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AURA
updated May 2011 DISCLOSURE AUSTRALIA NEWSLETTER THIRTY-ONE December 2006 |
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DISCLOSURE AUSTRALIA |
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PO Box 738 |
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Jimboomba, 4280 |
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e-mail: disclosureaustralia@yahoo.com.au |
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NEWSLETTER THIRTY ONE
DECEMBER 2006 |
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UFO
FILES LOCATED IN THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT RECORDS SYSTEM |
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Introduction: |
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Between
June 2003 and November 2006 the Disclosure Australia Project searched for,
located and examined Australian Government files relating to the UFO
phenomenon. Although the search was as thorough as possible, there is no
doubt it is incomplete. To begin with, the electronic RecordSearch system of
the National Archives of Australia (NAA) indexes only about 10% of their
collection. Secondly, the search was undertaken using both the Archives Act
and the Freedom of Information Act, where the expense of the latter precluded
broad spectrum requests such as for all material held on UFOs.' In addition, unlike the detailed and indexed UFO fact sheet available for the UK Government Archives which guides researchers through file numbers; searching the NAA's RecordSearch is a very hit and miss affair. Quite often, a slight adjustment of words, or even letters, would reveal yet other files. |
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Some
issues: |
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The first issue confronting the Project was one of nomenclature. Was the search simply for files on 'UFOs'' Other key word searches eventually lead not only to files about UFOs, but files where the title included the terms 'flying saucers,' 'aerial objects;' 'unusual aerial sightings;' 'unusual sighting;' 'strange sky lights;' 'unusual occurrences;' and 'strange occurrences.' |
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As the Project was utilising both the Archive and FOI Acts, another issue at times, was which Act applied' For example, at one time, it was found that the Department of Defence held files inside the time frame of the Archive Act; and the NAA held files which could only be made available under the FOI! This meant asking Government authorities to transfer files to other authorities in order that they could be accessed under the correct Act. |
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In addition, if the status of a file held by the NAA was shown as 'not yet examined,' then that file had to go from the NAA back to the controlling authority who originated the file, to be examined and cleared for release. This clearance could take quite some time; in fact up to twelve months in some instances. |
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The very large volume of material (over 10,000 pages) uncovered was itself an issue. However, once read and processed, the files located have been reported on in a series of 30 Newsletters; 17 'Revelations' columns in the bi-monthly 'Australasian UFOlogist;' at three national level conferences, on a two part CD-ROM set and on the Project website at http://disclosureaustralia.freewebpages.org.
Following Project requests, the NAA has also made some files available as
digital copies on its website www.naa.gov.au. |
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Despite the issues related above, the staff of the NAA could not have been more helpful in their efforts to assist us. Thanks must also go to the RAAF's FOI staff for their professional approach to what, to them, must have seemed a trivial topic of enquiry. |
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In
the end, it is believed that a representative collection of files has been
uncovered which allows researchers to gain some insight into how the
Australian Government viewed the UFO phenomenon. |
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Government
agencies with files on UFOs: |
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The
Project has found records of 146 files which are, or were, in whole or part,
about UFOs or UFO organisations originating with: |
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Australian Army |
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Royal Australian
Navy |
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Royal Australian
Air Force |
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and former areas
such as the Department of Air (DOA) (1939-1973.) |
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The
main questions which arise after examination of over ten thousand Government
UFO documents are: |
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Former
Department of Supply 1952-1972 |
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Incidents at Woomera, particularly in the early 1950's, feature almost exclusively in the three files located. Indeed, the security people at the range seemed to have thoroughly documented the sightings reported, whether the cause was mundane or possibly of more exotic origin. However, almost no analysis of the data is seen on these files. Seemingly, the Department saw its role as collecting and forwarding sightings to their Head Office and then on to the DOA. Disappointingly, no Supply Head Office UFO files have been uncovered so far. Indeed, it is only in 1971 that there was a hint on a RAAF file that the Department of Supply itself might be interested in looking into the subject of UFOs. Project Newsletter 21 provides an in depth look at this Department's UFO involvement. |
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The
former Department of Civil Aviation
1952-1973 and the current Department of Transport and Regional
Services 1973-2005 |
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In the early 1950's the DCA was one of the two lead agencies involved in collecting reports of 'flying saucers' (the other being the DOA.) It initially actively sought reports; considered setting up its own study section and then liaised with the DOA by forwarding raw reports. For 20 years it collected reports and passed them to the DOA. Its replacement agency, the DOTRS, following a Freedom of Information (FOI) request from us, advised that its aviation occurrence data base OASIS contained a small number of reports involving the acronym 'UFO', with brief details released to us. For more on the involvement of DCA see Project Newsletter 17. |
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The
former Department of Territories 1959-1965 |
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This
agency, which administered Papua New Guinea (PNG) at one stage, referred raw
reports from PNG to the DOD between 1959 and 1965, without any attempt at
analysis. |
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The
former Department of External Affairs 1954 |
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The
Federal Minister for this Department, the Rt Hon R G Casey, took a personal
interest in the subject in 1954 according to the single Departmental file
located. Casey corresponded with
various Australian Embassies collecting information on the topic. He also
engaged in correspondence with CSIRO staff. |
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Australian
Security Intelligence Organisation 1956-1972 |
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Two
files have emerged from ASIO and the former Commonwealth Investigation
Section (CIS), on the Queensland Flying Saucer Bureau and the Australian
Flying Saucer Research Society respectively. The interest of ASIO/CIS appears
in line with their charter. |
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The
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation 1952-1989 |
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Two files were located covering the period 1952 to 1989, utilising both the Archive and Freedom of Information Acts. On a number of occasions the Organisation advised enquirers that it did not carry out field work in this subject. However, a small number of its staff did undertake investigations into reports as individuals, particularly one Dr Michael Duggin. The organisation's files reveal it mainly directly answered public queries. Like other Government agencies it positively responded to the 1966 request from the DOA to co-operate with the RAAF by examining any raw reports forwarded to it by DOA. In reality very few reports were ever forwarded, according to the files we examined. Project Newsletter 20 provides a comprehensive review of the CSIRO's role in the UFO phenomenon. |
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The
Department of Defence 1951-2006 |
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Royal
Australian Navy |
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Four Navy files have been located, of which two of these dealt with the 1954 Nowra Navy pilot incident. Of the other two, file series E499/18 control symbol C21/4/41 was located at the Darwin office of the National Australia Archives and was titled 'Unidentified flying object sightings.' The file was from Defence Establishment Berrimah (Formerly HMAS Coonawarra) and consisted of 41 pages. Its date range was 1959-1974 and although no analysis was present on the file, someone, for some reason was keeping a file on the subject. The final file A6826 control symbol 1361/1/1-3 titled 'Earth satellites, space vehicles, Unidentified Flying Objects-general' is a mere three pages and mentions one report of low level interest. |
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Australian
Army |
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Three
Army files were located. |
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It
appears, that contrary to views expressed from time to time, in some quarters
of the Australian UFO research community, that the Army was not a major
player in investigating the UFO phenomenon in Australia. |
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The
former Department of Air/current RAAF |
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The Directorate of Air Force Intelligence (DAFI) of the former DOA (1939-1973) took the lead in collecting and examining reports of UFOs from the early 1950's. How and why the DOA was tasked with this role is not yet clear. The Project continues to look for early
(1947-1951) material, including a lost internal DAFI file SEC.CD2/2
which may throw light on this topic. |
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All the material examined indicates that DAFI was, for the main, not really interested in conducting any scientific research into the phenomenon. The impression gained from comments on the RAAF's UFO policy file series (554/1/30) was that, for the most part, examining UFO reports was merely a job that had to be done: |
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'We spoke. While I agree with you in principle, the practicalities suggest we will continue to wear the responsibility. You should, however, ensure that the impact of this chore does not unduly impede our normal business.' (3) |
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There
were however, indications at times of a softening of this attitude. For
example an examination of file 554/1/30 reveals the original of a letter from
Dr M J Duggin employed by the CSIRO to Squadron Leader Baxter of DAFI. Folio
115 of 554/1/30 dated 29 Dec 1966 is an internal memo from D/DAFI (Ops) to
DAFI which included: |
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'You will note that these scientists are mainly interested in the unexplained UFO's, but as far as I can make out they would like information on all sightings'These scientists, with all the documents and facilities available to them, are obviously in a position to assist us in this matter, and though I am not too keen on releasing the details of the RAAF investigations or anything which may increase the interest of the general public in this field, I think we should give these scientists the information they require.' (4) |
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What is interesting here is the comment ''the unexplained UFO's'' This is an internal memo, way before the FOI Act allowed outsiders to see it. Here are DAFI staff writing of 'unexplained UFO's.' It is realised that this is in the context of what Duggin was interested in. However, the author does not dispute the fact that there were some UFO reports which remain unexplained after investigation. |
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DAFI
tried on a number of occasions to pass off at least part of the task to other
agencies: |
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'You spoke to me recently on the matter of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and you mentioned that the Department of Supply may be interested in investigating this subject. This minute provides a brief historical sketch of this subject and my reaction to the proposal.' (6) |
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No
other reference to this interest by the Department of Supply has been located,
although no Head Office Department of Supply UFO files have yet been found. |
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'DAFI suggested that CSIRO or the Dept of Science ( but preferably the former) seemed to be logical agencies to conduct greater in depth investigation in Australia. DAFI agreed that a selection of reports (mainly those which were unanswerable and scientific in context) could possibly be made available to CSIRO for further study and computerization.' |
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However, nothing officially came from any of these three approaches by DAFI to shift the 'UFO problem' from them to somewhere else in the Government. DAFI remained the 'Official' Government UFO agency. |
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A
major change of policy was announced in the media on 2 May 1984: |
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'UNUSUAL AERIAL SIGHTINGS - RAAF CHANGE IN POLICY |
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The RAAF in future will investigate fully
only those Unusual Aerial Sightings (UAS) which suggest a defence or national
security implication. The Minister for Defence, Mr Gordon Scholes, said today
that while the RAAF would continue to be the first point of contact, UAS
reports not considered to have a defence or security implication would not be
further investigated. |
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Instead they would be recorded and the UAS
observer would be given the address of civilian UAS research organisations if
the observer wished to pursue the matter further. Mr Scholes said that in the
past the RAAF's investigation of all UAS reports had often proved time
consuming, unproductive and had led to many man-hours of follow-up action by
the RAAF and other agencies such as the Department of Aviation and the Bureau
of Meteorology. |
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He said that procedures for investigating UAS reports had remained unchanged for many years. The vast majority of reports submitted by the public had proven not to have a national security significance.' |
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A deduction from the last paragraph of the announcement is that some reports in fact had a 'national security implication.' It is generally understood just what a 'defence implication' is, e.g. an unauthorised intrusion into Australian air space by an unidentified man-made aircraft. However, just what constitutes a 'national security implication' as opposed to a 'defence implication' remains unclear. |
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Nothing
was known previously of the inside deliberations behind this policy shift.
However, when examining files at RAAF Base Edinburgh a file was located with
a draft Support Command Air Staff Instruction no 3/A/3 (reference AF 84/3508
part 1 of 12 April 1984.) This
said that the RAAF is the first point of contact and that most UAS from the
public are found to be natural or man-made. |
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'The RAAF accepts reports on UAS and attempts an allocation of reliability. However, few reports are of any direct interest to the RAAF.' |
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This was followed by a
piece about the Condon report conclusions, then: |
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'Experience in the RAAF since the early 1950s supports the Condon report conclusion'The RAAF is responsible for the acceptance and evaluation of UAS reports. Those which suggest a defence or national security implication are further investigated and a probable cause determined'' |
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The draft went on to say that DAFI is to assess such reports. Reports considered not having defence or national security implications are not investigated further and are filed at Command HQ's: |
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'On return of part 2, the report is to be examined in terms of defence or national security implications, to assess whether further investigation is warranted. In general terms, further investigation is to be confined to sightings of a terrestrial, rather than an extra-terrestrial nature. Sightings of interest to the RAAF would involve incursions into Australian airspace by man-made objects, and particularly include sightings near defence or other sensitive establishments. The traditional 'lights in the sky' are no longer cause for RAAF investigation.' |
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The sentence ''further investigation is to be confined to sightings of a terrestrial, rather than an extra-terrestrial nature.' is very intriguing! This seems to be saying that although the RAAF knew some sightings were of an extra-terrestrial nature, it wasn't interested in these! A very rare admission indeed for the RAAF. The document goes on: |
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'Command intelligence staff are to be made aware immediately of any report warranting further investigation. On receipt of such a report, CINTO is to: |
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inform DAFIS and the Chief of Staff (COFS) |
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b.
commence an immediate investigation and instruct the UAS investigator at the
reporting unit to complete Annex A part 3 (Unit report). |
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c. complete Annex A part 4 on receipt of completed parts 1-3 and report the findings of his investigation to COFS and DAFIS.' (8)
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Note that the 2 May 1984 media release didn't contain the reference to 'extra-terrestrial |
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nature.' |
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This
new policy lasted ten years, and then in 1994 the DOD policy again changed : |
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'Unidentified Aerial Sightings. Revised policy. |
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'Consideration of the scientific record suggests that, whilst not all UAS have a ready explanation, there is no compelling reason for the RAAF to continue to devote resources to recording, investigating and attempting to explain UAS. The RAAF no longer accepts reports on UAS'' |
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'Some UAS may relate to events that could have a defence, security or public safety implications, such as man-made debris falling from space, a burning aircraft or an aircraft making an unauthorised incursion into Australian air space. Where members of the community may have witnessed an event of this type they are encouraged to contact the police, civilian aviation authorities or coast watch.' |
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'2. The change in policy will not be publicised by press release. Known UFO groups will be contacted individually by mail and provided with a copy of the new policy together with a brief explanations of the implications for them.' (9) |
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Three
points of the above, call for comment: |
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Other
areas of the DOD since 1977 |
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A
check of other areas of the DOD, namely the Army, the Navy, the DSTO and the DOD
intelligence areas by way of an FOI request in 2004 by the Project, was met
with a response that they were unable to locate any files originating in
these areas dealing with the topic of UFOs for the period 1977 to 2004. |
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Post
1994 |
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With
the latest change of policy, came a call for all areas of the RAAF to close
off their files dealing with UAS. Twenty three such files were collected and
lodged with the NAA in 1994. The Project located and examined these files in
2004. |
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So,
since 1994 the DOD has referred all sighting reports from the general public
to civilian UFO groups, and there has been no evidence that the RAAF has
investigated any UFO reports in the period 1994 to date. |
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Does the DOD have a position in 2006' It certainly does. The current Department web site has the following statement regarding UFO sightings: |
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'Unidentified Aerials Sightings (UAS) |
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From
the Minister of Defence |
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Late
last year the Project directed a letter to Robert Hill, then Minister for
Defence, as follows: |
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'Over the last two years I have been locating and examining federal Government files relating to the subject of Unusual Aerial Sightings (UAS), utlising both the Archive and FOI Acts. |
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I
understand that up until 1994 the Department of Defence (DOD) was the federal
government agency tasked with the collection and analysis of such reports
from the general public. I further understand that in 1994 the DOD ceased this
function and that from that date reports of UAS by members of the public to the DOD are referred to
civilian UFO research organisations. |
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The
current DOD website (at http://www.defence.gov.au access contacts
under UAS) has a statement of the current position of the Dept. on UAS
reports, which states in part: |
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'Current Defence policy on UAS where members of the public may have questions on, or seek to report sightings is to direct them to their local police authorities or civil Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) research organisations'' |
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DOD files I have examined demonstrate that between the 1950's and early 1990's, besides reports from the general public, the department received reports from members of the DOD, civilian airline crew and air traffic controllers. |
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I
would therefore seek your response to the following questions: |
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1.
If current UAS reports from the general public are referred onwards, what happens to reports made by members of the DOD, civilian airline crew and air traffic controllers' |
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How many reports have been made since 1994 to the DOD from members of the DOD, civilian airline crew and air traffic controllers' |
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3.
If there have been any such reports made by members of the DOD, civilian airline crew and air traffic controllers since 1994 may I obtain full details of these' |
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Since 1994, has the DOD maintained any personnel whose duties include the monitoring, collection or analysis of UAS reports from members of the DOD, civilian airline crew and air traffic controllers' |
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5.
In the years between 1947 and 1994 did the DOD ever conduct any scientific research into the subject of UAS, and if so, who conducted this research and what where their findings' |
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Given that the RAAF was the area of the DOD involved with the collection and analysis of UAS reports between 1947 and 1994, and publicly announced it was ceasing this function in 1994; did any other area of the DOD continue with this role between 1994 and today' |
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7.
Has any area of the DOD conducted any scientific research into the subject of UAS between 1994 and today, and if so, who conducted this research and what were their findings' |
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I look forward to your response.' (11) |
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A
response was received as follows: |
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'As you have correctly asserted, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) formely had a responsibility for investigating and assessing the validity of UAS. However, after careful examination of the factual data and historical records that had been gathered over many years, it was determined that the collective evidence did not warrant the continued allocation of resources by the RAAF to investigate and report on UAS. Subsequently, the RAAF ceased this function. |
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I can advise that Defence does not accept UAS reports, but directs any such reports to local police authorities or civil unidentified flying object research organisations, through the relevant state telephone directory. I can also advise that defence does not maintain records on UAS or on the number (if any) of attempts to report them. Neither does the RAAF maintain any personnel whose duties include the monitoring, collection or analysis of UAS reports from any source. In addition, Defence has never conducted any scientific research into UAS.' (12) |
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Answers: |
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The
answers to the first two questions posed at the beginning of this work are: |
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A DETOUR TO THE UNITED KINGDOM |
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The RAAF's early policy files reveal that from time to time (1955 (13); 1959 (14)) the RAAF inquired as to the British Government's position on the UFO phenomenon. It is therefore pertinent to ask did the UK Government ever conduct any scientific research into the UFO phenomenon' |
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Dr
David Clarke and Andy Roberts in their 2002 book titled 'Out of the Shadows' (15) reported upon their examination of hundreds of files generated by the UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD); the Royal Air Force and other Government bodies. |
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Clarke and Roberts found that the MoD's Directorate of Scientific and Technical Intelligence (DSTI), its predecessors and later counterpart, had indeed studied UFO reports: |
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'The documentary evidence we have presented demonstrates that DSTI'has indeed played a significant role in UFO research and investigation, dating back to the first 'flying saucer' waves of the 1950's'' (p251) |
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What was the purpose of DSTI's interest in looking at UFO reports' In 1967, the Deputy Director of Intelligence wrote: |
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'In our case, we have tailored our efforts to meet the minimum requirement of protecting UK airspace from any incursions which might pose a threat or a hazard.' (p179) |
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Consideration
was given to the creation of a scientific post with DSTI for UFO
investigations (p184). At that time, responsibility for investigation
of interesting reports which had survived initial screening, was the province
of a scientist in DI55, Dr John Dickison (p182).
Dickison was a space weapons expert (p172.) |
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However,
by 2001 DSTI (now retitled DIST) decided to cease reviewing UFO reports made
to the MoD as it had determined that UFOs were of no defence interest (p252.) That same year the MoD stated: |
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'The Ministry does not question the existence, or otherwise, of extraterrestrial life forms, about which it remains open minded. To date we are, however, unaware of any evidence which proves that these phenomena exist.' (p256) |
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Subsequent to this, an MoD analysis, published in the year 2000, became public knowledge. The Executive Summary contained the words: ''the information studied'leads to the conclusion that it does not have any significant Defence Intelligence value'' (16) |
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BACK
TO AUSTRALIA |
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Were any interesting reports found in Government files' Yes indeed, a number were located in the files of the RAAF. A summary of these cases follows. If the RAAF ascribed an explanation, it is shown in [square brackets]. |
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(1)
7 December 1956 Tambar Springs NSW 1215hrs 10mins 2wits Hayne DO |
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Heard jet engines and saw object in E 'coming down.' White in colour. 'Disk shaped' and spinning. 'At one stage a wing was visible, appeared to have one wing on one side.' Then ''went straight up until it became a speck in the sky. It then went to the East, and straight up out of sight.' (Pages 71-67 &
81-85 on digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 1.Original file reference
5/1/air (11a)) |
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(2)
27 September 1957 Tasmania (1944-2025hrs) 41 mins 3 wits (Stinson, Carter & Powell) RV |
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0944GMT
1944local Launceston airport |
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L
Stinson, an Air Traffic controller reported seeing a white light bearing 025 degrees
from the tower. The light was travelling south at the speed of a DC3
aircraft. |
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0945.5
GMT 1945.5 local Launceston airport |
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L
Stinson. The light was abeam of the field and viewed through binoculars. It
was seen passing over Evindale bearing 125 degrees. Check with area control
revealed no known air traffic. Check for balloons also negative. |
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0947GMT
1947 local Launceston airport |
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L
Stinson. Last sighting of light from Launceston. It had been moving steadily
horizontally. Through binoculars it was spherical or circular. Sky overcast.
Cloud base 4000 feet. Ground wind was from 300 degrees at 10 knots. |
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0950GMT
1950 local Cambridge airport Hobart |
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Carter
and Powell. On duty-received request from Launceston to undertake radar
search. |
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0957GMT
1959 local Cambridge airport |
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Hoggie
at Cambridge received request to look at it. |
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1020GMT
2020 local Cambridge. |
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Carter
and Powell. Hobart radar search commences. |
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1024GMT
2024 local Launceston airport |
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Eddy.
Hobart tower advises that their radar had two signals. Last at 354 degrees 17
miles at 1023GMT Height 9-10,000 feet. Appeared to accelerate and disappear. |
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1025GMT
2025 local Cambridge airport |
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Echo
located bearing 356 degrees at slant range of 34,000 yards at 5 degree
elevation. Moved at a fast speed. Tracked for 15 seconds. Range increased by
approximately 200 yards. Continued attempt further till 1045GMT 2045 local
but unsuccessful. 356 degrees height 9000 feet. Distance 17NM north of
Cambridge. |
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1027GMT
2027local Cambridge |
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Hoggie.
Hobart radar trace 356 degrees 17NM height 9/10,00 feet. |
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(Pages
53-57 & 61-62 on digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 1). |
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(3)
26 June 1959 Goodenough Bay Territory of Papua and New Guinea (1915-1930hrs)
4mins 1 wit M Evenett NO |
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Object approached from N to NE, descended and then hovered some 500 feet up in air. 45 degree elevation. 'Silhouette of a rugger football,' and had a kind of ring around it with about four semi-domed portholes visible in the side. A glow came from the portholes. (Pages 89 & 180 on digital copy of RAAF
file 580/1/1 part 2. Original file reference AD.93/5/2 Port Moresby.) |
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(4)
7 July 1959 Burren Junction (NSW) 2120hrs 1m Taylor NL |
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A Police constable saw a bright red light which was on an object in the sky. It was reddish on top. From the object's bottom shone a red light. The object hovered over trees. Seemed close. Appeared to go away to the WNW and went out of sight. The Police constable reported that at 0700 that day a man in the same area reported seeing 'big grey cattle float' on the side of a road. Later two workers reported seeing a large grey thing' with a dome on top which they watched for several seconds before the dome suddenly disappeared. The policeman recalled that on 17 July 1959 he had seen the same thing again in the W moving. (Pages 171-173 on digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 2
.Original file reference 5/2/1 Air (56a) Penrith.) |
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(5)
24 September 1959 Mandourah and Doctors Gully NT 1830hrs NO |
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Large 80-100 foot object reported. Black, shallow. Close to surface-speed 80-90 mph. Shot upwards towards Delissaville Creek. 'A green very light shot off from the water in a direction east or north from Mandourah, after the object was seen.' At 0715hrs 25 September, the same object was again seen off Mandourah and shot up Middle Arm. (Pages 107-108 on digital copy of RAAF
file 580/1/1 part 2. Original file reference BS.5/6/Air (32a) Darwin.) |
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(6)
4 October 1960 Cresssy Tas 1810hrs 2 mins 1M +1F Browning DO |
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While looking at a rainbow, they saw a 'long cigar shaped object' emerge from a rain squall. It was dull grey in colour, and had 'four or five vertical dark bands around its circumference.' With something that looked like a 'short aerial array' on it. It travelled northwards. Seconds later, 5-6 small saucer like objects came out of the cloud at high speed. These and the cigar then reversed back into the rain squall and did not re-emerge. (Pages 19-29,
32, 34 ,54-55 and 59 on digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 2. Original
file reference 704/1/P1 (2A) Hobart. [Astronomical]) |
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(7)
15 November 1960 15 miles north of Launceston Tas 1040hrs (5-7 secs) DO |
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A USAF JB-57 aircraft crew operating out of RAAF East Sale reported seeing an unusual object. The aircraft was at 40,000 feet at 350 knots flying a heading of 340 degrees. The object was estimated to be at 35,000 feet heading 140 degrees at high speed. It disappeared under the aircraft's left wing. The pilot banked the plane but they did not re-establish visual. In colour the object was said to be 'rather translucent.' 'There were no sharp edges but rather fuzzy.' The size was estimated at 90 feet in diameter, and it did not appear to have any depth to it. (Pages
44-45 on digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 2.[Astronomical]) |
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(8)
3 June 1961 Darwin NT 2130hrs 1M Casey Radar |
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Radar RAAF Darwin 'reported radar contact during met balloon flight 2130hrs. 'Contact at 40000 feet descended to 32000 feet in approximately 5 minutes. Contact with no apparent lateral movement. First sighting azimuth 180 elevation 80 deg range 15000 yards.' (Page 148 of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 3.Telex originally classified 'Secret.') |
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(9)
15 February 1963 Willow Grove via Moe Vic 0710hrs 1M Brew CE1 |
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While
milking cows, he saw an object descending from the E to a height of about 75
feet. It hovered, then ascended to the W. It was 25 feet in diameter, and 9
feet high. The lower portion was 3 feet high and rotating anti-clockwise. It
was of a bluish colour. The upper portion appeared stationary and was a battleship grey colour. Protruding out of this dome was something which resembled 'a broom handle.' 'There was a swishing and burbling-type sound.' (Pages 313-319 on digital copy of RAAF
file 580/1/1 part 4. Original reference 5/6/Air (26) Victoria Barracks.
[Tornado like meteorological manifestation]) |
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(10)
19 May 1963 Mt Gambier SA 2130hrs (1-1.5mins) 1m Busbridge CE1 |
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Was 1-1.5 miles from Piggery on the old Glencoe Road when he saw an object on the side of the road. It was bright red/white and shaped like a bull-dozer. No sound. 'It came across the road and then it went straight up.' Lost in mid-air. The object is said to have followed the route of the car for three miles then disappeared as an on-coming car approached the witness. (Pages 305-307 on digital copy of
RAAF file 580/1/1 part 4. Original reference 5/6/Air (31) Victoria Barracks.
[Meteor]) |
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(11)
25 July 1963 Warragul Vic 1930hrs 20secs 1M Ashcroft NO |
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One circular object 'light shade of grey' with a noise similar to a jet aircraft. 'The upper portion of object appeared to have a smaller diameter.' Approx 400 feet up. Lost in mid-air. 'The upper part of the object appeared to be revolving.' While the object was in sight the air was unusually warm. (Pages
292-294 on digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 4. Original reference
7/6/Air (39) Victoria Barracks. [Tornado]) |
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(12)
23 January 1964 Between Cape Grey & NE Point, off Groote Eylandt NT 5M NL |
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A compass on board a boat behaved erratically over a lengthy period of time. A strange light was seen in the water. 'Ghostly white light, in the centre was a shadow which rotated in a clockwise direction causing the light to pulsate'it is estimated that it was miles across and a few hundred yards through.' Another light patch approached, then another. At 0300hrs the compass finally settled down. (Pages 226-228 on digital copy of RAAF file
580/1/1 part 4.Original reference BS5/6/Air (91). Darwin. [Unknown]) |
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(13)
13 January 1965 41S 167E 0845Z
1M Shannon +others NO |
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Report of UFOs by Qantas flight 363. Course 275 degrees mag at 20,000 feet. Shortly after sunset. 'Single vapour trail appeared to north west travelling east'became seven distinct contrails apparently made by large aircraft in loose formation'' 'Second pilot also recalls that at approximately longitude 166E this morning on the Sydney to Wellington flight he
noticed what he considered as eleven ships in group on his radar screen.' RNZAF-radars at Wellington and Ohakea had nothing at height within 15-200mls. Except 'angels' S of Wellington speed 100kts. Copy passed to US Air Attach'. Search of the area by aircraft on 14 January revealed nothing, except an unusually large number of high density cloud radar contacts. Up to 10 at a time were obtained at ranges up to 70Nmls. (Pages 121-122 on digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 4. Telex originally classified 'confidential.' [Meteor shower]) |
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(14)
4 August 1965 Orange NSW 1015hrs 10mins 1M Musgrove DO |
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What appeared to be a 'helicopter' approached from the SW. No wheels or rotor blades were noticed. It was silver in colour and had an 'aerial' sticking out the top. It moved slowly, coming within one mile of the town at an estimated 3000 feet altitude, before departing to the SE. (Page 56 on digital copy
of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 4. Original ref: 5/2/1/Air (74). [Met balloons]) |
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(15)
19 January 1966 Tully Qld 0900hrs 4 secs 1M Pedley CE2 |
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Travelling
in a tractor when noted hissing noise. Saw object 25 yards away 30 feet above
ground, rising vertically. Light grey, dull not reflecting. Object 25 feet
long and 8-9 feet deep. Rose to 60 foot. Departed SW climbing at 45 degrees.
Appeared to be rotating at all times. Receded into distance. Clearly defined
circular area in swamp grass 32 foot long by 25 feet wide. Reeds lying in
clockwise curves. (Pages 164-169 & 175 of digital copy of RAAF file
580/1/1 part 5. Original ref: 5/2/1/Air (6) Penrith.) |
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(16)
10 May 1966 Melbourne Vic 0030Z 40mins Radar |
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ATC
reported trace on radar at range 140-150 miles bearing 261 degree True. Trace
disappeared and reappeared at intervals in the same place. No known civilian
aircraft in the area. Probably aircraft crop dusting. (Page 76 of digital
copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 5. Original ref: 5/6/Air (130) Victoria
barracks.) |
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(17)
14 August 1966 Kunnunurra WA 2345hrs 270mins 1M Joanston NL |
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Bright light came from the SW and slowed down and became stationary. 6-8 red lights in a row. 4 lights approached until they were within 400 yards. Hovered 20 feet above ground. White light illuminated the area. 'Flying saucer' there. 'Machine tilted' as it rose. Silver colour and oval. 10 feet high 180 feet long-80-100 feet wide. Moved around and appeared to land. (Pages 133-139
of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 6. Original ref: 5/15/1/Air (54)
Op.Cmd.) |
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(18)
4 September 1966 Yarram Vic (2200-2230hrs) 1M +1F Tratford + others NL |
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In a car, saw 'extended light flat on the ground.' Stationary to their ENE. Then it rose vertically to 100 feet darkening as it did so-then it completely disappeared. (Pages 108-113 & 117 of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1
part 6. Original ref: 5/6/Air (169). [Astronomical]) |
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(19)
10 October 1966 Laverton Vic 2022hrs 83mins 2M NL |
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Two
Air Traffic Controllers saw light moving from 280 degrees magnetic to 320
degrees magnetic. It manoeuvred then remained stationary. Radar check was
negative. (Pages 60-68 of
digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 6. Original ref: 5/6/Air (3) VB.
[Satellite]) |
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(20)
28 October 1966 King Sound WA 1636S 12315E 1155Z 20mins NL |
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MV
Kabbarli. Conical shaped glow half degree across at 242 degrees azimuth, 18
degrees elevation. Travelling fast to NE. Lost when overhead in light of
Moon. (Page 68 of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 6. Original telex
from Darwin. ) |
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(21)
26 November 1966 Daly Waters NT 0013Z 2mins 1M Munstermann DO |
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While
tracking a balloon through a theodolite, saw an object at 280 degrees az and
59.2 degrees el. Metallic grey in colour and oblong in shape. Lost in
mid-air. No aircraft in the area. (Pages 324-327 of digital copy of file
580/1/1 part 7.) |
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(22)
14 January 1967 Armidale NSW 1210hrs 3mins 1M Hodes DO |
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Phone call received by Police Sgt Hodes. Resident reported possible aircraft in distress-noise heard. Hodes sighted a noiseless white object-'square like large box kite.' E to W. Revolved rapidly. (Pages 318-320 of digital copy
of file 580/1/1 part 7.) |
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(23)
21 January 1967 Kurri Kurri NSW (1015-130hrs) 1min 2F Robinson & McCarthy
DO |
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In a car. Object seen and strange noise heard. Object passed in front of car and climbed rapidly away. Very loud hum intermingled with 'undecipherable voices.' The car did not have a radio fitted. (Pages 303-305 of digital
copy of file 580/1/1 part 7. [Nearby debris airborne by Willy Willy]) |
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(24)
5 July 1967 Murray Bridge SA 1M Langsford CE2 |
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Five
miles NNE of Murray Bridge on the Murray bridge to Karoonda Road. It was a
clear night with thick ground fog. Witness was driving a motor vehicle when
he experienced interference on the car radio, which became a high pitched
whine. He turned the radio off. Within 100-150 yards the motor of the vehicle
stopped by itself. The ignition was on but the warning lights on the dash
came on. The ignition key was still in the on position. Looking up he saw a distinct break in
the fog with stars visible. A 'large dark shadow' was seen at a height of 20 feet. The shadow seemed 120 feet thick., Above this shadow was a greyish-blue glow. The top of the shadow appeared convex. He stoped the vehicle and got out to look but the shadow and light had gone. There was no sound. The object had vanished. The two banks of fog came together. The witness returned to the vehicle and tried the ignition and the motor worked. He switched on the radio and there was no interference. (Pages 178-184 of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 8. Reported
through DCA.) |
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(25) 22 April
1968 RAAF Williamstown NSW 2030hrs (5-10mins) 1 wit Furlonger NL |
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Call
from Fl Lt Churches. Furlonger was on Approach Control radar at the time. Attempted to pick up on radar
but found no target. Yellow light in the sky travelled S to N. Did not watch
continuously. (Pages 190-191 of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 Part 9) |
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(26) 9 September 1968 RAAF Laverton 1628hrs 1min 1m Gref DO |
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RAAF
pilot in a Sabre aircraft saw an object below and to his left. Thought it was
a Mirage aircraft, which travelled rapidly and was lost into cloud. Seemed to
be just above cloud tops which were at 5000 feet. Pilot checked Melbourne
radar and Avalon airfield-there were no aircraft in the area. (Pages 20-23
of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 Part 9. [Refraction of light in canopy]) |
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(27) 22 August
1968 Zanthus WA 1740hrs 10mins 2M Smith & Gardin |
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Aircraft
VHRTO was flying a charter run between Adelaide and Perth. Was at 8000 feet,
190-195 knots, tracking 270 degrees magnetic. Gardin saw a UFO and woke
Smith. Ahead of the aircraft at the same level and 50 degrees to the right of
Smith's seat, Smith said 'I saw, a formation of aircraft. In the middle was a large aircraft, and formatted to the right and left and above, were 4 or 5 smaller aircraft. 'Kalgoorlie DCA advised them there was no traffic in the area. Then radio communications were lost. 'Main ship split into two sections still maintaining the same level, and the smaller aircraft then flew out left and right'At this time there appeared to be about 6 smaller aircraft taking turns of going out and coming back and formatting in the two halves'Sometimes the two halves joined and split, and the whole cycle continued for 10 minutes'smaller craft had a constant cigar shape'At 0950 GMT the whole formation joined together as if at a single command. Then departed at a tremendous speed'departed in about 3 or 4 seconds, diminishing in size till out of sight.' Weather was fine, no haze above 5000 feet, 2/8 alto
stratus to the south. Immediately
after the departure of the objects radio communications resumed. (Pages 218-223 of digital copy of
RAAF file 580/1/1 part 10. [Not in RAAF summary]) |
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(28) 18 October
1968 Darwin NT 1417Z 7mins RAF aircrew |
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A RAF Hercules aircraft no 9651 took off from Darwin. When at 1500 feet, heading 290 degrees, the crew made a visual observation of a light which they took to be another aircraft. This aircraft showed white lights 'Presumed to be those from fuselage windows.' But did not have any navigation or anti-collision beacons. |
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This
aircraft crossed the path of the Hercules from right to left in front of the
Hercules. The crew estimated its height to be 2500 feet. The radar on the
Hercules indicated a target at 15 miles range, estimated speed 200 knots,
travelling on a heading of 230-250 degrees magnetic. Its estimated size was
at least that of the Hercules. No unauthorised aircraft were in the area. |
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A
check revealed that ground radar was not operating at the time. No additional
information was gained from DCA, Met, Navy, Customs or ASIO. No unscheduled
aircraft landed at Broome, Derby, Port Headland or Wyndham. |
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In a memo dated 1 Nov 68 Penrith to Dept of Air ref 5/2/7/Air (86) & 5/15/1/Air (26). 'The fact that the sighting was made by experienced RAF aircrew and detected by the aircraft's radar leaves very little doubt that an aircraft was in the area. As the aircraft has not been identified, the possibility of the violation of our national airspace cannot be discounted.' (Pages 197-203, 205 of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 10.
[Unidentified aircraft] |
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(29)
13 November 1968 Darwin NT 120hrs 53mins 1mM Byrne Radar |
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A met. Officer at Darwin Airport detected an object on radar. 'A fairly strong paint on PPI.' 'Appeared as a definite echo, observer first thought it to be a helicopter because of slow speed.' Height 7000-7500 feet. Speed 17-25 knots. 'Object appeared to come directly towards observer then reverse to SW.' 'Lost in permanent echoes.' Two other people attempted a visual observation through binoculars. No sighting was made. Report includes weather details and radar tracking data. (Pages 176-182 of digital copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part
10. [Flock of birds]) |
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(30)
17 Feb 69 Flinders Park Adelaide SA 0250hrs 25mins 1F Ballestrin CE3 |
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Noise
attracted witness. Silver grey inverted saucer on ground. Surrounded by pure
white light. Saw humanoid figure walking around object. Heard beeps similar
to Morse code for about 10mins. (Pages 67-71 of
copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 11. ) |
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(31) 23
May 69 Kalamunda WA 1F Cosgrove + ATC
RV |
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At 1101,1108,1115,1118,1136 & 1142z, ATC radar-strong stationary paint 300 deg 9NM from Kalamunda. Seen at same time as object like a 'big street slight' reported over Cloverdale by a Mrs Cosgrove. Radar returns were strong-stationary. Met. Radar at Perth also had unusual returns but times/dates did not tally with above. Return from this latter radar could have been due to inversion over OTC antennas on ground. |
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Mrs Cosgrove
1835hrs (1035z) of Cloverdale WA. Blue/white light, with red light on top
from SE 12 deg el. Very fast but slow at other times. Stopped overhead for
15mins then left at speed to N. (Pages 238-241 of copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 11.) |
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(32)
5 Jul 69 Roleystone WA |
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(a)
1640hrs 40mins 2wits Spackman DO/Photo |
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Silver metallic object several times larger than Moon 20-25 deg el. Object turned and banked frequently. Disappeared into cloud in W. (see 45-47). Polaroid 180 camera used to take photo. RAAF-'May have been a hoax'two enlarged prints are included'' (Pages 95-99 of copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 12.) |
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(b)
1700hrs Fleeting 1F Martin DO |
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A
33 year old secretary was travelling by car and nearly ran over a man who ran
out of scrub, gazing upward. Witness looked forward and up to see a silver,
metallic mushroom (elliptical) shape in the sky. It was contoured underneath
with a short cubic stem. It seemed to glide/cruise along. No noise. Seemed to
slowly gyrate. Lost behind her high over a road rise. |
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(Pages
45-47 of copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 12.) |
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(33)
29 Apr 71 Richmond NSW 1850hrs 150mins 1M Price RV |
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ATC. Flashing red, green and white 1.5sec duration 035 deg az 8miles at nearest approach 5000-6000 feet. Slow drift from 035 deg az to 025 deg az. Last seen 7 deg el 025 deg az. Was three times the size of Venus. Radar contact at 1910hrs 'Contact painted similar to small fabric aircraft on both azimuth and elevation scopes. Contact terminated at 1935hrs.' Clear sky. Sydney radar had a faint trace. RAAF 'This Headquarters has no explanation of what the sighting may have been.' (Pages 141-146 of copy of RAAF file 580/1/1 part
14.) |
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(34)
2 Jun 70 Zanci Station NSW 60nm SE of Mildura(1930-200hrs) (15-20mins) 1M
Vigar CE1 |
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Twenty year out spotlighting saw two small red lights and gave chase. Got closer and saw a bright diamond shaped object. Bright all over and larger than a semi-trailer standing on end. There was an audible whistling sound. He got to within 60 yards. The object rose up and at 100 feet faded out but the sound continued for a while. Mr Vigar revisited the spot the next day but there were no visible tracks. RAAF conclusion-'If this is not a hoax and the object seen has been described correctly, then despite all efforts no explanation can be offered.' (pp64-69 & 70 of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 13.
[Unexplained].) |
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(35) 29 Jun 70 Sepik River PNG 1720hrs
1M Keog Radar |
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Pilot
of F27 aircraft VH-FNK reported radar observation. On descent from 12,500
feet noted echoes on radar 60 deg green to abeam his plane. Radar scale set
at 180nm and echoes appeared to be 60nm from plane and keeping station with
him. There were five cigar shaped objects. With the radar scanner on maximum
depression or elevation the echoes disappeared. DCA advised there were no
aircraft in the area. File ref 69/4393. (p53 of RAAF file 580/1/1 part 13.
[Electro-meteorological phenomena]) |
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(36)
18 Jun 71 Burketown Qld 1838hrs 17mins Multi wits DO |
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An
object resembling an illuminated cigar shaped object (pointed at both ends)
was seen to the NE. It was orange to red colour and lastly a clear light
colour. Seemed eight feet long. Sighted W of Burketown on the southern side
of the setting Sun. Clear sky. Travelled N to S slowly. Stationary a moment
then lost altitude before went to the E towards Burketown for a few minutes
then again changed direction to the SW. (pp165-172 of RAAF 580/1/1 part
16.) |
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(37)
28 Nov 71 Woomera SA 1315hrs 15secs 1M Murphy DO |
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Murphy was tracking a pre-launch meteorological balloon through an optical theodolite. Balloon was situated almost due East of range E (' Difficult to read document) at 6900m and bearing 088.4 True and 37.7 deg el. The balloon and its attached target were backgrounded by thin lines of cloud. As the balloon moved slowly to the left side of the lens Murphy noted an object moving away from the balloon to the right of the lens. He initially thought that the target had separated from the balloon. He then tracked this object for 15 seconds. It was moving at a constant speed in a shallow upward curve. It was shaped like a cross. He concluded it was an aircraft. Light bluish grey in colour. Outline was reasonably well defined. Small image size. Image was twice the size of the balloon target and similar in size to the balloon (which was 10-15 feet diameter). Its 'fuselage' and 'wings' appeared to be of uniform thickness and length. No evidence of engines or tail. DCA reported there was a BOAC 707 at 37000 feet at 150-200 miles SE of Leigh Creek at the time. |
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. 'Two most likely explanations of this incident are: |
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(a)
A mistaken
identification of the object seen by Murphy through his theodolite |
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(b)
A flight across the prohibited area by an aircraft for which a flight plan had not been submitted to DCA.' (pp144-150 of RAAF 580/1/1 part 16.) |
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(38)
20 Dec 71 Woomera SA 0650hrs 1M Sketcher DO |
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Met
observer saw aircraft with the naked eye as a tiny silver dot ahead of a
vapour trail. Heading NE. No known aircraft in the area. (pp119-124 &
128-129 of RAAF 580/1/1 part 16.) |
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(39)
3 & 25 Jul 72 Mooraduc Level Crossing Vic 2100hrs (15-20mins) 1F Puddy
CE1 |
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Weather
clear. Object above car. 20 foot forward. 45 deg angle. Iridescent blue
light. Bright. At nearest 100 feet up. Wider than the road. Sound similar to
elevator. Hovering. Followed car. Last seen Junction of Mooraduc and Nepean
Highways. Object 20 foot high. |
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Notes on p 31. 'No military helicopters operating. Checked with DCA and local helicopter operators. Only
traceable IFR helicopter based at Sale. When Mrs Puddy made initial
sighting report by phone she expressed a wish not to be interviewed. (pp26-31
of RAAF file 580/1/1 Part 17.) |
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'The information supplied by Mrs Puddy on the attached pro forma differs markedly from that reported by the Duty Officer on the evening of Monday 20th July. On that occasion Mrs Puddy reported as follows. She said that the object like two saucers together, silver blue in colour appeared above the road emitting blue light. The object 'took control of the car' so that Mrs Puddy pulled over to the roadside but could not open the doors, nor could she restart the engine. She reported that she 'sensed' but did not hear the following message. 'All your tests will be negative. Tell the media not to panic. We mean no harm. You now have control.' The UFO then vanished and a very scared Mrs Puddy started the car and headed home via the Rye Police station. (It subsequently transpired that she had reported the incident to the Rosebud Police station.) Senior Constable Cox of Rosebud told me that Mrs Puddy was known to him, and appeared to be a rational woman not given to flights of fancy. He was somewhat amazed when Mrs Puddy asked him the meaning of the word 'media'. She said she had never heard it before. Senior Constable Cox also advised that a Mr and Mrs Beale of Main Ridge ''(p103 of RAAF file 580/1/1 Part 18.) |
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25
Jul 72 Main Ridge Vic Approx 2200hrs 2mins 2 wits Mr & Mrs Beale NO |
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An
object appeared suddenly to the W of their property. Over tree tops Object
surrounded by light. Pinkish glow. Sort of a hum sound. Heading E. (pp96-98
of RAAF file 580/1/1 Part 18.) |
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25
Jul 72 Montrose Vic App2000hrs 50secs 3wits Toal NL |
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A
blue/white glow was seen at 5 deg el SSW. Soundless. [Unknown] (p99 of
RAAF file 580/1/1Part 18.) |
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(40)
4 Feb 1973 Near Kimba SA 2150hrs (secs) 2wits 1M Hunt 1F Finkler CE3 |
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Hunt
was driving a car 34 miles out of Kimba with passenger Finkler. He noted a
strange light on the western side of the highway just off the road. The red
and orange rectangle of light appeared 10 feet high by 5 feet wide and 2-3
foot off the ground. Inside this light was the figure of a person some 6 foot
tall in a white space suit with a mask over the head and face. Passenger Finkler who was dozing at the time woke to see the light but not the figure of the person. Hunt reported the incident to Kimba police who returned to the site with him. Police regarded Hunt as reliable and could not explain the event. Later, the Police advised the RAAF that two other independent witnesses had reported seeing the orange light in the same location within a 15 period. The RAAF advised the Kimba police that 'A possible theoretical cause is a sighting of a phenomenon known as IGNIS FATUUS-methane gas'.' (Pp 166-175 of RAAF file
580/1/1 part 21.) |
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(41) 13 Jun 1985
Lake Clifton WA 0500hrs 1M CE2 |
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WA
Police 19 Jun 85 to Pearce including two page statement from Lake Clifton
case witness. Abstract is as follows: |
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Report from 43 year old self employed farmer with property at Manjimup WA. Started off driving at 0430hrs 13 Jun 85. Driving in car. Between 0500 and 0515hrs near Lake Clifton saw a bright orange light in the middle of the road travelling south like the witness. It appeared 300-400 yards away. Speed same as him 100-110km/hr. He travelled around a bend and the light disappeared. 6-7kms later it reappeared. 'My back became extremely hot and my stomach became chewed up.' Shadow came over the car-smell-smouldering. Shadow accompanied by light like Moon-light. He continued on at the same speed. Light stayed behind him. It faded every now and then. The light above his head was gone by then. Other traffic was passing in the opposite direction. No traffic behind
him travelling his way. He came to another bend and the light disappeared.
6-7kms later it re-appeared behind him and above him. Back became hot and
stomach upset again. Smouldering smell. Light then disappeared at a bend.
Re-appeared without warning near Binninup on a straight part of the
road. This time there were two lights. Then for a few minutes he slowed down expecting two lights to pass him but they disappeared. He then travelled on to Bunbury. 'My car was not affected in any way.' Note on file that there was a note in the Police log Bunbury that a person called at
0550hrs 13 Jun 85 to report being followed by a UFO. (Folio 34 of RAAF file 5/3/1/AIR Part 11. 'Reporting on Unusual Aerial Sightings.') |
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(42) 9 Jun 1987
Learmouth WA 1900hrs 10mins 2M NL |
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UAS
report |
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Report
form 1 -2SASSQN SASR Age 36 Witness A |
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At
RAAF airstrip Learmouth. North/south runway. 9 Jun 1987. 1900-1910hrs. Wispy
thin cloud at 10,000 feet. Nil ground wind. Visibility good. First observed
East at 1600mils 45 deg el. Last seen NE at 800mils 45 deg el. Initially
object at 5000 feet then moved up into cloud at 10,000 feet. Used naked eye
and binoculars. One white light changing/pulsating to amber. About 5m in
diameter. Round. Like a bright star. Zig zag movement from E to W. Nil sound.
Approx speed 200km plus slowed to 80knm. Disappeared with great speed. |
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Approached
from E towards the strip. Strip lights were on. It zigzagged to left and
right of its axis at 5000 feet. Arrived over the strip (northern end) and
went into hover and remained stationary for 6-7 minutes. Light changed colour
from white to amber, then it moved upwards into light cloud. Moved NE slowly,
then at great speed. |
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Part 3 of the pro forma is investigating officer's evaluation. |
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14 Jul 87 at SASR RHQ. Witness has stable personality and is reliable. 'Cause is unknown.' 'It would not appear to have been an aircraft.' |
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Witness
A was setting up a DZ for a night free-fall descent. At 1855K was at the W
side of the strip opposite civilian terminal. At 1900K the light came from
the East. The C130 aircraft involved in the exercise was still on the ground.
It became airborne at 1915hrs. Once aircraft airborne tried to establish VHF
comms. Two VHF radios used-could not communicate. Fresh batteries in radios.
When activity finished witness spoke to pilot of C130. Aircraft had tried to
communicate with no success. This was the first time 3-9 June 1987 that comms
ground to air failed. |
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Report
form 2 Witness B age 26 |
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Same details as witness
A. Witness B is a medic. No connection with any UFO organisation. Stable and
well balanced. (Folio 7 on RAAF file 5/6/1/Air part 15. 'UFO-reports') |
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(43) 25 Jul
1987 Near Jamestown SA 1815hrs
90mins 1M CE2 |
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Aged
51. Farmer near Jamestown. 25 Jul 87. 1815hrs to 1945hrs. Clear weather at
time. First seen 6o feet from ground to the north. 'Craft sighted whilst it parked on ground.' Craft approx 20 yards wide. |
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Colour- light-iridescent bright red. Craft-bright aluminium appearance. Size-light-cone shape travelling to ground. Craft-12 feet wide 8-9 feet high. Portholes approximately 4 feet above ground. No sound from craft. 'Sound of shuffling type of walk treading on plastic heard outside while I was inside house'' 'Don't know how craft left. The light just went off like they had been switched off. Light appeared to be sued for directional purposes only.' 'Ground was marked by flattened grass and dried ground and slight indentation.' There was a witness to part of the event-son in law aged 28 was there on the appearance of the first light only he then left to go home. Form signed by witness on 4 Aug 87. (pp23-30; 33;41-43;51-52 of RAAF file 6/16/Air
part 1. 'Unusual Aerial Sightings' 92WG
INTEL RAAD Edinburgh.) |
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ANSWER
TO QUESTION THREE: |
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Question three at the start of this article was 'Were there any interesting 'unknowns' found in Government files'' As the above listing of cases between 1956 and 1973 illustrates, there are multiple cases which cried out for further intensive examination. Unfortunately, based on the evidence available on the Government's own files, they did not receive the scientific attention they deserved. |
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References |
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(1) National Archives of Australia: A703,554/1/30 Part 2. Memo 1 Mar 68. CAS to HQOC & HQSC. |
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(2) National Archives of Australia: A703,554/1/30 Part 2. Memo. 6 Dec 68. DAFI to HQSC. |
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(3) National Archives of Australia: A703,554/1/30 Part 3. Memo. 26 May 1981. |
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(4) National Archives of Australia: A703,554/1/30 part 1folio 115 dated 29 Dec 1966 |
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(5) National Archives of Australia: A703,554/1/30 part 1 p 69. |
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(6) National Archives of Australia: A703,554/1/30 part 2 p164. |
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(7) National Archives of Australia: A703,554/1/30 part 3 folio 16. |
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(8) File 5/6/Air Part 3. 9755 -3 ÒUnidentified Aerial SightingsÓ pp11-14. Chief of Air Staff HQ Support Command. File sighted at RAAF base Edinburgh in 2004. |
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(9) File 5/113/Air part 11. 9755-13 ÒUnidentified Aerial Sightings.Ó Folio 28, HQ no 82 Wing RAAF base Amberley Qld). File sighted at RAAF base Edinburgh in 2004. |
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(11) Letter from Keith Basterfield to the Minister of Defence. |
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(12) Letter from the Minister of Defence to Keith Basterfield. |
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(13) National Archives of Australia A703, 554/1/30 part 1 p108. |
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(14) National Archives of Australia, M1148, Flying Saucers 1954 to 1955, pp36-37. |
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(15) Clarke, D. & Roberts, A. (2002.) Out of the Shadows: UFOs, The Establishment and The Official Cover Up.Piatkus. London. |
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(16) ÒUnidentified Aerial Phenomena in the UK Air Defence Region. Scientific & Technical Memorandum No 55/2/00. December 2000. |