Sunday, 29th September 2013
Keith Hatfield is threatening me! After reading about my so called episode in Tahiti he wrote "Hey, Bung – are you sure you want to recollect the ‘jolly’ in Tahiti?? Also can recollect some ‘jolly’ stories of Jamaica you may wish to forget ??" Do your worst Hatfield. How could I have gotten into trouble in those island paradises, I was too busy visiting all of the churches and old people's homes?
I am so far behind with everything, a combination of have the brat from down south for the week, helping a friend with his granddaughter's wedding (no, I am not in charge of the shotgun) and a power blackout last night and again today, thunderstorms but no rain to speak of.
Played the doting uncle and took the brat for a trip every day, it was nice having her here I suppose, but bliss once the plane took off. I am sure kids are losing the art of communications, they speak like the do on Facebook, only words of 5 letters or less are used, and I honestly had trouble at times. Like talking to a drunken stoker!
The loss of another two highly regarded members of the submarine community has cast a cloud over many. The death of Paul Mangan in his early 40's really hit hard.
It is obvious that it is school holidays, not much to write about so I am calling it quits for the day, hope to do better next week.
Old Bill, the next door neighbour and I had to go into Brisbane this week and got caught up in heavy traffic near Parliament house. Nothing was moving. Suddenly, a policeman knocks on the window. Bill rolled down the window and asks, "What's going on?"
"Terrorists have kidnapped the entire Lower House and Senate at Parliament House, and they're asking for a $100 million dollar ransom. Otherwise, they are going to douse Campbell Newman and the cabinet in petrol and set them on fire. We are going from car to car, collecting donations."
"How much is everyone giving, on average?" Bill asked.
The policeman replied, "Roughly a litre."
And that's your lot for the week.
I am so far behind with everything, a combination of have the brat from down south for the week, helping a friend with his granddaughter's wedding (no, I am not in charge of the shotgun) and a power blackout last night and again today, thunderstorms but no rain to speak of.
Played the doting uncle and took the brat for a trip every day, it was nice having her here I suppose, but bliss once the plane took off. I am sure kids are losing the art of communications, they speak like the do on Facebook, only words of 5 letters or less are used, and I honestly had trouble at times. Like talking to a drunken stoker!
The loss of another two highly regarded members of the submarine community has cast a cloud over many. The death of Paul Mangan in his early 40's really hit hard.
It is obvious that it is school holidays, not much to write about so I am calling it quits for the day, hope to do better next week.
Old Bill, the next door neighbour and I had to go into Brisbane this week and got caught up in heavy traffic near Parliament house. Nothing was moving. Suddenly, a policeman knocks on the window. Bill rolled down the window and asks, "What's going on?"
"Terrorists have kidnapped the entire Lower House and Senate at Parliament House, and they're asking for a $100 million dollar ransom. Otherwise, they are going to douse Campbell Newman and the cabinet in petrol and set them on fire. We are going from car to car, collecting donations."
"How much is everyone giving, on average?" Bill asked.
The policeman replied, "Roughly a litre."
And that's your lot for the week.
Eternal Patrol - ex CPOETSSM Paul 'Mango' Mangan

It is with much regret that we report that ex CPOETSSM Paul 'Mango' Mangan passed away in his sleep after a long illness on Tuesday 24th September 2013.
Our sympathies go to Paul's wife, Gillian and to his parents and family.
Paul served on HMAS Collins and HMAS Dechaineux. He also served on HMAS Waller, HMAS Sheean and HMAS Rankin during build or trials.
Paul's father, CMDR Peter Mangan RAN Rtd, a former XO at HMAS Stirling, has advised that the funeral will be held at the HMAS Stirling Chapel next Thursday at 1030. No flowers by request, however a donation to Legacy would be appreciated, Legacy donation envelopes will be available at the Chapel.
CDRE Peter Scott said "I was greatly saddened to hear of Mango's passing. He served under my command in Collins where he was one of the outstanding characters of the Ship's Company. I remember in particular his part in our highly successful deployment across the Pacific in 2000. If you have an opportunity to do so, I would be grateful if you could pass on my sympathies to his family."
Note: Security requires that, unless a HMAS Stirling access pass is held, names must be registered for access to HMAS Stirling.
Our sympathies go to Paul's wife, Gillian and to his parents and family.
Paul served on HMAS Collins and HMAS Dechaineux. He also served on HMAS Waller, HMAS Sheean and HMAS Rankin during build or trials.
Paul's father, CMDR Peter Mangan RAN Rtd, a former XO at HMAS Stirling, has advised that the funeral will be held at the HMAS Stirling Chapel next Thursday at 1030. No flowers by request, however a donation to Legacy would be appreciated, Legacy donation envelopes will be available at the Chapel.
CDRE Peter Scott said "I was greatly saddened to hear of Mango's passing. He served under my command in Collins where he was one of the outstanding characters of the Ship's Company. I remember in particular his part in our highly successful deployment across the Pacific in 2000. If you have an opportunity to do so, I would be grateful if you could pass on my sympathies to his family."
Note: Security requires that, unless a HMAS Stirling access pass is held, names must be registered for access to HMAS Stirling.
Eternal Patrol - Chief MechSM Malcolm 'Jock' Campbell

An email from Donna Reggett has been received informing us of the passing of another old mate, ex Chief MechSM Malcolm 'Jock' Campbell.
She wrote: My dad was a submariner, serving with the RAN in the UK from 1966 - 1969 then in Australia on HMAS Otway.
He suffered Alzheimer's and sadly was admitted to a hospital whilst on holiday in the UK in 2008, medical staff would not allow him to return to Australia. Dad passed away in Rotherham UK on the 17th September, 2013 aged 77. Now I can finally bring my dad home.
Jim McCullagh wrote "Very sad about Jocks passing, he was my Chief Stoker on Moresby back in '72, and was the reason I ended up in boats. His nickname for me was "Scobie". Many years later when I paid off as the Chief Tiff on Success, I took a job as the Mechanical Services Engineer at Westmead Hospital and had to do relieving work for the Engineer at Parramatta hospital for leave periods. The first day at Parramatta hospital, I thought I better introduce myself to the Boilermen, as I walked in to the Boiler Room, someone yelled out in a RN accent, "Scobie, you fooking OD, how the fook are ya ?" Will always be my first sea dad.
Colin 'Chook' Fowler wrote "Jock Campbell will always be remembered by me as one of the best people I had the honour to serve with and a great friend who I could never forget. We came back from England in 1968, Jock gave me the deposit to put on a house in Campbelltown which took me six weeks to pay back. I send my sincere and heart felt sympathy to Donna and her family for a father who had a heart of gold. God will be kind to him in every way.
She wrote: My dad was a submariner, serving with the RAN in the UK from 1966 - 1969 then in Australia on HMAS Otway.
He suffered Alzheimer's and sadly was admitted to a hospital whilst on holiday in the UK in 2008, medical staff would not allow him to return to Australia. Dad passed away in Rotherham UK on the 17th September, 2013 aged 77. Now I can finally bring my dad home.
Jim McCullagh wrote "Very sad about Jocks passing, he was my Chief Stoker on Moresby back in '72, and was the reason I ended up in boats. His nickname for me was "Scobie". Many years later when I paid off as the Chief Tiff on Success, I took a job as the Mechanical Services Engineer at Westmead Hospital and had to do relieving work for the Engineer at Parramatta hospital for leave periods. The first day at Parramatta hospital, I thought I better introduce myself to the Boilermen, as I walked in to the Boiler Room, someone yelled out in a RN accent, "Scobie, you fooking OD, how the fook are ya ?" Will always be my first sea dad.
Colin 'Chook' Fowler wrote "Jock Campbell will always be remembered by me as one of the best people I had the honour to serve with and a great friend who I could never forget. We came back from England in 1968, Jock gave me the deposit to put on a house in Campbelltown which took me six weeks to pay back. I send my sincere and heart felt sympathy to Donna and her family for a father who had a heart of gold. God will be kind to him in every way.
Around the Traps

Anne Bax wrote "Best laid plans of doctors go astray. Either Garry or the surgeon forgot to read the ABR and PMS documents for kidney removal because the Doc had Garry on the table for 5 hours and could not get it out.! Seems the cancer had become very comfortable and anchored itself to the outside of the main blood vessel in the area. If they had ripped it there is a good chance I would not have a husband to annoy. Anyway we see a bloke in Sydney early next week for his suggestions."
Anne added "Garry and I have both been greatly helped by the messages following the item in the Log and I have enjoyed watching his face as he catches up with folk. We have also appreciated the phone calls and the visits of Ken Greenwood to the hospital have been a joy. It is good to see Ken looking and sounding so well. PS Learning a good deal about dealing with DVA systems, might just about have graduated to my Red P plates."
Graham Smith writes "I got back from my 29th trip to Bali 3 weeks ago, while sitting at the airport waiting for the midniteish flight back to Australia I vowed never to come back to Bali!!! Well this weekend I booked a flight and room for Bali in February, there’s something about that place!" Obviously, but I think I had better not ask what!
Peter Reid I found this interesting item about Iranian submarines in The Diplomat and thought it was worth reading. Although their fleet consists mainly of very small submarines, they could be very important during conflict.
Alan Mooney wrote "Visited HMS Dolphin Submarine Museum today while on holidays. Very interesting how the place has change in 40 years."
Bill 'Marbuck' Harris wrote "Just to let you know I have just visited one of your members in the Townsville Hospital, Colin Watts ex AB Stocker. I am also ex Navy but was a greenie and I am the Welfare Officer for Vietnam Veterans Federation here in Townsville. If anyone hears of anyone in hospital or needing assistance in this area please do not hesitate to advise me or our organisation, we maybe able to help." I have thanked Bill for his generous offer and pointed him to the NQ Branch and Ray Kemp, our National H&W Coordinator.
Anne added "Garry and I have both been greatly helped by the messages following the item in the Log and I have enjoyed watching his face as he catches up with folk. We have also appreciated the phone calls and the visits of Ken Greenwood to the hospital have been a joy. It is good to see Ken looking and sounding so well. PS Learning a good deal about dealing with DVA systems, might just about have graduated to my Red P plates."
Graham Smith writes "I got back from my 29th trip to Bali 3 weeks ago, while sitting at the airport waiting for the midniteish flight back to Australia I vowed never to come back to Bali!!! Well this weekend I booked a flight and room for Bali in February, there’s something about that place!" Obviously, but I think I had better not ask what!
Peter Reid I found this interesting item about Iranian submarines in The Diplomat and thought it was worth reading. Although their fleet consists mainly of very small submarines, they could be very important during conflict.
Alan Mooney wrote "Visited HMS Dolphin Submarine Museum today while on holidays. Very interesting how the place has change in 40 years."
Bill 'Marbuck' Harris wrote "Just to let you know I have just visited one of your members in the Townsville Hospital, Colin Watts ex AB Stocker. I am also ex Navy but was a greenie and I am the Welfare Officer for Vietnam Veterans Federation here in Townsville. If anyone hears of anyone in hospital or needing assistance in this area please do not hesitate to advise me or our organisation, we maybe able to help." I have thanked Bill for his generous offer and pointed him to the NQ Branch and Ray Kemp, our National H&W Coordinator.
Tony Vine posted a photo on Facebook of Open Day in Copenhagen taken in August 78. He commented "Shame this was the closest I got to going ashore thanks to three days stoppage of leave!!" Shame indeed, how did you ever make Commander, the RAN's standards must have really slipped!
David Bellman recently visited the SAA website and found that his name appeared on the list of those with outstanding Australian Service Medal (ASM) with Clasp Special Ops. David wrote "I served on Both HMAS Orion And HMAS Otama which involved completing 2 Patrols. I also have a mate who is also on the list and he will contact you separately." Follow the link. |
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"R U OK?"

"R U OK?" Those four letters really created a (surprising?) reaction when I sent out an email to all and sundry a few weeks ago. The email was based on a National campaign and, as I often encourage you all to keep in touch with old mates, I thought I would ask the question.
The response was immediate, and I am still getting phone calls and email. Most calls I received were just responding to the question "R U OK?" but at least six calls went deeper than that and it is sad to hear old mates suffering from ill health, depression and loneliness. When you are ill those close to you are usually aware and can help, but depression and loneliness are often concealed from family members or just thought to be a 'phase' you are going through.
Sometimes we only learn of these problems when it is too late so I urge all of you to start setting up a network of old mates and try to keep in touch. Even a monthly phone call or email can make a huge difference. 3 million Australians are living with depression or anxiety, I was one of them and it was the reason I retired and headed for the bush when I did.
I discovered that there are people out there that can help. beyondblue is working to reduce the impact of depression and anxiety in the community by raising awareness and understanding, empowering people to seek help, and supporting recovery, management and resilience. Don't be afraid to seek their advice.
Knowing Sid Czabotar had been going through a rough trot I asked him "R U OK?" Sid replied "I am well, had a couple of health scares and am getting over the death of my brother Les. The hardest thing for me is that his early death could have been avoided as he died of full blockages of the two arteries feeding his heart muscles. I have the same problem with a 50% blockage in one artery and 20% in the other which was diagnosed in March this year. Mine is treatable with drugs and I warned my 4 brothers to have their hearts checked then. Not one of them have done it evens since Les' death. Its like talking to a brick wall."
An important issue surfaced with Les' death, something that we should ALL be doing. Prepare for your death, don't leave it all to your family to try and sort everything out. I am speaking from experience and understand the problems that having to try and sort out the paper trail creates. Sid had similar problems "I have spent the last three months sorting out my brothers estate and have now good handle on what to do when someone dies in debt and intestate and how to deal with estranged children and a grieving widow."
Another thing to consider is the information required for an obituary. Time and time again we see the passing of a shipmate and we are unable to honour his service history through lack of information. The majority of SAA members have provided this basic information, but it is amazing how many ignore requests to provide this information. I also keep this information for non members, it is all treated confidentially and not disclosed without prior approval. So why not complete your details now, there is no obligation to join the SAA
The response was immediate, and I am still getting phone calls and email. Most calls I received were just responding to the question "R U OK?" but at least six calls went deeper than that and it is sad to hear old mates suffering from ill health, depression and loneliness. When you are ill those close to you are usually aware and can help, but depression and loneliness are often concealed from family members or just thought to be a 'phase' you are going through.
Sometimes we only learn of these problems when it is too late so I urge all of you to start setting up a network of old mates and try to keep in touch. Even a monthly phone call or email can make a huge difference. 3 million Australians are living with depression or anxiety, I was one of them and it was the reason I retired and headed for the bush when I did.
I discovered that there are people out there that can help. beyondblue is working to reduce the impact of depression and anxiety in the community by raising awareness and understanding, empowering people to seek help, and supporting recovery, management and resilience. Don't be afraid to seek their advice.
Knowing Sid Czabotar had been going through a rough trot I asked him "R U OK?" Sid replied "I am well, had a couple of health scares and am getting over the death of my brother Les. The hardest thing for me is that his early death could have been avoided as he died of full blockages of the two arteries feeding his heart muscles. I have the same problem with a 50% blockage in one artery and 20% in the other which was diagnosed in March this year. Mine is treatable with drugs and I warned my 4 brothers to have their hearts checked then. Not one of them have done it evens since Les' death. Its like talking to a brick wall."
An important issue surfaced with Les' death, something that we should ALL be doing. Prepare for your death, don't leave it all to your family to try and sort everything out. I am speaking from experience and understand the problems that having to try and sort out the paper trail creates. Sid had similar problems "I have spent the last three months sorting out my brothers estate and have now good handle on what to do when someone dies in debt and intestate and how to deal with estranged children and a grieving widow."
Another thing to consider is the information required for an obituary. Time and time again we see the passing of a shipmate and we are unable to honour his service history through lack of information. The majority of SAA members have provided this basic information, but it is amazing how many ignore requests to provide this information. I also keep this information for non members, it is all treated confidentially and not disclosed without prior approval. So why not complete your details now, there is no obligation to join the SAA
Vale - POTELSM Ric Ellam
In last week's Log we mentioned that HMAS Waller conducted a service over the last known position of HMAS AE1. John 'Buster' Keating, President of the ex RN Submariners association (Australia Branch) has advised us that the ceremony was held on Tuesday 27th August and it was followed (at 0700) by a Burial of Ashes at Sea Service for former RN POTELSM Ric Ellam (it was the anniversary of his birthday).
Buster writes "Earlier this year we received an Email from his daughter, Fiona Burdett (who lives in Albany), asking for info on how to arrange this ceremony for her late father. Fiona had been to the UK to visit her Dad in January this year and ended up attending his funeral service; she brought his Ashes back with her; we arranged to meet them in Albany in May at the WW2 US SUBVETS Memorial Service in Albany, along with Darren Thompson, National President of the SAA, the SAA-WA and serving USN personnel, at Stirling, led by LCdr Travis Zettel USN."
"Ric's widow Olwen, aged 82, came out from the UK for this and they were guests at the functions over the weekend at Albany. After the Service on the Sunday they handed over Ric's ashes and SAA WA Branch President Sid Czabator brought them back and handed them to me (I was unable to go to Albany). We did the rest assisted by the RAN DCO office in Rockingham, OIC LCDR Brian Froome RAN and the SM Force HQ, at Stirling (Mr Andrew Bujdegan). The Service onboard WALLER was the last link in the chain; a BZ to all involved!!
Veterans' Pension rates increase WEF 20 September 2013
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson announced new pension and income support payment rates for some 290,000 veterans, their partners, war widows and widowers across Australia would apply from 20 September. The first full pension payments at the new rates will be on 17 October 2013. The table highlights the key changes to fortnightly rates.
In last week's Log we mentioned that HMAS Waller conducted a service over the last known position of HMAS AE1. John 'Buster' Keating, President of the ex RN Submariners association (Australia Branch) has advised us that the ceremony was held on Tuesday 27th August and it was followed (at 0700) by a Burial of Ashes at Sea Service for former RN POTELSM Ric Ellam (it was the anniversary of his birthday).
Buster writes "Earlier this year we received an Email from his daughter, Fiona Burdett (who lives in Albany), asking for info on how to arrange this ceremony for her late father. Fiona had been to the UK to visit her Dad in January this year and ended up attending his funeral service; she brought his Ashes back with her; we arranged to meet them in Albany in May at the WW2 US SUBVETS Memorial Service in Albany, along with Darren Thompson, National President of the SAA, the SAA-WA and serving USN personnel, at Stirling, led by LCdr Travis Zettel USN."
"Ric's widow Olwen, aged 82, came out from the UK for this and they were guests at the functions over the weekend at Albany. After the Service on the Sunday they handed over Ric's ashes and SAA WA Branch President Sid Czabator brought them back and handed them to me (I was unable to go to Albany). We did the rest assisted by the RAN DCO office in Rockingham, OIC LCDR Brian Froome RAN and the SM Force HQ, at Stirling (Mr Andrew Bujdegan). The Service onboard WALLER was the last link in the chain; a BZ to all involved!!
Veterans' Pension rates increase WEF 20 September 2013
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson announced new pension and income support payment rates for some 290,000 veterans, their partners, war widows and widowers across Australia would apply from 20 September. The first full pension payments at the new rates will be on 17 October 2013. The table highlights the key changes to fortnightly rates.

SAA NSW BRANCH - Fleet Review 5 Oct 2013
Details for Members that have booked for the cruise are:
0930 Muster at King St Wharf No5 (Just down from Wynyard Station) - Near Aquarium.
0945 Board Vessel
1000 Sail
1500 Return
Due to restrictions placed on the Ferry Companies the sailing time has been brought forward to 1000 and therefore there will be an additional charge of $15 per person. Full Buffet and Drinks for the 5 hours. Call Geoff Anderson 0413 980 091 or Ken Norris (02) 9872 1831 if further details required.
Fort Denison Gala Dinner - International Fleet Review 100 Years of Navy
Advice has been received from Bronte Hoppner that Limited tickets are still available for the "Once in a Lifetime" Gala Dinner to Celebrate the 100 Years of Navy and the International Fleet Review into Sydney Harbour. Black tie, exclusive event. Tickets $1,250 each
Details for Members that have booked for the cruise are:
0930 Muster at King St Wharf No5 (Just down from Wynyard Station) - Near Aquarium.
0945 Board Vessel
1000 Sail
1500 Return
Due to restrictions placed on the Ferry Companies the sailing time has been brought forward to 1000 and therefore there will be an additional charge of $15 per person. Full Buffet and Drinks for the 5 hours. Call Geoff Anderson 0413 980 091 or Ken Norris (02) 9872 1831 if further details required.
Fort Denison Gala Dinner - International Fleet Review 100 Years of Navy
Advice has been received from Bronte Hoppner that Limited tickets are still available for the "Once in a Lifetime" Gala Dinner to Celebrate the 100 Years of Navy and the International Fleet Review into Sydney Harbour. Black tie, exclusive event. Tickets $1,250 each
John Rana, the SAA Treasurer is trying to solve a mystery. He has received a payment for $40 and the only information provided on the statement is "SCCU" . If you have made a payment for $40 please let John know.
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SAA Western Australia October newsletter
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Department of Defence On the Record
Submarine reporting in The Australian, 25 September 2013
On 25 September 2013, The Australian newspaper published two articles related to the condition of the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines. These articles were entitled “Secret Study Signals Sub Crisis” and “A Daunting Quest to save our Subs”.
The Collins Class submarine remains one of the most capable conventional submarines in the world. It is operated by a dedicated and well trained team of officers and sailors. The boats themselves are subject to a rigorous safety and certification system which all involved in the submarine enterprise take very seriously.
The commentary in both articles was drawn from selected areas within an internal report prepared by the Defence Materiel Organisation which examined the feasibility of extending the life of the Collins Class submarine. The purpose of the report was to identify potential issues and risks that would need to be addressed to extend the life of the class. This is a common and normal process to be followed if consideration is being given to the life-extension of any system.
It was always expected that the report would identify systems that would require attention should a life extension be required. Many of these were already known and are or have been addressed in planned upgrades or through continuous improvement programs. As with any risk analysis a risk must first be identified before it can be assessed and determined whether controls will need to be put in place to manage the risk.
There has been significant improvement in submarine availability over the last 15 months. Our submarines have been busy operating domestically and as far afield as conducting exercises in Japan and Hawaii. This is a testament to the hard work being conducted by all members of the submarine enterprise involved in the sustainment of the Collins Class submarine.
The article in the Australian hit a soft spot with some serving submariners and they all stated that the Collins was once again being targeted. One CPO wrote "I read a report today (The Australian 25th Sept 2013) regarding the safety issues with the Collins Class subs and the lies told by the Labor Government (should that surprise me?). I formed my own opinion of these submarines way back when they first came on the scene and it has been reported many times in the Log/Up Periscope just how wonderful these craft are (were). Is it possible for someone still serving to report/confirm the facts (to our submarine family) rather than tell us what they think we want to read? Sadly not mate, you are getting your message across by serving on them with pride.
The thing that annoys me is that we are going to be forced into listening to the ALP (who purchased them) blame this upon the Abbott government, what a joke these bludging freeloaders really are.
Submarine reporting in The Australian, 25 September 2013
On 25 September 2013, The Australian newspaper published two articles related to the condition of the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines. These articles were entitled “Secret Study Signals Sub Crisis” and “A Daunting Quest to save our Subs”.
The Collins Class submarine remains one of the most capable conventional submarines in the world. It is operated by a dedicated and well trained team of officers and sailors. The boats themselves are subject to a rigorous safety and certification system which all involved in the submarine enterprise take very seriously.
The commentary in both articles was drawn from selected areas within an internal report prepared by the Defence Materiel Organisation which examined the feasibility of extending the life of the Collins Class submarine. The purpose of the report was to identify potential issues and risks that would need to be addressed to extend the life of the class. This is a common and normal process to be followed if consideration is being given to the life-extension of any system.
It was always expected that the report would identify systems that would require attention should a life extension be required. Many of these were already known and are or have been addressed in planned upgrades or through continuous improvement programs. As with any risk analysis a risk must first be identified before it can be assessed and determined whether controls will need to be put in place to manage the risk.
There has been significant improvement in submarine availability over the last 15 months. Our submarines have been busy operating domestically and as far afield as conducting exercises in Japan and Hawaii. This is a testament to the hard work being conducted by all members of the submarine enterprise involved in the sustainment of the Collins Class submarine.
The article in the Australian hit a soft spot with some serving submariners and they all stated that the Collins was once again being targeted. One CPO wrote "I read a report today (The Australian 25th Sept 2013) regarding the safety issues with the Collins Class subs and the lies told by the Labor Government (should that surprise me?). I formed my own opinion of these submarines way back when they first came on the scene and it has been reported many times in the Log/Up Periscope just how wonderful these craft are (were). Is it possible for someone still serving to report/confirm the facts (to our submarine family) rather than tell us what they think we want to read? Sadly not mate, you are getting your message across by serving on them with pride.
The thing that annoys me is that we are going to be forced into listening to the ALP (who purchased them) blame this upon the Abbott government, what a joke these bludging freeloaders really are.

The 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the SIA will be held between 0730 and 0815 on Wednesday 16 October 2013 in Hall B at the Adelaide Convention Centre. Attendance is restricted to members of the SIA whose subscriptions are current. Full details are available on the SIA website.
How To Clean Your Toilet - The Fun Way
1. Put lid of the toilet up and add 1/8 cup of pet shampoo to the water in the bowl. 2. Pick up the cat and soothe him while you carry him towards the bathroom. 3. In one smooth movement, put the cat in the toilet and close lid. You may need to stand on the lid. 4. The cat will self agitate and make ample suds. Never mind the noises that come from the toilet, the cat is actually enjoying this. 5. Flush the toilet three or four times. This provides a "power-wash" and rinse". 6. Have someone open the front door of your home. Be sure that there are no people between the bathroom and the front door. 7. Stand behind the toilet as far as you can, and quickly lift both lids. 8. The cat will rocket out of the toilet, streak through the bathroom, and run outside where he will dry himself off. 9. Both the toilet and the cat will be sparkling clean. This handy household hint supplied by Niggs. |
Sunday, 22nd September 2013

The joys of being a (Grand?) uncle! Niggs and I ventured into BrisVegas last night to pick up 14 (going on 24) year old daughter of my nephew (not sure what that makes her, Grand niece?) and we ARE going to have a week of fun, even if it kills me. She is spoilt rotten by my big brother and pity the man that marries her. He had better be good at cooking and housework! What are we going to do for the next 5 days?
Again we have lost another of our Buddies without any prior knowledge. James 'Robbie' Robinson had been ill for three years and yet we were unable to help because the network failed. That pisses me off.
Alright, so I have to admit (again) that Chief Stokers are not always perfect. This time a spelling mistake picked up by Bruce Laird. "Just a quick one - I noticed that "Anniversary" is spelt incorrectly in the banner on the top left hand of the web page AUSSUBS100." Another repair job added to my growing list.
After recently receiving a couple of photos taken with John Goss I asked if he had any others, I lost all of my photos in a removal many years ago and it is good to get some of the old memories back. John said "I have a box of slides up in the shed which are taken during our trip home. Not sure there's one of a young Stoker flying off the end of a wharf in Tahiti! See what I can find." If anyone else has any photos of me I would appreciate a copy. Wonder what the story behind the stoker in Tahiti is about?
I was disappointed to receive the following after the SAA South Australia Branch AGM last week from the Secretary, Connie Francis. "As of Sunday the details of the SA Branch Executive are correct. Same Ol' Same ol'." This is no criticism of the hard working SA Executive, but of the large number of members available to do their part by volunteering for Committees. New members would resolve the problems associated with 'churn' - and bring in new ideas to reinvigorate the branches. Come on guys, why not think about it for your next AGM. Tasmania, your chance next weekend.
While on the subject of Committees I am going to piss off the SAA Management (again) by mentioning the lack of communications that exists within the Association (with luck they may sack me). A simple request to get Branches to check the information on their Branch pages and whether the Events calendar was current resulted in two responses. This is not uncommon, am I wasting my time trying to keep members informed?
I was having a beer with Old Bill next door earlier today and he not happy. He said "The wife's back on the warpath again. Last night she said she wanted to make a sex movie, and all I did was suggest we should hold auditions for her part."
Then his son's wife arrived home after taking golf lessons. Bill was surprised, she was very early and asked her how she went. She replied "I had just started playing my first round when I got stung by a bee. The pain was so intense that had to come home." "Where did you get bitten?" asked Bill.
"Between the first and second hole", she replied.
Bill nodded knowingly and said, 'Then your feet were too far apart.'
And he wonders why his womenfolk give him a hard time!
And that's your lot for the day.
Again we have lost another of our Buddies without any prior knowledge. James 'Robbie' Robinson had been ill for three years and yet we were unable to help because the network failed. That pisses me off.
Alright, so I have to admit (again) that Chief Stokers are not always perfect. This time a spelling mistake picked up by Bruce Laird. "Just a quick one - I noticed that "Anniversary" is spelt incorrectly in the banner on the top left hand of the web page AUSSUBS100." Another repair job added to my growing list.
After recently receiving a couple of photos taken with John Goss I asked if he had any others, I lost all of my photos in a removal many years ago and it is good to get some of the old memories back. John said "I have a box of slides up in the shed which are taken during our trip home. Not sure there's one of a young Stoker flying off the end of a wharf in Tahiti! See what I can find." If anyone else has any photos of me I would appreciate a copy. Wonder what the story behind the stoker in Tahiti is about?
I was disappointed to receive the following after the SAA South Australia Branch AGM last week from the Secretary, Connie Francis. "As of Sunday the details of the SA Branch Executive are correct. Same Ol' Same ol'." This is no criticism of the hard working SA Executive, but of the large number of members available to do their part by volunteering for Committees. New members would resolve the problems associated with 'churn' - and bring in new ideas to reinvigorate the branches. Come on guys, why not think about it for your next AGM. Tasmania, your chance next weekend.
While on the subject of Committees I am going to piss off the SAA Management (again) by mentioning the lack of communications that exists within the Association (with luck they may sack me). A simple request to get Branches to check the information on their Branch pages and whether the Events calendar was current resulted in two responses. This is not uncommon, am I wasting my time trying to keep members informed?
I was having a beer with Old Bill next door earlier today and he not happy. He said "The wife's back on the warpath again. Last night she said she wanted to make a sex movie, and all I did was suggest we should hold auditions for her part."
Then his son's wife arrived home after taking golf lessons. Bill was surprised, she was very early and asked her how she went. She replied "I had just started playing my first round when I got stung by a bee. The pain was so intense that had to come home." "Where did you get bitten?" asked Bill.
"Between the first and second hole", she replied.
Bill nodded knowingly and said, 'Then your feet were too far apart.'
And he wonders why his womenfolk give him a hard time!
And that's your lot for the day.
Eternal Patrol - ex LSETPSM James 'Robbie' Robinson
Western Australian Branch Secretary Paul Meakin has been advised by the widow of LSETPSM James (Robbie) Robinson, ex Otway and Orion, that Robbie passed away a couple of months ago in Geraldton after being very sick for some three years.
Robbie had been working on Cray Boats for some years and then went to work for the local council. Although divorced about five years ago Fay Robinson remained in touch with Robbie.
Robbie had been working on Cray Boats for some years and then went to work for the local council. Although divorced about five years ago Fay Robinson remained in touch with Robbie.
Around the Traps

Leeann Clayton has advised us that Billy will be going into hospital on Wednesday afternoon and will be having his heart operation on Thursday. Our thoughts are with you mate, get well soon as retirement needs you! Send an email to cheer him up.
Terry Parsons posted this photo (he is on the far right) of him taken when he was sweet 16, a first term Muppet. He posted "About March 1976 and my first exposure to Asbestos on the Steam Ferry - South Steyne, Steam Yacht - Lady Houptoun and Steam Tug Waratah on Navy supported weekends with Sydney Harbour Maritime Museum. I am so grateful for some of these old photos, should and if, they ever be needed for DVA." Enlarge the image to see a look of 'WTF' on his face. A look that often came over his face while maintaining ASR1s I believe. A windscreen sticker for the best caption.
After reading the item on Gary Bax in last week's Log John McDonald requested contact details. "I have been trying to get in touch with Bendy for years but his email on the site keeps bouncing! Have you got his correct one? His official number was 118047 and mine was 118046, we used call each other by our last 3 numbers!" 046 and 047 have been re-united. Gary's contact details in Buddies has been update. If you are in Buddies please let me know if you change email or address so I can keep it current, I am not clairvoyant.
Peter Reid writes "Re Joe Dansey in Steve ‘Dolly’ Gray’s report, I knew a Jim Dansey in Boats, he was a RO and I am supposing that the Joe mentioned maybe his son or nephew. Jim Dansey was posted to the Attack class Patrol Boat Aware in 1970 and in mid 1971 he was selected for submarine training in the UK. Jim remained in submarines for the rest of his Naval career serving in Ovens,Oxley,Otway and Orion as well as HMAS Platypus. Jim paid off in January 1979 and joined the RAAF the following day. He was a founding member of the Victorian branch of the Submarine Association. Jim sailed on Eternal Patrol on the 11th of May 1994. He was survived by his wife Georgie and their three daughters Katie, Emily and Sarah and five siblings. Jim was a well liked and respected member of the Royal Australian Navy and served his country well." Thanks Peter, I had the pleasure of serving on Ovens with Jim, a great run ashore, an RO who actually got a shout in.
Bruce Newton posted on Facebook "Last week I was working on a 2 story house in Cottesloe (Perth WA) about 1 block back from the beach, it was a great view of the ocean with storm clouds coming towards land. I sat on the roof and silently watched one of the Collins Subs sail out past Rottnest. Brought back a lot of memories of sailing middle of the week late in the afternoon, trying to stay dry and warm, going to play with skimmers, who you knew would not show up as it might rain. It was getting cold and day light was disappearing, so I finished the job, got off the roof, cleaned up and drove home with the heater on. I love my experience in subs but I love the heater in my van on cold wet days or I could just be getting old." Getting old!
Terry Parsons posted this photo (he is on the far right) of him taken when he was sweet 16, a first term Muppet. He posted "About March 1976 and my first exposure to Asbestos on the Steam Ferry - South Steyne, Steam Yacht - Lady Houptoun and Steam Tug Waratah on Navy supported weekends with Sydney Harbour Maritime Museum. I am so grateful for some of these old photos, should and if, they ever be needed for DVA." Enlarge the image to see a look of 'WTF' on his face. A look that often came over his face while maintaining ASR1s I believe. A windscreen sticker for the best caption.
After reading the item on Gary Bax in last week's Log John McDonald requested contact details. "I have been trying to get in touch with Bendy for years but his email on the site keeps bouncing! Have you got his correct one? His official number was 118047 and mine was 118046, we used call each other by our last 3 numbers!" 046 and 047 have been re-united. Gary's contact details in Buddies has been update. If you are in Buddies please let me know if you change email or address so I can keep it current, I am not clairvoyant.
Peter Reid writes "Re Joe Dansey in Steve ‘Dolly’ Gray’s report, I knew a Jim Dansey in Boats, he was a RO and I am supposing that the Joe mentioned maybe his son or nephew. Jim Dansey was posted to the Attack class Patrol Boat Aware in 1970 and in mid 1971 he was selected for submarine training in the UK. Jim remained in submarines for the rest of his Naval career serving in Ovens,Oxley,Otway and Orion as well as HMAS Platypus. Jim paid off in January 1979 and joined the RAAF the following day. He was a founding member of the Victorian branch of the Submarine Association. Jim sailed on Eternal Patrol on the 11th of May 1994. He was survived by his wife Georgie and their three daughters Katie, Emily and Sarah and five siblings. Jim was a well liked and respected member of the Royal Australian Navy and served his country well." Thanks Peter, I had the pleasure of serving on Ovens with Jim, a great run ashore, an RO who actually got a shout in.
Bruce Newton posted on Facebook "Last week I was working on a 2 story house in Cottesloe (Perth WA) about 1 block back from the beach, it was a great view of the ocean with storm clouds coming towards land. I sat on the roof and silently watched one of the Collins Subs sail out past Rottnest. Brought back a lot of memories of sailing middle of the week late in the afternoon, trying to stay dry and warm, going to play with skimmers, who you knew would not show up as it might rain. It was getting cold and day light was disappearing, so I finished the job, got off the roof, cleaned up and drove home with the heater on. I love my experience in subs but I love the heater in my van on cold wet days or I could just be getting old." Getting old!

In a recent email to members I included a summary of items in the Log, one being "Name this man! JJ Williams sent a photo and I wonder if you know who it is? A prize to the winner." I was perplexed when I received emails from Don Fleet and Elwyn Brookes who both said "General Kitchener taken off a WW 1 recruiting poster." I need to be clearer in future. No-one identified the photo as being a much younger and fitter John Rana.
A testimony to true friendship is a man who brings his best buddy home for dinner unannounced at 5:30 after work.
His wife screams at him as his friend listens in. "My hair & makeup are not done, the house is a mess, the dishes are not done, I'm still in my pajamas and I can't be bothered with cooking tonight! What the hell did you bring him home for?" "Because he's thinking of getting married." Replied the man.
A testimony to true friendship is a man who brings his best buddy home for dinner unannounced at 5:30 after work.
His wife screams at him as his friend listens in. "My hair & makeup are not done, the house is a mess, the dishes are not done, I'm still in my pajamas and I can't be bothered with cooking tonight! What the hell did you bring him home for?" "Because he's thinking of getting married." Replied the man.

Not sure if Roy Cross was reminiscing when he sent this.............
A man was lying in bed with his new Thai girlfriend in a hotel in the Thai resort of Phuket. After having great sex, she spent the next hour just rubbing his testicles... something she loved to do. As he was enjoying it, he turned and asked her, "Why do you love doing that so much?”
"Because," she replied, "I really miss mine..." Brings a tear to your eye, doesn't it
Recent visitor to Queensland, Bill Fisher, wrote "By sheer chance fell in with a couple of complete strangers in the West Wyalong pub who were also eating alone. One turned out to be Mick Olden ex CPOETC. He was telling us that he was a reluctant submariner who in the early 80s was pier head jumped onto Orion and spent six months incommunicado on her doing some very interesting stuff. His story is very suited to the recent thoughts on collecting dits for the centenary. I wondered if there mightn't be some ship mates who remember him and would like to get in touch. I have his contact details." If you want Bill's contact details, let me know.
Few would know that Phil Solomon is a man of Letters. In a post arguing about the dates that Sailstruc came in Phil states "I joined as a JR in April 73 with an R number then to Greenie School as an S number. So far I have been an R, an S, a C, an O, and an A .... and I can't spell any of them!!" Don't worry Phil, from much of the correspondence I have read from officers, an inability to spell goes with the territory.
Otto Sander, one of Germany's best actors, has died aged 72. He became known to world film audiences for his role in "Das Boot." Sander, who had long been ill with cancer, played a World War Two German submarine captain who mocked both Adolf Hitler and the British.
A man was lying in bed with his new Thai girlfriend in a hotel in the Thai resort of Phuket. After having great sex, she spent the next hour just rubbing his testicles... something she loved to do. As he was enjoying it, he turned and asked her, "Why do you love doing that so much?”
"Because," she replied, "I really miss mine..." Brings a tear to your eye, doesn't it
Recent visitor to Queensland, Bill Fisher, wrote "By sheer chance fell in with a couple of complete strangers in the West Wyalong pub who were also eating alone. One turned out to be Mick Olden ex CPOETC. He was telling us that he was a reluctant submariner who in the early 80s was pier head jumped onto Orion and spent six months incommunicado on her doing some very interesting stuff. His story is very suited to the recent thoughts on collecting dits for the centenary. I wondered if there mightn't be some ship mates who remember him and would like to get in touch. I have his contact details." If you want Bill's contact details, let me know.
Few would know that Phil Solomon is a man of Letters. In a post arguing about the dates that Sailstruc came in Phil states "I joined as a JR in April 73 with an R number then to Greenie School as an S number. So far I have been an R, an S, a C, an O, and an A .... and I can't spell any of them!!" Don't worry Phil, from much of the correspondence I have read from officers, an inability to spell goes with the territory.
Otto Sander, one of Germany's best actors, has died aged 72. He became known to world film audiences for his role in "Das Boot." Sander, who had long been ill with cancer, played a World War Two German submarine captain who mocked both Adolf Hitler and the British.

Bob Appleton sent this photo of a vase and said "Interesting at least!!!!!! Click on this image of a vase and take a look: What do you see? Then, check the explanation at the end of this section.
Chris 'Perl' Bayly wrote "I see that Pewee (Petherick) has yet another Mini !! He always was one for the cars and any girlfriend in the UK was assessed not by what she looked like but by what car she (or her old man) had and whether it was available for him to drive as well !!"
Chris continued "I fondly remember the one he had in Cerberus in 65/66" There were about 5/6 of us who had been through Leeuwin,Vampire and Cerberus together and we all volunteered for boats after being offered drafts to Sydney (with the "Stick" - Commander Brash - and his reputation on board) which we did not want following the completion of our EM's course. There was one trip we did from Cerberus to Rushcutter to do the decompression chamber as part of the process of being accepted for boats Four of us cramped into the Mini (with overnight bags and uniform) and a weekend run in Sydney as well!! We all survived to end up in boats - some are still alive, and some are still car- mad petrol heads."
Pervert! You saw a couple in an intimate pose on the vase, right?
Interestingly, research has shown that young children cannot identify the intimate couple because they do not have prior memory associated with such a scenario. What they will see, however, is the nine dolphins in the picture!
So, I guess we've already proven you're not a young innocent child. Now, if it's hard for you to find the dolphins within 6 seconds, your mind is SO corrupted that you probably need help! So our badge can now send thoughts of intimacy!!
Stand by to Surface
In an email to his fellow Canadians, George 'Bazoo' Byzewski, commented on the proposed full colour magazine proposed for the 100th Anniversary of Australian Submarines. "Sounds like an ambitious project. I hope the period starting with HMAS Otama's hugely successful and tiring port visit here in Halifax on her way home from Greenock; to the Canadians going to Platypus for SFCS and BQG training; as well as Command Teams; and to the Auzzies who did their Basic Submarine Training in Stadacona; to the awarding of their Dolphins whilst serving in Canadian O's during the 1982-1984 period. What a time to be in Submarines. I am sure there are more than a few Dits out there." Yes, this is an ambitious and exciting project and your assistance is required. Visit AUSSUB100 (yes the one with the spelling mistake pointed out by Bruce Laird) for full details.
Health Matters
Bill 'Revs' O'Reilly picked up on last week's item on Gamlen and wrote "You mentioned Gamlen on the Log last week here is the results of a study that has been done on some of the other toxic chemicals we were exposed to." An interesting report and hopefully all of our H&W Advocates have a copy. Thanks Revs.
While on health issues, Bill Sim asks "Is the diesel health scare getting worst or are Coles and Woollies up to something? The other day I filled up at Coles and as I was filling they asked if I wanted gloves. And today at Woollies there is sanitizer on all diesel pumps. To think we used to eat, drink and shit dieso." I think we are becoming more of a nanny state each day. Life is full of dangers, suck it up boys.
Brett Hinton, gets frustrated when giving his medical details. He sent me a suggestion, adding "Yes, don't be alarmed that a greenie had an idea." He said "Attached is my "everything" list of medical malaise. When I go to different doctor's/specialists/hospitals they usually ask all types of crappy questions I can't answer. I have drawn up the enclosed and just hand it over. I would keep a copy in my wallet but I can never find my wallet when I need it. I thought other members may benefit from having something similar?" Brett said I could publish the list as an example, but there would have been no room left for the Log. You are a sick man mate! However, I think the idea is worth merit and recommend that you carry a copy of your medical history and medication.
There may be a better solution to that suggested by Brett. A personally controlled eHealth record is a secure online summary of your health information. You control what goes into it, and who is allowed to access it. Your eHealth record allows you and your doctors, hospitals and other healthcare providers to view and share your health information to provide you with the best possible care. An eHealth record gives you control over your health information, placing you at the centre of Australia’s health system. Visit the government website for details, there is even an App for you smart phone or tablet.
Chris 'Perl' Bayly wrote "I see that Pewee (Petherick) has yet another Mini !! He always was one for the cars and any girlfriend in the UK was assessed not by what she looked like but by what car she (or her old man) had and whether it was available for him to drive as well !!"
Chris continued "I fondly remember the one he had in Cerberus in 65/66" There were about 5/6 of us who had been through Leeuwin,Vampire and Cerberus together and we all volunteered for boats after being offered drafts to Sydney (with the "Stick" - Commander Brash - and his reputation on board) which we did not want following the completion of our EM's course. There was one trip we did from Cerberus to Rushcutter to do the decompression chamber as part of the process of being accepted for boats Four of us cramped into the Mini (with overnight bags and uniform) and a weekend run in Sydney as well!! We all survived to end up in boats - some are still alive, and some are still car- mad petrol heads."
Pervert! You saw a couple in an intimate pose on the vase, right?
Interestingly, research has shown that young children cannot identify the intimate couple because they do not have prior memory associated with such a scenario. What they will see, however, is the nine dolphins in the picture!
So, I guess we've already proven you're not a young innocent child. Now, if it's hard for you to find the dolphins within 6 seconds, your mind is SO corrupted that you probably need help! So our badge can now send thoughts of intimacy!!
Stand by to Surface
In an email to his fellow Canadians, George 'Bazoo' Byzewski, commented on the proposed full colour magazine proposed for the 100th Anniversary of Australian Submarines. "Sounds like an ambitious project. I hope the period starting with HMAS Otama's hugely successful and tiring port visit here in Halifax on her way home from Greenock; to the Canadians going to Platypus for SFCS and BQG training; as well as Command Teams; and to the Auzzies who did their Basic Submarine Training in Stadacona; to the awarding of their Dolphins whilst serving in Canadian O's during the 1982-1984 period. What a time to be in Submarines. I am sure there are more than a few Dits out there." Yes, this is an ambitious and exciting project and your assistance is required. Visit AUSSUB100 (yes the one with the spelling mistake pointed out by Bruce Laird) for full details.
Health Matters
Bill 'Revs' O'Reilly picked up on last week's item on Gamlen and wrote "You mentioned Gamlen on the Log last week here is the results of a study that has been done on some of the other toxic chemicals we were exposed to." An interesting report and hopefully all of our H&W Advocates have a copy. Thanks Revs.
While on health issues, Bill Sim asks "Is the diesel health scare getting worst or are Coles and Woollies up to something? The other day I filled up at Coles and as I was filling they asked if I wanted gloves. And today at Woollies there is sanitizer on all diesel pumps. To think we used to eat, drink and shit dieso." I think we are becoming more of a nanny state each day. Life is full of dangers, suck it up boys.
Brett Hinton, gets frustrated when giving his medical details. He sent me a suggestion, adding "Yes, don't be alarmed that a greenie had an idea." He said "Attached is my "everything" list of medical malaise. When I go to different doctor's/specialists/hospitals they usually ask all types of crappy questions I can't answer. I have drawn up the enclosed and just hand it over. I would keep a copy in my wallet but I can never find my wallet when I need it. I thought other members may benefit from having something similar?" Brett said I could publish the list as an example, but there would have been no room left for the Log. You are a sick man mate! However, I think the idea is worth merit and recommend that you carry a copy of your medical history and medication.
There may be a better solution to that suggested by Brett. A personally controlled eHealth record is a secure online summary of your health information. You control what goes into it, and who is allowed to access it. Your eHealth record allows you and your doctors, hospitals and other healthcare providers to view and share your health information to provide you with the best possible care. An eHealth record gives you control over your health information, placing you at the centre of Australia’s health system. Visit the government website for details, there is even an App for you smart phone or tablet.

Pat Heffernan writes "This is our final report for this trip. Yesterday, 16th September, we paid our respects at the grave of Cdr. Bill King DSO & Bar DSC RN, who passed away last year at the age of 102. He is buried alongside his wife, Anita Leslie King, on the thousand acre family estate, Leslie Castle, in Monaghan, overlooking the lake. During WWII, Bill commanded SMs Snapper, Trusty and Telemachus. For 35 years after the war, Bill and Anita ran the Leslie Castle estate, as well as their own small castle in Oranmore, Galway. The present owner of Leslie Castle, Sir Jack Leslie, arranged for one of his staff to drive us to see Bill's final resting place. I have included a photo of the grave. We learnt, today, after visiting Bill's daughter, Leonie, in Oranmore Castle, that a special headstone is almost ready to be installed."
Pat added "We will be flying to London to spend the final days of our trip with family. We will be visiting the Archives at the Dolphin Museum, in my quest to complete my list of those Australian naval personnel who served in British submarines during WWII."
Another success for the Log. Keith 'Bluey' Jenkins read that Fred Butcher was talking about his Daimler SP250 and that he is considering fitting an aftermarket cruise control to it. Bluey wrote "I have one (cruise control) and have not even opened the box so it is not the latest technology but might suit the older car. Fred is welcome to have it if it is of any use." Fred responded "That is very kind of you, yes I would appreciate the cruise control unit. I do a reasonable amount of travel to car rallies and am finding it to be a bit of a struggle on long trips these days; someone said it may be caused by old age on my part not the cars!" Thanks Keith.
Pat added "We will be flying to London to spend the final days of our trip with family. We will be visiting the Archives at the Dolphin Museum, in my quest to complete my list of those Australian naval personnel who served in British submarines during WWII."
Another success for the Log. Keith 'Bluey' Jenkins read that Fred Butcher was talking about his Daimler SP250 and that he is considering fitting an aftermarket cruise control to it. Bluey wrote "I have one (cruise control) and have not even opened the box so it is not the latest technology but might suit the older car. Fred is welcome to have it if it is of any use." Fred responded "That is very kind of you, yes I would appreciate the cruise control unit. I do a reasonable amount of travel to car rallies and am finding it to be a bit of a struggle on long trips these days; someone said it may be caused by old age on my part not the cars!" Thanks Keith.

HMAS Waller conducts service over last known position of AE1
Extract from article published on 14 September 2013 LEUT Jack Abbott (author)
At the end of August, HMAS Waller conducted a ceremony in St Georges Channel, Papua New Guinea, to honour and remember the crew of AE1; the Royal Australian Navy's first Submarine. The ceremony was led by Waller's Commanding Officer, Commander Michael Jacobson, CSM, and was attended by all off-watch personnel.
The ceremony was conducted at 1100 hours, 3 nautical miles north-east of Berard Point, between the islands of New Ireland and Duke of York in the vicinity of the last known position of AE1. This position was reported by HMAS Parramatta (I) on the afternoon of Monday, 14 September 1914 after losing sight of AE1 on that fateful day. AE1 was never to be sighted again, and the story as to what occurred to AE1 and her crew remains unknown to this day.
The ship's company of HMAS Waller was fallen in on the submarine's casing and a wreath was laid by the Commanding Officer. This was followed by the Ode and the names of the crew of AE1 being read aloud by the Executive Officer. One minutes silence was observed where only the sound of the water lapping against the pressure hull could be heard. It was a moving ceremony and one which all of those in attendance will not forget anytime soon.
Extract from article published on 14 September 2013 LEUT Jack Abbott (author)
At the end of August, HMAS Waller conducted a ceremony in St Georges Channel, Papua New Guinea, to honour and remember the crew of AE1; the Royal Australian Navy's first Submarine. The ceremony was led by Waller's Commanding Officer, Commander Michael Jacobson, CSM, and was attended by all off-watch personnel.
The ceremony was conducted at 1100 hours, 3 nautical miles north-east of Berard Point, between the islands of New Ireland and Duke of York in the vicinity of the last known position of AE1. This position was reported by HMAS Parramatta (I) on the afternoon of Monday, 14 September 1914 after losing sight of AE1 on that fateful day. AE1 was never to be sighted again, and the story as to what occurred to AE1 and her crew remains unknown to this day.
The ship's company of HMAS Waller was fallen in on the submarine's casing and a wreath was laid by the Commanding Officer. This was followed by the Ode and the names of the crew of AE1 being read aloud by the Executive Officer. One minutes silence was observed where only the sound of the water lapping against the pressure hull could be heard. It was a moving ceremony and one which all of those in attendance will not forget anytime soon.
Submarines Association Australia

ACT Branch
The results of the elections at our recent AGM seen a few new faces on the Executive as we head into the Centenary year of Australian Submarines.
President: David Strangward Vice President: Michael Carew
Secretary: Geoffrey Burns Treasurer: Darren Harris
Committee: Peter Knights, Allan Harris, Peter Nimmo, Kevin Piechowski, Keith Bateman, Geoffrey Burns
Welfare Officer: Andrew Galley Public Officer: Darren Harris
David Strangward, AM
ACT Branch President
The results of the elections at our recent AGM seen a few new faces on the Executive as we head into the Centenary year of Australian Submarines.
President: David Strangward Vice President: Michael Carew
Secretary: Geoffrey Burns Treasurer: Darren Harris
Committee: Peter Knights, Allan Harris, Peter Nimmo, Kevin Piechowski, Keith Bateman, Geoffrey Burns
Welfare Officer: Andrew Galley Public Officer: Darren Harris
David Strangward, AM
ACT Branch President
Craig Cope sent this clip, it looks like he has been visiting young sailors at the weekends, brings back many memories of similar incidents from my past. Gee, I am glad we didn't have mobile phones with cameras in the early 70s.
It is so easy to mishear the lyrics with the modern singers.…They don't come much funnier than this. Click on this link below and turn the sound up .......Hilarious!! ![]() Lloyd Blake said "Had holiday in Europe/UK. Went to Scotland to see friends and happy memories. Found out why Terry 'Coyote' Wyatt goes to Scotland every year - he is the main event on Friday nights in this Bar located on High Street, City of Perth in Perthshire, Scotland."
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Taken ages to do today's Log, but calling it quits. Niggs and the teenager from hell are both calling out for food. Till next week, keep smiling! Norm & Niggs |
Sunday, 15th September 2013
Been a very busy week assisting Garth Schmidt and the SAANQ Branch of the Association with the fund raising appeal for Spanner. I hardly left the computer but it was all worthwhile, your generosity was overwhelming and Spanner and his family have offered their thanks to you all.
I often mention that warranties have an electronic link to a timer on equipment purchased. This timer is set to disable the equipment within 28 days of the expiry date. Well, the warranty on both my laptop and bedside alarm clock expired last month and last week, they did too. I don't mind the clock, Niggs makes it superfluous, but I do need the laptop. I still have a PC, all of my web stuff is on it but backed up to Cloud in case of emergency. So, off shopping on Friday and came home with a new laptop AND a Samsung Tablet. Spent most of yesterday loading software onto the laptop and updating everything, boring and time consuming! After a while I moved on to the Tablet, a big mistake. Programming a shuttle for a flight to Mars would be easier, and less complicated. I don't have a smart phone because all of this swiping does not well with sausage fingers. For the first couple of hours I thought it was stuffed, it kept shutting down? Finally I resorted to the manual and discovered this is normal IF you lose eye contact it goes to sleep. Not a fan, but I need something to watch porn on while driving, so I will persevere! Another feature on the tablet is voice recognition and this is also causing me angst. It reminded me of a video clip I watched recently. OK, so technology is not my speciality, but tell me I am not the only one that has trouble recognising codes displayed in CAPTCHA. Am I the only one that has a machine decide I am not a human? Now that I have gotten that off my chest I have a simple request. I am using a new method of sending out email to visitors to the Log and I am still getting a large amount of email returned from accounts that are no longer valid. If you are not getting email on a Sunday night advising that the Log is online, you may be one of these accounts and I request that you advise me of your current or preferred email address (have as many as 5 for some people???) |

Niggs has been very quiet this week, he hates the heat and has spent most of the time under the Mango tree by the pool. I take him down to the Mary for a swim each afternoon, just hope that the two crocodiles that have been sighted don't come up to our end of the river. At least I get a bit of a break from throwing the ball all day. I am still trying to get homes for 3 of his pups...........
I went into the Tiaro pub the other day and my neighbor Bob was staring sadly into his beer.
“What’s up Bob?” I asked … It’s not like you to be so down in the mouth.”
“It’s my five year old son…” Bob replied.
I replied “Don’t tell me, he’s in trouble for fighting in school? Forget about it; it happens to boys that age.”
“I only wish it was that,” continued Bob, “but it’s far worse than that. The little devil has got our 18 year old next door neighbor pregnant.”
“Get away, that’s impossible!” I gasped.
“It’s not,” said Bob. "The little bastard stuck a pin in all my condoms.”
And that's your lot for the week..... and remember, contact a Buddy and ask "R U OK?"
I went into the Tiaro pub the other day and my neighbor Bob was staring sadly into his beer.
“What’s up Bob?” I asked … It’s not like you to be so down in the mouth.”
“It’s my five year old son…” Bob replied.
I replied “Don’t tell me, he’s in trouble for fighting in school? Forget about it; it happens to boys that age.”
“I only wish it was that,” continued Bob, “but it’s far worse than that. The little devil has got our 18 year old next door neighbor pregnant.”
“Get away, that’s impossible!” I gasped.
“It’s not,” said Bob. "The little bastard stuck a pin in all my condoms.”
And that's your lot for the week..... and remember, contact a Buddy and ask "R U OK?"
Thanks
The submarine Community has once again proven that we support our Buddies in times of need. This was demonstrated in the immediate and extremely generous response to my call last week and on behalf of Spanner Watts and his family, the Submarines Association Australia and it's Welfare Foundation I say, Thank You. The stair lift and mobility scooter will see him terrorising the streets of Mundingburra, no young maiden (or old tart) will be safe, it is hard to outrun a scooter.
Allan Dangerfield wrote "Norm, a very worthy cause. After Plats decommissioned, I was posted to HMAS Bruneias the 'Charge', that was in July 99. Not long after, the East Timor conflict started. We were enroute to Bougainville and were quickly diverted to Darwin, picked up four Mack trucks, two of Dieso, and two of fresh water, and headed to Dili. After a couple of weeks, more equipment started to arrive, as well as a fleet of the Army watercraft-LCM 8's. Imagine my surprise when one was Coxswained by Sgt Spanner Watts. We had a great catchup, and the LCM 8's become our parasitic twins for many months. As the LCH Eng Dept was me, a killick, and two AB's, Spanner lent his craftsmen to assist in some major surgery on one of our main engines. The LCM 8 guys were a great bunch and spoke highly of Spanner as an NCO, a good bloke having a very rough trot."
The submarine Community has once again proven that we support our Buddies in times of need. This was demonstrated in the immediate and extremely generous response to my call last week and on behalf of Spanner Watts and his family, the Submarines Association Australia and it's Welfare Foundation I say, Thank You. The stair lift and mobility scooter will see him terrorising the streets of Mundingburra, no young maiden (or old tart) will be safe, it is hard to outrun a scooter.
Allan Dangerfield wrote "Norm, a very worthy cause. After Plats decommissioned, I was posted to HMAS Bruneias the 'Charge', that was in July 99. Not long after, the East Timor conflict started. We were enroute to Bougainville and were quickly diverted to Darwin, picked up four Mack trucks, two of Dieso, and two of fresh water, and headed to Dili. After a couple of weeks, more equipment started to arrive, as well as a fleet of the Army watercraft-LCM 8's. Imagine my surprise when one was Coxswained by Sgt Spanner Watts. We had a great catchup, and the LCM 8's become our parasitic twins for many months. As the LCH Eng Dept was me, a killick, and two AB's, Spanner lent his craftsmen to assist in some major surgery on one of our main engines. The LCM 8 guys were a great bunch and spoke highly of Spanner as an NCO, a good bloke having a very rough trot."
Around the Traps

The turnout at the inaugural AE1 Commemorative Service was not as good as hoped, it seems that getting members to any type of event is like pulling teeth. Thor Lund attended and reports "I told you we were god fearing men ! Well sort of, a motley mob from the Silent Service Motor Cycle Club and the SAA on Friday night for the AE1 commemorative service. Ok Ok there was a mention of rum to follow but I like to think that was a minor consideration. Jokes aside it was great to speak to a couple of descendants of the AE1 crew and get the stories. A good service run by a submariner for submariners past and present. Would have been good to see more SAA members turn up. But that meant more rum for those who did."
Ken Horn wrote "Just finished reading The Log. My comment, without doubt the best one yet. the two clips, Led Zeppelin and the world trade expo closing ceremony was great. My thanks Norm." He's easily pleased! Thanks Ken, but the praise should go to all that support the Log with their contributions.
Bruce 'Bruta' McLennan is on the move again. "The natives are a little restless here in Mindanau at present so I am flying over to Jakarta next week to attend a wedding of a Kiwi mate and will be there in time to see the Miss Muslimah World beauty pageant!! Apparently they are dropping the bikin section. It is all in response to the Miss World contest which now will be held in Bali due to mass demonstrations in Jakarta. I am going onto Bali till the 1st of October, if any of those guys who now live there want to catch up for a beer please give them my e-mail"
Roger Cooper from the Holbrook Submarine Museum reports "We have had the pleasure of hosting the officers and cadets from the newly formed TS Orion from Jindabyne today, hopefully we planted some ideas re submarines for the future. A good group and will come again if we can arrange to have Rod Peters unit TS Albury to get together here one weekend." Thanks Roger, always good to hear that submariners are active in the Cadets, Scouts etc.
Trevor Angel is reported as saying "One thing my time in submarines did was teach my wife to put out and bring the bins on garbage day, still does it 20 years on. Can't complain about that."
Anne Bax writes "Garry has just spent some time at the Diggers Bowls Carnival in Dubbo and there he met “Swivel” who remembers you. Seems that, when he joined boats, he made the mistake of keeping his hand on the tap while he cleaned his teeth and you cured him of the habit by having him clean the distiller. Never forgotten!" Looks like I did make a difference after all!
Anne continued "While Gary was bowling I was in Sydney with Janet Duncan. Those who remember Tom (Duncan) will be pleased to hear she is doing very well indeed. She has been on her first solo cruise and next year she and I are venturing to Singapore together. She also becomes a Grandparent in January. On Friday Garry has surgery to remove his right kidney as he has cancer in it. We came back from the reunion thinking he had a hernia and of course I must have packed the suitcases too heavily. Not my fault this time! It is interesting looking a the contributing factors for this one - heavy smoking, exposure to asbestos and petroleum based products plus a couple of others. Seem to have scored a trifecta ! We are down in Port Macquarie for the duration so I expect to be home again about a week after surgery. "
Ken Horn wrote "Just finished reading The Log. My comment, without doubt the best one yet. the two clips, Led Zeppelin and the world trade expo closing ceremony was great. My thanks Norm." He's easily pleased! Thanks Ken, but the praise should go to all that support the Log with their contributions.
Bruce 'Bruta' McLennan is on the move again. "The natives are a little restless here in Mindanau at present so I am flying over to Jakarta next week to attend a wedding of a Kiwi mate and will be there in time to see the Miss Muslimah World beauty pageant!! Apparently they are dropping the bikin section. It is all in response to the Miss World contest which now will be held in Bali due to mass demonstrations in Jakarta. I am going onto Bali till the 1st of October, if any of those guys who now live there want to catch up for a beer please give them my e-mail"
Roger Cooper from the Holbrook Submarine Museum reports "We have had the pleasure of hosting the officers and cadets from the newly formed TS Orion from Jindabyne today, hopefully we planted some ideas re submarines for the future. A good group and will come again if we can arrange to have Rod Peters unit TS Albury to get together here one weekend." Thanks Roger, always good to hear that submariners are active in the Cadets, Scouts etc.
Trevor Angel is reported as saying "One thing my time in submarines did was teach my wife to put out and bring the bins on garbage day, still does it 20 years on. Can't complain about that."
Anne Bax writes "Garry has just spent some time at the Diggers Bowls Carnival in Dubbo and there he met “Swivel” who remembers you. Seems that, when he joined boats, he made the mistake of keeping his hand on the tap while he cleaned his teeth and you cured him of the habit by having him clean the distiller. Never forgotten!" Looks like I did make a difference after all!
Anne continued "While Gary was bowling I was in Sydney with Janet Duncan. Those who remember Tom (Duncan) will be pleased to hear she is doing very well indeed. She has been on her first solo cruise and next year she and I are venturing to Singapore together. She also becomes a Grandparent in January. On Friday Garry has surgery to remove his right kidney as he has cancer in it. We came back from the reunion thinking he had a hernia and of course I must have packed the suitcases too heavily. Not my fault this time! It is interesting looking a the contributing factors for this one - heavy smoking, exposure to asbestos and petroleum based products plus a couple of others. Seem to have scored a trifecta ! We are down in Port Macquarie for the duration so I expect to be home again about a week after surgery. "

Pat and Mavis Heffernan's epic voyage of discovery continues. "We recently had the pleasure of attending the UK Submariners' mixed reunion in Solihull, Birmingham, which we enjoyed thoroughly. Admiral Sir James Perowne, the UK Association's national President and Rob Woolrych's friend, gave a speech at the dinner and told some very naughty jokes. It was a good weekend. I'm including a photo of Admiral Sir James Perowne and his wife, Lady Perowne."
"We then headed off to Faslane, Scotland and stayed overnight at an Aggie Weston's hotel. Aggie's, years ago, were the places in Portsmouth and Plymouth where young sailors could get a bed for the night. They had been catering for sailors since about 1850. The Aggies here in Helensborough, called Braeholm Hotel, is far superior to a lot of the local hotels."
"On the next day, at about 10am, we proceeded through a very thorough security check and a health and safety induction at HNMB Clyde. We were met by Sub Lt. Peter Seabrook and taken aboard the RN's new nuclear submarine, HMS Ambush. (I served aboard the old ambush, based in Singapore, for two and a half years, from 1960 to 1963). Our visit was arranged through Admiral Submarines. We were given a comprehensive two and a half hour tour of the Ambush. She is enormous. The equipment is mind-boggling and I was surprised at how cramped the conditions are aboard her. The crew do have the luxury of hot showere and plenty of fresh water. The sleeping arrangements haven't changed. It almost appears that the bunks from the old Ambush had been installed on board! We met up with several crew members and the CO, Cdr. Justin Codd. I got the impression that Ambush is a very happy Boat."
"We then headed off to Faslane, Scotland and stayed overnight at an Aggie Weston's hotel. Aggie's, years ago, were the places in Portsmouth and Plymouth where young sailors could get a bed for the night. They had been catering for sailors since about 1850. The Aggies here in Helensborough, called Braeholm Hotel, is far superior to a lot of the local hotels."
"On the next day, at about 10am, we proceeded through a very thorough security check and a health and safety induction at HNMB Clyde. We were met by Sub Lt. Peter Seabrook and taken aboard the RN's new nuclear submarine, HMS Ambush. (I served aboard the old ambush, based in Singapore, for two and a half years, from 1960 to 1963). Our visit was arranged through Admiral Submarines. We were given a comprehensive two and a half hour tour of the Ambush. She is enormous. The equipment is mind-boggling and I was surprised at how cramped the conditions are aboard her. The crew do have the luxury of hot showere and plenty of fresh water. The sleeping arrangements haven't changed. It almost appears that the bunks from the old Ambush had been installed on board! We met up with several crew members and the CO, Cdr. Justin Codd. I got the impression that Ambush is a very happy Boat."

Ride with Tex and Bundy to raise awareness about child abuse and protection. The K's 4 Kids ride 2013 is a motorcycle ride from Sydney to Brisbane. Silent Service member Tex O'Grady is the official ambassador for Project Kidsafe and he will be supported on the ride by other members of the Silent Service MCC.
Check out the Project KidSafe link and register to ride or check out the page and drop in at one of the overnight stays and bend a elbow with some of the troops and leave the remaining beer coupons for the cause.
Royal Marines Band Concert in Sydney
The RM Band Concert in Sydney on Wednesday, 9th October. The concert has been arranged by the High Commission, with sponsorship from British Airways (without whom we would have been unable to afford to fly the Band over from UK). Tickets are available and seem to be selling reasonably well, over 300 so far, and they have not yet started advertising – so it’s all word of mouth. Should be a great night.
Check out the Project KidSafe link and register to ride or check out the page and drop in at one of the overnight stays and bend a elbow with some of the troops and leave the remaining beer coupons for the cause.
Royal Marines Band Concert in Sydney
The RM Band Concert in Sydney on Wednesday, 9th October. The concert has been arranged by the High Commission, with sponsorship from British Airways (without whom we would have been unable to afford to fly the Band over from UK). Tickets are available and seem to be selling reasonably well, over 300 so far, and they have not yet started advertising – so it’s all word of mouth. Should be a great night.
Gus and Rosemary Gillis travelled to Wagga Wagga last weekend for their Grandson's passing out Parade at Kapooka. He wrote "We visited the Holbrook Museum what a great job they have done it was great to have a look around and sign the visitors book."
"We then went to Leeton to catch up with Bungy 'Rupert' Williams and spent a couple of days with them. Bungy decide to show off his homemade pizza oven. After we stoked the fire up and a carton of beer later we got the Pizzas on. I can now see why Bungy was a Forendy and not a stoker after he burnt his pizza shove and had to retrieve it from the oven." In Dubai , they forgot one little item... You have seen those architectural wonders of Dubai. However, they forgot one little item, none are hooked up to a sewer system! Dubai doesn't have a sewage system for all those big new buildings but Arab ingenuity solves the problem. |
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Health Alert
Gamlen was in service for a long time, with no due care or attention, until someone checked it out for hazards. This was before MSDS was invented? This link is a report from 2008 that addresses toxic substances used on RAN ships, the lack of knowledge about what was being used and the lack of PPE. May explain a few things for some old salts.
Darryl Dick said that he was visiting his daughter last week when he asked her if he could borrow a newspaper. His daughter replied "This is the 21st century and we don't waste money on newspapers. Here, use my iPad." Darryl said "I can tell you this. That fly never knew what hit him."
Gamlen was in service for a long time, with no due care or attention, until someone checked it out for hazards. This was before MSDS was invented? This link is a report from 2008 that addresses toxic substances used on RAN ships, the lack of knowledge about what was being used and the lack of PPE. May explain a few things for some old salts.
Darryl Dick said that he was visiting his daughter last week when he asked her if he could borrow a newspaper. His daughter replied "This is the 21st century and we don't waste money on newspapers. Here, use my iPad." Darryl said "I can tell you this. That fly never knew what hit him."

David "PeeWee" Petherick has just purchased the most expensive Mini in recent history (I think mine in about '69 has that honour), spending the kid's inheritance on the way. "Reminiscing on my younger days, again so we thought we'd get another toy for my daughter, and bought a Mini van. Flew down to Sydney on the 1st Sept, and left the next day only to get as far as Gosford with over heating problems. As it was Sunday, we had our first night in the motel, which luckily for us, was owned by the Gosford RSL.
After a few days there waiting for our radiator to be reconditioned, and a new battery, we headed for Tuggerah to the English Auto Parts, for a new radiator cap, and we were informed that we had done a head gasket. It is now Thursday, and they told us that they could do the job, but would have to send the head away, and would have us on the road late Friday or Saturday morning. Another couple of nights in Long Jetty on Lake Tuggerah, and a couple of great meals at the Diggers Club, with Chrissie's bridesmaid, Carol McMinn, who lives here now, we headed off with a new water pump, thermostat, head gasket, and a tune up.
Got up as far as Taree, and was north of the town, when we noticed that the lights were pretty dim, so decided to turn back to see if we could get an auto electrician, but to no avail, as it was Saturday night. On our way back, more drama, we copped a rock and smashed the windscreen, but luckily we got back to town and pulled up outside the Taree Motor Inn, where we stayed till Monday. Our hosts were Daniel and Kelly, and they couldn't have been more hospitable, with Daniel taking out our alternator, and taking it in next door to the auto electrician. If you ever need to stay in Taree, I thoroughly recommend their motel. On Monday, we had to travel to Coffs Harbour without a screen, where Windscreens OBrien luckily had one in stock, and then we headed off to McLean, where we stayed at a friends place over night.
We arrived home in Caloundra, Tuesday lunch time, 10 days after leaving Maroochydore airport. Just to think, we used to do it over night once !" Looking at the photo I can see why he got a Mini! With stubby little legs like his he needed to get something that he could reach the pedals. Brings back good memories for me, want to sell it mate?
After a few days there waiting for our radiator to be reconditioned, and a new battery, we headed for Tuggerah to the English Auto Parts, for a new radiator cap, and we were informed that we had done a head gasket. It is now Thursday, and they told us that they could do the job, but would have to send the head away, and would have us on the road late Friday or Saturday morning. Another couple of nights in Long Jetty on Lake Tuggerah, and a couple of great meals at the Diggers Club, with Chrissie's bridesmaid, Carol McMinn, who lives here now, we headed off with a new water pump, thermostat, head gasket, and a tune up.
Got up as far as Taree, and was north of the town, when we noticed that the lights were pretty dim, so decided to turn back to see if we could get an auto electrician, but to no avail, as it was Saturday night. On our way back, more drama, we copped a rock and smashed the windscreen, but luckily we got back to town and pulled up outside the Taree Motor Inn, where we stayed till Monday. Our hosts were Daniel and Kelly, and they couldn't have been more hospitable, with Daniel taking out our alternator, and taking it in next door to the auto electrician. If you ever need to stay in Taree, I thoroughly recommend their motel. On Monday, we had to travel to Coffs Harbour without a screen, where Windscreens OBrien luckily had one in stock, and then we headed off to McLean, where we stayed at a friends place over night.
We arrived home in Caloundra, Tuesday lunch time, 10 days after leaving Maroochydore airport. Just to think, we used to do it over night once !" Looking at the photo I can see why he got a Mini! With stubby little legs like his he needed to get something that he could reach the pedals. Brings back good memories for me, want to sell it mate?

Does the softer side of sailors come out as they get older.... Bill Sim posted an article in Facebook that many of us can relate too. When we were kids being a male meant we were not meant to show feelings or emotions. And we never discussed these with the old man. In fact, many of us never had real discussions with Dad. Bill wrote:
"December 25th 1974. I was 9 just finished unwrapping chrisie presents and saw dads boat on TV yelled to him "Dad your boats on TV." He and mum came in then the recall notice and images from Tracey. Dad said he had to go straight away throw bag in car and off he went before lunch. He said his usual goodbye "Son look after your mom and sisters." I never understood those words he always said, as I was the youngest. I said how long this time he answered "I don't know I am really sorry Billy it looks bad." I could see in his eyes he was sad and torn between duty and family. I said take care and I will look after mum and sisters. My sisters didn't understand and blamed me for pointing to the TV. I was a bit upset but being a son of a sailor I got to appreciate any time I had with him and he did keep his promise that year to have Christmas with us all, be it only a part. As I watched the images the thoughts came, hope he will be alright.
When the news images came in as the fleet arrived I was so proud of him. As the days went by and the footage came through of the rebuilding came back the pride grew even in my sisters. People would comment at Christmas and after about dad not being there and I would say "Don't feel sorry for me, my dad is helping others and rebuilding Darwin."
We talk about Vietnam, Korea, Borneo and Malaysia, the gun lines and escorts with all his medals. Yes, I am proud of those but one thing I am most proud of, and never discussed, didn't give him medals or active service but was a great service to the country. So all those on the mercy fleet of December 1974 from one of the kids left behind some of us our very proud of what you did."
"December 25th 1974. I was 9 just finished unwrapping chrisie presents and saw dads boat on TV yelled to him "Dad your boats on TV." He and mum came in then the recall notice and images from Tracey. Dad said he had to go straight away throw bag in car and off he went before lunch. He said his usual goodbye "Son look after your mom and sisters." I never understood those words he always said, as I was the youngest. I said how long this time he answered "I don't know I am really sorry Billy it looks bad." I could see in his eyes he was sad and torn between duty and family. I said take care and I will look after mum and sisters. My sisters didn't understand and blamed me for pointing to the TV. I was a bit upset but being a son of a sailor I got to appreciate any time I had with him and he did keep his promise that year to have Christmas with us all, be it only a part. As I watched the images the thoughts came, hope he will be alright.
When the news images came in as the fleet arrived I was so proud of him. As the days went by and the footage came through of the rebuilding came back the pride grew even in my sisters. People would comment at Christmas and after about dad not being there and I would say "Don't feel sorry for me, my dad is helping others and rebuilding Darwin."
We talk about Vietnam, Korea, Borneo and Malaysia, the gun lines and escorts with all his medals. Yes, I am proud of those but one thing I am most proud of, and never discussed, didn't give him medals or active service but was a great service to the country. So all those on the mercy fleet of December 1974 from one of the kids left behind some of us our very proud of what you did."

Name this man! JJ Williams sent this photo, can you recognise him? The third correct answer will win a prize. No, it is not Dag Williams.
Steve 'Dolly' Gray said he was at a party on Saturday night, flicking between the footy and the election. He wrote "We ended up watching the late Sky channel news. There was a panel of 'Experts' including one wearing small lapel dolphins. I think his name was 'Joe Dansy'? They only mentioned his name and didn't print it. They said he was a ex Tony Abbott staffer?" Remind me not to go to Dolly's parties, they sound very interesting!!! Any idea who Joe is?
Researchers for the Main Roads Dept of WA found over 200 dead crows near Kalgoorlie. They were concern that the birds died from Avian Flu. An ornithologist examined the remains of all the crows, and confirmed the problem was vehicular impacts: 98% Killed by trucks, only 2% killed by cars. He concluded: When crows eat road kill, they have a look-out crow in a tree to warn of danger. He discovered that while all the lookout crows could shout "Cah" quite well, not one could shout "Truck."
Les Thurgood, our man with a voice of gold, writes "I have had an unexpected offer to sing overseas again with the World Festival Choir (based in Sandefjord Norway, was with them in Austria in July - great trip). This time a short notice offer for the choir to sing with the Malta Symphony Orchestra. I decided to take up the offer and the day after receiving the email was in my local travel agency and booked. Taking the choirs offer of extra 6 days there for sightseeing round the island staying at couple of other hotels after St Julian one. Arrive there on 31 October, concert on 2 November (I know all of the pieces we are singing so do not need to do much homework). Staying 2 nights in KL on way back and home on 13th. Last time I was in Malta was 1966 on HMS/M Otter (or my have been Ocelot) for 3 months, Mark24 torpedo trials. Also got a 4 day jolly in Piraeus/Athens, and transit back to Malta via Corinth Canal."
Steve 'Dolly' Gray said he was at a party on Saturday night, flicking between the footy and the election. He wrote "We ended up watching the late Sky channel news. There was a panel of 'Experts' including one wearing small lapel dolphins. I think his name was 'Joe Dansy'? They only mentioned his name and didn't print it. They said he was a ex Tony Abbott staffer?" Remind me not to go to Dolly's parties, they sound very interesting!!! Any idea who Joe is?
Researchers for the Main Roads Dept of WA found over 200 dead crows near Kalgoorlie. They were concern that the birds died from Avian Flu. An ornithologist examined the remains of all the crows, and confirmed the problem was vehicular impacts: 98% Killed by trucks, only 2% killed by cars. He concluded: When crows eat road kill, they have a look-out crow in a tree to warn of danger. He discovered that while all the lookout crows could shout "Cah" quite well, not one could shout "Truck."
Les Thurgood, our man with a voice of gold, writes "I have had an unexpected offer to sing overseas again with the World Festival Choir (based in Sandefjord Norway, was with them in Austria in July - great trip). This time a short notice offer for the choir to sing with the Malta Symphony Orchestra. I decided to take up the offer and the day after receiving the email was in my local travel agency and booked. Taking the choirs offer of extra 6 days there for sightseeing round the island staying at couple of other hotels after St Julian one. Arrive there on 31 October, concert on 2 November (I know all of the pieces we are singing so do not need to do much homework). Staying 2 nights in KL on way back and home on 13th. Last time I was in Malta was 1966 on HMS/M Otter (or my have been Ocelot) for 3 months, Mark24 torpedo trials. Also got a 4 day jolly in Piraeus/Athens, and transit back to Malta via Corinth Canal."
JJ Williams wrote "I just spent a very enjoyable couple weeks in sunny Kiribati with fellow Forendy Dave Enkleman. The delights of the Pacific managed to entice him out of Brisbane, his first overseas jolly since he paid off. Many, many cold beers were enjoyed and warries spun. Dave and I went to Dolphin together in 1980 before Dave went to Oxley to do his part III and I went to Otama. I have attached a couple of photos: Dave in 1980 dressed in the classic "Hi Skimmer" T Shirt, compared to Dave in Tarawa in 2013. I think he has aged rather well wouldn't you say?
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Welfare Foundation
The Association has a Welfare Foundation, available to ALL financial members of the National Submarines Association Australia. If you are only a Branch member check with your Branch Secretary for clarification.
The Fund is reportable to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). The purpose of the ACNC Register is to provide the community (Our SAA Members) with easy access to reliable information on charities to support public trust and confidence in Australia’s registered charities.
With an ageing population there is always going to be the call for assistance from those that have fallen on hard times. So, if you feel that you would like to make a donation, or possibly a mention in your will, please contact Dave Bryant or go to the Foundation's web page.
Western Australia Branch
It is time again for you to rise out of your bunk, put on your best run ashore gear and git down to the Navy Club Rockingham for 1100 on Sunday 22 September for 1100.
Absenteeism will probably cause our President to go off his brain as the last two General Meetings failed to raise a Quorum, (a minimum of ten members bold, brave and sober!!!!) On completion of the meeting there will be a short celebration of the late Peter Clark's 60th Birthday in company with his wife Julie. The Branch will provide a BBQ to complete the meeting. Your support and attendance at this meeting is very important to the Clark Family as well as the Committee.
Paul T Meakin
Branch Secretary
Victorian Branch
On Sunday 22nd September the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant departs from thecorner of Clarendon Street, South Melbourne. Please be advised the Tramcar leaves right on time & sometimes a few minutes early, so be at the departure point at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
For various reason I have some members have had t withdraw which means I have some places left. If you would like to come along please let me know as soon as possible. $85 for 4 course meal, all drinks and a chance to win your money back.
Elsie (Ian) Tanner
Branch Secretary
The Association has a Welfare Foundation, available to ALL financial members of the National Submarines Association Australia. If you are only a Branch member check with your Branch Secretary for clarification.
The Fund is reportable to the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). The purpose of the ACNC Register is to provide the community (Our SAA Members) with easy access to reliable information on charities to support public trust and confidence in Australia’s registered charities.
With an ageing population there is always going to be the call for assistance from those that have fallen on hard times. So, if you feel that you would like to make a donation, or possibly a mention in your will, please contact Dave Bryant or go to the Foundation's web page.
Western Australia Branch
It is time again for you to rise out of your bunk, put on your best run ashore gear and git down to the Navy Club Rockingham for 1100 on Sunday 22 September for 1100.
Absenteeism will probably cause our President to go off his brain as the last two General Meetings failed to raise a Quorum, (a minimum of ten members bold, brave and sober!!!!) On completion of the meeting there will be a short celebration of the late Peter Clark's 60th Birthday in company with his wife Julie. The Branch will provide a BBQ to complete the meeting. Your support and attendance at this meeting is very important to the Clark Family as well as the Committee.
Paul T Meakin
Branch Secretary
Victorian Branch
On Sunday 22nd September the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant departs from thecorner of Clarendon Street, South Melbourne. Please be advised the Tramcar leaves right on time & sometimes a few minutes early, so be at the departure point at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
For various reason I have some members have had t withdraw which means I have some places left. If you would like to come along please let me know as soon as possible. $85 for 4 course meal, all drinks and a chance to win your money back.
Elsie (Ian) Tanner
Branch Secretary

AE1 Memorial Service
I attended the AE1 memorial service at St Johns in Gordon last night with the Reverend Keith Dalby conducting the Service. This was to be the first of what is hoped to be an Annual Service. It was well attended by SSMCC members. Those members who were able to attend on bikes did so, with others traveling by car to the Service. It was the most interesting and entertaining 45 minutes I've ever spent in a church, Keith did a fantastic job. Although members of the SSMCC are also members of the SAA, it would have been nice to have seen more SAA members supporting the event. It was great however to catch up with the guys that were there. A good night had by all.
Greg Doodson
National Secretary
Silent Service Motor Cycle Club
The SSMCC and the SAA NSW Branch held a memorial service at St Johns on Friday night. We had a good turnout from the boys on bikes and, as it was the first year, I was happy anyone showed at all. It was good to see the Dalby brothers in one place, but it took some time to get used to Keith being up on the altar. But once he got started it was well worth the trip, I am pretty sure a special place may be kept for him after his sermon.
We had coffee, biscuits and rum after the service and plenty of opportunity to gas bag as Keith has the keys to the church. St Johns is a great church and home for the 18th Battalion colours. History indicates those blokes did it hard in both WW1 and WW2. Worth looking up, the cross the diggers made in Pozieres is on the wall along with some other interesting artefacts.
Saturday saw more SSMCC members head into town and meet up for the Wall to Wall ride in support of police welfare in remembrance of those who lost there lives protecting the community. Dixie Lee (SSMCC SEQLD President) came down from Brissy and Hass Mann in from out Bathurst way, Tex O’Grady down from Coffs and Polly farmer from the Central Coast all headed to Canberra for the ride. In excess of 1200 bikes was one of the estimates.
In Goulburn they hooked up with Steve Call and Ned Kelly in Canberra (SSMCC Sthn NSW ACT President). It was reported to be a great ride and most of this lot will front up back in Sydney next week to do the Ks for Kids ride in support of education against child abuse.
Anyhow for all the people who did not make the Friday night gig for the AE1 Memorial it was a great night and put it in your diary for next year. The Friday before the 14th at 7pm at St Johns. We are going to do it every year and even though next year something big is being planned for the 100th at GI on the Sunday we are still getting together on they Friday night.
Ken 'Bungy' Williams
National President
Silent Service Motor Cycle Club
I attended the AE1 memorial service at St Johns in Gordon last night with the Reverend Keith Dalby conducting the Service. This was to be the first of what is hoped to be an Annual Service. It was well attended by SSMCC members. Those members who were able to attend on bikes did so, with others traveling by car to the Service. It was the most interesting and entertaining 45 minutes I've ever spent in a church, Keith did a fantastic job. Although members of the SSMCC are also members of the SAA, it would have been nice to have seen more SAA members supporting the event. It was great however to catch up with the guys that were there. A good night had by all.
Greg Doodson
National Secretary
Silent Service Motor Cycle Club
The SSMCC and the SAA NSW Branch held a memorial service at St Johns on Friday night. We had a good turnout from the boys on bikes and, as it was the first year, I was happy anyone showed at all. It was good to see the Dalby brothers in one place, but it took some time to get used to Keith being up on the altar. But once he got started it was well worth the trip, I am pretty sure a special place may be kept for him after his sermon.
We had coffee, biscuits and rum after the service and plenty of opportunity to gas bag as Keith has the keys to the church. St Johns is a great church and home for the 18th Battalion colours. History indicates those blokes did it hard in both WW1 and WW2. Worth looking up, the cross the diggers made in Pozieres is on the wall along with some other interesting artefacts.
Saturday saw more SSMCC members head into town and meet up for the Wall to Wall ride in support of police welfare in remembrance of those who lost there lives protecting the community. Dixie Lee (SSMCC SEQLD President) came down from Brissy and Hass Mann in from out Bathurst way, Tex O’Grady down from Coffs and Polly farmer from the Central Coast all headed to Canberra for the ride. In excess of 1200 bikes was one of the estimates.
In Goulburn they hooked up with Steve Call and Ned Kelly in Canberra (SSMCC Sthn NSW ACT President). It was reported to be a great ride and most of this lot will front up back in Sydney next week to do the Ks for Kids ride in support of education against child abuse.
Anyhow for all the people who did not make the Friday night gig for the AE1 Memorial it was a great night and put it in your diary for next year. The Friday before the 14th at 7pm at St Johns. We are going to do it every year and even though next year something big is being planned for the 100th at GI on the Sunday we are still getting together on they Friday night.
Ken 'Bungy' Williams
National President
Silent Service Motor Cycle Club
Father Keith Dalby, the Rector at St. John’s sent this copy of the inaugural Memorial Service and the sermon used to commemorate the 99th Anniversary of the loss of AE1. |
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Meetings & Events - September
Full details of events available on the Events Calendar.
22nd September 2013 VIC
Luncheon on Melbourne’s famous Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. Contact Ian Tanner (Secretary) 0450 642 835 for details.
22nd September 2013 1100 WA
Meeting and Social at Navy Club Rockingham. Contact Paul Meakin (08 9586 9375) for details.
29th September 2013 TAS
The 2013 SAA-TAS AGM will be held at 1100 with lunch to follow at the Nelson Tavern. Contact David Byrne or 0438 349 239 for further information.
Full details of events available on the Events Calendar.
22nd September 2013 VIC
Luncheon on Melbourne’s famous Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. Contact Ian Tanner (Secretary) 0450 642 835 for details.
22nd September 2013 1100 WA
Meeting and Social at Navy Club Rockingham. Contact Paul Meakin (08 9586 9375) for details.
29th September 2013 TAS
The 2013 SAA-TAS AGM will be held at 1100 with lunch to follow at the Nelson Tavern. Contact David Byrne or 0438 349 239 for further information.
New SAA Members - June to September 2013
ASSOCIATE
Adgie, Sandra Atkinson, Vicki Bellette, Kathleen Carr, Glenda Cross, Maria Duncan, Janet Germain, Janice Klease, Janette Meredith, Kay Needham, Robyn Schmidt, Susan |
ORDINARY
Apps, Robert Arthurs, Ray Austin, Douglas Boorman, Greg Carter, Trevor Cheater, Peter Clarke, Gavin de Courcey, Shayne Dick, Darryl Dickson, Paul Ellerton, Melanie Gough, Terry |
ORDINARY
Hunter, Duane Kadel, Stephen Langshaw, Greg Logan, Wayne Luebker, Curt Marks, Ian Matthews, David Mitchell, Blake Nayda, Darren Taylor, Brad Wicking, Leigh |
ORDINARY
Andrew, Bruce * Barber, Darren * Delgado, Daniel Fowler, Peter * Goldhahn, Edgar * Higgins, Michael Leitchze, Kreig * MacKenzie, Ian * Mclean, Iain * Mountain, Bruce * Nowakowski, Mark * Varian, Rob * Vierveyzer, William * Wyatt, Shane * |
The winner of the draw for the Dolphins was pulled out of the hat at the SAA AGM today and the winner is........ WOCISM Paul Dickson, WA Branch. Congratulations mate.
Note: * against your name indicates that your membership is subject to receipt of joining fee and subscription. |
Federation of Naval Ships Association (NSW Branch)
The FNSA September Newsletter and the Agenda for their next meeting is now available. The newsletter contains important information regarding the Fleet Review and associated events. |
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Elizabeth Cromar wrote "As you to know 'O' class Submarines were built in Greenock by Scott's of Greenock, Shipbuilders. Alas no more as we have lost all our shipbuilders except one. My late husband worked on these Submarines and Greenock is hoping to buy one, to restore as a Tourist attraction. Why should the Australian Ports have one and not the town where they were built?"
Elizabeth continued "Another item of interest, Tea Clipper 'City of Adelaide' (Known in Scotland as s.s.Carrick), has just left the Scottish Maritime Museum to be taken to Adelaide to be restored by the City Council. She was an RNVR Club for many years berthed in Glasgow, where she sank, then was towed to Irvine where she was beached for 20 years awaiting a decision about her. The English Government would give no money to restore her (tho they gave money twice to restore her sistership 'Cutty Sark' in London, and we didn't have a Scottish Government then. I used to play on her as a small child, when she lay at Custom House, Greenock."
US Navy to Commission 10th Virginia-class Submarine
The Navy is scheduled to commission its 10th Virginia-class attack submarine Sept. 7, during a pier side ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk in Norfolk, Va. During a formal ceremony to be attended by several hundred dignitaries, families and crew members, Pre-Commissioning Unit Minnesota (SSN 783) will officially become USS Minnesota and join the Navy's active fleet.
Minnesota began construction in February 2008 and was built in Newport News, Va., under a teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries. The building team delivered the ship 11 months ahead of schedule in June. It achieved the highest readiness score of any Virginia-class submarine to date during an inspection by the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey.
Elizabeth continued "Another item of interest, Tea Clipper 'City of Adelaide' (Known in Scotland as s.s.Carrick), has just left the Scottish Maritime Museum to be taken to Adelaide to be restored by the City Council. She was an RNVR Club for many years berthed in Glasgow, where she sank, then was towed to Irvine where she was beached for 20 years awaiting a decision about her. The English Government would give no money to restore her (tho they gave money twice to restore her sistership 'Cutty Sark' in London, and we didn't have a Scottish Government then. I used to play on her as a small child, when she lay at Custom House, Greenock."
US Navy to Commission 10th Virginia-class Submarine
The Navy is scheduled to commission its 10th Virginia-class attack submarine Sept. 7, during a pier side ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk in Norfolk, Va. During a formal ceremony to be attended by several hundred dignitaries, families and crew members, Pre-Commissioning Unit Minnesota (SSN 783) will officially become USS Minnesota and join the Navy's active fleet.
Minnesota began construction in February 2008 and was built in Newport News, Va., under a teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries. The building team delivered the ship 11 months ahead of schedule in June. It achieved the highest readiness score of any Virginia-class submarine to date during an inspection by the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey.
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Note: If you have not received an email from me this week your name has been removed from mailing list and you will need to subscribe. |
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Sunday, 8th September 2013
I responded "I bet you steal all the Monte Carlos……………………. As for roads, swimming pools, shopping centres – we have mostly unsealed roads, a snake infested creek serves as our swimming pool (except for me, rich bastard who has my own pool) and as for shopping centres, a shop would be nice. So enjoy your Monte Carlos and cappuccino, bastard!" To add insult to injury, Australia Post advised us this week that we would only be getting mail delivered on Tuesday and Wednesdays….. I love country life! I am going to contact my local Member, the new Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss, to see if he can sort out Councils and Australia Post!!!!
I called in on my old neighbour Bill on Friday for a brew but he was putting on his coat, getting ready to go out. Jean, his wife, seeing the unexpected behavior, asks, Where are you going?'
He replied, 'I'm going to the doctor.'
She said, 'Why, are you sick?'
He replied, 'Nope, I made an appointment to get me some of that Viagra stuff.'
Immediately Jean got out of her rocker and began to put on her coat. He asked, 'Where the heck are you going'?
She answered, 'I'm going to the doctor, too. If you're going to start using that rusty old thing, I'm getting a Tetanus shot.'
I called in on my old neighbour Bill on Friday for a brew but he was putting on his coat, getting ready to go out. Jean, his wife, seeing the unexpected behavior, asks, Where are you going?'
He replied, 'I'm going to the doctor.'
She said, 'Why, are you sick?'
He replied, 'Nope, I made an appointment to get me some of that Viagra stuff.'
Immediately Jean got out of her rocker and began to put on her coat. He asked, 'Where the heck are you going'?
She answered, 'I'm going to the doctor, too. If you're going to start using that rusty old thing, I'm getting a Tetanus shot.'
Your assistance is requested
Northern Queensland Member Colin 'Spanner' Watts has metastatic cancer of the kidneys and bladder. It has now reached a stage where no further active treatment is being offered, his prognosis is terminal and he is currently under our team at the Palliative Care Centre, The Townsville Hospital.
To assist Spanner to remain at home and continue to access the community it has been recommended to install a stairlift to his front staircase. A stairlift will safely transport him in a sitting position from one end of the staircase to the other. The extended fight with cancer means the family is in financial hardship and cannot afford to install the stairlift privately.
The SAA Welfare Foundation has donated $3,200 towards the cost, leaving the NQ Branch a sum of $1,000 to raise. If you can pledge just $10 this amount will be reached in no time. We seldom resort to appealing for funds, the Branches and Welfare Foundation normally raise funds internally, but the NQ Branch only has a few members and have asked for me to organise this appeal.
Appeal closed, the response was staggering and amount required has been exceeded. Thaks again and BZ!
To assist Spanner to remain at home and continue to access the community it has been recommended to install a stairlift to his front staircase. A stairlift will safely transport him in a sitting position from one end of the staircase to the other. The extended fight with cancer means the family is in financial hardship and cannot afford to install the stairlift privately.
The SAA Welfare Foundation has donated $3,200 towards the cost, leaving the NQ Branch a sum of $1,000 to raise. If you can pledge just $10 this amount will be reached in no time. We seldom resort to appealing for funds, the Branches and Welfare Foundation normally raise funds internally, but the NQ Branch only has a few members and have asked for me to organise this appeal.
Appeal closed, the response was staggering and amount required has been exceeded. Thaks again and BZ!
Around the Traps
Greg Pennicuik is still in the wars. He wrote "Having had the gut ripped open for the prostate cancer (which was got in time) it is now the hernia that was caused by the weakening of the stomach wall. Don't we just love getting older." Yes mate,fun!
I am not the only one the Council's screw, Jeff Stein wrote "After reading your say on the web site regarding council rates and rezoning I too have had the same thing done here several years ago. In their wisdom they changed the title to our area from Rural Residential to Residential. Hence our rates increased by x% without out notification and we receive nothing extra for it. We are on tank water,septic and no curb and gutter,the only thing council does is empty our bins once a week. I know people living along the Clyde River, where we use to live, and they had the same thing done to them. Again on tank water and septic, in fact those who had acres out there with a bush shack on it were paying more rates than they did whilst living in town. Go figure…. it`s just another money making scheme!!!!!!!! Also several years ago the Lands Department revalued our land (1 acre) and it went from $68,000 to $298,000 overnight. Council then has the hide to say that they don`t go by land value or real estate agents valuing regarding rates…. if you believe that then you are more stupid than you look. So mate you are definitely not on your Pat Malone." Jeff, if you want Boot Hatfield's address, just let me know. Maybe we can get everyone to send an anti council email to him?
Terry 'Bagsy' Baker said he thought he was a dwarf out on the turps with the AFL boys. He said "I Woke up in a sweat" Bagsy! He continued "Looking forward to a social game of rugby on the weekend with ex-NRL player Anthony Watts in the opposite scrum. What could possibly go wrong." Remember your age mate, take it easy and don't try to set the world on fire!
Pat and Mavis Heffernan's trip continues "We paid a visit to the Dolphin Submarine Museum yesterday and we were pleased to see that the S/M Alliance, after the near completion of its re-fit and make-over, is looking as good as new. The six million odd pounds spent refurbishing her has been well spent. We also had a look at the midget submarine X-craft 24 that Lt. Max Shean DSO & Bar drove. I have included photos of both boats. For anyone contemplating visiting the UK, the Dolphin Museum is a must to be included. There are a lot of interesting exhibits, including the Royal Navy's first submarine, the Holland 1."
I am not the only one the Council's screw, Jeff Stein wrote "After reading your say on the web site regarding council rates and rezoning I too have had the same thing done here several years ago. In their wisdom they changed the title to our area from Rural Residential to Residential. Hence our rates increased by x% without out notification and we receive nothing extra for it. We are on tank water,septic and no curb and gutter,the only thing council does is empty our bins once a week. I know people living along the Clyde River, where we use to live, and they had the same thing done to them. Again on tank water and septic, in fact those who had acres out there with a bush shack on it were paying more rates than they did whilst living in town. Go figure…. it`s just another money making scheme!!!!!!!! Also several years ago the Lands Department revalued our land (1 acre) and it went from $68,000 to $298,000 overnight. Council then has the hide to say that they don`t go by land value or real estate agents valuing regarding rates…. if you believe that then you are more stupid than you look. So mate you are definitely not on your Pat Malone." Jeff, if you want Boot Hatfield's address, just let me know. Maybe we can get everyone to send an anti council email to him?
Terry 'Bagsy' Baker said he thought he was a dwarf out on the turps with the AFL boys. He said "I Woke up in a sweat" Bagsy! He continued "Looking forward to a social game of rugby on the weekend with ex-NRL player Anthony Watts in the opposite scrum. What could possibly go wrong." Remember your age mate, take it easy and don't try to set the world on fire!
Pat and Mavis Heffernan's trip continues "We paid a visit to the Dolphin Submarine Museum yesterday and we were pleased to see that the S/M Alliance, after the near completion of its re-fit and make-over, is looking as good as new. The six million odd pounds spent refurbishing her has been well spent. We also had a look at the midget submarine X-craft 24 that Lt. Max Shean DSO & Bar drove. I have included photos of both boats. For anyone contemplating visiting the UK, the Dolphin Museum is a must to be included. There are a lot of interesting exhibits, including the Royal Navy's first submarine, the Holland 1."
Alan "Coops" Cooper wrote "Trying to get into computer world but have reservations sometimes. Love to see things, and hear things, from old oppos. As we get older we need each other more than ever. Comrade (errie) never ends. Just spent a lovely week in Coffs with Hev 'Keghead' Hayton and his lovely wife Dorothy. Shock! Jock Wilson and Marg are back there and loving it. Who would not?" In a footnote he noted "It is Alan with one 'l', we were so poor, a middle name was completely out of Question!"
Rick Ling had been dropped from my mailing list and he was glad to be back on it. "Glad to be in contact again!" Rick is teaching in Mexico, a place called Toluca and manages to come back to Oz occasionally.
Angad Singh Buck to his old friends has had Chip Dale visit him for a week in Tuncurry (NSW) and he reports "Only got one fishing trip in, Chip caught the only and the biggest."
Graeme Draper said "Sent you this site as I thought it may come in handy. Pass it on if you want, it has helped me many times. (One thing it didn't do was say ensure the spanner remains firm on the part being removed). Home now after getting the Tendons in right hand reattached. Rehab support crew were pissed off when I asked to have the mould formed to fit a can? Drapes, how many times have you been told to leave tiffie stuff to tiffies, you don't see them trying to replace light bulbs!
Some people never know when they have had enough. Michael Ploenges (Ex LSCIS3SM) has retired to his home in Mount Gambier having served 26 years full time service and 5 years in reserve. He returned to the RAN Submarine Service on in 2009 for a period of four years (permanent) service and during that time he served as Communications Centre Manager at Submarine Communications Centre, HQJOC Bungendore (outside Canberra), and helped to move that operation to HMAS Stirling in Western Australia where it is now located. From July 2011 up until his discharge in January this year he served on the submarines HMAS Waller, HMAS Collins and HMAS Sheean as the LRO. Good to see the skills being utilised wisely Michael.
Dave 'Goldie' Horne and mate Michael have left their Cruiseco Adventurer after a week travelling from Siem Reap, Cambodia down the Mekong River towards Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam. Along the way they visited villages, local businesses historical sights and learned about local culture.
Ian Marks wrote seeking advice. "I have been sent my grandfather’s things not much but never the less there patches and odd and end from his time on HMAS Castlemaine there are set of replica turret book end and a draught / checkers game in a smoke tin. Do you have any suggestion who would of interest in this sort of thing? I have contacted the war memorial and no reply. It would be better in a collection then tuck away in box in the back of a cardboard." Agreed. I suggest the HMAS Castlemaine Museum in Melbourne may be interested.
Rick Ling had been dropped from my mailing list and he was glad to be back on it. "Glad to be in contact again!" Rick is teaching in Mexico, a place called Toluca and manages to come back to Oz occasionally.
Angad Singh Buck to his old friends has had Chip Dale visit him for a week in Tuncurry (NSW) and he reports "Only got one fishing trip in, Chip caught the only and the biggest."
Graeme Draper said "Sent you this site as I thought it may come in handy. Pass it on if you want, it has helped me many times. (One thing it didn't do was say ensure the spanner remains firm on the part being removed). Home now after getting the Tendons in right hand reattached. Rehab support crew were pissed off when I asked to have the mould formed to fit a can? Drapes, how many times have you been told to leave tiffie stuff to tiffies, you don't see them trying to replace light bulbs!
Some people never know when they have had enough. Michael Ploenges (Ex LSCIS3SM) has retired to his home in Mount Gambier having served 26 years full time service and 5 years in reserve. He returned to the RAN Submarine Service on in 2009 for a period of four years (permanent) service and during that time he served as Communications Centre Manager at Submarine Communications Centre, HQJOC Bungendore (outside Canberra), and helped to move that operation to HMAS Stirling in Western Australia where it is now located. From July 2011 up until his discharge in January this year he served on the submarines HMAS Waller, HMAS Collins and HMAS Sheean as the LRO. Good to see the skills being utilised wisely Michael.
Dave 'Goldie' Horne and mate Michael have left their Cruiseco Adventurer after a week travelling from Siem Reap, Cambodia down the Mekong River towards Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam. Along the way they visited villages, local businesses historical sights and learned about local culture.
Ian Marks wrote seeking advice. "I have been sent my grandfather’s things not much but never the less there patches and odd and end from his time on HMAS Castlemaine there are set of replica turret book end and a draught / checkers game in a smoke tin. Do you have any suggestion who would of interest in this sort of thing? I have contacted the war memorial and no reply. It would be better in a collection then tuck away in box in the back of a cardboard." Agreed. I suggest the HMAS Castlemaine Museum in Melbourne may be interested.

George Lakey posted "Facebook Powerball Lottery - just received a series of messages from Dave Horne's Facebook account regarding my lottery "winnings" and requesting personal information and payment to enable me to receive my said winnings - suggest Dave's account has been hacked (most likely scenario) or he is doing it hard for a quid (least likely scenario)........" I have been receiving a fair bit of Facebook spam lately, from several people.
Not long after Ken Williams added "I just had a friend request from Goldie Horne. I accepted it and a chat started and I'm pretty sure it's not Goldie. I then noticed it was a clone of Goldies account. Be aware this now seems to be a thing people are doing, making a copy of an existing account and then sending friend requests." Be warned, check your privacy settings.!
Aleksandar Seizovic had a brush with fame this week. "Today I walked passed Corporal Benjamin Roberts-Smith, VC, MG at Milton, Brisbane. I would just like to say, Thanks mate and my apology for not acknowledging you today."
Not long after Ken Williams added "I just had a friend request from Goldie Horne. I accepted it and a chat started and I'm pretty sure it's not Goldie. I then noticed it was a clone of Goldies account. Be aware this now seems to be a thing people are doing, making a copy of an existing account and then sending friend requests." Be warned, check your privacy settings.!
Aleksandar Seizovic had a brush with fame this week. "Today I walked passed Corporal Benjamin Roberts-Smith, VC, MG at Milton, Brisbane. I would just like to say, Thanks mate and my apology for not acknowledging you today."

Peter Hogg sent the following "The Mary Rose, the vice flagship of Henry VIII's war fleet sunk in Portsmouth Harbour shortly after firing a broadside at the French invasion fleet in 1545. She laid in the mud on her starboard side for 337 years before being raised in 1982 and is now the showpiece in a new museum at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. This link will be of interest for those who would like to see some of her secrets unveiled............." Thanks Peter for the many hours you spend keeping everyone informed, it is appreciated.
Last month Katrina Costello said a book lent for a school assignment was accidentally put into a St Vinnies collection bin. Katrina has found a photo of the book "HMAS Melbourne 1977 Spithead Deployment" after a world wide search. She said "Now a just need a lovely soul to sell me theirs. If you know of anyone, would you be so kind as to pass on my email address. Again many thanks, the naval community has been overwhelming with their kindness."
Norwegian resident and SAA member Kevin O'Brien wrote "All is well here in Norway really. We are about to have another General Election (next Tuesday) but will, no matter what, continue with our social democratic system. I sometimes wonder what would happen if I went back to Australia for a while. I have, in fact never voted there, as I left before I was old enough (!) so perhaps they would fine me or something. Either way, I wouldn't vote for any of the major parties, to me it seems that there is a lot of corruption and power mad demagoguery in Australian politics, but that is the view from here." Not true mate, we have Tony in charge now, honest as the day is long!
Ex Platypus SWEEO and UK resident (where else would he be, he's a pom) John Walmsley reports that he ran into NSW SAA Branch Secretary Ken Norris a couple of days ago. Ken had made a flying visit to UK in between cruises and trips around Europe. John said "I have many fond memories of the Squadron." I was the WO in the Tech Office during John's posting, a nice bloke but hard to train to an Aussies way of doing things... especially drinking.
After seeing Stuart Campbell's photo taken in the deserts of Libya last week I asked him what the camels were like. He responded "My camel has long eyelashes and a cute arse." Now why doesn't that surprise me?
Last month Katrina Costello said a book lent for a school assignment was accidentally put into a St Vinnies collection bin. Katrina has found a photo of the book "HMAS Melbourne 1977 Spithead Deployment" after a world wide search. She said "Now a just need a lovely soul to sell me theirs. If you know of anyone, would you be so kind as to pass on my email address. Again many thanks, the naval community has been overwhelming with their kindness."
Norwegian resident and SAA member Kevin O'Brien wrote "All is well here in Norway really. We are about to have another General Election (next Tuesday) but will, no matter what, continue with our social democratic system. I sometimes wonder what would happen if I went back to Australia for a while. I have, in fact never voted there, as I left before I was old enough (!) so perhaps they would fine me or something. Either way, I wouldn't vote for any of the major parties, to me it seems that there is a lot of corruption and power mad demagoguery in Australian politics, but that is the view from here." Not true mate, we have Tony in charge now, honest as the day is long!
Ex Platypus SWEEO and UK resident (where else would he be, he's a pom) John Walmsley reports that he ran into NSW SAA Branch Secretary Ken Norris a couple of days ago. Ken had made a flying visit to UK in between cruises and trips around Europe. John said "I have many fond memories of the Squadron." I was the WO in the Tech Office during John's posting, a nice bloke but hard to train to an Aussies way of doing things... especially drinking.
After seeing Stuart Campbell's photo taken in the deserts of Libya last week I asked him what the camels were like. He responded "My camel has long eyelashes and a cute arse." Now why doesn't that surprise me?

Heard from Fred Butcher this week, he said that things were OK but the old knees don't like the cold wet weather they have been having in SA. He said "Just back from Wagga in the SP250 (The SP250 is a sports car which was built by British manufacturer Daimler in Coventry from 1959 to 1964 for the uninformed) we went for a Daimler SP250 car rally; good run except for the generator which spat the dummy and need a rebuild. I think I must be getting soft, holding the accelerator down in the old car got to me, think I'll be shopping for an aftermarket cruise control!!
Mark 'Dutchy' Van De Laar said "You'll be interested to know that I am now working in Explosive Ordnance Division buying guided missiles for the RAAF Super Hornet. The Raafie engineers are a good bunch but the aircrew are 'interesting'. They really do talk with their hands." Don't be swayed by their pretty blue uniforms and talking hands mate, they are only after one thing!
Chris Thomas and I have something in common, his missus came from Quambone, my country resdence. "All is good in paradise, ex cook came from out that way, Quambone, I lived in Warren for 2 years and have no ambition to ever go there again. It was good to see Rob Woolrych again and a few others from my era at the Qld Branch meeting............ we are all getting old mate, and all have fond memories, we never remember the shit bits."
Mark 'Dutchy' Van De Laar said "You'll be interested to know that I am now working in Explosive Ordnance Division buying guided missiles for the RAAF Super Hornet. The Raafie engineers are a good bunch but the aircrew are 'interesting'. They really do talk with their hands." Don't be swayed by their pretty blue uniforms and talking hands mate, they are only after one thing!
Chris Thomas and I have something in common, his missus came from Quambone, my country resdence. "All is good in paradise, ex cook came from out that way, Quambone, I lived in Warren for 2 years and have no ambition to ever go there again. It was good to see Rob Woolrych again and a few others from my era at the Qld Branch meeting............ we are all getting old mate, and all have fond memories, we never remember the shit bits."
Ed Horridge's son Robert will be riding this year in the Riding across Australia for Brain Cancer Research appeal. Spread the word, Doctors around the world are now seeing
the benefits of the equipment being developed to fight Brain Cancer. The motorcycle ride across Australia (Perth to Canberra) is over 5,000 Km and the riders will be taking on the barren plains, mountains and snow country of Australia. Donations $2.00 and over are tax deductible.
There have been some mighty horrible renditions of Led Zeppelin‘s Stairway To Heaven, but this version by Nancy and Ann Wilson of Heart, performed in front of the three remaining members of the legendary British rock band at the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, has to be the best.
The band was being honoured by President Barack Obama alongside David Letterman and Dustin Hoffman. Do yourself a favour, watch it and enjoy. When the choir kicks in and Ann Wilson wails Plant’s famous “And as we wind on down the road…” you might shed a tear or two yourself. |
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Clever people these Asians... Shanghai Expo Closing Ceremony. This is China's showcase to the world! Are those lady musicians sitting on invisible chairs? And what about the bells? (How are they hung?) An incredible show!

Meetings & Events - September
The following SAA meetings and events have been scheduled for September. Full details on the Events Calendar.
There will be a draw of all Members (and partners) that attend a Submarines Association Australia Meeting/Social event from July till the end of December. We understand that there are those Members who are remote or for genuine reasons are unable to attend. You have not been forgotten, tender an apology to your Branch Secretary and you will be included in the draw.
13th September 2013 1930 NSW & SSMC
Service commemorating the loss of HMAS AE1 and the 35 Officers and men who lost their lives on 14 September 1914. The Service will be held at 1St. John the Evangelist's Anglican Church Gordon (754 Pacific Hwy, Gordon NSW 2072).
14th September 2013 1030 VIC
Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Remembrance. Contact Ian Tanner (Secretary) 0450 642 835 for details.
15th September 2013 1200 SA
The Branch AGM will be held at 12:00 sharp at the Metropolitan Hotel in the city. The AGM will be followed at 13:00 by lunch for those who wish to stay.
22nd September 2013 VIC
Luncheon on Melbourne’s famous Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. Muster at 12:45 for 13:00 Departure. Maximum 36 on the tram. Family and Friends welcome. $85 per person includes 4 course lunch and drinks, plus a chance to win back you fare. Contact Ian Tanner (Secretary) 0450 642 835 for details.
22nd September 2013 1100 WA
Meeting & Social - Venue Navy Club Rockingham.
Contact Paul Meakin (08 9586 9375) for details or visit the SAA (WA) web page.
29th September 2013 TAS
The 2013 SAA-TAS AGM will be held at 54 Woodcutters Rd, Tolmans Hill at 1100 on Sunday, 29 September with lunch to follow at the Nelson Tavern for those interested. Contact David Byrne at dbyrne@exemail.com.au or 0438 349 239 for further information.
The following SAA meetings and events have been scheduled for September. Full details on the Events Calendar.
There will be a draw of all Members (and partners) that attend a Submarines Association Australia Meeting/Social event from July till the end of December. We understand that there are those Members who are remote or for genuine reasons are unable to attend. You have not been forgotten, tender an apology to your Branch Secretary and you will be included in the draw.
13th September 2013 1930 NSW & SSMC
Service commemorating the loss of HMAS AE1 and the 35 Officers and men who lost their lives on 14 September 1914. The Service will be held at 1St. John the Evangelist's Anglican Church Gordon (754 Pacific Hwy, Gordon NSW 2072).
14th September 2013 1030 VIC
Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Remembrance. Contact Ian Tanner (Secretary) 0450 642 835 for details.
15th September 2013 1200 SA
The Branch AGM will be held at 12:00 sharp at the Metropolitan Hotel in the city. The AGM will be followed at 13:00 by lunch for those who wish to stay.
22nd September 2013 VIC
Luncheon on Melbourne’s famous Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. Muster at 12:45 for 13:00 Departure. Maximum 36 on the tram. Family and Friends welcome. $85 per person includes 4 course lunch and drinks, plus a chance to win back you fare. Contact Ian Tanner (Secretary) 0450 642 835 for details.
22nd September 2013 1100 WA
Meeting & Social - Venue Navy Club Rockingham.
Contact Paul Meakin (08 9586 9375) for details or visit the SAA (WA) web page.
29th September 2013 TAS
The 2013 SAA-TAS AGM will be held at 54 Woodcutters Rd, Tolmans Hill at 1100 on Sunday, 29 September with lunch to follow at the Nelson Tavern for those interested. Contact David Byrne at dbyrne@exemail.com.au or 0438 349 239 for further information.
Chief of Navy appoints an Advisor on Islamic Cultural Affairs
Ensuring that Navy remains focused on all aspects of diversity is a key priority for the Chief of Navy, which is why he has appointed a Strategic Advisor on Islamic Cultural Affairs.
Captain Mona Shindy, RAN who heads up the Guided Missile Frigate System Program Office (FFGSPO) accepted the position in March 2013 and has welcomed the opportunity to create better understanding amongst Defence members and the wider Islamic community. Currently there are 15 Muslims serving in Navy and 88 employed across the ADF, a figure that Captain Shindy aims to increase.
Source Navy Daily
Ensuring that Navy remains focused on all aspects of diversity is a key priority for the Chief of Navy, which is why he has appointed a Strategic Advisor on Islamic Cultural Affairs.
Captain Mona Shindy, RAN who heads up the Guided Missile Frigate System Program Office (FFGSPO) accepted the position in March 2013 and has welcomed the opportunity to create better understanding amongst Defence members and the wider Islamic community. Currently there are 15 Muslims serving in Navy and 88 employed across the ADF, a figure that Captain Shindy aims to increase.
Source Navy Daily

ASC innovates in submarine maintenance
The latest initiative to improve Collins Class submarine sustainment and availability levels has been revealed with the successful hull cut of HMAS Collins at ASC in Adelaide. The hull cut is a significant step to reduce the amount of time the submarines are in planned long term maintenance. It enables equipment to be removed from within the submarine so that maintenance can be performed more efficiently.
The Defence Materiel Organisation’s General Manager Submarines, Mr David Gould, inspected the hull cut in HMAS Collins with ASC CEO, Mr Steve Ludlam, at ASC this week. “This shows real promise; it is one of a number of initiatives being implemented by ASC to conduct full cycle dockings (FCDs) in around two years rather than three,” Mr Gould said.
ASC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Steve Ludlam, said that it is one of a number of initiatives being implemented by ASC to improve availability. “The strategy to cut the submarine’s hull rather than work on equipment in situ increases efficiency, reduces time in maintenance, and ultimately contributes to improved availability of the submarine fleet.”
Following the release of the Study into the Business of Sustaining Australia’s Strategic Collins Class Submarine Capability (often referred to as the Coles Report) last year, ASC is working with its Submarine Enterprise partners to restore Collins Class availability to international benchmark levels by 2017.
Other milestones this year have included:
• ASC's completion of a scheduled intermediate maintenance activity for HMAS Sheean three days ahead of schedule;
• On-time completion of a certification extension docking for HMAS Farncomb in May, and ongoing support to operating submarines;
• Awarding of naval engineering authority delegations enabling ASC to take a more prominent role in the engineering decisions that are needed for effective and efficient sustainment of the Collins fleet.
The latest initiative to improve Collins Class submarine sustainment and availability levels has been revealed with the successful hull cut of HMAS Collins at ASC in Adelaide. The hull cut is a significant step to reduce the amount of time the submarines are in planned long term maintenance. It enables equipment to be removed from within the submarine so that maintenance can be performed more efficiently.
The Defence Materiel Organisation’s General Manager Submarines, Mr David Gould, inspected the hull cut in HMAS Collins with ASC CEO, Mr Steve Ludlam, at ASC this week. “This shows real promise; it is one of a number of initiatives being implemented by ASC to conduct full cycle dockings (FCDs) in around two years rather than three,” Mr Gould said.
ASC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Steve Ludlam, said that it is one of a number of initiatives being implemented by ASC to improve availability. “The strategy to cut the submarine’s hull rather than work on equipment in situ increases efficiency, reduces time in maintenance, and ultimately contributes to improved availability of the submarine fleet.”
Following the release of the Study into the Business of Sustaining Australia’s Strategic Collins Class Submarine Capability (often referred to as the Coles Report) last year, ASC is working with its Submarine Enterprise partners to restore Collins Class availability to international benchmark levels by 2017.
Other milestones this year have included:
• ASC's completion of a scheduled intermediate maintenance activity for HMAS Sheean three days ahead of schedule;
• On-time completion of a certification extension docking for HMAS Farncomb in May, and ongoing support to operating submarines;
• Awarding of naval engineering authority delegations enabling ASC to take a more prominent role in the engineering decisions that are needed for effective and efficient sustainment of the Collins fleet.
Sunday, 1st September 2013 - Happy Father's Day

I am declaring my political bias - I am a Liberal (not necessarily Abbott) supporter. No politician can be trusted to tell the truth, but Kev doesn't even know the meaning of the word. So beware - this is a politically incorrect Log this week.
What a wonderful start to Spring, let us all pray and/or hope that the rest of this year, and next, are better weather wise than the past 2 years. A little rain would not go astray though as it is very dry in Bauple at the moment. The water truck has been kept busy (we are not on town water or sewerage) and it doesn't take a family long to go through a tank of water. Not cheap either.
Received my rates and found that we had a 22.5% rise since last year. The Council said it would only be about 5% so this surprised me. On investigation In discovered that Bauple residents were changed from 'Rural Residential' to 'Rural Township' - thus the large increase. Residents have not been advised of the re-zoning and I bet we do not get any extra service as a result of the change. Bauple has no shops, no garages, no licenced premises, no brothels (licenced), no town water or sewerage, no public transport, no police, no ambulance and a few unsealed roads. And we are about 1 1/2 hours drive from our council chambers. I would've thought that you would need some of these services/facilities to be regarded as a township? I wonder if Council worker Boot Hatfield had anything to do with this???
The Stormin Norman of old reared his ugly head yesterday at a town meeting (I am VP) and I spat the dummy. I think it is still bouncing. As some may know, my fuse can be short and when it is lit it doesn't take long to blow. I got the desired results but the meeting ended abruptly without finishing the Agenda............... not sure if I will be invited back. There were mutterings about sedation and valium as members left the meeting. Some people have not lived in the real world, makes it hard to move forward when all they know is the past.
David Elliston's dog injured itself while they were on holidays in Hervey Bay and is recuperating. It got me thinking, many of us care more for our pets than we do for ourselves. It hurts when they are ailing and cannot tell you what is up. It is hard when they are ailing but cannot tell you what is wrong.
Niggs is fretting at the moment, his girlfriend has been sent away because she has a taste for chickens. I think he is depressed and I am finding it hard to perk him up. Teenagers!
I was talking to old Bill from next door yesterday and he asked "Do you remember that stuff they used to put in our coffee during the war,
to make us forget about women?" I replied "Before my time Bill but I think you mean saltpeter.” He pondered and answered "Yep, that's the stuff..... I think it's beginning to work!"
I thought that the site may have been losing popularity, the number of email has dropped over the last month so I decided to check out the statistics and I am happy to say the numbers are still good. A total of 17,741 unique visitors (total visitors to site not visits to pages) to the site in August with Sundays being the most popular day, averaging 1430 visitors. No too shabby after all.
Well, I have a few jobs to do, so that's your lot for this week........
What a wonderful start to Spring, let us all pray and/or hope that the rest of this year, and next, are better weather wise than the past 2 years. A little rain would not go astray though as it is very dry in Bauple at the moment. The water truck has been kept busy (we are not on town water or sewerage) and it doesn't take a family long to go through a tank of water. Not cheap either.
Received my rates and found that we had a 22.5% rise since last year. The Council said it would only be about 5% so this surprised me. On investigation In discovered that Bauple residents were changed from 'Rural Residential' to 'Rural Township' - thus the large increase. Residents have not been advised of the re-zoning and I bet we do not get any extra service as a result of the change. Bauple has no shops, no garages, no licenced premises, no brothels (licenced), no town water or sewerage, no public transport, no police, no ambulance and a few unsealed roads. And we are about 1 1/2 hours drive from our council chambers. I would've thought that you would need some of these services/facilities to be regarded as a township? I wonder if Council worker Boot Hatfield had anything to do with this???
The Stormin Norman of old reared his ugly head yesterday at a town meeting (I am VP) and I spat the dummy. I think it is still bouncing. As some may know, my fuse can be short and when it is lit it doesn't take long to blow. I got the desired results but the meeting ended abruptly without finishing the Agenda............... not sure if I will be invited back. There were mutterings about sedation and valium as members left the meeting. Some people have not lived in the real world, makes it hard to move forward when all they know is the past.
David Elliston's dog injured itself while they were on holidays in Hervey Bay and is recuperating. It got me thinking, many of us care more for our pets than we do for ourselves. It hurts when they are ailing and cannot tell you what is up. It is hard when they are ailing but cannot tell you what is wrong.
Niggs is fretting at the moment, his girlfriend has been sent away because she has a taste for chickens. I think he is depressed and I am finding it hard to perk him up. Teenagers!
I was talking to old Bill from next door yesterday and he asked "Do you remember that stuff they used to put in our coffee during the war,
to make us forget about women?" I replied "Before my time Bill but I think you mean saltpeter.” He pondered and answered "Yep, that's the stuff..... I think it's beginning to work!"
I thought that the site may have been losing popularity, the number of email has dropped over the last month so I decided to check out the statistics and I am happy to say the numbers are still good. A total of 17,741 unique visitors (total visitors to site not visits to pages) to the site in August with Sundays being the most popular day, averaging 1430 visitors. No too shabby after all.
Well, I have a few jobs to do, so that's your lot for this week........
Around the Traps

Garth Schmidt has advised me that Colin 'Spanner' Watts has been placed into Palliative Care at the Townsville hospital for pain control and respite. "I spoke with Spanner this afternoon and he says that the pain is now largely under control and may go home Monday or Tuesday. It will depend on what needs to be done to his house to facilitate access as he in now unable to walk. I am going in to see him this afternoon to see if there is anything I can do for he and Sandra. I may call on some members from the Townsville area for assistance if I need it." I am sure that a phone call to Spanner on 0458 772 668 will brighten his day considerably and a visit would be even better if you are a local.
David Elliston wrote "I have read of your attempts to locate a copy of theSilver Jubilee Fleet Review 1977 book. Whilst I was an attendee at the event (an invited guest, not a participant) I am not familiar with the book. I do have the large chart of the ship's positions produced by the Hydrographer of the Navy. I have found a 32 page A4 format official programme on eBay UK (eBay item number 261271252659) that might interest you, although you might have to haggle about the seller's willingness (or otherwise) to post it to Australia." thanks David, information passed on.
David added "Thought of you as we scurried down the Bruce Highway a couple of weeks ago. Had we not been in such a hurry to get home, I probably would have hit the more scenic route, but the ruptured crucial ligament in our dog's leg was primarily on our minds, and having booked surgery with his usual vet, we were hell bent on getting home. He's now recuperating. A real pity as we were enjoying the warmer weather in Hervey Bay. There's always another time though I guess." Sorry to hear about the dog David, hope all is well.
David Elliston wrote "I have read of your attempts to locate a copy of theSilver Jubilee Fleet Review 1977 book. Whilst I was an attendee at the event (an invited guest, not a participant) I am not familiar with the book. I do have the large chart of the ship's positions produced by the Hydrographer of the Navy. I have found a 32 page A4 format official programme on eBay UK (eBay item number 261271252659) that might interest you, although you might have to haggle about the seller's willingness (or otherwise) to post it to Australia." thanks David, information passed on.
David added "Thought of you as we scurried down the Bruce Highway a couple of weeks ago. Had we not been in such a hurry to get home, I probably would have hit the more scenic route, but the ruptured crucial ligament in our dog's leg was primarily on our minds, and having booked surgery with his usual vet, we were hell bent on getting home. He's now recuperating. A real pity as we were enjoying the warmer weather in Hervey Bay. There's always another time though I guess." Sorry to hear about the dog David, hope all is well.

Pat and Mavis Heffernan report that their cruise aboard the Queen Elizabeth has been exhausting! "It has been hard to take, with all food provided, relaxing in the sun and being waited on! Of the 8 ports of call, we found Tallinn, Estonia, and St Petersburg most interesting. Tallinn's Maritime Museum has a 1937 submarine, called the Lembit, which was commissioned by the Republic of Estonia from a UK shipyard (I believe, Birkenhead). It is based on the old "S" Boat. During its lifetime, it has been commanded by the Estonian Navy, by the German Navy in 1940 and from 1945 to 1991 by the Soviet Navy. It holds the world record for the greatest period of time spent in water - 75 years. The Soviets handed it back to Estonia and it is now on display for the public.
During our visit to St Petersburg, we saw 4 Boats: one on display by a riverbank, two alongside an old Russian warship and one nuclear Boat near the entrance to the shipping lane in and out of St Petersburg. Going ashore in Russia requires having to go through a lot of red tape."
During our visit to St Petersburg, we saw 4 Boats: one on display by a riverbank, two alongside an old Russian warship and one nuclear Boat near the entrance to the shipping lane in and out of St Petersburg. Going ashore in Russia requires having to go through a lot of red tape."
Sandy Freeleagus, in response to my request for information last week wrote "I was on Otway from '71 to '76. We blew up one of our donks and blew up a diesel electric loco in Pearl during Rimpac deployment in '75 but I can't recall any fire on board."
Sandy added "Bronco McGinn has settled on the Island and has talked me into helping crew his boat up from Balina in the near future. Will have to boff up on my POOW stuff again I reckon. Keep your eye on the news - we could end up anywhere. I Hope it won't be like one trip on Otway coming back from Jervis Bay (where else would Otway be?). I was POOW coming into Sydney and decided to put on a fix. Being quite dark, I decided on the Kernal flare, Macquarie Light and three very bright lights in a row."
"I got the messenger to write down the bearings for me and he asked me if he could put the fix on the chart. Agreeing, I then read off the points; Flare bears ... that; Mac Light ... that; three bright lights ... that. Very cautiously he informed me that he could not find the three bright lights on the chart. Too bloody late now, so another three bearings. That, that and that. Still not finding those lights, I accused him of having his eyes painted on his boof head and was stuffing up my fixing."
"However, I would endeavour to fix on something he could find on the chart. How thoughtful of me, how understanding and how magnanimous of me. Besides those 'three bright lights' - I realised were on a Boeing 707 that was on short finals into Mascot and had just landed. AAHH ... Brisbane is north of Balina - isn't it???" It is a wonder we ever got to any of our destinations!!!
Sandy added "Bronco McGinn has settled on the Island and has talked me into helping crew his boat up from Balina in the near future. Will have to boff up on my POOW stuff again I reckon. Keep your eye on the news - we could end up anywhere. I Hope it won't be like one trip on Otway coming back from Jervis Bay (where else would Otway be?). I was POOW coming into Sydney and decided to put on a fix. Being quite dark, I decided on the Kernal flare, Macquarie Light and three very bright lights in a row."
"I got the messenger to write down the bearings for me and he asked me if he could put the fix on the chart. Agreeing, I then read off the points; Flare bears ... that; Mac Light ... that; three bright lights ... that. Very cautiously he informed me that he could not find the three bright lights on the chart. Too bloody late now, so another three bearings. That, that and that. Still not finding those lights, I accused him of having his eyes painted on his boof head and was stuffing up my fixing."
"However, I would endeavour to fix on something he could find on the chart. How thoughtful of me, how understanding and how magnanimous of me. Besides those 'three bright lights' - I realised were on a Boeing 707 that was on short finals into Mascot and had just landed. AAHH ... Brisbane is north of Balina - isn't it???" It is a wonder we ever got to any of our destinations!!!

Billy Dobson, Chairman of the Plymouth Branch of the S/A (UK) sent this phot and said "Found this one when browsing through some old photographs, L to R Johnny Angeline, Keith (Boot) Hatfield, jack McCrohan and ? It’s got to be late sixties, early seventies." Thanks Billy, it was taken at Ovens' commissioning in Greenock. I was there but no photo.....
The Kursk - A Submarine in Troubled Waters
In August 2000 the pride of the Russian navy and its 118 crew lay at the bottom of the Barents Sea. The unthinkable had happened. The Kursk, the world's most technologically advanced nuclear submarine and pride of the Russian Fleet had sunk. After two years of investigation, this documentary unveils the contradictions, lies and secrets created by the authorities at the time, hiding the true origins of the disaster and exposes a truly disturbing story. 'The Kursk - A Submarine in Troubled Waters' is constructed like a counter espionage documentary. It underlines the gap between a nation torn apart by a human tragedy and a government willing to stop at nothing to reach its global aims. The 1 hour movie is available online, very interesting.
The Kursk - A Submarine in Troubled Waters
In August 2000 the pride of the Russian navy and its 118 crew lay at the bottom of the Barents Sea. The unthinkable had happened. The Kursk, the world's most technologically advanced nuclear submarine and pride of the Russian Fleet had sunk. After two years of investigation, this documentary unveils the contradictions, lies and secrets created by the authorities at the time, hiding the true origins of the disaster and exposes a truly disturbing story. 'The Kursk - A Submarine in Troubled Waters' is constructed like a counter espionage documentary. It underlines the gap between a nation torn apart by a human tragedy and a government willing to stop at nothing to reach its global aims. The 1 hour movie is available online, very interesting.

Florence of Arabia contacted me this week and corrected a mistake in last week's Log. "Just to clarify my place of work its Harouge Oil Operations in Libya not Perth WA as stated in Up Periscope. I have enclosed a photo taken yesterday as proof. Here I am trying to blend in with the locals. Going deep here means up to your nuts in sand!" Looks like WA to me Stuart!
Richard Coathup wrote "Its a small world. Out of the office for lunch and in the middle of the Bourke Street Mall I bumped into Mick Wood and Eileen on their shopping trip in Melbourne as they continue their Australian tour.
John 'Smudge' Smithies lives in Newcastle and I have warned him that Graham Morritt had been looking for him "I'm near Newcastle for a few days next weekend and have lost his details. Thought I'd catch up with him while there." wrote Graham
Wally Whitfield asked "Has anybody collected the pension bonus after working 5 years from retirement age? As a married couple I would like to know if the wife has to qualify as it shows on the DVA Facts Sheet single rate and married rate." Can anyone help Wally?
Earlier this year Robin Ford posted on Facebook "Interesting thing I learnt this morning. I catch a very crowded train at 7:00 each morning. Well, last night I had my normal bowl of cabbage soup (yes, I am on an extreme diet) and in fact had seconds. Fell asleep on the train on the way in. Well, I woke up to find I had the big seat all to myself, even though people were standing in the isles. I wondered why they were all glaring at me, then I sniffed the air. Hmmm, not rose petals! So now I know, whilst sleeping the body can obviously let rip a few good ones. Now to look up timetables for a different morning train." This reminded me of many stories that I had heard from submariners who had an embarrassing incident on the trains after a session at Plats or Kirribilli. There were many incidences of waking up in the middle of the night after the train had stopped for the night, getting off before the station when the train stopped, getting off on the wrong side at a station and other embarrassing stories. If you have one, let me know... here is one of mine.
It had been a long day at the Mess followed by a session at Kirribilli and I decided to go home (Lewisham) early for a change. I had reached my threshold and for once stopped drinking before dozing off. I don't know what time it was, but even though it was dark the train had quite a few passengers onboard. Half way home (on the express section) I felt the need for a nature call and knew I couldn't wait till the next station. An idea popped into my head (and like most of mine after a few drinks, was not a good one). I sidled up to the doorway where no one in the carriage could see me and started to discreetly relieve myself out the door. It would have been OK if they had their windows shut but they didn't and they received a Golden shower. I was soon exposed, in more ways than one. Lucky I was pissed or I would have been embarrassed.....
Richard Coathup wrote "Its a small world. Out of the office for lunch and in the middle of the Bourke Street Mall I bumped into Mick Wood and Eileen on their shopping trip in Melbourne as they continue their Australian tour.
John 'Smudge' Smithies lives in Newcastle and I have warned him that Graham Morritt had been looking for him "I'm near Newcastle for a few days next weekend and have lost his details. Thought I'd catch up with him while there." wrote Graham
Wally Whitfield asked "Has anybody collected the pension bonus after working 5 years from retirement age? As a married couple I would like to know if the wife has to qualify as it shows on the DVA Facts Sheet single rate and married rate." Can anyone help Wally?
Earlier this year Robin Ford posted on Facebook "Interesting thing I learnt this morning. I catch a very crowded train at 7:00 each morning. Well, last night I had my normal bowl of cabbage soup (yes, I am on an extreme diet) and in fact had seconds. Fell asleep on the train on the way in. Well, I woke up to find I had the big seat all to myself, even though people were standing in the isles. I wondered why they were all glaring at me, then I sniffed the air. Hmmm, not rose petals! So now I know, whilst sleeping the body can obviously let rip a few good ones. Now to look up timetables for a different morning train." This reminded me of many stories that I had heard from submariners who had an embarrassing incident on the trains after a session at Plats or Kirribilli. There were many incidences of waking up in the middle of the night after the train had stopped for the night, getting off before the station when the train stopped, getting off on the wrong side at a station and other embarrassing stories. If you have one, let me know... here is one of mine.
It had been a long day at the Mess followed by a session at Kirribilli and I decided to go home (Lewisham) early for a change. I had reached my threshold and for once stopped drinking before dozing off. I don't know what time it was, but even though it was dark the train had quite a few passengers onboard. Half way home (on the express section) I felt the need for a nature call and knew I couldn't wait till the next station. An idea popped into my head (and like most of mine after a few drinks, was not a good one). I sidled up to the doorway where no one in the carriage could see me and started to discreetly relieve myself out the door. It would have been OK if they had their windows shut but they didn't and they received a Golden shower. I was soon exposed, in more ways than one. Lucky I was pissed or I would have been embarrassed.....

Coming to a guardrail near you!! This new style speed camera is on the highway leading into Cairns. It's one of many that will be installed over the next 12 months throughout Qld. They sure are getting sneaky and they say they are not doing it for the money.
I received an email from Boot Hatfield on Monday quoting last week's Log “ . . . . but the swag gets a bit uncomfortable (and smelly) after a while, just like a bunk on a boat. Everywhere is so green . ." Boot wrote "Don’t stay in your fart sack so long, then it won’t turn green. Although from what I saw, your pit was always a bit green anyway . . . and always had a strange tremor occurring (or was that the prop vibrations?).
Getting a response from a Council 'worker' on a Monday is unusual so I asked "Was it your turn to come in today? You poor council workers do it rough!" to which he replied "Hey, we keep the wheels turning for you retirees . . . no work, all benefits."
I couldn't resist replying "That’s what I said - no work, all benefits." The message must have sunk in, he responded "Moron . . . can’t win !!"
I received an email from Boot Hatfield on Monday quoting last week's Log “ . . . . but the swag gets a bit uncomfortable (and smelly) after a while, just like a bunk on a boat. Everywhere is so green . ." Boot wrote "Don’t stay in your fart sack so long, then it won’t turn green. Although from what I saw, your pit was always a bit green anyway . . . and always had a strange tremor occurring (or was that the prop vibrations?).
Getting a response from a Council 'worker' on a Monday is unusual so I asked "Was it your turn to come in today? You poor council workers do it rough!" to which he replied "Hey, we keep the wheels turning for you retirees . . . no work, all benefits."
I couldn't resist replying "That’s what I said - no work, all benefits." The message must have sunk in, he responded "Moron . . . can’t win !!"

Not much to report from the Association.........................
The draw for the Bar Dolphins for new Members will take place at the SAA SA AGM on the 15th September and winner will be advised ASAP.
ACT Branch
The Branch conducted their AGM last Sunday and they had on interstate visitor in Geoff Anderson who was in town and attended.
As always the numbers were not great but we have a couple of new faces on the committee and we are pretty healthy funding wise at present. It is amazing how much money a sausage sizzle or two will raise.
I can report that our request to commemorate plaques to AE1 and AE2 is presently with the War Memorial for consideration and with the right approval we hope to celebrate the laying of the plaques 24 May 2014.
David Strangward, AM
Branch President
The draw for the Bar Dolphins for new Members will take place at the SAA SA AGM on the 15th September and winner will be advised ASAP.
ACT Branch
The Branch conducted their AGM last Sunday and they had on interstate visitor in Geoff Anderson who was in town and attended.
As always the numbers were not great but we have a couple of new faces on the committee and we are pretty healthy funding wise at present. It is amazing how much money a sausage sizzle or two will raise.
I can report that our request to commemorate plaques to AE1 and AE2 is presently with the War Memorial for consideration and with the right approval we hope to celebrate the laying of the plaques 24 May 2014.
David Strangward, AM
Branch President

Submariner, Commander Tony "Gecko" Ellis, has found new friends in far away places, during a visit to the Indian Defence Services Staff College at Wellington in Tamil Nadu, India.
Commander Ellis is a student at the Australian Command and Staff College (ACSC) in Canberra. He, and a small delegation of ACSC students, were warmly welcomed by their Indian counterparts during a recent study tour. One of the Indian counterparts was a fellow submariner, Commander Parag Tiwari. "Our uniforms may be different, but the submariner community is the same across the globe," Commander Ellis said.
"This visit to India has really opened my eyes to how important our friendship with India is, and I think the defence members that we're are meeting here are just as keen to learn more about how the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Defence Force operates in general. "
Commander Ellis said that as his meeting was wrapping up, he thought he should give his counterpart something as a memento. "I dived into my bag for my spare set of dolphins. When I came back, I saw Parag had done exactly the same thing for me. So we both ended our meeting with a laugh and a souvenir."
Commander Ellis also took the opportunity to pass on his condolences for the recent fatal Indian submarine fire in Mumbai, which claimed the lives of as many as 18 Indian sailors. Full article in Navy Daily
Commander Ellis is a student at the Australian Command and Staff College (ACSC) in Canberra. He, and a small delegation of ACSC students, were warmly welcomed by their Indian counterparts during a recent study tour. One of the Indian counterparts was a fellow submariner, Commander Parag Tiwari. "Our uniforms may be different, but the submariner community is the same across the globe," Commander Ellis said.
"This visit to India has really opened my eyes to how important our friendship with India is, and I think the defence members that we're are meeting here are just as keen to learn more about how the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Defence Force operates in general. "
Commander Ellis said that as his meeting was wrapping up, he thought he should give his counterpart something as a memento. "I dived into my bag for my spare set of dolphins. When I came back, I saw Parag had done exactly the same thing for me. So we both ended our meeting with a laugh and a souvenir."
Commander Ellis also took the opportunity to pass on his condolences for the recent fatal Indian submarine fire in Mumbai, which claimed the lives of as many as 18 Indian sailors. Full article in Navy Daily

International Fleet Review 3 to 11 October 2013 - Sydney
For information on the International Fleet Review please visit the website www.navy.gov.au/ifr
For information on Navy Ticketing and to view our current shows, events and attractions please visit SALT website www.navycanteens.com.au
For information on the International Fleet Review please visit the website www.navy.gov.au/ifr
For information on Navy Ticketing and to view our current shows, events and attractions please visit SALT website www.navycanteens.com.au

CANSSUB100
The Submariners Association of Canada West Coast Branch will celebrate the Canadian Submarine Centenary which commemorates the 1914 commissioning of HMC Submarines CC1 and CC2.
Celebrations are to be held in Greater Victoria, British Columbia from Tuesday August 5th till Friday August 8th. Follow this link to their Centenary Home Page for full details.
The Submariners Association of Canada West Coast Branch will celebrate the Canadian Submarine Centenary which commemorates the 1914 commissioning of HMC Submarines CC1 and CC2.
Celebrations are to be held in Greater Victoria, British Columbia from Tuesday August 5th till Friday August 8th. Follow this link to their Centenary Home Page for full details.

Vale - CMDR Edmond G. Gigg, OMM, CD, RCN Retired (1924 – 2013)
Edmund, a World War II Veteran aged 88, of Ottawa, passed away Friday evening, August 23, 2013 with his family around him.
In 1942 he joined RCNVR 'at age' as Ordinary Seaman – convoy escorts in the North Atlantic and in 1943 started officer training and loaned to RN submarines. He served on HMS/m Oberon, HMS/m Uther and HMS/m Tradewind until 1945 when he transferred to RCN regular force and commissioned destroyer HMCS Crusader R228 - in Greenock
In 1946 he trained as Naval Aviator with RN Fleet Air Arm – qualified in Seafires, Fireflies & Carrier Landings and returned to Canada in 1948 – 826 Firefly Squadron HMCS Shearwater & HMCS Magnificent CVL21
1950 saw him return to RN submarine service and he served on HMS/m Alderney until 1953 when he was posted to Perisher after which he joined HMS/m Selene as CO. In 1954 he joined HMS/m Tally-Ho P317 as CO until 1955 when he returned to Canada. Fe commissioned HMCS Grilse SS71 as CO in 1961 and in 1966 he became first SM1 in the First Canadian Submarine Squadron.
Indeed every Canadian submariner has cause to remember his contribution to the design of a distinctively Canadian dolphin insignia worn so proudly on their uniforms and affectionately known by older submariners as Gigg's Goldfish.
Edmund, a World War II Veteran aged 88, of Ottawa, passed away Friday evening, August 23, 2013 with his family around him.
In 1942 he joined RCNVR 'at age' as Ordinary Seaman – convoy escorts in the North Atlantic and in 1943 started officer training and loaned to RN submarines. He served on HMS/m Oberon, HMS/m Uther and HMS/m Tradewind until 1945 when he transferred to RCN regular force and commissioned destroyer HMCS Crusader R228 - in Greenock
In 1946 he trained as Naval Aviator with RN Fleet Air Arm – qualified in Seafires, Fireflies & Carrier Landings and returned to Canada in 1948 – 826 Firefly Squadron HMCS Shearwater & HMCS Magnificent CVL21
1950 saw him return to RN submarine service and he served on HMS/m Alderney until 1953 when he was posted to Perisher after which he joined HMS/m Selene as CO. In 1954 he joined HMS/m Tally-Ho P317 as CO until 1955 when he returned to Canada. Fe commissioned HMCS Grilse SS71 as CO in 1961 and in 1966 he became first SM1 in the First Canadian Submarine Squadron.
Indeed every Canadian submariner has cause to remember his contribution to the design of a distinctively Canadian dolphin insignia worn so proudly on their uniforms and affectionately known by older submariners as Gigg's Goldfish.
![]() Navy News On-line
The fortnightly online copy of Navy News is now available. Items in this edition include:
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Win a Bottle of Pusser's Rum
![]() The Centenary of Australian Submarines is just around the corner and I intend producing some merchandise to sell in the Slops Van.
I am calling for designs that would be suitable, a rough drawing or even ideas will do and the best will win a bottle of Pusser's Rum. Submissions by December please to web manager (me). Note: Up Periscope is not sponsored and relies on the Slops Van to help offset operating and equipment costs. |

This week only. Buy an embroidered Oberang or a Cberang from the Slops Van this week and for each one you buy you will get a free Australian submarine sticker for your car and free postage.
For cash/EFT purchases go to Cash Sales or Credit Card pages.
For cash/EFT purchases go to Cash Sales or Credit Card pages.

Where's this photo been hiding?
You probably won’t remember a Melbourne Late Show and Victorian Premier - Joan Kirner's rendition of Joan Jett's - "I Love Rock and Roll". But look closely at the leather mini-skirt clad “go-go dancer” girl ogling her – star struck!
Last month, the Governor General, Quentin Bryce, returning from a visit to Bundaberg, disembarked from her official RAAF flight at Canberra Airport carrying a small piglet under each arm. Her ADC, a bright, young Naval officer, there to greet her, came to attention, snapped off a salute and said: "Welcome back, Ma'am. Nice pigs."
The Governor General replied: "These are not just pigs. These are authentic Burnett River Razorback hogs. I got one for the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd and one for Julia Gillard, the former Prime Minister." The ADC, still at attention, smiled and said: "Excellent trade, Ma'am."
While on the subject, there is an interesting video on Youtube taken at Labor Election Headquarters when Rudd found out that he could lose his seat of Griffith. Says a lot for his temperament.
You probably won’t remember a Melbourne Late Show and Victorian Premier - Joan Kirner's rendition of Joan Jett's - "I Love Rock and Roll". But look closely at the leather mini-skirt clad “go-go dancer” girl ogling her – star struck!
Last month, the Governor General, Quentin Bryce, returning from a visit to Bundaberg, disembarked from her official RAAF flight at Canberra Airport carrying a small piglet under each arm. Her ADC, a bright, young Naval officer, there to greet her, came to attention, snapped off a salute and said: "Welcome back, Ma'am. Nice pigs."
The Governor General replied: "These are not just pigs. These are authentic Burnett River Razorback hogs. I got one for the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd and one for Julia Gillard, the former Prime Minister." The ADC, still at attention, smiled and said: "Excellent trade, Ma'am."
While on the subject, there is an interesting video on Youtube taken at Labor Election Headquarters when Rudd found out that he could lose his seat of Griffith. Says a lot for his temperament.
Ever wondered why Julia originally chose September 14 for an election date (and Kev changed it to September 7th)? For a PM to receive FULL parliamentary pension and perks, they need to be leader/PM for three years within a full term of government. Julia Gillard would have been eligible for the full parliamentary pension (and perks) on September 13 this year. She never made it, meaning she loses the perks and gets about 2/3rds of the Parliamentary Pension she would have got. She will still get more than she deserves but at least it's less than she could have received.

Two nuns sat at traffic lights in their car when a car load of rowdy young lads pulls up alongside. "Oi, get your tits out you penguins!" shouts one of the lads.
The Mother Superior turns to Sister Immaculata, "I don't think they know who we are, show them your cross"..
So Sister Immaculata winds down her window and shouts, "Piss off you little wankers, before I come over there and rip your balls off"!
"There, was that cross enough Mother Superior ? "
The Mother Superior turns to Sister Immaculata, "I don't think they know who we are, show them your cross"..
So Sister Immaculata winds down her window and shouts, "Piss off you little wankers, before I come over there and rip your balls off"!
"There, was that cross enough Mother Superior ? "