AROUND THE TRAPS

It seems that things never change as this item sent in by Les Rawson proves "I noticed the dit from Paul Dann and thought my entry back to General Surface in 1985 might have some amusement factor.  After having to pay off in 1983, I thought I had kissed goodbye to a Naval career which had spanned 18 years by that stage. Then in 1985 I found out I could get back in by probably not back to boats. So I applied and was offered re-entry at PORS level, General Service. I then got a phone call from the Social Workers asking me to arrive at their Offices with wife and family in tow for a welfare check. How I innocently asked, I lived in Geraldton and they were in Fremantle. Hmmmmm! said Welfare, we don't know as we have no money to get you here and no money to get a social worker to Geraldton.

About a week later, I got another call to say a Social worker would be at my house on Wednesday at 0800. I took a day off work and sat and waited. About 0815 a road train pulled up in front of my house with tons of roof trusses, and - you guessed it, a Social worker! She had bummed a lift off a friend of hers who was going to pick her up at lunch time after dropping off his load. She looked rooted and told us she had been in the cab since late the night before and was tired and needed a bath. That we could provide, along with breakfast and a cup of tea.

So about 0930 we sit down and her first question was to Mary and to the effect how she felt about me joining the Navy and being away and so on. Mary isn't silly but she had a confused look on her face and said, she was ok with it, and felt no different than she did when I was in the Navy before. This is when the Social workers faced dropped..... you've been in the Navy before she asked. Yes I said, RN and RAN and only got out two years ago. Only new entries require a Welfare report she slowly replied............!" 

Rod Baker, in a rare moment of compassion, wrote "Sorry to hear about your arm, hope everything goes well. If it’s the arm that you use to relieve your sexual tension, you can always train your dog to help you out!  Pass on my regards to ‘Dutchie’ Holland, he and I go way back (HMAS Cerberus 1968). I too have been diagnosed with CLL. My first diagnosis was in 1991 and after several doses of chemotherapy I am still around (not cured, but under remission). Dave, and any others who may have been diagnosed with any form of cancer, will find that the DVA will accept this and pay for treatment (thank goodness, as chemotherapy is expensive!)."  I almost started to like the guy after getting this, but came back to my senses, he is a bloody greenie!

Terry 'Coyote' Wyatt reports "I had a great weekend in Townsville at our NQSAA get together. Kevin Marengo from Bowen looked that fit and well. Helen stayed down in Townsville for the week I tried the TRAIN, Yep seven hours back to Cairns, so then I tried to go back seven hours again, average speed of Sunlander 28ks. They only serve Light beer, but Rum was also available. It was relaxing in the train, seen lots of Sugar and Bananas, may try the Tilt next as It will take exactly 24 hours to get to Bundaberg. So it was a good experience, plus like the plane I could walk around. At the moment have just local visits with Bowls ( till not Bowling) and RSL Committee stuff, no major trips, Ingham on 04 Dec 09 for NQSAA Xmas get together."

Cameron Martin sent the following. "My European tour continues after the World dragon boat championships in Prague. The navy boys in the Australian team did really well winning 3 gold and 4 bronze medals. Since then I've been touring around visiting Vienna, Rome, Florence, Venice and I'm currently in Paris and then off to Amsterdam and the UK.  Venice is an amazing city and the last place on earth you'd expect to see a submarine is in the grand canal. See attached photo."

Lex McAulay sent the following after reading the news item regarding the bravery awards made after the man overboard incidence on HMAS Farncomb in 2007.  "I guess I am getting very cynical in my old age but it seems 'strange' that with recruiting in the pits, six submarines that cannot be crewed and to get three at sea even need USN people aboard, suddenly (!) the RAN announces bravery awards for three submariners for rescues two years ago, that could have been declared as awards for rescues off Tasmania or somewhere close to Australia, or not even in any location at all, but are admitted to be on secret operations to our north...... The three basic questions apply again: who are they; what are they doing; what does it mean?"

Jim Joyce wrote "Further to Paul Danns comment about red bellied blacks keeping browns under control, I worked for a number of years on a Wildlife Sanctuary that was rotten with Tiger Snakes and I can tell you they keep Bengal Tigers at bay. In all the years I worked on the Werribbee Farm I saw hundreds of Tiger Snakes in the wild, but not one Bengal Tiger and the fishing there was so good when I went down to the River to fish I had to hide behind a tree to bait the hook. Bet Bill Hosie can't beat that!! Mutton Birds excepted."

Cancer is on the minds of many of us at the moment and I ask that you help Alana Graeme who asks "Hi Everyone, Myself and other Carers have made a team for the relay for life event here in Muswellbrook and I'm asking all my family and friends to please find it in themselves to donate to this cause here is our site where you can donate.

Ahoy All, Bob Emery of the Submariners Association of Canada West announces that 'Scuttlebutt' for August ~ September has been uploaded, and is available from their Home Page

Rick Steley (0429 481 404) will be in Perth during the first week or so of November and he would love to catch up with a few old mates. He said "Those who remember us, give us a call so we can catch up and have a few cold ones. We are caravanning from Darwin to the Southwest leaving Darwin mid October, due to work commitments, we must be back in Darwin by mid November."

LSSTD Rod Eastley (a bloody skimmer) writes "I was just looking at your article on Admiral MacDougal (I was a skimmer as you lot called us) and I retired after 20 years in 1999.  I served on his personal staff when he was the Maritime Commander and I was wondering if anyone knows where he is now. I  got on well with him.  I am currently living in Ireland and love nothing more than trips down memory lane and would love to send him an email to say hi."  I have sent Rod Ian's contact details.

Ken Thomson writes "I am a UK submariner of 34 years, now working for BAE SYSTEMS on the Astute Project. Every Monday when I get into work the first thing I do is open up the LOG. It is not only informative it is great fun hearing about your own trials and tribulations on your patch of Australia. I spent many many years serving with and pissing up with Aussie Submariners and they were great days and I still have the scars to prove it. Keep positive mate and there will be lots of us UK Submariners rooting for your speedy recovery. Thanks for a great LOG."

American Medical Association researchers have found that patients needing blood transfusions may benefit from receiving chicken blood rather than human blood. It tends to make the men cocky and the women lay better.!!!!!!  Just thought you'd like to know.

Robert Mellowship is now living in Malaysia and has been for the last 12 months. He added "I try to check out the SAA as often as I can. Been very busy working and teaching for the Offshore Oil and Gas."

Greg Raymond sent the following useful information "Its not often I find something to write about, but this may be of interest to some. I am in the middle of claiming an injury from DVA under the SRCA and this turns out to be a lot harder than the VEA. I fell down the fridge hatch when I was coming up from the AMS (dickhead is more than likely your first through and yes they did pipe it).  The problem is that I could not prove I was on board for some reason it does not show in the documents from Canberra. So I set about finding the log books of HMAS Otway for that time, to show I was duty etc. I am very lucky because all the records from Plats and the boats were sent to the National Archives and you can search these through their web site.  At this stage DVA are still to get back to me on whether they will except them as legal documents under the legislation. I am hopeful this will be a matter of time. They tell me nobody has used the national archives as supporting material for a compensation claim. Some of the Documents Found so far include ST 718-1 Personal files from HMAS Platypus, Ca 3037 Log books from all boats, C4346 ship files HMAS Otway 17.64 meters in length (I'll leave it to DVA to find anything).  As far as I can see there is just about anything you would need there."  This may be of interest to our DVA Advocates?

Phil Rody said "Just saw this verse and wanted to pass it along to any of those nautical types out there....and also to some other friends who will totally understand what the verse says..... Cheers folks and have a great day."

"So bury me with Sailors please,
Though much maligned they be.
Yes, bury me with Sailors,
for I miss their company.....

Truer words......

Grumpy old Men on the Murray.................... Chapter one in the adventures of "Submariners in the Wild

Hi Norm well we are about third of the way through the Murray River Adventure .  Photos taken by Oxley, Clarke, Rana, Bishop. The first couple of photos are of the pre planning conference held at the fourth crew member (Twister Hart) who was unable to make the trip due to Sandy having a knee op. He did supply the libations to make the pre planning conference a success, as you can see by Captain Clarkes' enthusiasm at the table.

Land Component - Heather Clarke, Leonie Oxley, Helen Bishop
River Component - Ray Clarke, John Rana, John Bishop
Vehicles Involved - The Rig (Mansion) Clarke/Rana, the Cubby House Bishops

The trip is going well so far. Only one bent prop and that happened in the beginning when they left Albury/Wodonga. River was low and there were numerous snags and bumps and "watch out for that tree" type calls made by the look outs (Johns' Rana & Bishop). Captain Clarke was busy keeping the boat on track.

Well needless to say the first leg of 104km finished at 69kms and it took them 7.5 hrs to make that. The really annoying part was Heather, Helen and I had to cancel our trip to All Saints winery to load up the trailer and go back 27km to pick them up at Howlong. We were set up at Corowa. Rats.

On arrival back at the camp and careful discussion over a beer or two it was decided to load the boat back up on the trailer and continue by road to Yarrawonga and check out the river levels from there. Thankfully water had just been released from Lake Mulwala and the river on the other side was running high, so were the boys spirits. So after a nice meal at the Mulwala Club and a good nights sleep they slipped the boat back in the water and two of the boys took off towards Tocumwal.

We had to leave John and Helen in Yarrawonga for a couple of days as the cubby house was having engine trouble. So they got the problem fixed and met us a couple of days later in Echuca.

Now the whole crew is back together and the next two legs were small to Torrumbarry Weir and Barham, both great little places. Cold mornings though.

We are now sitting in Swan Hill. Been here two days and leave tomorrow 15 Sep and heading for Tooleybuc, Robinvale and Mildura. Weather has certainly picked up but the wind is still cold on the water so the boys always need to rug up. Princesses'.

Cheers for now Norm I hope this is enough will send you some more photos and info down the track.

Leonie

David Bryant wrote "I popped around the other day to catch up with Tid Curry, and to deliver a “Get Well” Card from Lloyd (Joe) Blake. We co-inspired to include a bottle of a very fine Jamaican Rum, which Tid has assured us will be opened on the announcement of his defined period start of omission (sic)."   Tid responded to the gift with "Bloody Submariners, the best blokes in the world eh Norman, now how on earth did they know that I am rather partial to a little drop of Nelsons Nectar now and then?  Thanks to Joe, Dave and all the rest for their kind thoughts."

Darren Thompson is convalescing after his knee surgery and like a typical Communicator is still bleating........ "I am off to see my surgeon today to see what else I need to do with my knee. Unfortunately I don’t think it is going to be good news as it is still painful and inflamed. Anyway I will sailor on but am not rushing back to work until I get the all clear. Unfortunately it has stopped me from travelling to Canberra for a few things which is disappointing, but I need to put my health first for a change. I have become quite bored at times over the last two weeks, but managed to keep myself fairly occupied. Good grief blue skies! Nothing but cloud and rain lately but it doesn’t look too bad outside now."

Another on the current sick list is Dave Holland, but typical of a greenie, all he could do was crow about his hospital being better than mine... "Sounds like your hospital needs to take lessons from the Mater at North Sydney – They provide ‘Wine’ with Dinner - could not believe it !!! Made the HIP replacement a little easier having a ‘tot’ each night."  You watch, there will be a stampede of greenies lining up for admission next week, anything for a free drink!

Michael Pullinger has joined the swelling ranks of the unwell.  "I unfortunately have a degenerative disease called ‘Retinitis Pigmentosa’. Some of you will say “You mean that blind bastard”. Yes that is true my vision has got a lot worse. But always being the optimist that I am and not just letting the doctors say there is no cure and nothing can be done, I am always on the look out for anything that might even help. An article in the Woman’s Day has led me to do some research on the topic of ‘ADULT STEM CELL THERAPY’. After viewing the ASCF website and speaking with several people from the foundation I was convinced that there was something in this therapy. Unfortunately I would have to travel to Europe where Germany is the first country in the world to legislate for Adult Stem Cell clinics to legally operate. So that is one avenue. The other avenue that the ASC Foundation has recommended is the taking of Stem Cell Enhancement Products, which is the avenue that I have embarked on.

I started on the products last Wednesday week the 16th September and there is a definite change for the better in my vision. At first at only a few days I noticed something different and believe it or not colours are now a little bit brighter and the haziness is now less. I can only hope that by taking the Stem Cell Enhancement products my vision will further improve. For me this is exciting news and I hope that you also will feel happy for me. It would be very much appreciated if you would visit the Adult Stem Cell Foundation website at www.adultstemcellfoundation.org .

Interesting Websites
http://www.abc.net.au/tv/geo/documentaries/interactive/submarine/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1yHcyydzRA

Queensland Government at work.
Three contractors are bidding to fix a broken fence at the Queensland Parliament Buildings. One is from Ipswich, another from Logan and the third is from Kenmore.   All three go with a Parliament official to examine the fence.
The Ipswich contractor takes out a tape measure, does some measuring then writes down some figures. "Well," he says, "I figure the job will run about $900, $400 for materials, $400 for my crew and $100 profit for me."
The Logan contractor also does some measuring and figuring, then says, "I can do this job for $700, $300 for materials, $300 for my crew and $100 profit for me."
The Kenmore contractor doesn't measure or figure, but leans over to the Parliament official and whispers, "$2,700."   The official, incredulous, says, "You didn't even measure like the other guys! How did you come up with such a high figure?"
The Kenmore contractor whispers back, "$1000 for me, $1000 for you, and we hire the guy from Logan to fix the fence..."
"Done!" replied the government official.
And that, my friends, is politics Queensland style ! !

Cooking Corner - Ziploc Omelet
This works great !!! Good for when all your family is together. The best part is that no one has to wait for their special omelet !!!

Have guests write their name on a quart-size Ziploc freezer bag with permanent marker.
Crack 2 eggs (large or extra-large) into the bag (not more than 2) shake to combine them.
Put out a variety of ingredients such as: cheeses, ham, onion, green pepper, tomato, hash browns, salsa, etc.
Each guest adds prepared ingredients of choice to their bag and shake. Make sure to get the air out of the bag and zip it up.
Place the bags into rolling, boiling water for exactly 13 minutes [we did 15 minutes]. You can usually cook 6-8 omelets in a large pot. Open the bags and the omelet will roll out easily. Be prepared for everyone to be amazed.
Nice to serve with fresh fruit and coffee cake; everyone gets involved in the process and a great conversation piece...

Imagine having these ready the night before, and putting the bag in boiling water while you get ready. And in 15 minutes, you've got a nice omelets for a quick breakfast!!!

Missing.............
If your name appears below (or if you are in touch with someone who is) it is because we have an outdated email address.  Please send email with new address so that our records can be updated. 

Alex Seizovic	Richard Lewin	Kev O'Hara	Trevor Lee-Conway	Wayne Lloyd	Snow Ross
		Bernard Sullivan		Terry Cain	Manuel Marquez

HEALTH
DVA E-news for September now online
The latest issue of e-News from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs is now online.  In this issue:

• Pension Reforms

• 70th anniversary of the start of the Second World War

• Veterans’ Health Week a success

• Practice Managers’ Circular out now

• Vietnam Veterans’ Health Study on track

• Timor-Leste Family Study

• Upcoming anniversaries

• Publications

• Media releases

You and your prostate
This month there is a very interesting article on your Prostate and it is worth a read.

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Defence News
Sailors washed off submarine as rescue kept quiet
Cameron Stewart | September 19, 2009  Article from: The Australian
A Covert intelligence-gathering mission by a navy submarine almost ended in disaster when a giant wave washed five of its crew into the ocean in the middle of the night. The accident, which was kept quiet by the navy for two years, took place during a deployment to Asia by HMAS Farncomb in March 2007.

However, tragedy was averted when three sailors risked their lives by diving into the swirling ocean to rescue their crewmates in a 90-minute life-and-death struggle against the elements.

Now the navy has announced three of Farncomb's crew will receive bravery awards for their actions -- the first such awards given to submariners in 27 years.

The rogue wave swept the five men off the top of the surfaced submarine as they tried to clear fishing lines from its propeller. In rough seas and worsening weather, they could not make it back to the submarine, so the captain asked for volunteers to rescue them.

Sonar operator Greg Langshaw, engineer Rohan Pugh and cook Steven Rowell put up their hands and, assisted by crewmates, they worked together to drag the five men back to the boat.

The rough seas caused the submarine to heave violently, breaking one of Petty Officer Langshaw's ribs and causing severe bruising to others as the men were hauled back on to the vessel.

Navy chief Vice-Admiral Russ Crane said: "All of Farncomb's personnel who were involved showed significant fortitude, teamwork and courage to ensure that all sailors were returned to the submarine without major injuries and (with) no loss of life."

The accident occurred during a five-month deployment through Southeast Asia and the western Pacific, during which Farncomb gathered intelligence by sailing close to foreign coastlines, listening to communications. Defence will not say where Farncomb was or what its activities were at the time of the accident.

The story of the Farncomb could easily have been a naval tragedy or even a diplomatic incident. Instead, it is a tale of courage and heroism from a group of sailors who risked their own lives to save their mates from death.

The navy was uncertain about how best to recognise the bravery of the crew. For more than two years it kept quiet, but last month Chief Petty Officer Pugh, Petty Officer Langshaw and Leading Seaman Rowell were told they would be offered bravery awards.

The navy says the delay was because "due process" needed to be followed. However, The Weekend Australian understands it only nominated the men for the awards this year.  On Thursday, Governor-General Quentin Bryce announced awards for the three men, while several other crew members were awarded commendations from Vice-Admiral Crane.

Chief Petty Officer Pugh says the award, which will be presented next March, was the last thing he expected. "I thought it was great to be recognised for it,' he said. "I think anyone would have done it."

Submariners are rarely given public medals because, like the SAS, much of what they do cannot be revealed.

The navy says the last bravery medals awarded to submariners were in 1982, when two crew aboard HMAS Onslow were decorated for their actions when their submarine filled with toxic fumes.

The Farncomb incident occurred 20 years after two sailors were lost while on an exercise off Sydney Harbour.  They were swept overboard when the Oberon-class submarine HMAS Otama dived while they were still in the conning tower.

Sunday, 13^th September 2009

I am a bit pissed off, I thought that I would get a little sympathy with my medical problems, but once again the greenies rain on my parade.  As you may have noticed in the Sick List, Tid and Dutchy have muscled in on me.  As I have pointed out to them, only the good die young so we all have a few years to go.

I am posting this from hospital, so it is only going to be a short edition of the Log.  I drove down to Brisbane yesterday to start my treatment for cancer that has invaded the muscles in my arm and was admitted today for some more tests and preparation for surgery in the morning. 

Many thanks to all those that rang and sent emails, much appreciated.

Till next week..... keep smiling!

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SAA NEWS

Western Australia Branch
After the passing of Max Sheen the WA Branch has invited CDRE Bob Trotter OAM RAN (Rtd) to become the new Patron of the Branch and he has accepted. Bob, who was awarded an OAM this year in recognition of his efforts in finding HMAS Sydney will make an excellent ambassador for the Association.

Although activity level is quiet in WA, with John Rana away doing the Murray River Trek with his mates and Sid Czabotar imitating Stephen Fry in the US of A, planning is well underway for the next series of activities including the RN Submarines Association Service at Memorial Park, Fremantle 1030 20th October and the WA Branch Remembrance Day Service alongside Submarine OVENS at 1030 8th November.

Tasmanian Branch
Secretary David Byrne sent the list of Office Bearers for Tasmania as elected at their AGM on 16th August.

President - Kerry Bolton
Secretary/Treasurer - David Byrne
Vice President - David Taylor
Social Secretary - Mike Crellin

The following are upcoming Association events, full details of future SAA Events are available in the Events page at www.submarinesaustralia.com.

Date & Time	State	Event	Remarks
10-11th October 2009	QLD	General Meeting	This will be a Country Meeting, held in Bundaberg. Contact Rob Woolrych 5442 1991 for more information.
17-18th October 2009	VIC	Social	Weekend in Holbrook - Presentation of the HMS Unsparing Jolly Roger

Submarine Hologram at Holbrook
SAA members have received an invitation to the opening of the Submarine Hologram at Holbrook on the Sunday 18th October 2009.  The opening will also be the occasion of the presentation (on permanent loan) of a WWII Submarine Artifact, the Jolly Roger flown by HMS/M Unseen on completions of War Patrols in the period up to 1945.

The Jolly Roger was brought to Australia by the (now deceased) Torpedo Officer of HMS/M Unseen Lt. John (Jack) Straw R.N. Upon his crossing the bar, and by the terms of Jack’s will, the Jolly Roger was entrusted to the Victoria Branch of the SAA for safe keeping and (possible) public display. The Jolly Roger itself was ‘handmade’ by the crew members of the submarine, one of which John Horlock, a well known and respected member of the SAA. Unfortunately John Crossed the bar in February of this year.

The Jolly Roger which the Victoria Branch holds in trust is of considerable monitory as well as sentimental value. Requests for its permanent loan have been received from such organisations as:

• The HMS Dolphin Submarine Museum

• The Imperial War Museum in the UK

• The National War Memorial Canberra (for hold in controlled environmental conditions and occasional public display)

• The Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne

After careful discussion (which included John Horlock before he entered hospital for the last time) it was decided by member’s vote that the Jolly Roger would be offered to the Holbrook Submarine Museum on a Permanent Loan Basis. Although the other requesting organisations are of clear International and National prominence (especially the HMS Dolphin Museum) it was felt that the Jolly Roger should remain not in its adopted country, Australia, but in the care and control of its own community – The Submariners and Family Members of the Submarine Association of Australia. In addition, the SAA Victoria has at its own expense had ‘true and exact’ copies made of the original Jolly Roger for display and prosperity purposes.

Approximately 30 members of the Victoria Branch will travel to Holbrook to ‘Formally Present’ the said Jolly Roger to the museum for public display. Certain members of the SAA Victoria Branch will also during that weekend present other artifacts to the museum, but this will be done separately and apart from the official ceremony of unveiling, thus avoiding a distraction for the real and actual purpose of the Civic Ceremony.

Mike Bennett
President SAA Victoria Branch (inc)

RSVP's to be sent to organisers by 8th October.  Right click image for full size and details.

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Resignation of RADM Peter Briggs AO, CSC RAN (Rtd)
Rear Admiral Briggs AO, CSC resigned from the position as President of the SIA on Friday 4th September in order to pursue other interests. In his letter of resignation Peter made the observation that he is "confident that he leaves the SIA 'on depth and in perfect trim' ".

Acting President Peter Horobin said "I think you will agree that is something of an understatement. During his period as President, the SIA has grown to a membership of some 267 people, it has established a sound financial base and it has developed a highly professional image and reputation.

However, it has been in pursuit of two SIA projects - the Future Submarine (SIA Project Submarine 2020) and the recognition and preservation of the submarine AE2 that Peter has made an enormous contribution to the SIA and to the Australian submarine community.

I am sure you will join me in thanking Peter for his outstanding contribution to the SIA and in wishing him well in his pursuit of his new interests.

I have been appointed Acting President and I will remain in that role until the AGM on 18th November 2009. Nominations for the position of President will be called from financial members in mid October 2009."

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CONGRATULATIONS ON GETTING YOUR DOLPHINS

ABCKSM B.D. Key  HMAS Colllins
ABMTSM A. Rodway  HMAS Waller

AROUND THE TRAPS

John 'Tid' Currie reports "G'Day Norman me ole bucket o' bowwash. Saw the entry in the Log and thought I had better fill you in with the latest. I have been in Modbury hospital for the last 2 weeks being poked and prodded and photographed, generally ragged bagged and nearly shagged . CT scan showed a tumor near the Stbd Piss strainer with a part of it wrapped around the drain from said piss strainer and causing a blockage, thus lots of inflamation and bloody pain. they did a biopsy yon Thursday and results came back today. It is Malignant (Big C), but Modbury cannot handle it for at least another Month. They have discharged me with all the Reports and Pickies and organised me to see the boffins at Royal Adelaide next week or to organise a quicker Operation thru my GP who I am seeing on Monday. There Mate, you are as up to date as I am at this moment, this is from the horses mouth as they say before you start hearing all the shit buzzes third hand. All the best for now Old Mate, will keep you in touch."

David 'Dutchy' Holland is also scheduled for maintenance and reports "The results of my ‘misspent youth’ have come home to roost – Off to the ‘Mater’ North Sydney on Tuesday for a Total Left Hip Replacement due to osteoarthritis in both Hips. Expect the get the right Hip replaced down the track a bit.  On top of that I have been diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) in the early stages, so don’t expect to drop off the perch just yet. DVA tell me it was NOT due to my time in Vietnam escorting Sydney, as no Navy folks were exposed to Agent Orange, ( which causes CLL) only those on land?? Well that’s good to know, not that it matters, DVA have kindly agreed to support me with this legacy. Would be interested if anyone else has drawn this card! Don’t you just love this aging process – thank god the grandkids and ‘good’ red wine keeps me young."

CPOCISSM Darren Thompson writes "Just to let you know that I am scheduled for knee surgery at Hollywood hospital this Friday. I should, hopefully, be discharged on Saturday. I will then be on convalescent leave until Tuesday 29th Sept.
I can be contacted on my mobile or blackberry email.

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Vale - Julie Lydiard
Julie, the wife of CPO Mark 'Blu" Lydiard lost her battle with cancer and passed away Friday 04 Sept in the John Flynn hospital, Gold Coast. Her funeral service was held at the Tweed Heads Crematorium Chapel on Friday 11 Sept.

Julie is fondly remembered by many in the submarine community.  We all offer our condolences to Blu and his family at this sad time.

A good life for some.......... I heard from Alby Farawell last week, he lives in Melbourne but come up to the Gold Coast to work. He said "I am in the Film and Television Industry and am working on another kids series called Elephant Princess 2 which is seen around the world by over 500 million kids with nothing better to do but watch TV. It keeps me off the street but not out of the bars ;-) I will be on the Coast till April 2010- then who knows."

Rod Baker writes "Thanks for the link to the video on HMAS Sydney. I was actually onboard Sydney at that time and did 3 trips to Vung Tau (1969 – 1970).  Actually the time on Sydney convinced me to join submarines as I was sick of constantly repairing bloody DC motors – joined submarines and did the same thing! It was amazing to see the differences in the troops going to Vietnam to those coming home – they were different people. PS: Tell Sammy the Klaxons were powered by CP (220vDC)."

Garry Bax commented on my remarks about isolation when living in the bush. "Just one of the joys of country living. No facilities! As for me I will be a house husband for at least 6-8 weeks as Anne took a tumble (makes a change instead of being me as was pointed out in the bowling club) the other day. Net result, her ankle in the X-rays look like its been hit with a 14lb.maul. Be great in the future going through airports with all the screws and plates. Goldie, you have my sympathy. She is trying to claim frequent traveler points from the ambulance people for the times of going to Coffs and back (don't think it'll work)."

Things we do for our pets............. bBut it is only a small repayment for what they do for us. Geoff Piesse said "Before coming to Coffs I spent $110 on a vets bill to keep 'Shake it shake tailfeather' alive........but he died anyway. Boof sounds like a great little dog and good company."

Clinton Roberts writes "In my last email I informed you, The Patron Saint of Submariners in Saint Nicholas. I had to laugh, Saint Nicholas is also the Patron Saint of Prostitutes. We all need a Saint!"

WA Member John 'Buster' Keating asks "A mate of mine, Tony Richards, ex-GANGES and RN Submariner, sent me a request to look for the following 2 names on the SAA membership; Alfred E Bedford and  John Jukes (nothing else is known about them). I have checked our membership list and they don't appear, but some of the SM4 brethren, may have heard of them?"  If you can help give Buster an email please.

Allan McCarthy said "Jim Lloyd said to say hello, I was having a beer (or ten) with him whilst checking on my horses (that are on his farm) and he said to say ‘hello’ to one and all."  Bloody horses, I have trouble funding a few dogs, birds and chooks... I must be in the wrong game!

Internet Warning:  If you get an e-mail titled - ‘Nude photo of Julia Gillard’, don't open it.... it contains a nude photo of Julia Gillard.

'If women are so bloody perfect at multitasking, how come they can't have a headache and sex at the same time?' Billy Connelly.

Paul Dann sent this interesting information, but if he thinks I intend taking it he has rocks in his head. "Don't kill any red bellies as they eat the brown snakes, taipans etc and if nothing else the nasties will stay away if there is a red belly around. My old man kept a 6 foot red belly around and it was the only snake we ever saw!"  I have no intention of killing any snake as that implies I would be silly enough to get close to one!!! I actually stopped the traffic on the road into Bauple for 10 minutes this week (my car and one other, it was peak hour) to let a beautiful 2.5 metre python cross the road. He was in no hurry, and we were in no hurry to move him, it was magnificent. The cane fields are keeping him well fed. 


VETERANS AFFAIRS
More Suicide prevention workshops
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, is encouraging more of the veteran and ex-service community to take advantage of the expansion in the number of suicide prevention workshops available to them. The Australian Government’s VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service has increased the number of free Operation Life suicide prevention workshops for people who are concerned about family, friends, mates or others in the veteran and ex-service community.

“So far 119 participants have been trained in suicide prevention strategies at workshops over the past three months and I encourage more people in the veteran and ex-service community to register their interest in attending,” Mr Griffin said.

Operation Life is a strategy to prevent suicide and promote good mental health and resilience across the veteran community. Its major components include workshops providing introductory, intensive and refresher courses in suicide prevention. Welfare, pension officers and others from ex-service organisations and the veteran community are encouraged to attend. Mr Griffin said World Suicide Prevention Day provided an ideal opportunity to promote the Government’s work in suicide prevention and mental health, especially for veterans.

“The Government made a commitment to enhance suicide prevention and it has done this by expanding Operation Life and providing an additional $9.5 million to implement the recommendations made following a major study by Professor David Dunt into suicide in the ex-service community.  “This is in addition to the Government’s commitment of $83 million over four years to address gaps identified in mental health care in the ADF and transition through discharge,” Mr Griffin said.

“Operation Life workshops are not treatment programs but are designed to help members of the veteran community to recognise someone who might be having thoughts of suicide and to link them in with appropriate help.”

To find out more about Operation Life workshops, contact VVCS on 1800 011 046 (during normal business hours) or visit www.at-ease.dva.gov.au.

Jim Joyce notes that the Medical Profession seem somewhat contradictory on the subject of Alcohol and its effects on Health and Longevity. He said "Surely the proof of the pudding is to look around you. I bet you see more Old Drunks than Old Doctors."

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DEFENCE NEWS
Cadmium in the Collins Class Submarines.
Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, has provided an update on the situation regarding cadmium in the Collins Class Submarines. “From the time that this issue arose, the Rudd Government acted immediately with Defence and the Navy to identify the source and extent of any hazard, and to ensure the safety and well being of the maintenance workers and submariners who have been working on the Collins Class Submarines,” Mr Combet said.

“The Government has been concerned to maintain confidence in the operation of the Collins Class Submarines and the safety of Navy personnel. As has been publicly reported, staff of ASC, the prime contractor for maintenance of Collins Class Submarines, raised concerns about cadmium contamination while undertaking maintenance of submarines.

“To allay staff concerns, ASC stood production staff down on Friday, 28 August 2009 and undertook initial testing on those submarines which were in deeper maintenance in South Australia. The Government then immediately ordered the testing of cadmium levels on all submarines, including operational boats. “Cadmium has always been used in Collins Class Submarine electrical components to minimise corrosion and is a well documented hazardous material.

“The main risk to personnel is through inhalation of cadmium dust or vapour through airborne contamination. The risk to personnel is mitigated through use in areas of infrequent access, warning signs and good hygiene practices.

“All six of the Collins Class submarines have now been tested for airborne contamination. This testing revealed that airborne cadmium levels within the Collins Class Submarines are well below the Australian Standard. “All submarines have also been tested for surface contamination. Testing has revealed that cadmium surface contamination does exist in proximity to some cadmium components on the submarines. I have been advised that the cadmium surface contamination poses little threat and the necessary hygiene and safety procedures have been reinforced.

“However, to ensure the safety of both submariners and maintenance workers the Government is well advanced in the cleaning of all submarines. The Government’s primary concern throughout has been to protect the health of our sailors and maintenance workforce.

“Consistent with that objective, upon notification of this issue I instructed Defence to conduct medical screening on Navy and maintenance personnel who may have been exposed to cadmium.

“I am advised that representative sample testing of Navy personnel who may have been exposed on submarines to cadmium is scheduled to begin later this month. This will determine what further screening may be needed.  “Further to this action, Defence is currently undertaking a program of baseline occupational hygiene surveys including the Collins Class Submarines.

“The surveys involve an occupational hygienist completing a comprehensive assessment of the presence of any hazardous substances. This will provide a baseline to mitigate risks associated with these substances.

“On the issue of operational availability of the submarines, while the Government does not comment for national security reasons on the availability of the fleet, I can assure the Australian public that our operational submarines are ready and able to be deployed if needed.”

Mr Combet also commented on allegations made by the Opposition.

“The Opposition has alleged a failure to follow safety procedures and place warning signs on the submarines after cadmium was identified in some components 12 months ago. This allegation is unfounded. “Cadmium has been present in components on the Collins Class submarines since their inception, and Defence safe handling procedures have been in place throughout.

Minister Combet praises the efforts of DSTO
Defence Minister Combet made a statement to Parliament on Tuesday 8th September on 'The Contribution of Defence Science to the Security of the Nation'. The efforts of DSTO with regard to improvements in the Collins class design and also in relation to the assessment on the condition of AE2 on the seabed in the Dardenelles, were specifically mentioned. The link below will display the Minister's speech from his web site, The statement on Collins is in the final five paragraphs under 'Support to the Current Force'. The statement on AE2 is the final paragraph under 'Accident Investigation'.  Minister Combet's Speech

Tasmanian Farmer
When you're from the country you look at things a little differently...... A Tassie farmer got in his ute and drove to a neighboring farm and knocked at the door.
A young boy, about 9, opened the door.
"Is your Dad home?" the rancher asked.
"No sir, he isn't," the boy replied. "He went into town."
"Well," said the rancher, "Is your Mother here?"
"No sir, she's not here either. She went into town with Dad."
"How about your brother, Howard? Is he here?"
"No sir, he went with Mum and Dad."
The farmer stood there for a few minutes, shifting from one foot to the other and mumbling to himself.
"Is there anything I can do for you?" the boy asked politely. "I know where all the tools are, if you want to borrow one. Or maybe I could take a message for Dad."
"Well," said the rancher uncomfortably, "I really wanted to talk to your Dad. It's about your brother Howard getting my daughter, Suzie, pregnant."
The boy considered for a moment. "You would have to talk to Dad about that," he finally conceded. "If it helps you any, I know that Dad charges $500 for the bull and $50 for the pig but I really don't know how much he gets for Howard."

Thinking of you Niggs, look after Boof for me.............

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Sunday, 6^th September 2009

Been a shit week, the minor operation I was scheduled for became a program to combat a soft tissue sarcoma that has developed in the muscle of my left arm.  It was originally diagnosed as a cyst which did not concern me all that much, but cancer does.  I will not know what is happening for sure until next week but as there is not much in the way of treatment locally I may be in for a bit of travel.

I am confident that this is only a minor blip and all I can say is, thank God I am right handed, all is not lost!  however, some projects will be on hold for a while and I will probably cut back on the time I can make available for the Log, although I will try to keep it up as so many seem to get some enjoyment out of it.

Sorry if you sent an email and I have not put it in today's Log, been busy with other things, it'll be in next week.

Till next week..... keep smiling!

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SAA NEWS  

Volunteers wanted:  The Association is seeking volunteers to be the Associations representatives and attend meetings with several kindred organisations, in particular the Naval Association Australia (NAA) and the Australian Veterans and Defence Services Council (AVADSC).  Our Executive either have jobs or are scattered across Australia and cannot always attend the meetings which are normally held in Sydney.  To gain maximum benefit of our affiliation with these organisations it would beneficial to have one representative for each, that would report to the National Committee.

If you are in a position that would permit you to represent us please contact me for further details.  This is an ideal opportunity to get involved in the Association.

I recently reported that over 60 of our Members are now EX MEMBERS as they have failed to send in the 2009 subscriptions and despite being given an opportunity to renew their membership after the end of the SAA financial year.  It turns out that many have ignored my requests as they believed that they had paid by EFT.  It turns out, on checking their statements, the transactions were reversed.   this happens regularly, that is why we ask you to email the details when making payments so that we can monitor it's progress

IF YOU ARE NOT RECEIVING EMAIL FROM ME WEEKLY IT IS BECAUSE I DO NOT HAVE YOUR CURRENT EMAIL ADDRESS!  70 ADDRESSES IN MY LIST HAVE BOUNCED.

Norm Williams
National Secretary
Submarines Association Australia

Mobile: 0419 863 558

Queensland Branch
Preparations for the Country Meeting being held in Bundaberg are well under way and details are available on the website. Obviously a weekend in Bundaberg will not be complete without a trip to the Rum Distillery. The meeting on Sunday will be held at the “Lighthouse Hotel” at Burnett Heads.

You must appreciate we are a little vague at this time and we are open to suggestions if you have any other suitable activities for people of our age group .

COULD WE HAVE THE NAMES OF THOSE INTERESTED IN THE RUM DISTILLERY TOUR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

Graeme Caesar
Secretary
Phone: 0418 449 528  Email: secretary@saaqld.org Web: www.saaqld.org

Victorian Branch
Secretary John 'Boot' Hatfield reminds Members the trip to Holbrook for the presentation of the Jolly Roger. We will be leaving the area of Spencer Street/Lonsdale Street approx. 10am - to give country visitors time to get to Spencer Street (Southern Cross) Station. This will be held on the weekend 17-18 October. Reception of some sort will be held Saturday night. Presentation of the HMS Unsparing Jolly Roger will be on Sunday morning and return to Melbourne some time Sunday afternoon - after we pour you all into the bus.

New South Wales Branch
Our next meeting is next Sunday at Cockatoo Island. Revisit old memories with your comrades and family. BYO Picnic lunch or buy at the café. Regret tours are fully booked unless there is a vacancy on the day. Self guided tours are available. Audio tour $5 each, first in best dressed. Ferry from Circular Key. Suggest 10.45 ferry at the latest.

For the comfort and safety of everyone on the island, please follow the Island Etiquette:

* Beer and Wine can be purchased on the Island and Visitors are requested to bring water and soft drink only
* A Picnic lunch is recommended - overnight visitors are given first priority when using BBQs
* no smoking in buildings
* do not bring animals onto the island (except guide dogs)
* mooring private vessels is not permitted
* do not enter construction areas
* camp only in the designated campground
* for safety reasons, do not swim, fish or golf

http://www.cockatooisland.gov.au

Note that whilst BBQ facilities are available, campers have priority. Hope to see you all there.

Contact Ken Norris for further details.

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AROUND THE TRAPS

David Bryant reports that John'Tid' Curry went into hospital last Friday.  He has not been feeling well for a while, and decided he should do something about it.  The quacks found that he has a blockage in his starboard piss strainer, so they will probably insert a "shunt" to unblock it.  He is still in the Modbury Hospital, bored shitless and is very glad to see visitors.

Recently joined Member, Anatol Dangel wrote "I have a few photos of when I was in U.K. doing my Submarine training, would you be interested in them? I have forgotten all the names of everyone. I still remember my name Ha Ha. They date back to 1968-69,some one might remember. I did my part three on Submarine HMS/SM Astute, she was scraped after we had a collision with "?" officially it was a big sea buoy, but that is another story, I still to this day get flash backs." Yes mate, always interested in new photos, hope to rebuild the photo galleries when I get time.

Gus Gillis (shown here with two crays he stole off some poor little kids) has a lovely ring.......................... "Just thought I would let u know I purchased the ring from SALT it is a fine piece of jewelry. I’m wrapped in it.   Went out to see Billy and Hazel I asked if they would like to see my ring. Hazel was interested but Billy said he already saw it years ago in Vanuatu."  Billy, along with many others I may add!  These rings are available from the SALT website.

A reunion to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the commissioning of the anti-submarine frigate target HMAS Quiberon (FO3) will be held in Hobart from 9th to 11th October 2009.  All past crew members are cordially invited to attend. For further details, please contact Derek Tite -  Phone (03) 6425 7051.

Phil Rody sent a link to an interesting article on youtube on conventional submarines adding "Its interesting that there are still so many around, and new ones being built."

Ken Horn must be hard up, he is looking for a Coxswain to talk to! "Would you have any idea of John Head's location, he was a good mate of mine in the old days on "Oxley". He and I, plus Shorty Carroll had some great runs ashore. Felt that I would like to say hello if he is still around." Of course I do Ken, he is only 35 klm from Bauple, lives in Maryborough.

Allan McCarthy reports "A whole heap of us from Ballina went fishing up at Lake Awoonga hoping to get one of those prized barramundi that are 'supposed' to be there ...The outcome................no one got a barra.... oh well better luck next time, hope all is well."

Paul 'Diesel' Dann has passed on a little story of the time he spent at sea on the Target Torrens back in 1989.

I was the outsides AB on Orion, we had just left the port of Brisbane and were out in open water preparing to dive, so I was called up top to clean the windows and remove the mast covers. All was going as normal until I was removing the large induction mast cover, it got caught in the wind and I was spun around almost 180 degrees, problem was my foot was wedged so it didn't move at all. The result was a very painful twisted knee, I let out a bloody loud "ahh f#*k" and landed flat on my backside sitting ontop of the fin with my right foot facing off on a peculiar angle.

The Skipper (Mick Gee) promptly got the Coxn (Craig Porrich) up and he straightened it back up and all seemed to be ok. However upon returning below and sitting on the panel my knee started to swell up to twice it's size and then the pain started, so off to my rack to rest, with some help from some "magic pills" I passed out .

Not real sure what happened for the next few hours but I do recall getting up to go on watch at 1am and being told to go back to bed. This had me buggerd but not wanting to argue about getting a watch off I was soon back in the rack. Then I was told I was being Medi vac'd by a Helo so to get ready but it was cancelled due to bad weather so the next best thing was to be taken onboard Torrens by Zodiac.

Next morning (I think!!) my leg was splinted and my kit bag was packed by someone and I was being helped out onto the for'd casing, dressed in a pair of blue king gee shorts, one sandal and an old army shirt, what a sight.
After the terrifying trip by zodiac to the ship I was winched aboard and told in no uncertain terms to go aft and have a tubs! Which surprised me as we had only been at sea no more than a week...

So the Doc had a look and bandaged me up and I spent a few days in the sick bay sleeping and getting bored, all the while hearing over the intercom how they are at action stations to find and destroy the "enemy" Submarine.

I was soon told that I had to move out of sickbay and live in the aft stokers mess, near the laundry?? So off I hobble with my almost empty kitbag, one sandal, blue shorts and army shirt to look for this mess. Eventually I found it and was told again to have a tubs, this I did then I was given a rack (with sheets!!) and told to stow my gear?? not knowing where to stow it I did what I did on the boat promptly put it all under my mattress and went to have a kip. I soon learnt that the mess kellick was a bit of a anti submariner type and he got me up and said I had to turn too from 8-4 (would have made a good coxn this bloke!) so I said there isn't much I can do and his reply was well you're tall so clean the overheads! Not wanting to give him anymore grey hairs I did a usual poor job and after several days I was left alone as a lost cause.

One very funny thing that happened was one day I was limping around the ship having a bit of an explore and I was somewhere near the front bit (??) in one of the little passage ways when a an officer went passed , stopped, turned and then told me to come here this instant!! He then said , who the hell are you?
I said Able Seaman Dann sir,
He said where's your uniform?
I said I don't have one sir
He said where's you part of ship?
I said I don't have one sir
He was going redder and redder by the second
He then said who are you, what are you doing here, don't you know we are at action stations!?!?
I said No sir I didn't know that
He was going mad by this time and he said are you that bloody Submariner?
I said yes sir
To which he shook his head and told me to get back to my mess and stay there! I later found out he was the XO...

So after another week or so we finally pulled into Auckland NZ and I was told to get dressed and catch the train to Gisborne. I hadn't been paid and had no money but was landed and sent on my way, so after explaining my situation to the train station folk they let me have a free ride to Gisborne and I was very happy to see Orion tied up alongside the wharf. I am not sure who was more surprised to see me the trot sentry or the skipper, who said Diesel what the hell are you doing here? I said I was put ashore and didn't ever want to be on a ship again!

I did enjoy one thing about it though, I spent a few hours on the back bit, that's the outside bit pretending to look for a White smoke that Orion had fired to help them find her, I did see one but being a POW didn't tell them!!

So there you go my 10 days or so on a surface ship, not my cup of tea but at least I stirred them up and will never forget the look on the XO's face at my very un navy pirate rig!

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Sea Training Group to muster
Christopher‘Joel’ Garner is trying to put together a list of past and present members of the Submarine Sea Training Group. Rod Baker (yes, him again!!!) provided Joel some information from the dim and distant past. Rod believe the first official SSTG was formed in 81/82. If you were a member of, or have any more information on, the SSTG contact Joel with your details such as years served, Name and Rate (ie: 1985 – 1988, Rod Baker, CPOETP). I am sure Joel will appreciate the information.

The Vung Tau Ferry
As an ex crew member, I was pleased to see that the RAN website has a great video of  HMAS Sydney (III) in her role as The Vung Tau Ferry.  Sydney, in her configuration as a Fast Troop Transport, undertook numerous voyages to Vietnam between 1965-1972. This short video records the voyage undertaken between 15 November 1969 - 12 December 1969, during which she carried members of 8 Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) to Vung Tau before returning to Sydney with members of 9 Battalion, RAR. 

There is also a book available through the Slops Van which recognise the major contribution of those many members of the RAN whose service in the Vietnam war was for so long ignored. These are the 9,800 RAN personnel who, through dedication to the task over seven years transported safely and on time about 15,600 Army and RAAF personnel, along with many tons of weapons, stores and equipment during the 25 operational voyages HMAS Sydney and her escorting destroyers made to and from Vietnam.

The book includes: a nominal list of those who served, the dates and composition of the 25 Troop Transport Task Force groups that served in the operational area, and first hand accounts by sailors and soldiers who sailed in HMAS Sydney and the Escort Ships of the RAN, namely HMAS Melbourne, HMAS Anzac, HMAS Derwent, HMAS Duchess, HMAS Parramatta, HMAS Stuart, HMAS Swan, HMAS Torrens, HMAS Vampire, HMAS Vendetta and HMAS Yarra.

Authors Rodney Nott and Noel Payne are veterans of this major Vietnam logistic operation.

A man was sunbathing naked at the beach. For the sake of civility, and to keep it from getting sunburned, he had a hat over his privates.  A woman walks past and says, snickering, "If you were a gentleman you'd lift your hat." He raised an eyebrow and replied, "If you weren't so ugly it would lift itself."

Our man in New Zealand, Sammy Brennan was after some information "Hey mate can you find out what power source ran the old O Boat Klaxon's I can't remember. You always keep me up to date with what is going on in the Submarine world and I would like to rejoin the Association as I have no place to belong to living in New Zealand. Can you send me the form or what I need to pay to become a member again."  An application has been sent to Sammy, I will be checking for any KIWI accent that may have crept in, it is grounds for refusal of Membership.

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VETERANS AFFAIRS
Veterans' get $1.2 million in funding to support 78 health and wellbeing initiatives

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Alan Griffin today announced more than $1.2 million in funding to support 78 health and wellbeing initiatives for veterans and their families across Australia in the latest round of the Veteran & Community Grants program.

Mr Griffin said the grants demonstrate the Australian Government’s commitment to organisations that care for the veteran community, and encourage veterans, war widows and widowers and their families to become involved in local health and wellbeing activities.  “Veteran & Community Grants help fund local initiatives that improve access to community care services and encourage social interaction through Day Clubs, Men’s Sheds and social excursions,” Mr Griffin said.

“It is important that the veteran community has access to a range of programs where they can learn skills to help them remain independent and active, particularly for the elderly living by themselves.”

Veteran & Community Grants are available to ex-service and community organisations, veteran representative groups and private organisations that contribute to the health and welfare of the veteran community.

Local and community organisations interested in applying for funding are encouraged to visit www.dva.gov.au/grants or contact their nearest DVA office on 133 254 (for metropolitan callers) or 1800 555 254 (for non-metropolitan callers).

 

Zippo Style Lighters A set of 7 Zippo style lighters, the six Oberons and HMAS Platypus,  are an ideal gift for collectors of submarine memorabilia.  Each lighter comes in it's own metal case. Subject to sufficient orders being placed they will be available for $175 a set. I will only order these if there is sufficient demand so please send me an email if interested.  I am also investigating a set of Collins class lighters.  Send your email to slops@submarinesaustralia.com to register an interest in buying a set.

Niggs, put Boof down, it's walk time.............