • She is to obey signals without question turned loose on the unsuspecting city and I, being totally innocent of when received. local populace . Up and down the such carryings-on, and recalling some • She is to steer by my reckoning. ranks he wandered , making sure that of the advice that my Mother had • She is to stand by as a true consort in foul all caps were white , all shoes black, given me when I enlisted , decl ined weather, battle or shipwreck . and the bits in between absolutely their offer to accompany them . I made • She is to run under my guns if assailed by pusser . Had that officer the ability to a bee line to th e nearest Cinema , for It picaroons or privateers . see into the not-so-distant future, he was there , I reasoned , that I could • I am to keep her in due repair and see that would have been the first to agree that spend a couple of hours in relative she hath her allowance of coats of paint, the entire exercise had been all In vain. comfort, dry out and emerge around streamers and bunting , as befits a saucy craft. We proceeded ashore , on a landing sunset ready for what ever the • I am to take no other craft in tow, and if barge provided by the USN, you know evening may bring . any be now attached to cut their hawsers . the type , a small wheelhouse to one The first feature passed without • I am to re victual her day to day. side and a drop down ramp at the incident , as did the intermission , and • Should she be blown on her beam ends front. Everything was going according by this time my condition had by wind or misfortune, I am to stand by her to plan until we reached a point improved to 'Slightly Damp'. I have and see her righted. midway between ship and shore when no idea of the title of the main feature • I am to set our course for the Great the heavens opened up, one of those , but I do recall that it was a WW2 Harbour in the hope that moorings and tropical downpours that absolute ly epic starring John Wayne . The film ground to swing may be found for two well­ bucketed down . As there was NO was about three parts of the way built craft when laid up for eternity.' shelter of any kind to be had on the through , the main action sequence craft , it was only the quick th inkers had just commenced with the US Fleet Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Micah Clarke amongst us that survived without about to give the Japanese navy becoming completely soaked . This some 'what for' in the Coral Sea, and SEA VAMPIRE XG770 minority had the presence of mind to the sound track had been turned up a strip to their underwear and stuff their notch or two to add to the realism. It RESTORATION uniforms into overnight bags, or just was at this point in the proceedings simply rolled it up into a tight ball, when I imagin ed that my seat had Progress is steady , one can't be in too turn their backs to the rain and hope developed a slight sway ing sensation, much of a hurry with these old aircraft. for the best. That may have been OK a few seconds later it happened again Wood tot, due to exposure to the elements , for the ones that were going ashore in and I thought It was caused by one of is a major concern at the moment. The areas shorts , but spare a thought for tho11eof the patrons sitting behind me and mainly affected are the catchment areas us who had opted to wear 'icecream getting carried away with Commander under the aircraft's belly. However, we have suits', not the sort of rig that one can Wayne's feats of derring-do . the technology and willingness in Ron Ross to get out of in a hurry, especially in this be able to remedy the problem. It suddenly occurred to me, that the particular instance . Not unexpectedly, Ray (Make and Mend) Larder is plodding guy behind me had nothing to do with along with the cockpit , wherever there is a the rain stopped as quickly as it had the mystery of the moving seat hole, he will insert a gauge. started, but the damage had been well because everything , including the A few 'over the shoulder' advisers have and truly done . White hat cleaner theatre, was· swaying from side to side. indicated that we might have the wrong Mark started to discolour tally bands, It was one of the most frighten ing of ejection seats earmarked for installation - carefully ironed creases dropped out experiences that I have ever had, and too late - they're going in very shortly! of bell bottoms, shoes squelched, that takes into account fronting up All that remains to be done is the filling , socks oozed and once blue collars before an irate Master At Arms on a sanding and painting, then the aircraft will be were sprinkled with white spots . To couple of occasions . People were finished. The proposed paint scheme will make matters worse, if you stood making for the exits at a great rate of indicate the role the aircraft fulfilled as a with the sun behind you it was knots and the place just kept on trainer. When completed (static display only), possible to see right through the it will fill another gap on the museum hangar rocking , the chandelier sway ing, the soaked mater ial of the uniform . All In floor as part of our FAA history. whole works . It was at th is stage that all, not a pretty sight. Don Pamnson - Project Manager I lost all interest in the eventual fate of Slipstream - October I 995 - Page 35

John Wayne and started to seriously consider the eventual fate of ME! I was about to join the throng making for the Exit signs, and was halfway out of my seat, when the old fellow sitting next to me grabbed my sleeve and said, "It wont' last long boy and you can't get out anyway". I looked at him and as far as I could see he didn 't appear to be out of his mind, or even overly concerned about what was going on around us. Not entirely convinced, I took another glance at the exits and had to agree that my new acquaintance had the situation summed up pretty well. All the doorways were jam-packed with people who suddenly remembered they had urgent appointments somewhere else . Just as I resumed my seat (the edge of it) , and not entirely sure if it was the most sensible thing to do, the swaying stopped and the moving theatre became stationary once again. It was all over. The audience started to trickle back to their seats. The only things left shaking all FIRST COURSE OF NAM(O) UNDER TRAINING RANAS NOWRA 1948 belonged to me. L-R: Clive Smithers - Dick Prentice - Brian Worth ington - 'Nobby' Clarke - Keith 'Ace' Hartmann I watched the defeat of the Japanese Navy (Absent: Lou Burns - W. Mackie - Bruce Loiterton?) and John Wayne sailing victoriously into the sunset to the tune of the Sta r Spangled Banner . Outside the cinema I saw the evidence of the minor earth tremor, as it turned out to be, there were wires down, a burst water main and a minor crack In the roadway, hardly the major earthquake I had imagined it to be a little earlier. What a pity! Think of the impression the story would have created when retold back home . That was my first experience of the Philippines and not one to be forgottan. The remainder of the evening was spent watching Jai-Alai and partaking of the local Rum and Coke , questionable in origin but effective in results ...... So much for all that good advice , Mum ! [The experts reckon that it 's not a strong earthquake until your post code changes three times in less than a minute! Ed]

TECHNICAL TRAINING SCHOOL RANASNOWRA

The series of photographs to the right of the page come from the private collection of Jack Mcloughlin . They were taken in November 1948

THE FIRST TRAINING STAFF

L-R: CAA 'Chalky' White AA3 'Jumper ' Collins CAFA Fred Bath Sm .Comm.WO Harold Kent M3 Garner POEL Bichen

All were RN Loan except for Harold Kent Slipstream - October 1995- Page 36

VIETNAM DISPLAY DEDICATION AT THE ANAM Vietnam Veterans from L-R: Kevin Camm Peter Clark Richard Marum Admiral Neil Ralph -.:t" John Dawe CX) (0 Basil Todd .....L() Jim Hill N Len Connell ,...... _ -.:t" Keith Wardle -.:t" Cmdr Ted Wynberg s 'Curly' Guilk Q) C Kevin French 0 Terry Delaney .c R.Shewyn a.. NK -Kevin Miller with David Hardy in front

a') N ~ (f) z ·~ ~ 0 z ...- Q) .....Q) u5 .....C 0 .c Partaking of light refreshment at the Albatross Senior Sailors Mess 0) prior to a NSW Division Dinner L-R: Barry Roberts - Bob Cronin - C Don McLean and Gordon Turner . Photo Peregrine Publishing ~ <( -.:t" CX)

-z: 0:: a.. l­ o w 0:: 0 >. .c -0 Q) +-' C ·;:: a..

Ron Reed Jnr - 'Tex' Nankivell and Ron Reed visiting the Other members at the Division Dinner L-~ : J.D.Goble - Slipstream Office. Photo Peregrine Publishing Richard Marum and Charles Grose . Photo Peregrine Publishing Jtasonsfrtttings to ill RtadtrsofJUpstrtam