August 1979
The August 1979 issue of the Australian UFO Bulletin. 22 pages. Ground Saucer Watch (GSW) computerised analysis of Roy Manifold's Cape Otway photographs - confirmed as 'bona fide unknown object' with disc structure, approximately 20 feet breadth, metallic.
In This Issue
Editorial + GSW Analysis of Manifold Photos
Pages 1-2, 6-7
The centrepiece of the issue. Ground Saucer Watch (California) computerised analysis of Roy Manifold’s six Cape Otway sunset photographs from 21 October 1978.
Kaikoura Film Authenticated (Follow-up)
Pages 3
Quentin Fogarty: “It restores my credibility.” NICAP studied the film for 2.5 months, interviewed all witnesses. “In 22 years the body has investigated more than 20,000 reported sightings and it is the first time that they are prepared to endorse something as a genuine UFO sighting.” 20 scientists/experts in physics, optics, and electronics concurred.
Victorian Sighting Reports
Sunbury (7 June 1979, 3.30 a.m.): Suzanne Mills and two others. “Huge orange/red glow” that decreased to a pinprick of white light, then “dropped and disappeared like a falling star,” then increased and returned.
Comparisons of Studies in the Use of Hypnosis in UFO Encounter Claims (Dr. Charles Osborne)
Pages 10-20+ (the bulk of the issue)
An extensive academic paper comparing hypnotic regression methods across UFO cases. Examines Lawson’s cases, discusses problems with verifying encounters under hypnosis, classification changes before and after regression, and the question of whether experiences are genuine or psychological.
Other Items
“Aliens Sent Message by Virus” (The Star, 29/5/1979): Two Tokyo scientists theorise that a common virus infecting human intestinal bacteria may contain a coded message from an alien civilisation. “Such a message might be the swan song of an advanced technology.”
Notable Quotes
“The images represent a bona fide unknown object, of moderate dimensions, apparently surrounded by a cloud-like vapor/exhaust residue.” GSW conclusion
“I believe this could be the kidnap UFO.” Guido Valentich
“It restores my credibility.” Quentin Fogarty (on Kaikoura authentication)
“In 22 years… it is the first time that they are prepared to endorse something as a genuine UFO sighting.” NICAP (via Fogarty)
“At last for the first time we have positive proof that something unusual is going on… we have visitors from some place!” Dr. Maccabee (from editorial)
