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Vale - Gerry France
It is with great sadness that we
have to report the passing of our shipmate and Victorian
Branch member, Gerry France at 1745hrs, 15th May 2013.
The details for the funeral
service are as follows: It is with sadness that we report on the death of SAA and New Zealand SA Branch member ex CPOTASI John Howe aged 83. John served on submarines 1949-1969 - HMS Truncheon, HMS Tireless, HMS Tabard, HMS Talent, and HMS Dreadnought. Sunday, 19th May 2013 The weather has been great this week but unfortunately I have been cooped up all week working on a new look SAA website. I am happy with the look and feel of the new site and hope to have it online for launch at the AGM. Had to light the fire for the first time last night but forgot to do 'start up' checks. The baffle was loose and fell into the fireplace, not a big job, but there is soot everywhere. Niggs is a dad again, 6 beautiful copies of him, 4 have already been allocated. He keeps going down to check up on them and is doing his share of the work. Like most dads the novelty will soon wear off. Boot Hatfield sobered up long enough to demonstrate that the lessons he has been taking at backward reading class are taking effect..... "Bung, reading Up Periscope – yes some greenies can read, you said you were “Installing water tanks and plumbing with a mate” I can understand some of Niggs’ mates coming around – he has something to offer, but where did you find one? Or was it, as you suggested further down the page, a rent-a-mate situation??" I must work on my image.... Milly Milburn was cruising down the Bruce Highway and decided to deter through Bauple. Not having my address he asked an old resident if "he knew where an old cranky ex sailor lived?" What is more annoying than Milly using such libelous language is the fact that the old bastard knew who he meant and directed Milly to my place. Enjoyed a nice chat, always good to see an old face again.
Had a beer with bill the neighbour at lunchtime today
and he was hung over. He said
"Went out last night and got
really wasted because the wife was back on the warpath
again. She was up for making a sex movie, and all I did
was suggest we should hold auditions for her part.. I
woke up in the middle of the night next to some chick
who was snoring, so I knew I made it home OK!"
I thought that someone there was in a happier mood and
was glad to see the school bus driver arrive with a
smile on his face. I said you look pleased with
yourself and he replied with a grin
"My wife has been after me for
several weeks to paint the seat on our toilet. Finally,
I got around to doing it while Julie was out.
After finishing, I left to take care of another matter
before she returned. Till next week....
AROUND THE TRAPS
The Western Port Oberon Association is unveiling the Concept Plans for the Victorian Maritime Centre Project on the 7th June 2013 at Hastings. It is hoped that this is a sign that progress is being made on the final resting place of Otama.
Received an email from Paul Wilson of New Lambton NSW he had just been to the SAA meeting in Sydney and has asked for an Application. Paul spent 14 years in the RN, paying of as a POCA. Always good to see potential new members, we need them. Peter Hogg is a member of the Royal NZ Naval Association and edits a fortnightly newsletter called 'ON DECK' which is sent to many readers around the world with an interest in current and past items of naval news. If you would like to be placed on his distribution list contact Peter. Tom Johnson wrote "I too look forward to Sunday night and reading "The Log". Being an old stoker I have no idea how to use Facebook or any of that stuff. I am only capable with emails and adding attachments and that's only just. We take off on Friday 24 heading to Adelaide to board the Ghan to Alice Springs for a week, on the train to Darwin and then fly to Townsville, sorry we wont catch up at Subcon." Rumour has it that Tom bought Laurie a hamster skin coat for the trip. Took her to the fair last week, and it took him 3 hours to get her off the Ferris wheel. Tom continued "Spoke to Graham Collins today, he goes into hospital next Monday for a major back operation, will come out with added wire and steel in the back, other than that he is doing well." Bruce 'Bruta' McLennan reports "Grabbed a promo flight from Manila last week and at the moment in northern Thailand awaiting a visa to cross into Burma was last there in 1980 and then you could only get a 7 day visa."
A school inspector is sent to assess a Year 4 class in a
local New South Wales State School... He is introduced
to the class by the teacher.
The inspector reasons that normally class starts with
religious instruction, so he will ask a biblical
question.
The following new members signed on with the SAA in May 2013; Wilson, Paul ex LCA. Served on HMS Oracle 89/90, HMS Superb, 90/94 HMS Torbay 94/00 and HMS Triumph 00/05. Partner Marcie, New Lambton NSW. Hannigan, Liam ex CPO (R) SM. Served on HMS Explorer (SM3) 60/62, HMS Taciturn (SM4) 63/65, HMS Token (SM1) 65/67, HMS Trump (SM4) 67/69 and HMS Conqueror (SM3) 72/7. Partner Francisca. Woy Woy NSW. (Rejoined) AGM Agenda and Reports With the AGM only a month away the Agenda and those Reports that have been received have been posted on the Associations web site. Other Reports will be added as they are received. The Minutes of the 2012 AGM are also available. Link. Queensland Branch A decision has been made that confirms the Branch will be having a party on 3rd August 2013, a great opportunity to say farewell to our outgoing President of the past 5 years. Yes, the Dinner Dance will go ahead.
The cost is $140 a couple or $70 for a single and Food,
Beer, Wine or Soft Drinks and Entertainment is all included in
this price. The Band we have this year is “The Chevrolets”
and they are very good at providing music and entertainment for
a fun evening
Gallipoli
2015 Ballot Following the agreement of the Turkish Government, the Government had previously announced that the places will be shared between Australian and NZ (8,000 Australians, 2,000 New Zealanders) and up to 500 places have been set aside for official representatives and guests, including representatives of all countries that served in the Gallipoli campaign.
Some of the places available to Australians will be
reserved for special representatives including: The remaining places (3,000 double passes) will be available for all Australians. For more information on ballot arrangements visit DVA information page. Events - May 2013
Australian Defence News Australia and Sweden have reached agreement on transfer of submarine intellectual property as a key step in maintaining existing Collins submarines and building their replacements. This followed extensive negotiations between Australia's Defence Materiel Organisation and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration. This would pave the way for Swedish involvement in Australia's Future Submarine Program and also assist Australia with the ongoing sustainment of the six Collins class submarines. This agreement gives effect to Australia's rights to use and disclose Swedish Intellectual Property rights for complex submarine design and technology. In 1987, Australia ordered six submarines of the Collins Class from a design by Swedish firm Kockums AB. The Collins subs, constructed in Adelaide, will remain in service for another 20 years. Australia is now planning for their replacement with 12 new boats with the recent Defence White Paper settling on two options - an evolution of Collins or a completely new design. The government announced last year it would engage Kockums to undertake initial design studies for the evolved Collins. An evolved design would build on high level of capabilities of the existing Collins design, address known deficiencies and obsolescence issues and provide potential capability improvements. But before that could occur, Australian needed to reach agreement with Sweden on use of Collins and other Swedish technology for the Future Submarine Program.
The agreement was signed on board the RSN's submarine rescue and support vessel, MV Swift Rescue. The arrangement establishes a framework between the RSN and RAN in the area of submarine rescue support and cooperation. Under the arrangement, the RSN will make available to the RAN MV Swift Rescue and other resources to render support and assistance in the event of an RAN submarine incident. Defence said that the Submarine Rescue Arrangement reaffirms the close and long-standing bilateral defence relationship between Singapore and Australia, where both armed forces interact frequently through exercises, visits, professional exchanges and military courses. Defence Links
Naming ceremony of fuel cell
submarine U36 for the German Navy in Kiel
Royal Canadian Navy Opens
Its Submarine, HMCS Victoria, For Public Tours
Half Term Family Challenge
At The Submarine Museum Gosport
Periscopes Are Returned To
WW2 Submarine In Gosport
Mystery of French
submarine disasters can never be unveiled
Japan On Alert Over Unidentified Submarines
Lloyd Blake is working on the Submarine Centenary 1914-2014 for the Institute and makes an appeal for help from members. "2014's celebration will include a book " A Century of Silent Service - Australia's Submariners ". The book has a people focus. Need a few photos please - Submariners in the boat (clothes on !) or in uniform on the casing. Seeking good quality high resolution jpeg colour photos for consideration in the book." Contact Lloyd on 0439943230. Check out the SUBS100 website. Links of the week...... John Culnane wrote "I thought you’d look good walking through Bauple in your 'Onsies' with Niggs… I rather fancy the Purple one, or is it ‘Puce’…" I can only note that these are available on an RN site, no more needs to be said! Mind you, ideal for trot sentries. Definitely worth listening to and taking heed by all those who don't understand what our current government is doing to our nation. Wake up Australia you and yours are the victims of irresponsible management of your futures. Although the message is to Americans it is just as relevant to Australia. Worth a look.
Job opportunity This opportunity was listed in the Australian Submarines (SAA) group in Linkedin - if you are not a member why not join now. Can you help...... Richard Townley-Jones is trying to find the whereabouts of Peter Sheehan. The contact details held by the SAA are out of date. If you are in contact with Peter can you let him know or contact me. Eight thoughts to ponder...
And as someone recently said to me: "Don't worry about old age--it doesn't last that long."
Come on Niggs, we have work to do!
Sunday, 12th May 2013 The feedback on the new site for the SM Centenary (http://aussubs100.com) has been positive and with luck I shall make more progress next week. The Blog has had positive results, Paul Meakin posted a comment "I have the Dit Book from Otway's Motor Room circa 1975/6. Would the Otway Museum like to have it ??" Message passed to Roger Cooper for action. The revised SAA website is well under way and will be ready for launching at the AGM in Townsville. Both Carol Wilson and I are in the process of learning new site development tools but it is worth the effort, the result will be a lot more modern, crisp and to the point. Niggs has been bored this week, I have been tied up to the computer and with installing new water tanks and plumbing with a mate and he has not had much playtime. Made up for it yesterday though, took him to the beach for a swim. I expected him to repay me with breakfast in bed for Mum's Day, but I'm still waiting. I am not racist but would suggest that our elected leaders pay attention to the advice of Vladimir Putin. On February 4th, 2013, Vladimir Putin addressed the Duma, (Russian Parliament), and gave a speech about the tensions with minorities in Russia: "In Russia live Russians. Any minority, from anywhere, if it wants to live in Russia, to work and eat in Russia, should speak Russian, and should respect the Russian laws. If they prefer Shari ‘a Law, then we advise them to go to those places where that's the state law. Russia does not need minorities. Minorities need Russia, and we will not grant them special privileges, or try to change our laws to fit their desires, no matter how loud they yell 'discrimination'. We better learn from the suicides of America, England, Holland and France, if we are to survive as a nation. The Russian customs and traditions are not compatible with the lack of culture or the primitive ways of many minorities. When this honourable legislative body thinks of creating new laws, it should have in mind the national interest first, observing that the minorities are not Russians." The politicians in the Duma gave Putin a standing ovation for five minutes. Neighbour Bill and I were chatting over a beer and he explained he was in the dog house again. Apparently, after a night of drink, drugs and wild sex, he woke up to find himself next to a really ugly woman. That's when he realised he had made it home safely. He was silly enough to tell his missus!!! Till next week....
AROUND THE TRAPS
Rumour
has it that Graham 'Jumper' Collins is having a major
operation in two weeks. Thinking Dave 'Goldie' Horne had spinal surgery yesterday at the Mater Hospital in Townsville. The surgery went well and was quicker than anticipated, but still took all day. Dave is in Intensive care until Monday and then goes into a ward. Goldie expects to be in Townsville for a week or so.
Leslie Birch posted an article on Facebook from The Sun-Herald Sunday May 12th 2013 on 'Major General Neville Donohue', the same man I wrote about last week. Leslie said "This fool has made it to the big time now."
Veronica Taylor of After School Care Programs, located in El Paso County Colorado, is group of tutors that provide kids and teens the adult mentoring they need to succeed. Veronica wrote "I just wanted to say that, as a peer mentor, I've been using your link page for a maritime history project that I'm helping one of my kids with. Thanks for making it; it's been helpful!" Good to see that we could help.
Can you help...... A Victorian member reports that the company he is currently working for is now in the hands of receivers and about to be wound up, so with that in mind he asked "Any job vacancies in the vicinity of Lara please keep this slightly fat, bald little late 40's bloke in mind. I will sell body, not too cheap though, have starving family to feed)." If you know of anything please contact me.
Ken said "I will be raising funds and training hard so I can make a huge impact in the fight to conquer cancer - but I need your help. Please make a donation to my fundraising account today. You can do this by going to this link then enter my name (First name: – ken, Last Name: – Grierson) and click the Search button." "Cancer is something that has touched all of our lives in some measure. It's my goal to put a stop to that and The Ride is how I am doing my part. That's why I am so passionate about raising funds. Any donation that you can give is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your generosity!" Did you hear about the fat, alcoholic transvestite - All he wanted to do was eat, drink and be Mary. Links of the week...... Tribute to the Australian Sailor Centenary Monument is an exciting project in Western Australia and the site is worth a visit. Follow this link. Bruta McLennan sent this link to youtube with the comment "She sounds like she could really use some coke right about now." Paul Dickson posted this video in Facebook that I am sure many of us can relate to. Scam Alert...... Mike Shepherd sent me a SCAMwatch (a government website, worth subscribing) email alert warning about booking your winter getaway. SCAMwatch has received reports that scammers continue to target would-be travellers with holiday rental accommodation scams and advises would-be travellers to be on guard and do their homework when considering any holiday rental offer. Be cautious – if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Do your homework – contact the company directly using contact details you sourced independently through a phone book or online search.
Victoria Branch
Raffle tickets are also available, one of the best range of prizes I have seen for a while, good value at $5 a ticket. Apply online at this link.
New South Wales Branch
Ken
Norris
Western Australia Branch
Please join our American and ex British Submariners for the
weekend.
Paul Meakin The lack of attendance at Branch
Meetings and events is a major concern of the
Association and Members are encouraged to attend at
least one meeting or function a year. And why not
invite an oppo to join you? Graham 'Spider' Webb
sent this suggestion for consideration and has been
passed to the Committee. I can say that
I fit into this category as well, and I would imagine
there are many of us sort of 'silent' members.
Personally, I have only in the past few years
'connected' with the submarine community after what is
fast approaching 40 years ! ( I cannot hardly believe
that as I typed it !! FORTY BLOODY YEARS !). I am pretty
sure I can also say on behalf of all 'silent' members
that we too really look forward to the Sunday Log ! I understand where Spider is coming from, I hate being at functions where I do not know (or like?) those attending. However, it is hard to get commitment from members, I am speaking from experience. For it to work the members would need to be more communicative, most branches try hard to promulgate and promote events, it is the members that are letting the side down. Another solution that is much easier (and productive) is to get one of your oppos to come with you (rent-a-friend) and this would serve two purposes - increase attendance and give you someone to talk to.
Defence News Links
Lost submarine to be
remembered at talk
Coalition vows to build new
Collins-class submarines in Adelaide
Malaysia Needs More
Submarines - Former RMN Chief
Austal's response to Australian Defence White Paper and
Future Submarine ...
Submarine
arrives on her final voyage - Hamilton Spectator
Oppn to move quickly on submarines
China expanding submarine, missile forces with
advanced systems, Pentagon ... Forget Newton and Galileo. Here are the real laws of nature:
Come on Niggs, dinner time!
Eternal Patrol - ex CPOERA Brian Toogood SAA Victoria branch member Brian Toogood passed away in his sleep at 0300 on Friday morning.
Brian served on HMS Scorcher, HMS Andrew, HMS Telemachus
and HMS Grampus.
Sunday, 5th May 2013
I received an email this week that
answered the question I often ask "Is it time to pay off
The Log?" "G'Day Norm,
it's late at night but I just felt the need to say "Thankyou".
I know that the Chief's Log is a big chore and takes up
a lot of your time that I'm sure you can find a better
use for.
But I'd just like to say that I wait each week for it
and it makes my day to see all the news and views from
real people .... Submariners. Every time you feel like giving it away, just ask how
many people appreciate it, then think again ... no
pressure!
I'm not real good at keeping in touch with old mates,
and I'm not real good at participating in Submarine Vets
activities, but I do love to hear about what's
happening, how old Shipmates are doing, where people
are, and how everyone is fairing in life.
That's all I have to say about that. Thank you for
your efforts and time mate." On Thursday I went with my neighbour Bill to court in Gympie to show support from a Bauple local who had been charged with double homicide. The judge said to the defendant, "You're charged with beating your wife to death with a hammer." A voice at the back of the courtroom yelled out, "You bastard!" The judge continued, "You're also charged with beating your mother-in-law to death with a hammer." The voice in the back of the courtroom yelled out again, "You rotten bastard!" The judge stopped and said to Paddy in the back of the courtroom. "Sir, I can understand your anger and frustration at these crimes, but no more outbursts from you, or I'll charge you with contempt. Is that understood?" Paddy stood up and said, "I'm sorry, Your Honour, but for fifteen years I've lived next door to that arsehole, and every time I asked to borrow a hammer, he said he didn't have one." Till next week....
AROUND THE TRAPS
Warren Goodall attended the ANZAC March at his local bowling club. He said "I went to the bar for the free tot and beer (medal wearers got free drinks all day) when the barman noticed my Dolphins. "Oh look" he calls, "a pommy submariner". He took a while to convince that mine were well and truly earned on Aussie boats and that despite my birth rite, I was not a RNer. He must have been a not too bright ex-skimmer." Captain Tim Brown CSC, RAN was guest speaker at Holbrook on ANZAC Day and said "It was a great day! I must admit, when I was walking through Otway's Wardroom with the Able Seaman from Albatross, and realised it had been 20 years since I was MEO, I felt a bit like the 'old rooster'! I hear it will be a big event there next year?" Tim's speech can be viewed here. To see the ANZAC DAY Photos follow this link
Dave 'Goldie' Horne is having major spinal surgery at the Mater Hospital, Townsville on Saturday 11th May. They are going to try and straighten previous spinal fusions. Goldie expects to be there for about a week before returning home to Cairns. Beware, Raymond Kemp is coming to a town near you.... "Capacity test conducted on van batteries, after 18 hours still had 2 volts too drop so stopped as it was time to hit the sack. That was with all likes, fans and TV on. Therefore unable to calibrate ISCMMS. Will attempt again in 2 weeks when in Sydney on the way to Townsville. Conducting ORE now have 5 days at Wilpena Pound, 8 hours from getting up, hitching up and having a beer not bad I think. Looks like my batteries have more capacity than a Collins battery, will have no problems free camping on the way North.
I met a fairy today who granted me one wish. "I want to
live forever" I said. Ray, an old submariner was touring the country in his campervan with his missus and needed urgent medical help so he rang Medibank Private's 24 hour medical service. "Medibank Helpline here. What's the problem?" Ray replied "I'm in the Outback with the missus and she's been stung on her bits by a red back spider and now her vagina has completely closed up!" There was a brief silence and then Ray heard the response "Bummer!". Ray responded "Great advice! I didn't think of that. Thanks mate, bye."
Another visitor to the UK is Garry Coombe "We are soaking up the sun (9 degrees) at Westward Ho! In Devon. Had a few days in Cirencester then travelled to Bath for a day before heading to Taunton in Somerset. Next stop is Trewannack in Cornwall where we are staying in a smugglers cottage for a few days before heading to Plymouth. Sitting in a cafe looking out over a very stony beach and trying to thaw out!" The names played havoc with my spell checker.... LCDR JJ Williams (MSA Kiribati) said Garry Pacino always said "The only reason a submarine exists is to transport the forends to where it is needed most". JJ added "He always was a bit of a philosopher our Gary. He was a bad stepping oppo though, we used to take it in turns carrying him back onboard." JJ (an ex forendy) also sent a photo of Trevor Milne, Shane Wyatt and him in the forward mess and one of a bunch of ANZAC heroes (Peter Wallen, Shane Wyatt, Gary Pacino, Blue Burns and JJ) manning the tubes.
This week I received to email asking if Brett Ollington was OK, their were rumours that he had gone on eternal Patrol. I checked with him and he responded "The rumours of my death are greatly exaggerated, although I probably have prostate cancer, have to have the biopsy done next month."
Royal
Canadian Navy Adopts New Naval Ensign
This is an historic moment for the Royal Canadian Navy, which flew the White Ensign from 1911 until the adoption of the National Flag in 1965. From that point onward, the National Flag was adopted as both the Ensign and the Jack. In 1968, as part of efforts to emphasize the importance of military ensigns and flags, while also reflecting the new National Flag, a distinctive Naval Jack was adopted by the Canadian Armed Forces. Today, the flag previously known as the Naval Jack is adopted as the new Canadian Naval Ensign, and the National Flag becomes the new Naval Jack, which mirrors a standard practice amongst Commonwealth nations. The change will most importantly distinguish Canadian warships from other Canadian flagged vessels. It will also promote and strengthen the Canadian naval identity, while underscoring the unique commitment of our men and women at sea who serve as members of the Canadian Armed Forces in Royal Canadian Navy ships and vessels. The new Canadian Naval Ensign will now take rightful prominence as a significant national symbol for years to come.
The WA branch marched in Fremantle with our banner being carried by Submariners followed the State president Sid Czabotar, the National President Darren Thompson, State Patron Commodore Bob Trotter AM RAN Rtd and by 31 members and family marching the streets of Fremantle on a warm and balmy day. After the march the ANZAC Day service was held on the Esplanade on Marine Parade where the ANZAC Day Address was given by Captain Mark Potter CSC RAN. Joining us this year was Ian Hill (Chippie) who took the opportunity to march with his son Michael (SMNMT) with his buddies in boats from WA. Ian’s son is based at HMAS Stirling and Ian had travelled from Yass NSW to meet his new granddaughter.
At the completion of the March we all retired to the Fremantle Rosie O'Grady’s where our members joined serving Submariners and the Submariners Association (Australia Branch) for a few inviting ales and lunch which included our obligatory Rum raffle which was one by a Submarine Part 3 Sailor. CPOCISSM Darren Thompson (Nat Pres SAA), Dale Titch Turner, Philip Hoskins, Ian Hill and SMNMT Michael Hill enjoy a drink at Rosie O’Grady’s. More photos in Album.
Sid Czabotar Queensland Branch A reminder that a cut off date of 15th May 2013 to let us know if they are coming to the Dinner Dance. On this date a decision will be made to go ahead with the function or not. Full details and payment options are available on our website.
Rob Woolrych &
Adrian "Pete” Sellars An Emergency Call Centre worker in Brisbane has been dismissed from her job, much to the dismay of colleagues who are reportedly unhappy with her treatment. It seems a male caller dialled 999 from a mobile phone stating, "I am depressed and lying here on a railway track. I am waiting for the train to come so I can finally meet Allah." Apparently "Remain calm and stay on the line" was not considered to be an appropriate or correct response...
Defence White Paper 2013 Submarines 8.46 Due to the strategic value and importance of Australia’s submarine capability, the Government remains committed to replacing the existing Collins Class fleet with an expanded fleet of 12 conventionalsubmarines that will meet Australia’s future strategic requirements. The future submarines will be assembled in South Australia. The Government has ruled out consideration of a nuclear powered submarine capability to replace the Collins Class fleet. 8.47 The Future Submarine Program is a capability design, construction and sustainment challenge of unprecedented scale and complexity, and will span decades. Implementation will require a sustained and coordinated national effort. The Program will harness the knowledge, skills, expertise and lessons learned over the last 50 years of Australian submarine ownership. Engagement and collaboration with relevant Commonwealth and State Agencies and authorities and our strategic partners during all stages of the program, along with suitable Australian industrial capacity, will be critical to success. In particular, the Government intends to continue close cooperation with the United States on developing undersea warfare capabilities. 8.48 Since 2009, the Government has approved expenditure of over $200 million to fund design, modelling, analysis and technology studies to examine in detail options for the future submarine capability. 8.49 The Government has directed further work on a new Submarine Propulsion Energy Support and Integration Facility in Australia. This land-based facility will substantially reduce risk in the Future Submarine Program by providing the capability to research, integrate, assemble and test the propulsion, energy and drive train systems in all stages of the Future Submarine’s design, build and through-life sustainment. 8.50 The Government has also taken the important decision to suspend further investigation of the two Future Submarine options based on military-off-the-shelf designs in favour of focusing resources on progressing an ‘evolved Collins’ and new design options that are likely to best meet Australia’s future strategic and capability requirements. Australian industry and skilled workforce aspects of the Future Submarine Program are discussed in Chapter Twelve. 8.51 The first Collins Class submarine was commissioned in 1996, and the last in 2003. When they were commissioned, they had a planned operational life of 28 years. In 2012, an evaluation of the service life of the Collins was completed, which found that the Collins Class operational service could be extended for one full operating cycle – some seven years excluding a period of formal deep maintenance. 8.52 The Future Submarine Program will build on Australia’s experience with the Collins Class. Guided by outcomes of the Study into the Business of Sustaining Australia’s Strategic Collins Class Submarine Capability, led by Mr John Coles, an extensive transformation program is being implemented to increase submarine availability to benchmark levels by 2017. Availability improvements are being achieved through a variety of mechanisms including the delivery of more efficient logistic supportarrangements, implementation of performance based maintenance contracts with defence industry, and development of a revised approach to the programming of planned maintenance. Defence is establishing the long-term support arrangements necessary to ensure the Collins fleet will remain a viable submarine capability until replaced by the Future Submarine. Interesting Links of the Week...................
Tribute to the Australian Sailor Centenary
Monument.
Defence News Links.............
Australia's Submarine
Folly
Coalition torpedoes Collins
submarine plan in Labor's defence white paper
SA welcome submarine
design options
New Israeli submarines
can't be 'solely for defensive purposes'
Submarine
fire 'a very small event'
INS Arihant, India's
N-powered submarine, to be operational soon
Singapore commissions new submarine
Submarine
HMCS Windsor hobbled after $209M refit Can you help?
Ian Pfennigwerth needs your help.
"I've had plenty of submarines at the end of my sonar
beam, or that of a cooperating aircraft, and gone through the launch procedure
to drop a nice homing present on your tails, but we were never allowed to push
the red button. Submarines, however, are allowed, once in a while, to pretend to
carry out an attack on a static, stopped and completely helpless hulk and blow
it up. This is proof that the system works, we are told. That's as close to the
real thing as throwing a line into the Fishermen Co-op and pulling out a fish is
to fishing. Let's get behind Ian, send him an email or call 02 4981 5551 I have just come in from sitting on the verandah with neighbour Bill, he had been into Brisbane and seemed pissed off and asked if everything was OK. He replied "I went to the Australian Patent office to register some of my inventions. I went to the main desk to sign in and the lady at the desk had a form that had to be filled out. She wrote down my personal info and then asked me what I had invented." "I said, 'a
folding bottle'. She said, "Okay, what do you call
it?" to which I replied 'A Fottle.' Bill looked at me and said "I was so upset by her comment that I grabbed the form and left the office without even telling her about my folding bucket." Come on Niggs, we have work to do!
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