The Quarterly Journal of the Association of

Volume 5 Number I January 1994

... up came the Trackers - one, two, three ... Aircraft of 851 Squadron - 'Dawn over Ayers Rock' - 1972

Published by the Fleet Air Arm Association of Australia (NSW) Inc. Registered by AustPost Publication No. NAS2604 Editor: John A_rno!d- PO Box 662, NOWRA NSW 254 !, Au.~tra!ia - Phone (044) 2320 !4 - Fax (044) 2324 !2 Slipst rea m - January 1994 - Page 2

FOREWORD

by Commodore M. A. McK. (Nobby) Clarke AM RAN (Rtd) Federa l President of The Naval Assoc iation of Australia

I believe that I was invited to write the Foreword for this edition of Slipstream wearing my Naval Association hat. As it happens , it coincides with the 50th anniversary of my joining the Fleet Air Arm, so I feel both honoured and pleased to offer a few words to fellow shipmates . Having spent some time at Albatross and in Sydney, Vengeance and Melbourne, I do look forward to receiving my copy of Slipstream to keep up with the news of the Fleet Air Arm of today , as well as getting reminders of the past; seeing the names , aircraft numbers , photographs and reading the 'dits' which bring back so many memories . Many of our shipmates had their first taste of the Fleet Air Arm more than fifty years ago but I think all would agree , and our newly joined shipmates will come to believe, that the re90rding and preservation of our history is well worth carrying out for the benefi t of future generations as well as for our own enjoyment. There are so many people who deserve the highest praise for the time and effort which they have put in to help preserve our history in so many different ways . The Museum itself is a most vivid example of dedicated effort together with the quite superb effort in rebu ilding and preserving the old war birds and equipment , which makes the Nowra Museum Complex the envy of many other aviation museums . I think I am right in saying that the original Albatross Newsletter [Slipstream Mk 1J was the forerunner of ''. Our current Slipstream has become a most professional journal of the Fleet Air Arm Association of Australia so we must continue to give it the maximum support possible . May I add a final word on the importance of being a member of a major ex-Service association. These organisations have trained counsellors to assist members with various Service related problems, compensation matters etc. There are many matters of concern affecting serving and retired members which are being pursued by the major ex-Service organisations on behalf of members . There seems to be a steady erosion of conditions of service and retirement benefits . Should you feel that all is not well , then put your case to your association and seek clarification of the matter from your local Member of Parliament. Best wishes to all in our Naval family . Fly Navy . Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 3

EDITORIAL NATIONAL PRESIDENT'S This edition of Slipstream, has been brought to you through the REPORT sponsorship of Computer Sciences of Australia Pty. Ltd., to whom the As we move forward into 1994, this may be an Association offer their sincere appropriate time to pause and reflect on what the thanks. FAAA has achieved during 1993. I am sure that the The National President, 'T oz' individual State Divisions have their own lists of Dadswell , has asked me to break the achievements, but on the national front there were good news that the Association now a number of milestones that merit special has its own tie. attention . Following several requests from members for an identifying piece of + The FAAA of Australia now has its own flag complete with the Austra lian neckwear , the retiring President of the White Ensign in the top left canton . now disbanded Fleet Air Arm Officer's • New lapel badges were acquired and have met with the general approval of Association , offered the copyright of members . their distinctive tie to the National + The FAA Memorial Plaque was installed in the memorial Gardens at HMAS Association. Cerberus. This most generous offer was + Slipstream continued to flourish and is now much sought after by ex-members accepted and when stocks are of the FAA. available you will be notified through + Membersh ip continued to grow at a steady pace . Slipstream. + Assistance was given to the Museum in several different ways. We are now the third body to hold • Assistance was given to a number of members in relation to Veteran Affairs the copyright. related problems . The blue tie , with its repetitive diagonal FAA logo and kangaroos in 1 believe that members can look back at 1993 with a sense of satisfaction . We gold , was originally designed as an made steady progress in meeting the aims of the Association , and I thank all aircrew tie in the early '50s by an those members who gave of their time and effort to make the year the success it Observer named Jarman . was . In the late '60s it was taken up as We still need to increase our membersh ip. In his article on the Aircraft the official tie of the FAA Officer's Handler's branch in the last edition of Slipstream , 'Blue' Larter named over 100 Association. 'missing' Handlers - and that is ju st from ONE branch of the FAA. Could I request Forty years from its inception, it that each member endeavour to try and recruit one new member in 1994. Two has now become the symbol of the new members would be even better ! Australian Fleet Air Arm Association . The Queens land Division plans to hold a FAA reunion in Bundaberg from 11- Wear it with pride! 13 March 1994. Distance will probably be a problem for many of us southerners and westerners , but knowing the delights of Bundaberg and the enthusiasm of the WHYIWANTTOBEA 'Banana-benders' , it will be a great weekend . I look forward to seeing you there . . In closing , I would like to pay tribute to the members of the Executive who PILOT work so hard to ensure that the wheels continue to tum and that the 'old-man' is Written by a 5th Grade student of Jefferson steering the correct heading. School, South Carolina . Thank you , fellows - When I grow up I want to be a pilot 'Toz' Dadswe/1 because it's a fun job and easy to do. That's why there are so many pilots flying around these days. Pilots don 't need much school. They just have to learn to read numbers so they can read their instruments . I guess they should be able to read a road map too . Pilots should be brave so they wont get scared if it's foggy and they can't see, or if a wing or a motor falls off. Pilots have to have good eyes to see through the clouds , and they can't be afraid of thunder or lightning because they are much closer to them than we are. The salary pilots make is another thing I like . They make more money than they know what to do with . This is because people think that flying a FAA Plaque laying ceremony at HMAS Cerberus plane is dangerous , except pilots don't In remembrance of RAN personnel, past and present , who served in the Fleet Air Ann. because they know how easy it is. See story in National Secretary 's Report on page 18. Photo:T.Hetherington 1 hope I don't get air sick because I get car sick and if I get air sick I Disclaimer - All rights reserved . Reproduction in part or whole is forbidden couldn 't be a pilot and then I would without the express permission of the Editor in writing. have to go to work . The views and opinions expressed in this publicatio n do not necessa rily reflect South Carolina Aviation News the views and opinions of the Association or Committee of Management . Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 4

responsible for the development of the Aircraft Weapon System Support Computer -Sciences Centre (AWSSC) at HMAS Albatross , the shipboard Data Terminal and Data Link Modem software. The AWSSC al Australia Ply Ltd provides all of the tools necessary for the ongoing support of the software that forms the Tactica l Data System in the Seahawk . The Early Days system provides a comb inat ion As a sub-contractor to the Link Compilation, Miss ion and Integrat ion Corporation of the , CSA facility for the ongoing support of P-3 During the late 1960's, the AMP has developed the Weapon System Orion operations . Trainer element of the S-708-2 recognised the requirement for a As a sub-contractor to Hughes , strong and innovative Australian Seahawk Mission System Trainer . This CSA assisted in the developmen t of mission simulation system provides company which could meet the the RAAF F-18 simulators in use in realistic training for the crews of the emerging needs of the information RAAF Tindal and RAAF Williamtown . Seahawk, by providing representations technology revolution which was Since the delivery of the r-18 of the Pilot , Tacco and Sensor taking place. simulators , CSA has.undertaken major Ope rators stations , and is complet e Computer Sciences of Australia upgrades which have ensured that the with visual , aural and motion systems . (CSA) was founded in 1970, by the simulation is representative of the This system allows crews to AMP , in partnership with Computer Australian aircraft . experience a variety of normal and . Sciences Corporation (CSC) of the Currently , the two main offices of eme rgency flight conditions and United States of America . CSA has CSA in Sydney and Adelaide, are operational exercises at low cost, and provided a range of services including working on major contracts involving with no risk to the crew or aircraft . the AMP's Information Technology the new ANZAC class and the Cpmplex multi-unit scenarios are also operations and the INFONET Collins class submarines for the RAN. available for crew training . communications network . The Adelaide staff are work ing on Early in 1991 , a management Subsequent distribution of work the ANZAC ship combat system , while decision was made to establ ish a CSA soon resulted in the formation of two the Sydney staff are develop ing the office in Nowra , to provide for the major divis ions within the CSA, shore support fac ilities for both the ongoing software support needs of the Systems Engineering Division (SED) ANZAC ship and the Collins class RAN in the Shoalhaven area . and Business Systems Division (BSD) . submarine . Th is local presence ensures that As well as the main office in CSA is able to respond quickly to Sydney, other offices were opened in Nowra Operations customer requirements , by having a Adelaide , Melbourne , Canberra , Perth , permanent presence of real-time Nowra, Newcastle and Auckland . CSA has had Sydney based computing skills in the local area , The Business Systems Division employees working in the Nowra area rather than having people commute has provided a variety of computing since 1987 during the RAN's from the Sydney office . solutions for banking , insurance and acquisition of the new S-708-2 The Nowra office provides a wide government bodies around Australia , Seahawk . variety of professional skills , and the and has recently won a major contract As a sub-contractor to the Collins staff has grown from three to fourteen to meet the increasing needs of the Avionics and Communications Division since its inception . They also have Western Australian Health of Rockwell International, CSA was access to a pool of another 1,500 CSA Department. The Systems Engineering Division has been predominantly involved with work for Defence , and has participated in dozens of diverse Defence projects ranging from communications and over the horizon radar to combat to combat -- system , mission simu lators and land based test sites for tactical data systems . Company ownership was progressively transferred to the AMP over the years , until CSA became wholly owned by the AMP in 1989. During the eighties there was strong growth , and by mid 1993, CSA had grown to more than 1,000 employees in Australia and New Zealand , with an annual revenue exceeding $110 million .

Defence Work

One of the first major Defence projects undertaken by CSA was the P-3 CMI at RAAF Edinbu rgh . This Aircraft Weapons System Support Centre - HMAS Albatross Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 5

personnel around the country which The Nowra staff of CSA is currently developing a Helicopter Data Link are available to supplement the local engaged in a major upgrade of the S- Simulation System for Sikorsky Aircraft staff where specific, highly specialised 708-2 simulator to bring it from the to be delivered to the Combat Data skills are required or local resources original 1987 data freeze to the current System Centre in Fyshwick . It will be overloaded. BL 125 standard. interfaced with the FFG Combat The Nowra Operations Manager is This upgrade includes a new data System , and used to test the data link T any Baker, who retired as a link network simulation with a graphical network functions which are to be Commander in the RAN to take up his user interface, which will be incorporated into the ship's computer current position with CSA. T any spent significantly easier and less time system by the CDSC staff . The 28 years in the RAN after joining as an consuming for the instructors to use. It network simulation will be complete Air Radio and Radar Technician . He is anticipated that the engines will also with tactica l displays and graphical subsequently undertook additional be upgraded from the US 401 to the control of the data link functions . studies and transferred to aircrew , RAN 401 C standard when data Ongoing support for more routine qualifying as an Engineering Test Pilot licences have been approved by the RAN activ ities ensures a stable , skilled at the US Naval Air Test Centre, in US government. base of professionals is maintained . Patuxent River , Maryland . CSA Nowra is also upgrading the Among the four overseas postings Mission Support Facility so that it will Aviation Museum Tony undertook, were three years in be both portable and able to make full the United States working as the use of the Mission Data Recorder The Naval Aviation Museum at Director of the LAMPS Mk Ill project for information which is being improved Nowra , not only preserves the heritage the United States Navy, exchange duty and reforrnatted by an aircraft update of Naval Aviation for future with the where he served being undertaken in the US. This new generations , but is expected to be the on 824 Squadron , going to sea on system has been designed to enable predominant tourist attraction on the HMS Ark Royal and HMS Hermes . crews to analyse mission data at the South Coast , hence prov iding support Tony was the Director of Aviation squadron , or on the ship, rather than to the local economy . To participate in Projects - Navy, when he left the RAN, having to bring tapes back to the Air this project , CSA is building a special having served as Director of the Air Warfare System Centre at Nowra for display which will be donated to the Warfare System Centre and Aviation post mission analysis . Museum . Projects Deputy Director prior to that. The Nowra office is also

uuuuu u uu u u u u1;,u LtCdr Michael Fuller DSC RNVR , took over as Commanding Officer in ! 50th Anniversary ! September 1944. Shah had a refit in Durban in March 1945 and then uuuuuu1'::?-uu-<::r-ui'.:ruu returned to Ceylon to join 21st Aircraft A lunch to celebrate the Fiftieth Carrier Group for operations against Anniversary of the formation of 851 the Japanese in Burma and Andaman Squadron, was held on 1 October, and Nicobar Islands . 1993, at the Fleet Air Arm Museum , On 15th May, LtCdr Fuller found RNAS Yeovilton, . the Japanese cruiser Haguro which The following is a very brief history was attacked north of Sumatra by a of the squadron - strike led by Lt Kenneth Crom pton 851 Squadron formed at DSC RNVR . The 26th Destroyer SQUADRON LINE BOOK ENTRY Squantum , Boston , USA , on 1st Flotilla caught and sank Haguro in a by S.S.Laurie October 1943 with 12 Avenger class ic night action with torpedoes . Then their Lordships in Whitehall , Torpedo Bombers under Lieutenant The ship and squadron returned They the Powers that rule our living, Commander Tony Tuke DSC* RN. together to the United Kingdom in With the wisdom bom of Nelson After three months intensive October 1945 when the Squadron was Made at last a great decision - training , the aircraft were flown to San disbanded and Shah returned to 'Swordfish now are obsolescent !' Francisco by a Southerly route to avoid America . It was later converted to the the deep winter of the mid-west. The merchant ship Sa/ta. 'Let us therefore send our Young Men, ground crews and equipment went by Post war , the 851 number was They the strongest of our warriors , train from coast to coast celebrating allocated to the . Mightiest of our Great Line Shooters , New Year's day in Chicago, and The Squadron reforrned in 1954 with Send them forth across the ocean through the deep snows, Salt Lake City Fireflies until 1958 and again in 1968 and the Rockies . with Trackers , C47s and HS 748s , to the land of Koak-a-Ko/ah!' The Squadron embarked on HMAS finally disbanding in 1984. Shah , Captain John Yendell RN, on 'They will be a fine example the 14th of January 1944, and sailed THE ORIGINAL SQUADRON CREST Teaching from their vast experience across the Pacific Ocean via Australia The various ways of Prang ing, to Cochin in India. Frank Ott , an Observer with the All the ancient art of Boobing, HMS Shah with its escorts , squadron from commissioning until and the art of Fin-Gertrouble ! ' operated throughout the Indian Ocean June 1945 , said that the crest was from its base in Trincomalee in Ceylon, drawn by Stan Laurie , the Senior Thus a band of mighty warriors the squadron flying anti-submarine Observer , and the motto , 'Let them formed themselves into a Squadron , patrols and protecting merchant hate as long as they fear' , by Tony 'Eight Five One' they named it shipping. In August 1944, LtCdr Tuke 'Steady' Tuke , the CO . The crest was and this book which you are reading attacked a surfaced U-boat and again devised on commissioning in October teJJsyou of their trials and wand'rings . the next morning . U 198 was finally 1943. sunk by Findhom and Godavari . *From mater ial forwarded by G. Vickridge . Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 6

AIR ENGINEERING OFFICERS - HMAS ALBATROSS July 1958 Top Row L-R: S/Lt Lamb - S/Lt Rose - Lt Hutchins - S/Lt Duff - S/Lt Burmeston - S/Lt Jones - Silt Wilson - S/Lt Birch Centre Row L-R: Lt Coker-Godson - LtCdr Wickett - Cmdr Lovell - LtCdr Kent - Lt Logan - Lt Coward Front Row L-R: S/Lt Foale - Silt Webster

NIRIMBA '52 to'56 - The 'Nitty Gritty' by Eric Manuel

Now that Nirimba is in its death Commonwealth Line was in existence issued ! It was never like this in the RN. throes, I feel that something should - included on its' books were the three Morning came, awakened by bull be written about that seeming void sister ships , Moretay, Largs and Jervis frogs, lizards , and that 'little old man' from '52 to '56. Bay. Having had previous experience laughing his bloody head off. How was I note that you managed to coerce on the Largs Bay, transit of MONAS 9 I to know it was a bird? I've always Colin Davis into penning a few lines on from Sydney to Singapore , some of us been at a loss as to why 'Sussex by the his sojourn in the antipodes, were forewarned . We are still amazed Sea' was played. Was it the only completing time at Nowra. that only the Jervis Bay sank , the record available? Bear with me for a few minutes , in remaing two were rust buckets with Several weeks were spent carrying which time I will represent a few of buccaneers for crew. During the trip out various jobs at Nowra , but there those much maligned 'Pommie' we took on migrants from various seemed to be no rhyme or reason for instructors at 'Schofields', as we knew Mediterranean Ports . Their hygiene left our presence . I worked for a while on a it during that period . a lot to be desired - to them a glider for a WO named Kent. When it As I remember it, we were all passageway was a toilet at night. I was completed he flew it for a while, volunteers looking for the sunsh ine could write a book on that trip , but but on landing, the hangar moved and and sheilas, about forty-five of us in all. then, I digress . he had a head-on collision with it. I'm The trip was, for some, a drudge , We eventually arrived in Sydney told his shoes didn't fit afterwards. for others a break from the 'dragon' at and were herded into a set of 'cattle A request for instruct ors was home - she followed in another ship . trucks' masquerad ing as carriages , posted on a notice board somewhere Booze was freely available and was these were drawn by a wood burning in Albatross, I can't remember where . consumed in copius quantities. Two steam engine . It was hot and steamy in Having completed an Instructional inseparables drank quadruple gins and the train and the windows had to Technique course and a stint as an rums respectively at lunch time. A remain closed to stop lumps of cinder instructor at HMS Gamecock, glass of water was substituted for the and smoke blowing in. · Bramcote UK (the WRENS only had gin one day, it was duly quaffed, We eventually arrived in HMS on their tally bands), I straight down , and the recipient was Bomaderry and off-loaded into vehicles volunteered. This was my second sick. A great time was had by all! for the trip to Nowra . Arrival was in the mortal sin, I had volunteered twice in a At that time the Aberdeen and dark, but what was this? Sheets year - never done in 'Pussers' . Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 7

We were herded once more on to instructor's vehicles tended to be and PO's Mess to find the Chief the Sooty's train and were transported incongruous to say the least. I owned Instructor , Pat Barry. After telling him to yet another fly-ridden outpost of the a 1936 Ford VB, purchased for about of my misdemeanour and direct ing that Commonwealth [Schofields] , or was it three hundred pounds on time I should be charged, he was duly sat Empire? Was it not known as payment - oh to have it now! on the bar and told to 'Sing, sing , or Albatross 2? The cars driven at that time would show your ring', a most humil iating The RAAF were still in occupation have been worth thousands today . experience for the poor man , but he in certain areas , but were only a Vehicles that come to memory stridently performed 'Pretty Polly reserve unit. The main squadron was included a 1935 Ford VB (Truscott ), a Perkins of Paddington Green '. 22 Squadron City of Sydney 1936 Ford 10 (Galliott), a 1925 Morris I was eventually charged with I (Mustangs) which flew , if ever, on 25 (Jones) and a 1926 Crossley (?) , know not what , and received a weeks weekends . there were many more including the stoppage of leave from a very The hangars which they used were snob value of a 1948/9 Holden owned understanding Commander who had also used to house two Bristol by a gentleman named Jones. the initials of a well known liquor [VAT]. Sycamore helicopters , they were being I have to admit , I noted his inferred modified by civilians prior to the visit of advice and after my even ing reporting the Queen and Prince Phillip , but if I ...... irreverently known I drove home to my wife and children . remember correctly, they never used as 'Barney Bear' by the The galling thing about the whole them . One was flown by an Air trainees ..... episode was that Lt. Smith denied Commodore, unfortunately he made asking me to do the job , it was a 'make contact between the rotor and the and mend' and I had permiss ion from hangar wall - and then there was one . A 1925 Morris Cowley (square the officers concerned to work in that He made his way to the crew room and radiator) , was owned by an equally area - I guess I must have been made an entry in the A700 , one used vintage character irreverently known making more money than you know quite often , 'Pilot Error' . as 'Barney Bear' by the trainees , due to who . As I remember it, the first classes his gait and bulky form . I personally I've been told that Lt . Smith of mechs spent their time erect ing knew him as 'Herr Funke! Dunkel' , drowned in the Hawkes bury river whilst partitions for classrooms in the mainly due to his attitude towards me . water skiing shortly afterwards . hangars , A's and E's in one and the I'm sure that anyone at Nirimba will The Chief and PO's Mess was a remainder in the other . remember the Lt Cdr TTO to whom l den of iniquity and a popular watering Privacy was never part of refer. His technical ability was second hole for a variety of people after 6pm , instruction in the hangar; a trainee to none , espec ially in the repair of his closing time for the local pubs (5 could hear two or three instructors at shoes. Imagine walking into a o'clock slush). One group that was in any one time and learned the whys and workshop after having instructed a constant attendance was the wherefores of Centaurus , Firefly class on Workshop Practice , 'never Black town and Parram atta Constabulary. They were not Hydraulics and Theory of Flight in one grind soft materials on a grindstone' , lesson . Aircraft being ground run at renowned for their sobriety . Whilst to see a no grinding the heels of his the Stop Butts to the rear of the hangar Duty Chief one night , I saw police shoes after repairing them with didn't help either. How anyone learned carrying a person to a sma ll car. When MASONiTE! enough to pass exams always amazed I suggested that he shouldn 't drive, I · The crankshaft broke in the Morris me . Maybe they didn 't [pass] the was politely told to mind my own Cowley , it was duly repaired by setting instructors fiddled results . After all , business . The Guardroom was told to it up in a lathe and pinning and welding remove him from his car and place him they didn't want to prove themselves it. The mechanic that carried out the incompetent!? in the cells . Ten minutes or so later , I work would have had to be a genius ! was called to the 'phone and a plaintive The eng ine was replaced in the car voice adv ised that the person in the and I was commissioned to tow start it...... and the bane of all cells had broken a bed and was The driver of the Cowley, who was so breaking out through the wooden instructors, the 'Nashos! intent on keeping the engine running , walls , 'What will we do? '. What else , failed to stop and consequently but to put him in another cell where he jammed the front end under the back stayed until sober and thence home he of my car . I jumped on the front end of Var ious trainees were instructed , wen t. his car and the whole lot fell in a heap! Air Mechanics , Mechanicians , Pilot 's The next morning I was called to He politely told me that I was a bloody Mates , and the bane of all instructors, the Guardroom to meet a Police fool and walked off in a rage . His car is the 'Nashos' ! Sergeant. Instead of planting one on probably still there - who knows? These were a group of National me , he offered me his hand and One day the establishment was Servicemen brought in for - was it nine thanked me . We remained friends 'til granted a 'make and mend' . As was weeks or nine months? They were my return to the UK. I understand that always the case , instructors and staff mollycoddled and treated with kid he has since passed on to that cell migrated to the Mess to partake of the gloves . Regulars were screamed at by block in the sky. the Duty Chief at reveille , but the amber fluid . I had promised to replace 'nashos' were requested to leave their wooden running boards on an Austin 8 beds from the doorway! Ludicrous? Of owned by a Lt . Smith . I was in the ...they even offered him course . Trainees cars were left outside process of carrying out this job of love a bit of slap and tickle , at the main gate while the 'nashos ' drove when who should present himself at into the camp and parked alongside the workshop door but my favourite a price! huts and hangars . 'Herr Funke! Dunkel' , (who, One such person was a member of incidentally , wrote children's books) . the Amott Biscuit family . The parking He very impolitely asked me what I was Sex had to rear its' ugly head at of his new Fiat alongside the doing and I politely told him. He Nirimba . All had to know 'Trigger' , the immediately shot through to the Chief friendly female . I had no personal Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 8 experience with the lady except when During 1953 a group of she showered next to me at one time. trainees sectioned a Rolls I'm told that her nickname was Royce Griffon engine and made acquired because she never went off a really good job of it. It was half-cocked, not being a gunner I don't displayed in the Services tent at understand the expression . Her two the Easter Show in Sydney . I daughters were also quite friendly with spent the whole period with it the apprentices . and the questions asked were Night rounds could be enlightening . many and varied . 'Is it an Ack Passing an open door in which a Ack gun?' - 'Do you know that Mechanician (A/PO) was billeted, the piston stops at the end of Trigger's voice was heard to say, its' stroke?'. Anyone with "You're married' . 'How do you know?' technical questions invariably was the response . 'Because only arrived when I was about to married men do that" , was the answer. take stand easy. I've often wondered! Night activities were hectic 1953 -The author and Sgt Barry Gordon RAR, Two young girls took up residence for some, the engine was outside Nirimba canteen after 'Sods' opera. in the old Married Quarters on a adorned with various pieces of mattress unwittingly supplied by the underclothing, including Army girls ' The follow ing morning , one PO (a Defence Department. During rounds, pants on the prop shaft. That engine is, trainee) was displaying his back which trainees were found lining up for 16 I feel sure , the engine on show at the was mutilated with scratch marks - bob a time . The girls were banished Museum . It is now painted in garish 'caused by a CAT which crept into his over the back fence and took off to colours and an insult to its original bed' - he said . The other party didn't hitch hike to Blacktown . They were fitters . return with me and could still be 'Roll picked up by Cdr(S) who was going Entertainment was varied both in Roll, Rolling ' along for all I know. ' their way and, yes, they even offered the theatre and various Mes~es with .I could go on and on, but I feel that him a bit of slap and tickle, at a price! 'Sods Operas' and local concert the defamation laws could rear their parties. The Chief and PO's Mess was ugly head . renowned (parochially) for its We returned to the RN in dribs and ..was seen carrying a motorcycle track around and over the drabs , others remained to serve furthe r bath through the back billiard table . One brave sole rode his time with the RAN. fence, on his pushbike! landlady's auto cycle through the fibro Each indiv idual embarkat ion and wall separating the table tennis and return to the UK was an emotiona l billiard areas and all thought , with the experience . One that I will always assistance of XXXX, that it was remember , Was that of a well known The disused Married Quarters were hilarious. veteran in the Senior Sailors Mess eventually demolished but it was not Jack Kitney . He was onboard . standing known if this was done officially , in the crowd of passengers , the ship because if some of the older houses in ...her act was to fall over festooned with streamers and ladies ' the area were given the order, 'All and then attempt to stockings , when one of our group Married Quarters parts fall out', they stand up without shouted , 'Sing us a song, Jack!'. His would have fallen to pieces . favourite song at the time was, 'Those One PO who will remain assistance . wedding bells are breaking up that old anonymous , was seen carrying a bath gang of mine ". It soon developed into through the back fence, on his Visiting concert parties had a an emotional event when the pushbike! thousands on the wharf started Various pets were held on the varied content of participants . One party that comes to mind was well singing . Jack would probab ly not camp , one of the most popular being a remember it, and anyone knowing bitch called 'Minge' , an appropriate known for its three main characters - a portly and rather raucous middle aged Jack , wou ld know why ! name if ever there was one. She lady, a young women rather well I returned with my fam ily, one more produced more pups than you could endowed in the mammary department than when we arrived , this time on the throw sticks at, of all colours, black , Orcades . I finished my twelve years white brown , and brindle. A friendly (she was an actress , her act was to fall over and then attempt to stand up with the RN and , after eighteen months local lady made a present of a British of te rrible weather , returned to Bulldog as a mascot. He had his own without assistance) . The third was a rather limp wristed blonde haired male Australia on the Strathaird as a 'ten­ Naval Airman handler and a special pound tourist'. enclosure near the main gate. Advice who insisted on singing 'Row , Row, Row' , a song for females , or was it On arrival I applied for a position as was given that he would be more of a an instruc tor at Nirimba , but after dog after his first service. Poor old 'Roll, Roll Roll'? Being duty on the night of a meeting with the TIO , I changed my Minge was for it again . mind and went to work for an Oil There were lesser known pets, one concert, I was the bunny delegated to return the above crew to their various Company instead. PO was seen in the Mess at lunchtime I think I'll stay this time. talking to a frill-necked lizard, tied to a abodes . Two A/PO's, renowned for their sexual prowess , insisted on Cheers , Eric Manuel UFX 87575 chair leg with a strand of copper wire. [ There was obviously no love lost for When he had a mouthful of beer his accompanying us. The young female was first out of the car, duly Technical Training Officers , Eric also pets open mouth didn't miss out. When forwarded this definition of a TTO: passed on the way to the hangar he accompanied by one of the reprobates. The 'boy' was left in the car with the 'They can tell you the square root of was asked the whereabouts of his pet. the circumference of a pic kle jar to 'Got rid of him , he was a drunken other PO in the back seat whilst I three decima l places - but then can't bastard' . walked the 'lady' to her house . I returned to find the car empty! get the bloody lid off! ' ] Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 9

HMAS VOYAGER REUNION The survivors of HMAS Voyager are holding their 30th Anniversary Reunion at Huskisson RSL Club on 5th and 6th February, 1994. On Sunday morning , 6th February 1994, there will be a march from the Huskisson Post Office to the Memorial in Voyager Park. This march , lead by a Naval Band, will commence at 0930 and be followed by a service at the Memorial. Your members are cordially invited to join us for this march , and afterwards adjourn to the RSL Club for a light lunch. Notification , in due course, of the numbers of Association members attending would be appreciated. John K. Hannay - Reunion Coordinator PO Box235 ENFIELD NSW 2136 Tel: (02) 642 2082 - Fax: (02) 746 2068 * Local area FM Association members wishing to attend , please contact NSW Secretary , Terry Hetherington cl­ PO Box 28, Nowra NSW 2541 or Tel: (044) 230056 HMAS Melbourne - USS Frank E. Evans Memorial Service The Memorial Service marking the 25th Anniversary of the collision between HMAS Melbourne and USS Frank E. Evans, will be held in Canberra on 3 June 1994. A dawn service will be held at the US War Memorial at Russell Offices , followed by breakfast at the Canberra RSL Club. The cost of the breakfast is quoted at $7 per head . Other functions are being planned over the weekend 3 - 5 June inclusive . Anyone interested in attending should contact Ron 'Nullarbor' Baker (ex-CPO RS) on (07) 2813553 (H) or (07) 2803061 (DNATS 8-72-3061) (W) for further information . Anyone who can billet interstate/overseas visitors during that weekend should also contact Mr. Baker .

Members may be unaware of the existence a Frank E. Evans Association . For those who wish to make contact , the address is as follows : Frank E. Evans Association , cl- H.G. (Nick) Nichols , PO Box 306, FRANKSTON , TEXAS 75763 , USA.

, ~ as quickly as possible to allay any THE MELBOURNE-EVANS fears you may have as to our safety . Needless to say, the exercise has 1 " been cancelled ; also the remainder of COLLISION! the trip . This was done by Rear ·~ Admira l Crabb within an hour of the One man's observation collision . His first communication '', outside of the ship was to Chief of ,::::;;w.;;::;;;~~~=:;;::~:;:::;;;::::::;;;:::;;;: ,_~~ ..-::; .•~;; .. ,~r,;;::;;:;;::=;;:~:r:;-:=:;:;::=~==;;;:- ~:::a..= ;;;;::;: =, 0 ·2'·"-::-::.., t,.' Naval Staff (VAT Smith) ,whom I In the early hours of the morning have well and truly heard the news by believe was on an aeroplane within an of 3 June 1969, 74 United States now and I am glad to hear over Radio hour headed for Singapore . Navy sailors lost their lives when Australia that we have been reported At the last count there was 1 dead their ship, the USS Frank E. Evans as having no casualties - which is and 56 missing and , as we called off was cut in two by HMAS Melbourne perfectly correct. the search at 1745 and are proceeding in the South China Sea. 1 am also grateful that you did not away from the scene of the collision, I Shortly before the collision , the send a telegram to the ship as have would say that this may be the final American destroyer was ordered to many of the wives ; the 'sparkers' are figure. All the ships in the exercise take up the position of rescue flat out now sending off all kinds of have been requested to proceed to destroyer for the 816 Squadron messages and the personal telegrams Singapore with us and from the latest Tracker - 848 (Crew: Pilot Lt John L. must be an additional load tnat they info , they are all complying with the Clarke - Tacco SIU Ian Payne - #3 wish they did not have . request. Operator PO Ken Beaton - #4 Operator If you were to ask me my reaction The damage to Melbourne is not Lt. Geoff Vickridge) which was now , at 2215 - exactly 19 hours after nearly as severe as it was with scheduled to be launched at 0330 . the collision occurred , 1 could honestly Voyager , but even so, we have been Whilst chang ing station, the Evans say I arri stunned , as we all are. After holed in several places up for'rd . I collided with the Australian aircraft Voyager , it didn't seem possible that it believe that a trim tank was flooded to carrier. could happen again . Both the Frank E. the extent of 70-80 tons of water taken Evans and Voyager were destroyers in, and some of the compartments The following account of the which the Americans call 'tin cans' - have been shored up by the Damage tragedy is taken from a personal letter Melbourne has now earned herself the Control crew . The bow is a real mess that the then Lt. Geoff Vickridge , wrote unenv iable nickname of HMAS Can and because of damage to the to his wife shortly after the event . Opener!. catapult , 816 and 805 Squadrons will At present we are headed for not be flying at all. How it is intended to HMAS Melbourne Singapore for a hull examination and a disembark the Trackers and the At sea temporary repair job prior to returning Skyhawks , I have no idea. 03 June 1969 to Sydney; also , an enquiry . My I was scheduled to brief at 0200 estimate of the earliest we will get this morning and launch at 1330 (Ken Dear .... home is around 7 July; it is by no Beaton was with me) . We had done Where does one begin after such a means official. our pre-flight and were in the aircraft Mail is closing on board at 0400 , just prior to starting up when I heard terrible tragedy? Of course you will so I am hoping that this will reach you the two blasts on the ship 's siren Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 10

The extent of the above water damage to Melbourne 's bows Dazed and unsure , the survivors cluster on the stern can be clearly seen . The heat generated by the impact section of Evans , whilst NIA R.W Winston , of 816 Squadron . welded parts of the destroyer to the carrier . Photos RAN (Right side of uppers) , directs them to the rescue ladders .

(emergency tum to port) . At the same time had been launched . We then more left . After about a ten-minute time I looked through the windscreen walked over to the other side of the search , and not finding anybody , we and saw a ship very close to our and saw the bow section abandoned the after section and she starboard bow. John Clarke yelled out , rising vertically from the water w ith was cast adrift . There was jus t no 'abandon the aircraft'. Apparently , (so l many sailors hanging on to guard rails more that could be done . learned later) , l had a glass of juice in and screaming for help. As it drifted off The next few hours are a bit hazy, my hand and passed it to Ken, asking into the darkness , Ken and I saw it as all of us onboard were just if he would hold it, and then bailed out slide under , taking , so we learned wandering around feeling so useless . of the aircraft! Ken poured the juice later , the majority of those who are The signalman from Evans landed into his helmet and then bailed out missing . All this occurred within five on the flight deck , he is in a critical after me, followed by the other two . minutes . Of those who are missing , condition and has been flown ashore Ron McKenzie was due to land on there are three brothers and the son of to Vietnam by a Kearsage aircraft after as we had taken off - after the collision , a CPO who was aboard the Evans . being transferred aboard that ship by he was diverted to the Kearsage , By this time the helos were one of our helos . coming over at noon in a boat. John returning so I cleared the after end of The helos were marvellous - in fact Clarke and Wally Gascoigne have the flight deck of the ships company everyone aboard is to be highly praised since taken the aircraft to Singapore . who were not concerned with the helo for the way they swung into action. Jim As l exited the aircraft , I looked recovery . Firth, from the time of leaping out of his for'rd and saw the collision which was The stem section of the Evans was bunk , was in a helo and airborne within quickly followed by the for'rd end of the slowly drifting down our starboard side twenty minutes - and - the helo had flight deck being covered in steam and - we could see the men aboard , but been in the hangar below ! smoke as the Evans ' boilers burst. because their decks are so low , we All the ships in the force had come Fortunately there was no fire at all - a could do nothing to bring them inboard . thundering in to the rescue , and by factor which reduced the toll many As it drifted down the side, it tore out a daylight , there were about forty of them times . few aerials and did some slight around us, all with their boats in the Just before the impact 'collision damage . We could see that it was water looking around . stations' had been sounded and going to foul on our starboard quarter After the stem sect ion was cast everybody was coming on to the flight so I had a scrambling nets brought adrift , the re was nothing further that deck. We had just launched two across and some sailors held on to we could do at all; the sailors onboa rd helicopters and they were recalled to them . One deck of the destroyer was really looked after the survivors . the ship to have winches fitted - a 20 only 8 feet below the level of the flight Because of the hot weather , many of minute job . I wasn't going anywhere deck and we dropped the nets there . them had been sleeping in only near the for'rd end of the flight deck as Unbeknown to me, Dennis Rose underpants and thus had no clothing . the grinding and scrunching , with the was on the quarterdeck and had lines Our blokes took the shirts off their smoke and the steam , was enough passed across to secure Evans backs to cover them - in fact , one 816 incentive to stay away . alongside. Three of our people leapt Squadron sailor gave his entire kit I heard the cry of 'help' from the aboard to coerce the Evans ' crew away . Shortly after , the stores side starboard side and ran over with Ken onboard Melbourne , as they were all swung into action handing out clean to see this chap in the water with one clustered down aft and were seem ingly overalls and new sandshoes ; also hot of our signal lamps being played on loathe to leave the security of their coffee , soup etc. him. He appeared uninjured but was quarterdeck . The inj ured were first attended to of struggling and Ken called out to him to Finally, they started coming for'rd course , and the remainder were float on his back. I pulled off my Mae and we pulled 80 - 100 onboard. After housed in the wardroom and West, inflated it and hurled it to him. no more were forthcoming , four of us quarterdeck . After the initial shock We both saw him grab it and then we went on board and started look ing wore off , the bar was opened for the directed him to the rafts , ·which by this below decks t_o see if there were any survivors and the band played such Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 11 songs as, 'California', 'Deep in the heart of Texas', etc, which cheered everybody immensely . By the time they were taken off by boat to Kearsage, they were well on the way to being merry. For our sailors, there has been a double beer issue tonight. The Captain, Executive Officer and the Officer of the Watch were all recovered [from the Evans], so at least this time the story will be told from both side. From what I have been able to ascertain , it would appear that Evans was to fault and our Captain (J.P.Stevenson} , did everything possible to avoid the collision . There was a memorial service on the flight deck this afternoon at 1715, and after the hymn , 'Eternal Father' , and 'The Last Post' , there were many of our people who were weeping unashamedly , myself included . Well , there just isn't much more to Dear...... Top: Brian Parrotte tell you. At the moment I am so tired , This note is to remind you of the Centre L-R: - ?- - Ray Amo l - having been awake for twenty-four outstanding part you played in bringing Ron Solomon - 'Slim' Sutherland hours, and with only four hours sleep in Melbourne from the depths of refit, with Front L-R: John Wilson - -?- the last thirty-six . new and varied equipment , to a state Photo: Brian Parrotte Love Geoff where , in three short months , she was; The above photograph shows a * Our thanks to Mrs Vickridge for 1. Brought to a high pitch of group of Aircraft Handlers taken at allowing Slipstream to use this letter. operat ional efficiency . Jervis Bay airfield in 1953. 2. Steamed 4,500 miles at high They spent two years there , Several awards were made in speed ; and clearing the timber around the ridges acts of recognition of individual 3. took part in a major international of the airstrip so that the aircraft could bravery by members of the exercise . make low level approaches . Melbourne 's ships company : * 'The Frenchman ' During this exercise , submarines • LtCdr R.J.Burns - George Medal never once were able to carry out a CONSISTENCY IN AN , ltCdr D.N.Rogers - Air Force Cross successful attack on the ship, and, on INCONSISTENT WORLD , LtCdr C.J.Patterson - MBE the night that the exercise ceased. a • PO N.H.Heard - BEM comple x night flying programme was .AB P.J.Richardson - BEM The following is a letter from the conducted with: • NA R.W.Winston - Queens Com'n Duke of Wellington to the 'Army • M(E) W.N .Baldwin - Queens Com'n Office ' of the day - it would appear 1. Wesse x 31- B helicopters • Cdr E. V.Stevens - Naval B'd Com'n that things haven't changed much screening against submarines . , LtCdr D.C.Rose - Naval B'd Com'n within the Public Service . , Lt C.J.Buchanan - Naval B'd Com'n 2. S2E Trackers locating an 'enemy' • Lt G.L.W.Vickridge - Naval B'd Com '!1 surface force then shadowing and My Lord, SPAIN 1810 • Mid. C.J.Cleveland - Naval B'd Com'n homing in a strike , in addition to round­ , M(E) K.R.James - Naval B'd Com'n the-clock anti-submarine searches , If I did attempt to answe r the mass ,AB A.J.Evatt- Naval B'd Com'n and of futile correspondence that • LS P.J.Varley - Naval B'd Com'n 3. A4-G Skyhawks illuminating and surrounds me , I should be debarred • OD M.T. Pullinger - Naval B'd Com'n striking the 'enemy' surface force . from all serious business of , OD P .A.Johnson - Naval B'd Com'n campa igning. , M(E) RR.Arnold - Naval B'd Com'n When the collision of the USS I must remind your Lordships for , PO A.J.Scott - Naval B'd Com'n Frank E. Evans occurred at 0315 on the last time , that so long as I remain ,OD C.P.Harris - Naval B'd Com'n the 3rd June, the whole of Melbourne 's an independent position I shall see that • NA LS.Hartley - Naval B'd Com'n crew reacted swiftly , calmly and no officer under my command is ,AB L.Farkas - Naval B'd Com'n gallantly to save many lives, care for debarred , by attend ing to the futile surv ivors , and to control and limit drivell ing of mere quill driving clerks in damage to Melbourne . your Lordship's office , from attending One of the proudest possessions This was the epitome of team spirit to his first duty which is, and always of many of Melbourne 's ships'company and efficiency. has been , to train the private men at the time , is a message to each and Congratulations , thanks , and all under his command that they may, every one of them personally good wishes for the future . w ithout question , beat any force addressed and signed by Captain Sincerely , opposed to them in the field. J.P.Stevenson. J.P. Stevenson , Captain I am, My Lord, Your Obedient Servant , The message was a heartfelt 8th July 1969 thanks from a man who was held in Wellington high esteem by all those who knew him. The message reads as follows : -Vale, USS Frank E. Evans - * With thanks to John Selby Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 12

Dear Ed, I have received your very welcome letter, copy of the Letters to the Editor magazine Slipstream and 0 0 membership application form. It was interesting to note, that the Dear Ed, As mentioned in the Journal, the magazine contained a photograph of 1st of April was the commissioning It is great to see Slipstream grow Don Chisholm , a long term resident of date, and although not present for that over the past years and become Newcastle , who I believe is now illustrious occasion , I was certainly even more informative about all deceased . there for a major part of the transition those issues related to Naval For many years after his discharge from the RAAF to the RAN. Aviation . from the Fleet Air Arm , he was a taxi­ Until some other time in the future , Slipstream is a credit to you and driver in the Newcastle area driving all the best, the Association and a tremendous Taxi T2560 . source of information for me. Jo Jost - WA Division and ex-NAMO . A photo of Clive Smithers and his Please give my best wishes to all wife also appeared in the magazine . I Dear Ed, those in the Association at Nowra . met Clive several years after he left the Today I received my October Yours aye, FAA. He was an instructor in the edition of Slipstream, 'Spike' Campey Australian Customs Service at the ir [Good to hear from you , Spike. Your congratulations on an excellent Sydney Training School in Clarence best wishes are now circulated . Ed.) magazine. I picked it up and then Street , I believe he has recently retired . couldn't put it down until it was It was also interesting to note that · Dear Ed, completely finished. the Association Patron , was my Just a quick note to let you know The sheep story in 'Spin us a Dit' 'skipper' on HMAS Melbourne in the that Ken [Beaton] and I are back was a real reminder to me when the year 1958. from our sojourn in the UK. same person ( it just HAS to be ...... If I remember rightly , Ron Robb The trip was a major success - ...... , who else could be described was a Nava l Airman prior to his Imperial War Museum , HMS Belfast , as a six-foot banana bender with a promotion and subsequent retirement Cabinet War Rooms , National head like a beat-up sand shoe) was the as a Lieutenant Commander . Maritime Museum , Buchingham bloke in charge of the Albatross bomb In August 1992, I underwent a '5' Palace etc in London . Then HMS dump at one time . heart by-pass operation and I Victory, Mary Rose , HMS Warrior , I was one of the able seaman understand that I am lucky to be here Royal Marine's Museum , Submarine armourers in the place, and one and become a member of the Fleet Air and Royal Navy Museum, plus a beer particular thing that sticks in my mind, Arm Association. I have been back at with Bill Crozer in Portsmouth , three was the way we could get Bob to work work for twelve months now. days at Yeovilton with Dave for us . He was very proud of his Enclosed please find cheque and Richardson , a day at Culdrose strength and when the time came to application form for membership of the (including a two hour low level NA VEX heft the 2501b Mk81 bombs around, Association . in a 750 Squadron Jetstream), and we'd strain and grunt and make it look Yours faithfully , then two more days at Yeovilton for the like hard work . Bob would take it off us Kevin F. Foot FAAA Reunion -GREAT! (Bloody muttering 'weak bastards' , while we [ Welcome aboard , Kevin . Ed.] expensive place the UK!) watched the fun. Joyce Knowlson - HMS Ocean I've included another 'Bob Classic ' Dear Ed, Association and several others wish to for the pages of 'Spin us a Dit.' 'Hope that the Journal continues be remembered to you and appreciate [ At this juncture , for legal reasons , as it's the only way we can see what receiving Slipstream. I feel that I should stress to the readers has happened to old mates - Must away - by the way , my wife that 'Bob' is an entirely fictitious especially the cream of them all - the sold our house in my absence . character . Ed.] Armourers( [Probably to pay off your credit The letter continues ... Incidentally , Keep it up 'Bucky' , there's not many cards .Ed.] my brother, Glen Dore, ex-Handler of us 1948-54 mob left. Yours aye, (Cerberus JR from 1963 or 4), is not Best wishes to all the boys. Geoff Vickridge often remembered as the first Museum Allan Johnson Caretaker from the days when it was in Dear Ed, To the Editor, 'D' Hangar, some of his models are still Thank you for the first issue of I suppose you have never heard on display in the present museum . Slipstream received at the time of He has an odd hobby now , of me, and are wondering how come rejoining the FAAA on 13 October. amongst his model aircraft can be I am writing this letter. I have found it extremely interesting found , and all in working order , a I receive each copy of Slipstream and didn't realise so many of my old Centurion Tank , a German Half Track to read from Ray Davy, and have seen mates were still kicking . (ex Czech) , a Bren Gun Carrier , an FV a lot of names of former shipmates , I I was particularly interested in the 432 (Porn version of an M 113 APC just though t I would add a few more. article about old Nirimba on pages 11 which recently featured in a movie on Yours sincerely and 12. I first arrived at Nirimba on 14 the Gold Coast) , a Saracen Armoured WL. Trevena (Trapper) April 1953, after initial training at Car (ex-Hong Kong) , someone else's * I know you,' Trapper' , and 'Diamond Albatross. I liked the place so much Centurion Tank . two ex-Army Land Jim ' -here we go .... that I, like a lot of others in training , Rovers, sundry other vehicles , a Eddie 'Doggy' Thompson - Bruce Errey managed to 'dip' the first NAMO exam Harley Davidson Soft Tail Classic and - Bernie Jeffries - Ron Neal - Max and hang on there until early 1954 after seven horses at last count! Ackerley - 'Paddy' McArdle - Merv taking Western Austr~lian native Regards, Carter - Jack Scanlon - Ray Shanahan leave. Peter Dore - Owen Nadin - 'Sailor ' Bill Collins - Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 13

Max Kerr - Ray Gunnerson - Maurie Lithgow - Ned Nevin - Mal Presland - Bill Hazel - Bill Cox - John Isherwood - Bill Sincock (now Bill Linden by Deed Poll) - Cameron 'Cammy' Reed - Arthur Sharland - 'Pricky' Reid - Barry Tyrell and last of all, Ray 'Storky' Mailey .

Dear Ed, The Tasmanian Division is only small, but has a strong attendance. Our members travel from all over the State to attend our meetings which are held in different parts of Tasmania on a rotational basis. We would like to hear from interstate visitors over here holidays . Contact names and telephone numbers are as follows : North West Tasmania: Barry Simpson (Pres) (004) 244413 - John Nobes(Sec)(004)352473 North Tasmania: Geoff Singline (003) 392146 South Tasmania: Les Kube (002) 436540

Dear Ed, The article in the last edition of Slipstream entitled 'Muster on the Flight Deck', mentioned riding elephants in Colombo whilst on the way to UK in 1955. This brought back a few memories from that period and I thought that the enclosed photograph may be of interest to the readers . Sorry , but I can 't remember the names of the participants . Regards , Neil Keedle

ELEPHANT WALK Kandy - Ceylon 12 July 1955

secondary task to perform , mine being developing on our port side, only to find Dear Ed, the Squadron Photographic Officer . that the attacker was now attempting a You may recall that I rang you b) These officers were rostered to right tum from astern of the island and some time ago in regard to the carry out Air Officer of the Day duties presumably now targeting three photograph alleged to be that of the on the bridge . It was my turn on the day Avenger aircraft parked forward port last Kamikaze attacking HMS that this particular attack took place . I side. Indefatigable after the official was therefore an eye to eye witness as The second photograph cessation of WW II hostilities. well as having access to the [Unfortunately too dark for Far be it for me to wish to spoil a photographs taken by the ship's reproduction. Ed] shows the point of good story, but the aircraft depicted is photographic section during this impact which wrote off the three attacking HMS Victorious during the period . Avengers , put a 'kink' in the Allied attacks on Okinawa somewhat accelerated take-off system , and the earlier in WW II. This particular attack developed loss of one seaman whose action My photograph , which is enclosed , from the starboard beam and station was in the fo'c's'le immediately is clearly identical to that published in appeared to be heading straight below the point of impact. Slipstream . It came into my towards the ship's island which also The three Avengers were possession for two reasons , namely : housed the radar equipment. immediately replaced by aircraft from a) 849 Squadron Observers then When 500 to 600 yards away, I the Fleet . Train, but the accelerated serving in HMS Victorious all had a deemed it prudent to check what was take-off system remained inoperative Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 14 until at least the end of the Okinawa campaign . During this period HMS Col Price needs YOU! - But certain conditions apply •• Victorious was reported in the media to be 95% operational. As the Avenger Dear Ed, crews mostly found this method of The Queensland Division of the FAAA recently held a most enjoyable flying off less appealing than the barbecue at Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast. normal fly-off, they were not Amongst those attending were three former CAAs , Higgins , Nicholls and particularly upset at the damage. Price. They decided that there should be a reunion of the Artificer Conversion • Harold Chandler - One time Lieut (A) Course C4, which was undertaken at HMS Condor in 1948. RNVR -ex-849 Sqdn HMS Victorious - Would all former participants of that course , please contact Mr.C.Price , 98 ACT Division Hodgson Street , ROSANNA , Victoria 3084 . Telephone (03) 459 7437 .

Dear Ed, The last months seem to have gone pretty quickly. I have enclosed a photo of Geoff Vickridge and Ken Beaton from Perth who were present at Yeovilton when our local FAA Branch made a visit there in September . The gentleman between them is George Chadwick , a member of the Ocean Association and the FAAA of Australia. I thought you might like the photo for your records. I am pleased to send you a little information about our new carrier Ocean, I will let you have further information as I receive it, but I think it will be a little slow in coming. The government is still debating cuts in the Defence programme and I only hope that scrapping the new Ocean will not be included in their decisions. Our membership is pretty stable at the moment , some members are fee ling the passage of time and find they are unable to attend the meetings , but we try to keep their interest by post as far as possible . As regards the FAA local branch , it thrives and I am fortunate enough to be able to join them for both the meetings and the soc ial events . I was so pleased that George Chadwick was able to meet Geoff Vickridge . They have a lot in common because each is interested in 816 Squadron . We have recently held the Taranto Dinners , an event much looked forward to Editor's comment: Three or four by the members . letters have been received on the Our kind regards and best wishes for 1994 to you and all members of the subject of the wrong photograph FAAA of Australia , appearing with Ted Tisdale 's article, Joyce Knowlson - Secretary HMS Ocean Assoc iation 'The Last Kamikaze'. The correspondence ranged from the - Vital Statistics (estimated) of the proposed HMS Ocean - informative, as above , to the caustic. It must be pointed out that the Displacement: 20,000 tonnes Length: 203 metres Beam: 33 metres article itself is factual, and had an Draught: 6.5 metres Speed: 28 knots ultimate aim in giving thanks to, and Armament: : Magazine launched Sea Wolf anti-aircraft missiles ; three Phalanx I recording the bravery of Lieutenant goalkeeper anti-aircraft guns ; two 20mm anti-aircraft cannons . Marshall Lloyd and his fellow pilots . Aircraft: 12 Sea King/Merlin troop carrying helicopters (or 8 helicopters plus 4 Therefore , the LAST word on the Sea Harriers as an option) . subject is given to Mrs Virginia Lloyd , Troops: 700 Royal Marine Commandos , plus vehic les and equipmen t (4 Landing Marshall's widow .... craft carried aboard ship to back up helicopters carrying troops and equipment ashore) . Dear Editor, Crew: 600 Royal Navy sailors and 300 plus Fleet Air Arm personnel. It is with deepest appreciation that I write to thank you for your kind note and the Fleet Air Arm Association July ·93 Journal with Ted Tisdale's article, 'The Last Kamikaze'. · Each account that I read tells me more about the incident and Marshall's courage. He was no stranger to Anti­ Aircraft fire, having been hit by flak on many missions , but it never deterred him from getting the job done! I will always be grateful that Marshall and I were able to attend the New Zealanders Gambia Reunion , and correspond with the Australian and British members of the Indefatigable Association before he passed on to a higher command . . L-R: Geoff Vickridge - George Chadwick - Ken Beaton - John 'Happy' Day Sincerely, Virginia Lloyd- · Florida USA Photo: Joyce Knowlson Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 15

Dear Ed, Story#3 Story #4 Thanks for my copy of 'The The 29th of April ,1946 , goes down I had been detailed off for extra Journal', but I note that there is a as the most infamous date in Fleet Air curricular duties as the ships Air/Sea complaint of little input from Arm history . Rescue pilot - flying the 'Walrus '. Aircrew and you request more yams How so? ...... Well that was the day After flying out of Schofields and from your readers. Herewith some when 828 Squadron flew its Avengers doing 'touch and go' landings in Rose reminiscences re- Nowra and from Schofields to Implacable , which Bay, I left one 'GO' a little too late and Schofields of 50 years ago. was located somewhere outside looked like collecting the Vauclu se Sydney Heads . Immediately on headland , at the last moment I story #1 landing , they were pushed ove r the aborted . On 12 November 1945 , the Royal bow and into the drink . A demand A RAAF launch came steam ing out from shore and chased me all over Navy Fleet Air Arm made a 'Balbo' made under the terms of the American formation run over Sydney to say Lend Lease programme . Rose Bay with a loud hailer screaming farewell. The aircraft involved flew in This made us all weep as we had away . I didn 't hang around but took off from Nowra and included Fireflies, become very attached to the 'Pregnant at a racy 30 knots , fully expec tin g a Corsairs and Avengers from 820 Cow' , a beautifully behaved aircraft . 'ROCKET' when I got back to base . Squadron . When I say 'All' the aircraft were I never did find out what all the fuss I was flying an Avenger and , as pushed overboard, one was saved by was abo ut. usual , we used a lot of fuel poncing our Commanding Officer , Lt Cdr PS: I understand that "Bobby' about trying to join up. Whilst about 'Bobby' Bradshaw , who asked Bradshaw was killed in a car acc ident level with Botany Bay my engine failed permiss ion of the Captain to boost it off in the UK. completely and I immediately dropped the catapult. This was achieved whilst One of Nat Gould 's ex-RAA F boys , out of formation . At the same time I the aircraft was at full throttle . 'Curly ' Bryden , a well known racing received panic-filled screams from the British FAA's Farewell to Sydney Observer and TAG - "Are you going to driver of the 50s , was also killed in the Ths photograph was taken from a very USA. ditch?" discoloured newspaper cutting from Kind regards , How could I possibly tell them that 1945 . It shows the formation run over *Ron Sunderland I had completely forgotten to switch Sydney referred to in Story #1 . tanks . Talk about a red face!

Story #2 I was switched to 828 Squadron and decided to marry a Sydney girt .- ; - The wedding was set for 30 March ,, ~,I . / 1946, a double wedding , two sisters , the other fellow being a Lt. Asdic Officer . As was usual in those days there was a beer strike on and the father- in­ law was at his wit's end, holding a reception with all these Navy 'bods' and no beer available . My ship, the Implacable', was in dry dock and we had flown off to Schofields . All the squadron was given leave except 'yours truly', who , as the wedding was in the following week , was made duty pilot. A number of officers wanted to go to Melbourne and Hobart, so I was detailed off for a Navigation Exercise to Hobart . Can you imagine the incredulous looks from the RAAF personnel at Point Cook when the Avenger rolls up, the wings fold, the Bomb Bay opens and all the luggage falls out , and then seven 'bods' tumble out of the back . Somewhere off Sydney The flight to Hobart was really Heads, 828 Squadron dicey, a 200' ceiling and hugging the aircraft from HMS West Coast all the way to Hobart. Implacable were 'deep ­ There was no 100 octane fuel sixed ' over the sharp available at Hobart, and had to fly to end . Western Junction, practically on the Photo : Ron Sunderland smell of a wet rag . However , all turned out well and I was able to fill the 'kite' with Cascade Beer, much to the relief of father-in-law - so everybody lived happily ever after . Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 16

At about 0730, the Master at Arms approached him to see if he was doing _S_PIN_· _A_DI_T_! ___. the job correctly, in the record ing of ,~,r---_u_s vehicle registrat ion numbers and times And then there was as they entered or left the THE STORY OF 'BOB' - THE establishment. Satisfied with his 'BOB' - THE TIMBER CUTTER inspection , the 'Joss ' said , 'The GREAT WHITE HUNTER Commodore is due on board for Trevor Gibbs phoned in from Colours . I want to know immediately This is the story from Peter Dore, Canberra with the story about when when he comes in'. who says that 'Bob' swore that it Bob was cutting railway sleepers out The Bosun 's Mate, not letting on was true, but then again, so was his in the bush. that he was clueless regarding who is sheep story. Bob felt that with a tally of fourteen who , said , 'Yes . Master at Arms '. Here we go...... Bob had a special hand-cut sleepers a day he was a bit At 0745 , the 'Joss ', once aga in fishing hole in a river up in of a record breaker. That was until he asked , ' Has the Commodore come in Queensland . spoke to the proprietor of the local yet, Bosun 's Mate? It is important that The fish in th is particular hole were hardware store , who told him that if he I see him '. so wary that they could detect the bought one of the new fangled chain The Bosun 's Mate replied, 'No presence of a human being from some saws he was selling, .Bob could at least Master at Arms '. distance away , and as a result , double his productivity . 'Well I hope he gets here within the wouldn't be around when the Bob bought one! next ten minutes' , was the rejoinder . fisherman arrived , no matter how quiet The next day he headed off for the Within minutes , the Commodore , . he had been in his approach . bush with the chain saw . dressed in civvies was driven into the Adjacent to this hole, and close to Arriving home that night , soaking in Depot in his staff car , the Bosun's Mate the centre of the river , was a small sweat , covered in dirt and dutifully recorded the regist rat ion island about fifty yards wide. Bob , ABSOLUTELY knackered , Bob number and time of entry into the log. being smarter than the fish , would pondered over what could have gone A miffed Commodore said to his moor his little boat on the other side of wrong. After a solid day of monumental driver , 'I wasn't saluted . Drive out the island , throw his line across the effort with the chainsaw , he had only again !' island and into the fishing hole . This managed to produce two sleepers . The car turned around and left the usually resulted in a quick catch , and There must be something wrong Depot , dutifully logged by the Bosun's he would drag the fish back across the with this new device . Mate . Once again the car enters the island and have it in his bag before the Next morn ing he returned the saw Depot and once again the registrat ion other fish knew what had happened . to the store and told the bloke he and time of entry are recorded . A One day , Bob got the surprise of bought it off how bloody useless the thoroughly 'peed' off Commodore his life ! thing was - he was better off using his ordered his driver to stop the car and After mooring his boat on the other old handsaw and broad axe. bellowed through the window for the side of the island , he hurled his baited The store owner said that he Bosun's Mate to come to him . line across the island in the hope of thought that there must be something When the Bosun's Mate bent down scoring a feed of fish . wrong with the saw and invited Bob to look in the back of the car , the It didn't take long before he got a into the workshop while he checked it Commodore said , 'Do you know who I bite , but what a bite! His catch took off out. am?' like lightning , taking a hundred yards of After checking the fuel level and 'I wouldn 't have a clue , mate', was line off the reel before he could blink . priming . the carbie , the man gave the the reply . Utilising all his skill and not starter cord a good firm pull. 'I am the Commodore of this inconsiderable strength , Bob With a cloud of smoke and a roar, establishment !' continued to fight th is beauty . Time the engine burst into life. The Bosun replied , 'Jeez , you're in and time again the line raced from the 'What the bloody hell's that the sh .. , the Master at Arms has been reel , and just as determinedly Bob noise?' , asked Bob. looking everywhere for you' . fought to regain it. Almost choking , the Commodore said , 'Drive on please , driver' . Eventually , Bob tired the monster THE BOSUN'S out , fought it to a standstill and MATE ? from Al Smith dragged it, albeit with a lot of difficulty , LIFE'S LIKE THAT! across the island . That was when Bob When we arrived at · Flinders got the surprise of his life, it wasn't a A shipwrecked matelot had been fish at all , but a BLOODY GREAT Naval Depot for basic training in the living on a desert island for months . FOX!! early '50s, we were just one big One day as he strolled along the Bob reckoned that he must have group of blokes, some wanting to be beach, he noticed a bottle lying half tossed his line so hard , that it cleared Stokers, Seamen, 'Birdies' etc .. buried in the sand, he dug it out, the island and the river , and landed in To make up class numbers , we uncorked it and a genie appeared . 'Name the two things that you most the paddock where the fox picked up had to wait for another intake of des ire', said the genie, 'and they will be the bait. recruits ·to come in. In the interim, we Being polite 'Birdies ', we didn't yell were given jobs around the Depot. granted to you !' 'Bloody beauty' , said the matelot. 'I 'Bull!', besides , Bob was too big. But As you all know, when we first want a carton of the best beer in the you can bet your life that we thought it joined we didn 't know who to salute, world , and , to go with it , the best ... and then asked for another dit. call 'Sir' or whatever . Well, one of our group was given woman in the world' . SEX IS HEREDITARY - If your parents the job of Bosun's Mate and mustered So , the genie waved his arms , never had it, chances are that you at the gangway for his first trick , the there 's a great big puff of smoke , a won 't either r Morning Watch . carton of beer ... and Mother Teresa . Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 1 7

concessions provided by State and Local Governments, though that could WELFARE OFFICER'S REPORT eventuate in time. by LG. (Chips) Gray- Welfare Officer NSW Who gets the card? You must be an Australian resident living in Australia and of pens ion age (60 for women - 65 for men) or meet the age Two items that have been dealt treatment of Australian Veterans (55 for women - 60 for men) and with previously in the Welfare suffering from malignant neoplasia (cancer) and pulmonary tuberculosis . service conditions for Service Pension. Officer's Reports, need to be Your income must be less than the The Department will provide or mentioned again. amount at which pension cuts out accept financ ial responsibility for the First , the necessity to take altogether . From 1 July 1993 , that treatment of any malignant condition or advantage of the free medical check amount is $722 .60 (single), or TB subject to the receipt of an for those who have been exposed to $1203 .60 (married/combined) per Asbestos . Recently two members of application from the patient or fortnight. These are indexed figures so our Association , who currently enjoy someone acting on their behalf . ' will go up each few months. good health, decided to have the free So , even if you have been rejected The card will be ava ilable and medical exam ination , the results for other 'entit lements' applied for such issued in July '94 , but it will be showed that they have the early stages as, Service Pension , Defence Service necessary for you to obtain a Senior's of the condition that may ultimately Housing etc ., on this important issue Health Card Claim Form from Soc ial cause lung cancer . you can gain valuable help . The Security or Veteran Affairs offices - but The detection at this early stage assistance also extends to Nursing NOT before May 1994. makes monitoring and management of Home care if required . When the card is issued it will not their health more satisfactory than had give as wide a range of benefits as the they not presented for the examination . SENIOR'S HEAL TH CARO Personal Treatment Entitlement card To avail yourself of this free check­ or the Dependant Treatment up, contact the Occupational Health From July 1994, many self funded Entitlemen t card as are available to ex­ and Safety Officer (OH&S Officer) , in retirees (DFRB/DFRDB etc .}, will service personnel through Veteran your State or Territory and request a qualify for the Senior 's Health Card , Affairs . However , a perso n who has a questionna ire and instruct ion sheet. this is not to be confused with the Specific Treatment Entitlement card , You will find the OH&S Officer listed in various Senior's Cards issued by the and is only eligible for treatment for a the Commonwealth Section of the States for concessional rail travel etc., service related condition , may receive telephone directory (NOT Veteran this being a Federal Government addit ional benefits through the Senior's Affairs) • a full list of contact numbers recognition that there are many aged in Health Card. also appeared in the January '93 the community who do not get a Social I have not yet estab lished the level Slipstream . Security or Veteran Affairs Serv ice of Assets that may be held in regard to The second previously mentioned Pension , but whose income is below the issue of the Senior's Health Card . information that many are still not the pension cut-off point. No doubt these will be promulgated or aware of, is in relation to the treatment As well as cheaper pharmaceutical available to you in May next year , but of cancer by Veteran Affairs . prescriptions , card holders will be able certainly wouldn 't be less than that for Any ex-service person , irrespective to get free hearing aids as pensioners both the Service and Aged pens ions of their service, will be accepted by the now get w ith their Pens ioner Health which as from September '93 have Department of Veteran Affairs under Benefits card . It will also give access to been : Single home owner $220,000 I the Special Arrangements Provisions : the proposed free dental services Single non-ho me owne r $300 ,500 I TREATMENT · of CANCER or when it is introduced by the Married home owner $338 ,500 PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS Commonwealth Government. It will not (combined) I Married non-home owner 'Special arrangements exist for the give automatic entitlement to $419 ,000 (combined) .

left to support five children , this he accomplished with tremendous will , and yet still maintained his duties in the Gordon 'Darkie' Service withou t complaint. Howlett who One son was killed in an accident passed away on 30 in 1972, the same year that Joyce , his September 1993 second w ife, came into his life and after a long illness. became his strength . Participating in With his flowing all of Gordon 's post FAA activ ities, she beard, Gordon was a is well known by his comrades well known , much He is survived by his mother , his loved character, and one of a wife, two daughters , two sons and remarkable group of volunteers who ei~ht grandchildren. pioneered the Fleet Air Arm in There were many humorous 1947/48. sidelights to Darkie's adventures in the Leslie William Mickan (Chicka) In World War II, he served on RAN FAA, no doubt his mates will reminisce ex-CPO AH R37482 Boom Ships and later became one of and burst into friendly laughter over a At the age of 62 , 'Chicka' died the many original Aircraft Handlers pot or two . peacefully at his home in Byron Bay on who trained at HMS Siskin in 1948, he We all wish Joyce and the family a 22 Augus t 1993. continued to serve with distinction in happy future with fond memories . Ou; since;e condol ences to his the FAA until 1964. On behalf of his mates , wife Nancy , son Jason and family Deserted by his first wife, he was Kevin Ambrose Boulter members .·· Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 18

couple of brollies. After our purchases NATIONAL SECRETARY'S REPORT Ron found another shop that had them for half the price, so we made another purchase , something about saving The 1993 meeting of the Federal It is obvious that 'Tiger' has money . Then we couldn't find the Bus Council of the Association was maintained his contacts, the weather Stop and had to take another taxi out hosted by the Victorian Division in was magnificent, shades of to Rowville . Reunion'92 . The fly-past by the Royal Melbourne on 30 October. That night , Ron Christie and his Unfortunately delegates from the Victorian Aero Club was impressive lovely wife invited Ron and I to their and very much appreciated . Tasmanian, Queensland and Officer's home , whilst there we met up with A big 'thank you' to the Committee Division were not able to attend, several of the Victorian members and however, proxies were appointed. The of the Victorian Division for a very well Mary Raynor from South Australia. It organised week-end, and to Secretary , meeting was capably chaired by Les was a very pleasant evening and once 'Juke' Matterson in the absence of Ron Christie, in particular. again I must say 'thank you', to the The Association Flag had its first National President, 'Toz' Dadswell . Christies . public airing on the 11th of November The major items that affect Next morning we made a quick trip members was an increase in Annual at the Entombment of the Unknown to Dandenong , as the sun was shining Soldier in Canberra . The Divisions Capitation from $3 to $5, plus a fee of there was no need for the broll ies. were represented by Ron Tate and $8 towards the cost of producing and After a couple of hours the wind was Theo Bushe-Jones from the West, circulating four copies of Slipstream so cold that we · finished up buying a per annum to each member . Geoff Litchfield and Len Baggott from jacket apiece - which we needed like a President 'Toz' is continuing to Victoria , Col Bushe- Jones and Brian hole in the head - as jackets were . Treloar from the ACT, Jim Lee from seek sponsorships , while cost saving aplenty back at the Motel. NSW, while 'yours truly' represented methods of production and circulation Back at the Motel , the National the National Executive. are being studied . In the long term, the Council members had arrived Ian The following is a list of new setting up of a Trust Fund to ensure Ferguson , 'Juke' Matterson , 'Pa~cho' members since the last issue of the longevity of the Journal is also a Walter and Commodore John Goble possibility. Slipstream : who was standing in for 'Toz' Dadswell One other very notable item was TASMAN IA: Dorothy Pope who was away on the high seas the appointment of Monsignor Frank WA : Brian 'Jo' Jost and serving somewhere between Europe and 'Tiger' Lyons as the National member , Phil Smith. Australia . So, it was a few 'tinnies' for Association Chaplain . I think that I SA: Helen Haynes those who partake, and coffee for Ron observed a glisten in 'Tiger's' eyes NSW : Gordon Crane, Warren Walters , and I, but it was a pleasant session in when Victorian President, Les Jordan , Ron Robb, Edward 'Digger' Schmidt, our room talking about the old times . made the announcement at luncheon Bill Julius, Leo 'Bodgie' Viles, Syd Bull, Saturday the 29th and into the following day. Bill Christopher , Tom Burton and Kevin Melbourne for the FAAA Federal The dedication of the Association Foot. Conference held in the RAAF flag was carried out at Cerberus the VIC: Noel Knappstein, David Maloy Sergeant's Mess at St.Kilda . 1 must say following day, prior to the service and Associate Judy Young . that everything went off well , and arranged for the unveiling of the FAA OLD : Brian Bosanquet, Les Childs, everyone showed a positive spirit to Plaque which is dedicated to those Stan Hodgkiss and Don 'Danny' the advancement of the aims of the who lost their lives in Fleet Air Arm Daniels. Association and its continuing growth . service . Senior Chaplain Graeme I believe that there are another ten The fact that we now have our own Adsett , Chaplain Eric Burton and our members but I do not have their flag meant that it had to be covered in own 'Tiger' Lyons conducted the names at the time of writing . the Constitution , as there was no service , John D. (Twitchy) Goble Hoping you all have a Happy and reference to a flag when the carried out the unveiling while 'Juke' Healthy New Year. Constitution was approved , suitable Matterson placed the floral tribute. * Ian Ferguson-National Secretary changes had to be made and approved don't participate in this . by the Council. NEWS FROM THE A train trip to Dandenong and a taxi Slipstream was also on the trip to the Motel, a quick phone call to agenda . As the cost of producing the DIVISIONS Ron Christie to confirm that we had Journal is on the increase , [primarily arrived , and pronto, he was there to due to Postal increases . Ed] and make sure that all was well . sponsors are very few and far WESTERN AUSTRALIA A visit to Frankston to be met by between, we will all have to pay to Dick Prentice outside the ladies' receive our four copies per year . To Hi Shipmates, underwear shop in the main drag , then cover printing and postage costs It's that time of the year again away to find Brian Smith . ONLY , represents an outlay of eight and another year closer to the big After several enqu,rres we dollars per member per annum - this stand-easy, so let's all live it up eventually located him, not at his does not include the additional costs while we can and don't count the home, not at his Gym, but at the Grand involved with producing the original cost. Hotel where he was holding 'Scripture copy , which are shared between the Ron Tate and I attended the Lessons' . He hasn't changed much , Editor, NSW Division and National. It Federal Conference in Melbourne and just a bit older like the rest of us. Brian has been left to the individual after leaving RAAF Base Pearce o~ wishes to be remembered to all a.nd Divisions to decide how this eight the 26th of October, arrived in sends his best wishes. dollars per head is to be raised , our Melbourne on the 28th having flown via Back to Dandenong, and guess Executive have decided that if WA Adelaide , Richmond and Canberra. what? You're right! Pouring with rain members wish to receive Slipstream The only thing missing was the and no jackets as the day was fine and an additional eight dollars should be 'frequent flier' points , but the RAAF warm when we left. So - had to buy a sent in along with their Annual Subs. Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 19

must have done something right, wasn't sacked ! On the Saturday night we attended the Senior Sailors Annual Reunion at the Mess and met up with many old shipmates , it was a very good night. [They also 'flogged' a few hundred dollars worth of raffle tickets for the National funds . Ed.) Thanks to 'Tassie' Ann ing we were able to get a lift to Canberra the next morning . After a pleasant trip across the mountains , my brother Colin picked us up on our arrival and took us home for lunch . As Colin only had a double spare bed ava ilable , and because Ron snores , he had to go and stay at Colin 's daughters place where he was made very welcome by Sand ra and husband Jim . We were well wined and dined while in the Capital , with trips to different clubs for dinner at night and much sight¥e ing. .... a pleasant session in our room, talking about old times. Whi le at the Mint we saw a notice L-R: Ian Ferguson - 'Pancho ' Walter - Ron Tate - Theo Bushe-Jones - that said they were stamping out [as in John Goble Photo: L.Matterson pressing not w iping] the Active Service and Service Medals, we were unable to sight them so you will have to wait You must all admit that this is a train has been retained at the Station , for their delivery . small sum to pay for the quality of the the one we all 'went up the line on' Attended the Entombment of the finished article , it gets better each those weekends so long ago . Our Unknown Soldier on the 11th of issue . I must congratulate the Editor on thanks and congratulations to the November and we carried the flags of the great j ob he has done in gett ing Victorian Div ision for the way th e the Nava l Association and the FAAA . Slipstream to the peak it has achieved . Conference , Dinner and Plaque laying There were over twenty thousand was carried out. All in all, the Conference went off people present and Anzac Parade was really well and we were able to We had lunch at the Junior Sailors full of banners and flags . We laid a Mess and then set off for Nowra with complete the business in the afternoon single Poppy on the tomb , and when Ian Ferguson who had an empty car session , all very friendly and no punch­ the ceremony was over the whole area ups. and plenty of room . A stopover at Cann was covered with flowers . It was a River and a nice drive next morning to On the same evening it was back great occasion and very moving . to the Mess for the FAA Dinner Vincentia where we shared the After the activities we had coffee arranged by the Victorian Division . hospitality of the Fergusons . Our with Brian Tr eloar (he makes good This was a very well organised event , thanks to Ian and Joan . coffee !) while we watched a video of the food was excellent and everyone A phone call to Don Eldridge , who the parade he had taped from the TV . was able to get around and meet old lives around the corner , and it didn't Thank you, Brian. mates . take long for him to arrive . We had Next day we had morn ing tea with During the evening , Commodore another good session with an old Ian Ferguson and Jim and Norma l ee Goble presented Ron Tate with his mate . Hope the health improves , Don, of the NSW Division, at the home of Sir Certificate and Badge of Life and all the best. Victor and Lady Smith . It was a most Membersh ip, and Diplomas of Merit to Next morn ing, Ian drove us to enjoyable morning and Sir Victor Mary Raynor of South Australia and Albatross where we were delivered to looked a lot better than when we last Clem Conlan of Victo ria. the Sen ior Sailors Mess and each of us visited w ith him a year ago . We all Congratulations to all of you. installed in a cabin . Then , down to the hope that his health stays good . Sunday the 30th saw us down at Museum, met the gang there and Checked with RAAF Richmond HMAS Cerberus for the laying of a offered our services for the week we about return flights to the West , no plaque to commemorate all those who were staying . This offer was read ily seats available as they are picking up gave their lives in the service of the accepted . 32 people in Canberra , so , it's off to Fleet Air Arm . The new flag was also Our first job was to remove the Sydney with Jim and Sandra to try and small 'lake ' that had gathered in the dedicated during the ceremony which get a flight home . Still no seats was conducted by three Padres . hangar from the overnight rain . The available until the next day . Went into workmen had started to pour the Monsignor 'Tiger' Lyons gave , as Sydney for a feed - thought we were footings for the hangar walls , they usual , an excellent address . With the back in Hong Kong , in the area of Pitt Navy Band providing the ml!sic for the objected quite vigorously to the water and George Streets all signs and being swept into their excavations , but hymns , it was a most pleasurable language in Chinese. We eventually morning . all was settled and we continued made it back home next day. Things have really changed at sweeping. Later on, Ron installed new The Annual Dinner was held on 20 fluorescent lights in the workshop and Cerberus, you can walk on the lawns November at the Carlton Hotel in East and even drive onto the wharf . The old wired up the grinder . I was his TA , I Perth . Fifty-two attended -great show! Sl;pstream - January 1994 - Page 20

'Murlex' Bradley came down from Geraldton - Keith Murdoch turned up, looks good but says that he 'has his days' Alf Diver was another participant. Our guests were Commodore Rob Partington and Captain Eames from HMAS Stirling . Rob spoke to us on the general topics of today 's Navy and was well received . Rabbi Coleman once again gave an inspiring talk on today's world. It's always great to hear the Rabbi. Congratulations go to 'Snow' Hall who did a marvellous job in organising everything . Whilst in Victoria , Dick Prentice authorised Lou Bums to pay the expenses for Ron Tate and myself up to five hundred dollars a day, this was counter-signed by 'Pancho ' Walter. l won 't print what Lou said , but we didn't Federal Council Members - Melbourne 1993 get the expenses . Nice try , fellas! Rear L-R: Brian Treloar - Ron Tate - Theo Bushe-Jones - Mary Raynor - To anyone visiting the West , Lou's Frank Crowe - Les Jordan - Jim Lee - Terry Hetherington place is nearly finished , so take up the Front: Gordon Walter - John lkin - Les Matterson - Ron Christie - Ian Ferguson offer of accommodation . He's got Note the new FAA Assoc iation flag in background . Photo : T.Hetherington plenty of room , I'm sure you could get a hundred on each side of the up to the FAM . Federal Counc il On complet ion of the services , all verandahs - and there are four Meeting scheduled to comme nce at adjourned to the Memoria l Garden verandahs ! [Not likely! I know how he 0900 the next day at the RAAF located between the chape ls. A used to give the blokes an early shake Sergeants Mess , Dorcas Street , ceremony was then held for the as 'kellick' of 08 Mess . Ed.] Melbourne . unveiling of an RAN Fleet Air Arm REMEMBER - Members of the WA I will let the National Secretary Memorial Plaq ue, and the ded ication Div ision , your fees are payable in supply the detai ls of the Meeting , but I and consecration of the FAA February , when you make out your must say that the proceedings went Assoc iation of Austral ia National flag . cheque please add the extra eight very well . The unve iling was carried out by dollars fo r Slipstream and avo id The next event of the day was the Commodore John Goble RAN (Rtd) , disappointment. FAA 45th Ann iversary - Reunion and the ceremony conducted conjointly I wish you all Good Health and Dinner , this was also held at the RAAF by Sen ior Naval Chapla in Graham Prosperity in the New Year . Sergeants Mess - but - what a Adsett , Naval Chaplain Eric Burton and * Theo Bushe-Jones transformat ion had taken place from Monsignor Frank (Tiger) Lyons . We the time of leav ing the Council Meeting congratulate and thank them for their to our return for the dii:m.er. The RAAF individual and combined efforts in the VICTORIA personnel had done a terrific job with plann ing and execution of this most the table arrangements and decor. historic occas ion . On behalf of the Victorian Most importa ntly, the dinner to follow Spec ial thanks must go to Ian membership , may I express the was excellent , everyone must have Brown , Chief Flying Instructor /Chief hope that you all had a Merry agreed with my thoughts on the matter Pilot of the Royal Victorian Aero Club Christmas, and wish everyone a as I didn 't receive one complaint - and who , with his associated pilots , Happy New Year. that's a big statement! provided an excellent display of For those members who could not The evening saw Ron Tate of format ion flying during the ceremony in or did not attend the activities in Western Australia being awarded Life our honour. Well Done ! - from all who Melbourne over the Cup weekend , l Membership , and Diploma 's of Merit witnessed the fly-past. will endeavour to give a brief report on presented to Mary Raynor of South Finally , I would like to express my what transpired , although I'm sure that Australia and Clem Conlan of V ictor ia . thanks to Alan (Happy) Clark fo r his mention of the same activities will also Once again, congratulations to these ass istance , and to all those who appear elsewhere in this edition . very worthy recipients . attended , for making the day such a Several of our interstate visitors Seventy people attended the success . were staying at the Baton Rouge Mote l dinner , including our Guest 's of Another event on the 'historic at Rowville , which is in close proximity Honour, Commodore John Goble RAN calendar' , has been the Entombment to my place of abode , an impromptu (Rtd) , and National Vice Pres ident , Les of the Unknown Australian Soldier in get-together was organised . I can still Matterson and his good lady, Florence . Canberra . On behalf of the Victo rian see the look of panic on my wife 's face Les officiated in the absence of Division Committee , I wo uld like to when I confronted her at about 1630 National President , 'Toz ' Dadswell , thank Geoff Litchfield and Len Baggott and told her that about twenty people who was overseas at the time. for representing our Division at this would be arriving in three hours time On Sunday the 31st , the weather ceremony . for drinks and nibbles ! was perfect. The days proceed ings Congratula tions are also exte nded No worries - Val handled the started with church services being to Monsignor Frank (Tiger) Lyons , in situation very well and a good evening conducted in both chapels at HMAS being appo inted Fleet Air Arm was had by all. This -event took place Cerberus , w ith part of the serv ice Association of Australia Chapla in. on Friday, 29 October '93 , · a good lead being in honour of the Fleet A ir Arm. [Nat ional] Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 21

The Annual General Meeting of the Victorian Division, will be convened at 1400 on Saturday, 12 February, 1994, at the RAAF Sergeants Mess, 6 Dorcas Street, Melbourne . (NOTE! at the time of writing this had yet to be confirmed). A warm welcome is extended to a new member of our Division, Noel Knappstein, ex-Lieutenant 'P' . Welcome aboard , Noel! * Ron Christie - Hon. Secretary ps: Liberty Boat Capers Christmas at the Melbourne Zoo on 05 December was our day together to celebrate the festive season. With clear skies, plenty of Santas and the permeating aromas, we relaxed on the lawns . A special 'thank-you' to all who came along with their children and Queensland Division Barbecue at Mooloolaba - 100CT93 grandchildren , your participation helps L-R: Mrs .Higgins - 'Taff Nicholls & family - Col Price - Ron Higgins - to keep the Association alive and well . Ken 'Snow' Nicholls Photo: Barry Lister Special congratulations to the reunion in Bundaberg . I take this away . Those of us who knew him See's great niece , Shae Hannaford , opportunity to thank everyone involved remember a pretty happy bloke , always who correctly guessed that there was for their full support, both to the good for a bit of fun and a laugh . 764 Smarties in the jar. Committee and our functions. Ron Higgins also notified us that Another one to circle on the The Federal meeting took place in Stan Paul, who was one of the original calendar is Sunday, 20 March '94 , Melbourne on 30 October , I was group of twenty that went to the UK to when a luncheon will be held at the unable to attend but Jim Lee from the train for the FAA , died on 16 Watsonia RSL commencing at 'High NSW Division accepted the November . We extend our sympathy to Noon'. appo intm ent of proxy for the both families . Don't forget the AGM! - we would Queensland Division. Thanks , Jim , Our barbecue at Mooloolaba in like to see everyone catching up with your assistance was appreciated . October was a great success with old shipmates again . Our capitation fee for 1994 is now about seve nty people attend ing - * Bryan & Jenny Roberts - Social Secs. set at $5 per financial member (it was beautifu l weather - great company . We $3) , and we supported that motion. were pleased to see Col Price firing on SOUTH AUSTRALIA Our fees remain unchanged at $15 all four cylinders , he was a gues t of joining fee and $15 annual Ron Higgins at Nambour . The SA State Bank is said to be on membership fee . Ken 'Snow ' Nicholls and his wife the way OUT! The new lapel badge , smaller than 'Taff' , came along as well , their new the original one , is now available and address is 47 Cresthaven Drive , The SA Labour Government is supplied automatically to new Hillcrest Gardens , Caboolture . Bob definitely OUT! members . Anyone wishing to update Conellan enjoyed himself while Don their old model , can place an order Daniels kept 'tabs' on him . They had a Even the Grand Prix has 'up bag with Ian Henderson , PO Box 113, great week in Caloundra flying the and hammock' and moved OUT! Cleveland , QLD . 4163 , at a cost of $5 . Skyfox and Jabiru . There was a noted Monsignor Frank 'Tiger' Lyons was slump in the sale of Gu inne ss the It appears that everything in appointed as the National Association following week . South Australia is getting 'OUT' Chaplain , and is delighted at the Trevor Bolitho phoned recently , he except news of your Division. appointment. has moved from Darwin and now lives If there's nobody left down there, The funding of Slipstream has in Bude rim, fairly handy to Jock Collins. I'll have Clem Conlan duck over the been a problem for some time now , it Our Polo shirt is selling well. We'll have some available for sale at the border and tum the bloody lights was moved and carried 'that the Bundaberg reunion , but , if you want out! charge to each individual member who wished to receive Slipstream be set at one before then , send $22 and your Come on, fellas, lend a hand. Ed. $8 per annum '. The Division will cover size to Ian Henderson (this price this charge for financial members from includes postage) . We do have stock QUEENSLAND our funds and with some sponsorship . in hand at the moment. . Asbestos Exposure - We have The Federal Council members This year sure has flown and has been asked to encourage all our have suggested a possible National been a milestone year for the members to avail themselves of the Reunion in Queensland towards the Queensland Division. free Asbestosis Check - for further end of October 1995 , as a poss ible We had our first meeting in details contact the Australian lead-up to the 50th Anniversary October '92 and to date , our financial Government Health Services in Reunion in 1998 . This sugges tion membership stands at about 90, and Brisbane. DO IT NOW! ( See Welfare stems from the concern of many our mailing list in excess of 250 . We Officer's Report this edition. Ed.] members who have commented that expect a great increase in financial Alan Smith also advised that CPO the time span between the '92 to the membership to occur at the March '94 (AH) 'Chicka ' Mickan had passed '98 reunion· is too great , especially for Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 22 those who aren't as young as they during the used to be. It sounds like a great idea, Festive Season but a lot will depend on how our and every good reunion in Bundaberg goes . wish for a The dates for the Bundaberg prosperous and reunion are 11-12 and 13th of March, rewarding year 1994 . We have already received quite in 1994. a few confirmations of attendance for Together with the dinner on the Saturday night - keep representatives them coming in. from NSW, Indications are, that Commodore Victoria , W.A. and Geoff Morton may also attend the the National reunion , hopefully with a couple of Executive, we aircraft . More on that later . were grateful for Whilst Bob Conellan and Don the opportunity to Daniels were having dinner with us, Join in the John Crawley phoned me (as a result ceremony for the of reading Slipstream). He reckons that Entombment of he and Ros will come up from the Unknown Canberra for the reunion .[Send him a Australian Soldier Membership Application form . Ed .] It on November looks as if it's shaping up to be a 11th. It was a very On a recent visit to the USA , ACT member , Mike Astbury . Gliding Club get-together in moving ceremony (left) , took the opportunity to present Joe Gates with his Bundaberg . with the who le FAAA Jumper and cap . Photo : Mike Astbury He did happen to mention that he'd length of Anzac Services Club , Manuka , for our Annual seen Jock Collins' mob of hiccups Avenue lined by the banners and Cock.tail party . This was the first time slowing down to get a quick drink from representatives of scores of Serv ice we had used this venue and everyth ing Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra the and Ex-Service Associations . Our went off spend idly. Our only regre t was other day - they took off at a great rate Association banners and flags were the fact that our Patron , Adm iral Sir of knots as a few 'flatulence's' came paraded proudly with all the others . and Lady Smith were out of Parliament House and headed Since the last edition, this Division unable to join us due to illness . We towards them . They went South - has had two social functions . The first were looking forward to their company maybe they'll tum up in Victoria. of these was held on 19 September at but they had to cancel at the last Incidentally , if you don't understand the Harry Adams farm at 'Melrose Valley '. minute . word in inverted commas, give me a This took the form of a barbeque and We received news recently that call and I'll explain . some 40 members and wives turned Brian Farthing and his wife will be I'm writing this screed during Xmas up. Unfortunately , the weather took a return ing in the new year after twelve party time , my committee will agree tum for the worse during the afternoon months in Scotland in the Isle of Mull. that I may not be able to write which put paid to aspirants for the pitch Brian's wife has been teach ing there in afterwards. After a recent pre-Xmas and putt competition . Nonetheless , all the past year. We hope that we will be do, I chaired our meeting and later on enjoyed themselves and our thanks go able to understand them on the ir had to phone Mick Blair and Junior to Harry Adams and his.wife for looking return . Henderson to find out what went on! after us all so well. Welcome back also to our National Shame! Shame ! Must be the Naval A few of us learnt how to erect an President Toz Dadswell and Gwen influence working on me . Army tent which should prove useful after a few months in Europe . He was With all best wishes to the readers for similar events in the furure . One of somewhat amazed to see a slight for 1994. the prizes in the raffle was a half hour change to our banner since his * Barry Lister - President flight over Ganberra by coutesy of departure . Maurie Tiffen implores him Barry Lister is the Principal of Main Norrnan Lee , and guess who won that not to use 'super glue ' to stick things Street Realty, Caboo/ture , and has - Nobby Clarke!! on in future . assisted several of our members in I was honoured to represent the Just a little reminder to all our their relocation to Queensland . Division at the annual meet ing of members that the Annua l General He can also provide current Federal Council in Melbourne at the Meeting will be held at the Canbe rra investment advice , especially in the end of October . Unfortunately, our Services Club , Manuka on Wednesday Caboolture area, which has one of the President , Col Bushe-Jones was 16th February 1994 commenc ing at biggest growth areas in Australia and overseas and could not attend . No 1930. This will be a short meet ing to provides excellent investment doubt, the meeting will be reported elect the incoming committee and will opportunities . elsewhere in this edition. All in all , it be followed by a social get-together. Barry can be contacted at Main went very well and many useful Please bring your wives and/or friends . Street Realty , 13A King Street , matters were discussed and decisions We will arrange some small eats and Caboolture QLD 4510 - Phone (074) taken . the bar will be open for all to enjoy . 954288 or FAX (074) 954560. The commemoration & unveiling of With best wishes for 1994. the FAAA plaque between the chapels *Brian Treloar - Secretary Australian Capital Territory at Cerberus was yet another pleasant and moving ceremony and a great TASMANIA chance to renew some old Although this will not reach you acquaintances . Once again we read a truly great before Xmas , we would like to take Our last function for the year was edition of Slipstream , and it does this opportunity to wish all of our held on 19 November when some 50 seem to me that each edition is fellow members a very joyous time of us gathered at the Ganberra better than its predecessor, more Slipstream - Januar y 1994 - Page 23 and more old friends and shipmates. The Division is still around and has NEW SOUTH WALES a get-together each three months or so, the numbers are not overly great 1993 - The year in review but all are there in spirit. The year was a 'steady as she There are a lot of 'Spud Digger' ex­ goes' year. Our AGM in March saw a FAA people out there , and we would basic recycling/reshuffling of surely like to hear from them to swell Committee members with three new the ranks . faces joining at non-execut ive level. Some of our old cobbers have To my mind , a severe handicap to passed on, God Bless them ! None of growth was our inability to appoint a us are spring chickens any more , but Soc ial Secretary , not even in a non­ I'm told you are only as old as you feel. elected , part time , or even 'specific As Mo McCackie would say, -How true, event ' capacity . how very true !' A major source of fund rising is an Our President , Barry Simpson at attract ive, comprehens ive social Devonport , is not real good and is Tasman ian Division President , Barry programme managed by an energetic under Doctor's orders and all sorts of Simpson , during a recent visit to the Social Secretary , with participation of things. He could well do without the Slipstream Office . Photo: Peregrihe Pub'g all membe rs possible . problems after losing his wife , Our trip to the Powe r House Margaret , this time last year . Keep feat consider ing their age and Museu m ear ly in the year although your head up, old boy, your mates condition . [Don't get exc ited you poorly attended was very enjoyable , won't forget you. restorers , I'm sure he means the and due to the efforts of the Secretary , Going through the October edition aircraft !! Ed.] Terry Hetherington , a social success . in particular , I see old shipmates Rod I have enclosed a newspaper However , due to the poor response Coupland, Mick Blair , Ron Baxter , cutting relating to the Pylon Race being from membe rs, when all the bills were Kevin Raddatz and not to forget old held here shortly , I hope members and paid we were $100 short w hich the 'Paddy' Williamson . These , along with friends might be able to see their way Division had to meet. many others , were serving during my clear to have a look. The FAA 45th Ann iversary Dinner, period of serv ice from Oct. 1951 to Incidentally , the mention of the again a social success , may yet break Oct. 1957 - when the Fleet Air Arm 'airline operated by the CIA' in the even if all costs are eventually was really roaring! cutting , there is a book in circulation recovered . Where are some of the others? called 'The Invisible Airline ', when you The Naval Aviat ion Museum Fly-In 'Rip' Lamont , Brian Thompson , Alan read it makes you wonder what really Days have been a feature of our social Ripps and Gordon 'Bluey' James from goes on and by whom . scene thro ughou t the year. Some South Australia . The last two were on That ought to be enough now for membe rs assist with displays and 724 Sqdn with me, they were riggers this old Birdie , should any one care to exhibits , others cater to the public on Sea Furys and Gannets wh ile I contact me after all these years , my appetite by operat ing the Hot-Dog and looked after the engines . address is : 120 Blackwall Road , Roast Beef Sandwich outlets. The Lou Luther , now gone, Ted Heaven Blackwall , Tasmania 7275 - Telephone major ity ju st keep turn ing up with (Line Chief on 724) , 'Buzz' Warfield , (003) 944398 But remember - I sling family and friends to support these Arthur Sara (AEO 724) [Arthur my hammock around 2100 . days of wonderfu l family deceased , but Mrs.Sara still a staunch Take care friends , entertainmen t. This participation member of the Association . Ed.], not to * Matt. Jacobs (Jake) assists in the viability of the Museum forget the one and only Les 'Zube' and ultimately helps preserve our Childs from Queensland . I could go on 'As mentioned previously , heritage . After all , that's what it's all and on. 'SkyRace Tasmania' is on from 28 about! We must not lose sight of the fact February to 6 March , at Valleyfield . I should point out that the that we are unique in this country . It The SkyRace event is based on pylon­ interac tion between the FAA and the does seem that we will never be racing in the classic North American Museu m is a two-way street. Director, replaced , certa inly not to the strength tradition , including two heats in four Mike Lehan , and his staff frequ ently we were in bygone days. Two carriers , categories and two days of fir:iaJs. host no-cos t barbecues and luncheons two depots , three airfields and a Feature events are expected to see as a way of saying 'than k-you' to the Marine Section at Jervis Bay. a head-to-head contest between Museu m volunteer wo rkers. Politicians - they say they know . What Queensland 's Guido Zuccoli and New Throug h the Museu m's high dowe say? Zealand's Qwilton Biel in their Sea standing with in the comm unity , and I have not been able to attend any Furys ; and competit ion between their ever increasing circle of contacts, of the reunions at Albatross , mainly former combat aircra ft from a they are sometimes able to arrange because of work commitments and squadron formerly operated by the US subsidised functions for the finances , but who knows , I may make CIA , abandoned and then recovered voluntee rs. The first , wh ich I it one day. I surely haven't forgotten from a Laotian airfield in 1988. A final thorough ly enjoyed , was a how to find the place ! I never failed , of 40 entrants is expect ed. presentation by Mr Colin White, a even under extreme conditions of Vatleyfield is located 7km from curator of the Royal Naval Museum , weather and sobriety . It's a lonely walk Epping in the Northern Midlands . In Portsmouth , entitled 'Jolly Jack Tar'. A in the early hours . May 1942, the War Cabinet agreed to title that belied the enterta inmen t I have also read with great interest cons~ct a fully operational airfield as value . The second was a Dinner Show the reports on the restoration of aircraft a long range bomber squadron base . at the Riverhaven Motel 'Hey Amigo for the Museum . I must take my hat off The bitumen airstrips , one 1180m , the Restaurant ', which sta rred Bunny to the dedicated people who are other 1480m , are now grown over but Gibson ~nd Paul Maybury . Each perform ing this task , surely no mean are still stable enough for landings.' funct ion as differ ent as chalk and Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 24 cheese, but each event outstanding in Museum Board as an its own way and exceptional value for observer . I learnt first hand money . about some of the many So you can see , there is truth in the problems faced by the old adage that 'It pays to belong' - Board , and particularly by 8,9,10 Museum volunteer support the Director and over­ squadron is no exception. stretched staff . Invited to Membership of the Division comment prior to the continues to increase at a steady rate . meeting's conclusion , I At the time of writing we have 351 'volunteered ' the editor's members on the register, unfortunately skills and the Division 's 15 are still unfinancial for 1993. photocopier to produce Because of financial considerations, if some 'special purpose ' those members have not paid their brochures for the Museum . arrears and the 1994 subscription by Talk about flogging a dead the time of the AGM, this will be their horse ! last Slipstream and they will be One unfortunate aspect removed from the register of members . of the above to the NSW Six members were removed from Division , is that for the the register in 1993 because of long greater good of the term arrears . Association nationally , we have been without the The year ahead services of a 'dedicated' PRO for the greater part of 1994 shows signs of being a the year. The Shoalhaven difficult year in some respects. NSW members miss members will find with this copy of 'Peregrine's' FAAA column Slipstream, a form for the return of NSW Members Ray Larder and Derek Whyte , in the local press , but there 'monkeying ' around at the Museum Vounteers Annual Subscriptions . This remains at are just so many hours in $15 despite pressure on the Christmas Party held at the 'Hey Amigo '. Photo :PP the day for one man Committee to raise funds to meet on­ stretched to the limits to going commitments . the publication increased , it was complete priority tasks . For example, this edition of obvious that we would have to register This brings me to the AGM and Slipstream will be the last provided it with the PMG and obtain cheaper Elect ion of Committee for 1994-95 . under the terms of our Australia Post Postal Rates . Your present Committee accepts that Registered Publications 'cheap Tony laid the groundwork and the members may be reluctant to nominate postage' contract. When the contract newsletter was granted Category 'A' for certain pos itions because of the is renewed in 1994, we are compelled Registered Publication status . He uncertainty of the requirements for that to change over to the Print Post ensured that we were legally able to position . To resolve this problem , we Service for delivery of periodical adopt the title , 'Slipstream' , which have developed a set of By-Laws to publications . This will entail an appeared in January 1991 as Vol.2 complement the basic guidelines set increase in postal fees . AustPost No.1 of the expanding Division down in our Constitution. Job states that it will be 'a general 30% Newsletter. Statements for all the Management increase , but substantially cheaper As Tony became more involved Committee posit ions are included in than Standard Rates' . My initial feeling with Sea Venom restoration , he the by-laws . If you are considering from from a cursory look at the Print eventually passed all responsibility for nominating for a particular Office and Post Rates and the National Pre-sort Slipstream to our current editor , whose wish to know what tasks and Post Code Plan, the figure is more particular skills , dedication and hard respons ibilities are involved , please likely to be 50% for national slog have made it what it is today . It is write to the Secretary and ask him for distribution . to his credit , that when the National a copy . The need for funds to produce and Executive proposed that an existing On the same enclosure containing distribute the Journal was addressed Division newsletter become the your sub 's return form , is a 'Nomination at the last Federal Council meeting Journal to convey FAAA news and for Comm ittee ' form . Remember , ALL when all the delegates agreed to the information nationally , the · Federal positions become vacant at the AGM. imposition of a $2 per member per Council chose Slipstream to perform Our Social Programme for 1994 issue levy specifically for four 1994 that role . commences with a Family Picnic Race editions. In round figures this amounts It is not generally known that our Day on Monday 21 February - the only to a $2,700 up-front liability for the editor is very involved with a number of day available to us. Our venerable Vice NSW Division. organisations , not least as Executive President , Bob Cronin, will do his Times certainly have changed Officer of the local branch of the utmost to ensure the success of this since our first PRO produced a Regular Defence Force Welfare first event on the calendar. He would newsletter on his dinky little Association (RDFWA) , the 'volunteer' very much like the ass istance of photocopier , which we then letter Public Relations Officer for the FAAA prospective 1994 Social Secretary dropped around the Nowra area . Nationally , and the volunteer 'link-man ' nominees (or anyone else) . The Slipstream , as we know it today between the Naval Aviation Museum experience could prove to be very [not the original], was the brain-child of Director and the 8.9, 10 Squadron satisfying . Tony Penno . It first appeared as the volunteer coordinators - the list goes As mentioned previously , our 'Fleet Air Arm Association of Australia on! financial outgoings this year are quite NSW Squadron Newsletter' in January Recently , appreciated the extensive . Apart from the funding 1990. As interest in, and demand for invitation to attend a meeting of the required for Slipstream, we have to pay Slipstream - Ja nuary 1994 - Page 25 a $5 capitation to the National Association for every member on the books. This is quite a large sum. and your assistance is requested in ensuring that your sub's are paid BY THE DUE DATE ! In conclusion, on behalf of the Committee , we hope you enjoyed a pleasant Festive Season , and wish you all that you would wish for yourselves for the year ahead . We look forward to the increasing presence of local members at our Open Forum Meetings , your support for our social functions, and your attendance at the AGM - BBQ in particular . [All dates can be found on your NSW Division pocket calendar] Jim Lee - President

The Naval Museum walls under construction - January 1994 Aviation Museum It's hard to believe that under this huge complex , there still resides the dummy deck which was cursed by the Handlers . damned by the practising Station Guards and now traversed by 'civvies ' who pay for the privilege . Photo: PeregrinePublishing much to thank our strong band of - A summary of 1993 and a glimpse into 1994 - dedicated volunteers for - this includes our Museum Staff who also work Introduction most happy with the arrangement. voluntarily on these occasions. We The business has deve loped would also be lost without the loyal Stage 2 major construction works , progressive ly on a solid bas is and support of the Nowra Air Division which included the Function Centre , should prove to be our major source of RANR . Galley , Shop , internal toilets and the revenue in the future . In recognis ing The Fleet Air Arm Association have 1MB Display Hall, was completed on this factor , a full time qualified Catering been very strong supporters time in November '92, and on budget. Manager was appointed last month to throughout the year in a wide variety of The completion of this facility provided take the Museum to the next step - that ways , ranging from cleaning hangar the essential elements with which to of developing the Restaurant and and aircraft prior to an event , operating develop the business aspect of the Function Centre as a total package . the Hot Dog stand , serving out the Butt Museum , 1993 has been dedicated to The demand for functions to be held in of Beef, helping out in the galley and that objective. 1993 has also been a the Muse um during the lead-up to acting as guides - to name but a few period of administrative consolidation Christmas was great , but an tasks . and much progress has been made in exhaust ing period for the staff. this regard Fly-In I Family Days. These The Shop. Shop development has Business Development events have been held approximately been limited due to the size and every two months , and have been so capac ity of the current facility . With the The Function Centre. The named to ensure that bad publicity is complet ion of Stage 3, the shop will Function Centre was opened for avoided when aircraft participation is move into the foyer with an additional normal full time business in January to reduced . A great deal of organisat ional three times the floor area . New shop take advantage of the School Holidays. effort has been expended on each items are constantly being An earlier expe riment of 'contracting occas ion attemp ting to get a variety of invest igated . St.George , for example , out' to a local company did not work . aircraft involved. The RAAF Museum are sponsoring a promotional video for The local ex-WRNS Association took has been particularly supportive in this sale (with our own copyright) - which on the task of volunteer caterers and regard . However , we will not get the we hope will be the first of many . performed an outstanding service to 'Warbirds ' to participate until we can Unfortunately , shop volunteers the Museum . The volunteer catering sponsor them with fuel , in much the have decreased for a variety of force for the facility expanded rapidly same way as the Air Force support reasons (it is a very demanding and at one time , there were over forty their Museum . It is a reality that aircraft environment ). Therefore , as we strive people on the books . owners are also feeling the pinch to become more professional during It was obvious from the onset , that financially . Our own Historic Flight our development phase , there will be a the facility should be limited to Snack continues to be extremely supportive , need for a qualified shop assistant on Bar operations in the early stages of its without them our Sunday programmes staff with a marketing flair. We cannot development , at least during 1993, and would not occur. rely on volunteers alone if we are to this has been the case with reasonable Fly-In I Family Days have carry out the necessary expans ion to success. progressively improved throughout the this cash flow avenue . P and 0 , who sponsored the Galley year as we have gained exper ience , with a donation of $125 ,000 , were and the cash intake has gradually Nowra. TAFE (Techn ical and advised of our intention and they were increased as a consequence . We have Further Education) . We have Slipstream - January 1994 - Page 26 developed a partnership with the rebuilding one aircraft for their Korean lkara and Taurana. An lkara and Nowra TAFE Hospitality Faculty, Display and efforts are being made to Taurana display system have been where they utilise our Function Centre ensure that the other airframe is loaned from The Victoria Museum. facility to teach Chefs and Stewards . eventually returned to our Museum . (Eventually to be called the National We charge a basic rent for this The Scout and other Sea Venom Aviation and Space Museum) . privilege and we also have the support restoration is slowly progressing in 'D' of the TAFE Staff in support of Hangar. Torpedo. Cradles are currently selected functions that the Museum Our Tracker has been with the under construction for 'the torpedo ' , may wish to host. Food cooked in the Training Flight for most of the year , which will then be relocated in the galley, in certain circumstances, can getting a face lift and being prepared Museum display hangar . be sold through the Snack Bar. This as the stand-by 'flyer'. Early 1994 will arrangement is in place initially for see it on display in the Museum . Administration. A great deal of three years , and is wor1

The Gliding hangar has now been event will be held on the Fly-In I Family A successful bid was made for emptied in preparation for dismantling Day on 10 July , when the foyer will be Wesse x spares from Zetland (DoD) and and remova l. The timbers will be used officially named 'The Ray Williams five truc k loads arrived mid November . in the erection of an 'operational' Foyer' , after our most signi ficant They are to be used to restore our hangar on the northern Museum sponsor (C.E.Heath) . Wesse x helicopte rs which will be loaned boundary, adjacent to the airfield. to other Museums as appropriate - in the Removal work will commence earty Workshop. The MTU Workshop spirit of the Defence Museum policy . 1994. Once removed the view from the was commissioned in earty June '93, Function Centre will include the after some hard work by a local 'chippy' Staff. Th e need to operate more operational hard standing of the Air contractor and our band of volunteers. independe ntly and the consequent Station and do much to improve our John Holmes once again came to the increase in respons ibilities (in addition to visitor interest. rescue by getting Pirelli Cables to the trans fer of the Capital Campa ign and With the 'commissioning' of the supply all our wiring requirements . the deve lopment of Museum 'business' ) new Fleet Air Arm Chapel on the Base, Steel shelving was erected in half , has necessitated an increase in staff . the old C of E facility was donated to the workshop as a ready use storage , Since January '93, staff at the Museum the Museum and is currently being this is being utilised by our volunteer have increased from one full time fitted out as a store . This building, storemen from the FAA Assoc iation. Adm inistrator, to five full time personnel , situated at the northern end of the The workshop is now fully namely , Director , Manager , Promotions hangar , will be required until a new operational and well equipped with Manager , Ad min istra tion Secretary and 'purpose des igned ' store has been mostly donated tools , some of wh ich Caterer). There are also four part-time built. The 'church ' will then be utilised would be extremely expens ive to emp loyees , Curator , Fundraising as a crewroom for the aircraft supply . Our part time 'chippy' was kept Secre tary, Accoun tant and Cleaner. As restoration teams . busy manufacturing nine additional ment ioned previous ly, there will be a display cabinets . Aircraft restorers will requiremen t to employ a professiona l Major works. The year has been be pleased to note that this task is Shop Keeper in mid '94 to maximise the devoted to settling all the accounts for almost complete and the workshop shop's cash flow potential. Stage 2 (ach ieved September '93) , used for 'real' work. ensuring that all defects and warranty Summary. 1993 has been a busy · wo rk has been attended to and Aircraft Stores. Our voluntee r year and the Museum business is preparing for Part 1 of Stage 3 - stores team , led by Les Matterson , are expanding rapidly. Great emphasis is cladding the hangar . cataloguing all our aircraft spare parts being placed on the need to be . on computer , and setting up a entrepren eurial during our development , Cladding of the hangar. Th is is comprehensive stores accounting and in the shorter term the Museum will seen as a critical step in the system. With millions of spare parts be utilised and involved in a wide variety development of the Museum business held at the Museum , this task will no of activities designed to promote and is due for completion before mid- doubt take years to accomp lish . ourselves as a major tour ist attraction 1994 . A small ceremony to mark the However , a solid start has been made . and , to make money. Cdr Mik e Lehan RAN (Rtd) - Director

· So pause and rejoice THE RAM-JET SONG 'Jacks ' on the Fax as the builder of choice , by JC and BC brings the effort thus rendered To the station down at Nowra The follow ing is one of the more to our vision most splendid .... To the place whe re Venom 's dwell unusual printouts to appear on the ' To that dear Expresso Bar we love so Museum facs imile machine over the THEN ... the Ancient Aviator well Christmas period . It was addressed to , can crap on the birds ! Sing the Venom crews assemb led 'The Birds' , (and the 'Boys') from 'The With our glas ses raised on high Bard'. God Bless the faithful. ... And the magic of our singing casts a It refers to the bird populat ion in the spell open hanga r of the Museum who , like And now a response on behalf of the very wealthy people , make many overwhelmed staff . Yes, the magic of our singing deposits and no withdrawals . And the flying done so well WE NEVER 'NEW 'E 'AD IT IN 'IM! As old VAT was always saying AN ODE TO THE ANCIENT by Peregrine 'We're the best !' ' We will hold the Collin s Trophy AVIATOR by The Bard Who could have guessed While the Fleet Air Arm shall last That from one so ascetic Then we 'll pass , but not forgotten , with The Birdies Museum There dwell'd in his breast the rest. is a sight to be seen, The words so poetic . with the ends and the side We 're poor little rams who fly all day to the winds open wide , But we're not so dopey Baa, Baa, Baa. We 're little gold fleeces who are here and birds that are feathered It stands out like neon to stay bombing 'birds' that are tethered . That the author is 'Soapy ' - That 's as in McKean . Baa, Baa. Baa. But we'll all soon be glad Ground crew off to night flying tea when the openings are clad, His pseudonym's a hit Wish ing us all to eternity and the sweeping and cleaning And carries lots of clout Lord have mercy on such as we will bring permanent gleam ing. But - when he signed it Baa, Baa, Baa. He left OLD and A-S-T out ! • W ith thar:iksto Roley Waddel l-Wood, 'Sheepman from Alcatraz' . Slipstrea m - Ja nuary 1994 - Page 28

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Old friends, John Selby and John Dacosta removing guano with a grin Guests at the Victorian Division FAA Dinner included, Greg Kelson, meet up again at as he participates in one of the Museum from L-R: Val Henshaw - Bryan Roberts - Jenny the Naval Aviation Museum.. working-bees. Roberts - Gloria and Dennis Fleming. Photo:Peregrine Publishing Photo: Peregrine Publishing Photo: Les Jordan