Ship's Log Entries 2007

What a fine year we had in 2007; or so it would seem from the myriad contributions to the Log, below, which indicate that at least three or four members are awake. Your web-brat's occasional illustrations qualifying certain postings were all taken in good part, so it also seems that most members understand that they post at their peril; and yet, still, the comments come :)

Jan 01, 2007 - 23:58 - Very lonely without you "Most Ancient One" the 2007 column has not even been started yet!!!!Come home all is forgiven.A Very Happy New Year to you and the long suffering one.
E-mail:
Name: Bob Steer
From:
http://

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Jan 02, 2007 - 02:57 - Happy New year to all I will be in the UK april/May, crikey all that time drinking warm beer. Never fret Bob I'm not too far away.
E-mail: crowmountain@telstra.com
Name: Tony Ravenhill
From: aus
http://

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Jan 03, 2007 - 01:39 - Sorry this is late but HAPPY NEW YEAR to all our members and readers.
E-mail: SShie70652@aol.com
Name: Stu Shields
From: High Wycombe
http:// www.swiremariners.com

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Jan 03, 2007 - 05:13 - I thought everyone had jumped ship! I am home again but will definitely be leaving by May if we are to have more refugees arriving! My brother has a theory about the result at MCG,he thinks the weather was so cold the Poms cut the match short, I'm sure he will think of something equually believable for Sydney! Have you all received your copies of the Swire Marine news? I'm a bit concerned about the navigation abilities these days, I see that on page 24 the PNG Maritime College has "one of only two fully functioning shore=based engine rooms in the Southern Hemisphere (the other is in India)". Is this Ravenhill navigation? Happy New Year to all
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Jan 03, 2007 - 18:01 - A happy and prosperous to one and all, where so ever you are , but particularly for my 'public'. Just to tell you that my latest novel ' Sell the Pig and buy me out ' is available- at last - at www.Lulu.com and will soon be on sale at the various Amazons, Barnes and Noble and Foyles etc.( Or it can be downloaded very cheaply direct.) ttfn ben aldiss
E-mail: jamesaldiss @ iprimus.com.au
Name: ben aka james etc
From: Ma's
http://

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Jan 05, 2007 - 23:49 - In the early 1960's who was the hard working officer who managed to get 6 personal calls prior to boarding a flight at Kai Tak? On 20Sept 1964 I had to fly to Manilla to join the"Taiyuan" and about half a dozen stalwarts accompanied me to Kai Tak with every intention of helping me break the record.After checking in we retired to have some liquid refreshment-- it was a hot day. The first personal call for me raised a large cheer plus more refreshment, the second call a louder cheer,then the third, fourth and fifth calls raised even louder cheers At the fifth call I had only 2 minutes left so made a hurried exit and just made the flight, unfortunately I didn't break the record. Who was it that was there, and who finished the drink I left at the bar, if I remember correctly I shouted that round !!!!!!!
E-mail: hosatiob@optusnet.com au
Name: Alistair Thomson
From: Queensland, Australia
http://

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Jan 12, 2007 - 11:50 - Who claims the record?
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Jan 12, 2007 - 16:29 - Yes I wondered too! Forty three years is rather a long time to have to wait for some one to shout their roun:death adder in the wallet.
E-mail:
Name: ben aka james aldiss
From: Queensland
http://

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Jan 12, 2007 - 16:49 - Well, I reckon that anyone who can remember how many calls there were can't have been drinking enough in the first place. I've been poured out of Kai Tak a few times, and have poured others out, but we were lucky if we could remember which airline to board, never mind how many calls there were.
E-mail: MABeaumont@aol.com
Name: Mark "Just One More, Then" Beaumont
From: The Airport Bar
http:// www.alcoholicsunanimous.ok

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Jan 13, 2007 - 16:28 - Certainly not I,just in case though have just checked my discharge book and at that time was "swanning "around the South Pacific loading nickel in an outport of New Cal!!!Wat fun.
E-mail:
Name: Bob Steer
From:
http://

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Jan 13, 2007 - 23:51 - M.V."Taiyuan" 1964 leaving Sydney on the voyage northbound, Cyril Osbourne is C/E. No 1 fireman placed his head against the engine and listened intently. Cyril noticed this and followed suit but could hear nothing wrong and asked No 1 what he could he hear---- No 1 replied "engine says Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong" Laughter all round !
E-mail: hosatiob@optusnet.com.au
Name: Alistair Thomson
From:
http://

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Jan 14, 2007 - 18:12 - Last and final call for Mr. and Mrs. Ravenhill passengers on BA flight123 for London. The plane was waiting for us on the tarmac at Kai Tak and a mini bus took us out to the plane. On boarding the Stewardess asked if we had been held up by traffic, I replied "No been on the P*ss in the bar". No service at all on the flight to London.
E-mail: crowmountain@telstra.com
Name: Tony Ravenhill
From: Sunny Queensland XXXX country
http:// yes but can't remember it

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Jan 14, 2007 - 18:17 - Cyril's still trying to get his ear cleaned, never went near an engine ever again after that episode. I hope i'm still his friend
E-mail: crowmountain@telstra.com
Name: Tony Ravenhill
From:
http://

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Jan 14, 2007 - 20:22 - I know it wasn't you Bob -- you still owe me one from Port Moresby. It wasn't you MAJB you were still trying to get in the pub when no one was watching, anyway how did you you ever find your way out of Kai Tak--with a seeing eye dog? Ben aka you are too generous. it must have been taipans in their pockets, death adders would never have had the courage to enter the pockets, even church mice avoided them, !!!!!!!
E-mail: hosatiob@optusnet.com.au
Name: Alistair Thomson
From: Qld
http://

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Jan 14, 2007 - 22:31 - Good day all, Does any one have a copy of the old CNCo printed, not ship made, "Crossing the Line Certificate". If you have could you please contact peter.barton@cnco.com.hk. Thanks & regards Peter Barton
E-mail: peter.barton@cnco.com.hk
Name: Peter Barton
From: HK
http://

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Jan 15, 2007 - 00:01 - "Taiyuan" again 1964. Ted Jeggo reminded me of this one, this is how he told me. Ted was 4/E and I was 2/E "The Affair of the Flying Bun" It was Christmas Day in the Formosa Straits and the swell was running fairly high with the "Taiyuan" making hard work of it. I[Ted} finished my watch at 12 and arrived at the juniors table which was as far back on the port side of the saloon as could be---your table[2/E]was immediately ahead and you sat with your back to me. We were wearing No 10's and as I sat down the new stewardess,who was fairly well pissed, threw a glass of red wine over me - I was restrained from bottling her and then departed to find my steward to get my second set of No 10's ironed. Half an hour later I returned to my seat and sat down to what by then was a very cold consomme.By this time of course the meal was nearly over and you were eating your fruit salad with ice cream and must have, like the rest of the saloon been "fairly well on" and you called my name - I turned round and you threw a handfull of cherries and icecream at me - again a ruined white jacket - that's when when I soaked the bun in the soup and called you- you turned round - I threw and missed - and got Parker[skipper] instead.
E-mail: hosatiob@optusnet.com.au
Name: Survivor of the Flying Bun Attack
From: XXXX land - where else
http://

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Jan 15, 2007 - 09:34 - Tut-tut! Never had such goings-on aboard "Taiyuan" in the fifties when Ben and I were there!!!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Jan 15, 2007 - 17:26 - Taiyaun Christmases couldand generally did under some commanders have all the charm of those of the famous workhouse, but Maurice I recall how you 'livened 'things up by ordering dinners for 65 , non existent, 'guests' when the ship was in Taikoo Dock for Christmas dinner 1955: all those unconsumed helpings of pud' on the side boards and the fury of the 'workhouse master'.
E-mail: jamesaldiss@iprimus.com.au
Name: Ben aka James Aldiss
From: Q'land
http://

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Jan 16, 2007 - 06:13 - What a lovely ship she was. A new suit every call at Hong Kong, all those lovely nurses from Prince Henry hospital in Sydney, (nothing like drinking whisky from a teapot in the nurses home late at night while the late Mickey Seale did the rounds in Staff Nurses uniform). I think we had better stop there Ben, they will have to buy our books if the others wish to hear more! Cheers.
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Jan 16, 2007 - 16:49 - All this Taiyuan nostalgia has accidentally coincided with the arrival of my latest new book on the market" The last voyage of the Lunar Queen." A completely fictionary romp filled with of passenger ship antics: bun battles and all. (The book , as with my others is available at Amazon ; Lulu.com.Corners, Foyles ; Barnes and Noble.)Reviewed as a good read. On which note Ill retire to my corner, thanks for churning the memories.
E-mail:
Name: Ben Aldiss aka james
From: Ma's
http://

Great galloping gonads! Only thirteen days between books? Does this mean we can expect another one before the end of the month? Impressive stuff, Ben. Even Wilbur Smith can't write that fast, surely.

For a small percentage - shall we agree on 40%? - we could eagerly promote your books through this site, if you like. If only Stu could read, we'd review them as well - MAJB

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Jan 17, 2007 - 18:05 - Very true... I struggle just to write a shopping list.
E-mail: SShie70652@aol.com
Name: Stu
From: High Wycombe
http:// www.swiremariners.com

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Jan 17, 2007 - 18:16 - Hi MAJB. Great galloping Gonads . What a magnificent title orignally from Elvis I think as in ' Great Balls of fire!' Yes the "Lunar Queen ' did appear some what early. Its been in the pipeline , as the Bishop may have said, for some time but with my agent in Sweden ; an editor in Spain, the publishers the Black Pan Press in Leeds , and yours truly here in the Australian bush: SNAFU's happen. Im not in the same speed league as Wilbur Smith but a new title is expected to be on offer in June dealing with the Australian adventures of a mariner called Scrotie Bellows. Of course I'd be delighted to accept your publicity offer but at a much lower rate. Ill even send you a copy to be reviewed- once you've got Stu up to speed- but I need an address. Incidentally loved all the Taiyaun nostalgia illustrations and all : on with the good work Ben
E-mail: jamesaldiss@iprimus.com.au
Name: ben aka james aldiss
From: Ma's
http://

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Jan 18, 2007 - 02:41 - Can anyone recall how to tell the difference between "Taiyuan" and "Changsha" if the name was not visible?
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Jan 18, 2007 - 19:08 - "Taiyuan" Sydney 1962 The rummage squad [Aussi customs] regularly searched the vessel while in port. Once a customs officer, while under the engine room floor plates on the tank top, noticed a parcel hanging from the bottom of a ventilator ducting. Being a keen type of bloke, he made his way to the vent, getting dirty and oily in the process, finally reaching the parcel. Just as he was about to grab the parcel it disappeared slowly up the ventilator. The customs bloke then crawled back, getting dirtier still, to where he had gone under the plates and climbed out to see what was going on. On looking up all he could see was a lot of the firemen grinning and laughing at him.
E-mail: hosatiob@optusnet.com.au
Name: Alistair Thomson
From: XXXX land
http://

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Jan 19, 2007 - 01:23 - "Changsha" was built by Scotts of Greenock, with a Scott Doxford main engine. "Taiyuan" was built by Taikoo dockyard to the same drawings as "Changsha", with a Taikoo Doxford main engine.The main engine small front crankcase doors would identify the engine builder.Any differences in the external appearance of the ships would be of a very minor nature. Similarly what were the differences in the "K" ships and in the "C" ships. Don't think this helps you.
E-mail: hsatiob@optusnet.com .au
Name: none the wiser.
From: XXXX land
http://

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Jan 19, 2007 - 11:51 - I think both Changsha and Taiyuan were built by Scotts, I think the first CNCo ship built post-war by Taikoo was Anshun.
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uka
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Jan 19, 2007 - 16:58 - Changsha/Taiyuan. Having served on both as Master after being mate on Changsha , and second mate on the Taiyuan( 55-57) I can't resist this one. Yes Maurice both were built at Scotts. Changsha long before both her strandings ( 1955 Yokohama/ Yoccaichi 1959) had the reputation for being a rust bucket having been built - it was said - in very wet weather. Yes to Alistair, the external differences were minimal , something to do with No 3 hatch. I once saw them together, somewhere in Japan looking super smart, when I was second mate in Bank line. ( Everything tended to look smart from the deck of an ancient Bank Boat) . None of this of course helps but it is nice to trawl up all this irrelevancy . Cheers -
E-mail:
Name: ben aka james
From: Ma's
http://

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Jan 20, 2007 - 08:00 - You are right, I looked it up on the internet. Both ships "Changsha and Taiyuan" were built by Scotts
E-mail: SShie70652@aol.com
Name: Stu
From: High Wycombe
http:// www.swiremariners.com

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Jan 20, 2007 - 12:50 - If you look at pix of both C & T the former has permanent awning over the whole of the bridge wings, T lost part of hers early in life and it was not restored. This is from the file of useless information one accummulates and reads in storm-tossed Britain when it is too wet for golf! After Thursday's 70 knot effort we have a drive-through garden. Am now about to depart for a "Social Evening" at the golf club, fortunately the boss is now well enough to drive so I shall forget about flying fences and enjoy!!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Jan 22, 2007 - 01:13 - The difference between Changsha and Taiyuan, should be obvious to most of your correspondants. The position of the officers bar, one on the main deck and one on the boat deck. One secondary difference was Changsha was by far the better vessel.
E-mail: simaro@bigpond.net.au
Name: E. Roger white
From: Perth West Australia
http://

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Jan 22, 2007 - 05:16 - CHANGSHA (IV) Launched MAY 1949. gt 7,412 nt 4103. OCT '49 broke down on route to HK and towed to GIB..... 1981 June 16th arrived GADANI BEACH to be broken up. Obviously a few nautical miles and a few laughs/beers, possibly some cargo, in the intervening period. Taiyuan (III) gt7472 nt4105 entered service 1949........converted to sheep carrier 1978 ( Mark picture please ), broken up at Kaohsiung by Chin Shew Hwa enterprises otherwise known as Chainsaw Ltd. Happy days.
E-mail: fjt@jssldn.co.uk
Name: Jules
From: Soggy bottom
http://

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Note: this pic, and many others, can be seen without Jules' sheep (he probably shot them all anyway) at 'Alistair's Anchorage'. Go to our Rogues' Gallery for more - MAJB

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Jan 24, 2007 - 19:59 - The Australian reunion will take place on 25 February at the North Ryde Golf Club. Chinese tiffin and if you missed the stories last year this is your chance to hear them this year. Contact Mike O'Keeffe on 02 9874 5455 for bargain rates.
E-mail: mike.okeeffe@yahoo.com.au
Name: Mike O'Keeffe
From: Oz
http://

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Here's one for Calum Anderson should he ever stick his nose in here. Remember this lady, Calum? This is, of course, SS Delphine, built for Horace Dodge in 1921. Calum had the pleasure of commanding her on her one and only transatlantic crossing in the '90s (she probably wouldn't have managed two without new pumps) with Zulu crew, Newport News/Malta.



It is rumoured that Calum remains the world's leading authority on quadruple expansion steam engines. Anyway, Calum, she's doing well; she's currently configured to carry 26 pax in some luxury, working in the Med. Someone finally spent the money. Her history can be reviewed at www.ssdelphine.com if anyone is interested - MAJB

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Jan 29, 2007 - 20:14 - What on earth were the Poms doing in the down under cricket series? I geuss that the CNCo "old farts" could at least manage a draw against them provided they kept us company with the G&T's and XXXX before tiffin and at drinks !!!!!!! By then who cares who won.
E-mail: hosatiob@ optusnet.com .au
Name: wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land-where else?
http://

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Jan 31, 2007 - 22:07 - Sailed on Changchow as passenger from Sydney 27.09.51. Left ship Panama 18.11.51 Rejoined Chungking 31.12.51. Took pix on board and of ship tied up Noumea, Pt.Vila, Tahiti. Pix of Crossing Line, French crew party with Tahitian girls. Still have Crossing certificate. Fond memories of passengers & crew, incl. Radio op. Tony, Capt. Timson. I live in London and am happy to show pix to crew members passing by. Yours Marc.
E-mail: marcusharrisonhotmail.com
Name: Sydney Marcus Harrison (Marc)
From: cloud nine
http:// NA

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Feb 01, 2007 - 06:29 - Lucky you,Marc Harrison. Both Changchow and Chungking that you sailed on were sold to the Admiralty in 1952 and became fleet supply ships Retainer and Resurgent respectively. I have the history panel from Chungking IV giving basic info on her predecessors.
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 02, 2007 - 22:46 - Can't remember who told me this amusing incident which occured on the "Taiyuan" in the early 1960's. One day when curry was on the menu for tiffin, either an engineer or mate, quietly placed a plastic or rubber imitation thumb or finger, from the tip to the first joint,in his curry and stirred it in and carried on eating his curry as normal. Half way through his curry he took a mouthfull containing the "finger" and then removed it from his mouth and placed it on the side of his plate, and continued eating. Eventually curiosity got the better of one of the passengers who asked what it was. The reply was along the following lines."The cook was a little careless today,I'll take it to him and see if we can re-attach it" He then proceeded to wrap it up his napkin and left the table.
E-mail:
Name: Alistair Thomson
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 04, 2007 - 11:33 - A slightly unusual request to anyone in the Melbourne area. My late wife's uncle died last week and the funeral is on Tuesday, 6th Feb., I believe there will be part of the service at the War Memorial,(of which he was a life trustee), so if ther is anything in the press I would be grateful if you would send a copy to me for the family records. His name is Wing Commander R.E.Bailey. I couldn't make the trip out at such short notice. Although an Aussie he joined the RAF and was awarded the DSO,OBE & DFC for WW2 service as a bomber pilot.
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From: 466 Squadron, RAAF. Click below for some history:
http://members.iinet.net.au/~tcosgrove/raaf.html

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Feb 06, 2007 - 04:23 - thoroughly enjoyed browsing through your website and seeing a a photo of my cousin, Alistair Thomson, who has been living in Queensland for "centuries" it seems. We are now in regular contact by email and he gave me your website today. We have family recently moved from Bath to Bristol and I see your next do is to be in that area. I have loved and still do love anything nautical and nearly made it into the RN. However I became a humble civil engineer before translation into becoming (as my Dad used to say) a sky pilot and have recently retired from the church ministry in Chester. Best wishes for your future success Angus Duncan (Liverpool born and bred!)
E-mail: Anguswduncan@aol.com
Name: Angus W. Duncan
From: Waverton, Chester. UK
http://

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Feb 06, 2007 - 18:20 - I know he worked for Swire Pacific for many years so wanted to let anybody that may have know him that William Carson (Billy or Will) passed away today after a very short but brave battle with cancer. Any messages to the family can be sent via my e-mail. Brian Ingleson
E-mail: ingleson@bigpond.com
Name: Brian Ingleson
From: Australia (That's the one that won thre Ashes!!)
http://

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Feb 07, 2007 - 04:33 - News Flash !!! Congratulations, the Poms have just defeated the Kiwis at one game of cricket.Is this the start of the Poms great come back ? Is it possible ? Tune in for the next edition of this exciting story-----don't fall asleep.
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 09, 2007 - 15:50 - Any further comments after Melbourne cricket result?
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 09, 2007 - 17:37 - It's happening - Stay awake, it's the Poms great revival, Aussie's defeated, can they continue ? The tension builds !!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 10, 2007 - 22:30 - Mark, your future is assured, the"BARMY ARMY" must be delighted with your illustration, and looking for more of the same in the next game, perhaps will buy you a beer or two ----- or just give you free membership ?
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 11, 2007 - 02:46 - Stumbled onto this site, proving am aged. For webmaster cannot find how to sign up/pay to be a future member. PayPal yet? Happy to note the connections to members and already called our wedding attendant (Fiji/KL/1965/Staff Master Ben Aldiss). (BTW his name spelt short an s at the site; cat out of bag for spell checker?) BTW the Gordon's gin party are on KL and yes there is fraternising going on of which as Mate I'd have approved - Barry Keeble facing (just retired as a senior Sydney Harbour Pilot- previously Barrier Reef pilot) and lounging at front (as usual) John Milward; respectivily that trip 2nd & 3rd Mates. Gordon's Gin is so much more expensive now! Shameless plug---I own and operate the only actual used Maritime Bookstore on US West Coast- have for 10 years now; 25,000 titles at my website www.seaoceanbooks.com where 10% off already; say on checkout you are ex Swire's and I'll deduct another 10% as a curtesy to vivid memories and close relationships hard to re-create nowadays. Really glad to find this active site! TA!
E-mail: seaoceanbooks@seanet.com
Name: Christopher A. Flavell
From: Seattle WA
http:// www.seaoceanbooks.com

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Feb 11, 2007 - 15:13 - News Flash ! The Poms have done it !! What now the World Cup ? The revival continues, party on.
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 11, 2007 - 16:54 - Beaten by Belgium at tennis,in cricket by the brits,south Africa and New Zealand in the Super 14's,and anybody who lines up against us in rugby are assured of a win,but our Karrie Webb won the Ladies Aus.Golf,so all is not lost. Please respect our privacy in this our darkest hour!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Bob Steer
From: Not XXXX land
http://

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Feb 11, 2007 - 19:08 - Bob, there's only one solution, we'll have to hold a wake, come and join me then we can call it G&T land--- only while your here !!!!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: still XXXX land
http://

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Feb 12, 2007 - 04:38 - Whist feeling for Bob in his hour of despair just think of the Irish, they did a "Pommie" with the French and snatched defeat from the jaws of victory!! The "For sale" sign has been removed from the open-topped 'bus and no doubt Field Marshall Idi Blair will be promoting the cricketers to Knights! Meanwhile the plundering Scot,Brown, is thinking up new ways to tax us and some mad Irishman running BA is now charging outrageously for baggage! I recall that some years ago we always fixed our leave to start on a Thursday, it being the only day of the week that BOAC/BA didn't fly to Londan from HK so we could go on Qantas. QWe didn't like BA then and nothing has changed!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 13, 2007 - 22:15 - Ancient mariner, didn't you know that BOAC stands for "better on a camel"-----QANTAS stands for "queers and nymphomaniacs transported any where safely" --take your pick !!!!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby suppoter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 13, 2007 - 22:16 - Ancient mariner, didn't you know that BOAC stands for "better on a camel"-----QANTAS stands for "queers and nymphomaniacs transported any where safely" --take your pick !!!!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby suppoter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 14, 2007 - 04:15 - Why do you think I chose QANTAS?
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 15, 2007 - 23:05 - Now there is a QUESTION I dare anybody to answer that one.
E-mail:
Name: Bob steer
From: far away
http://

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Feb 17, 2007 - 11:45 - Gentlemen, of the Australian kind, Be warned, SMA member Ted Jeggo is about to pay you all a visit, he leaves Germany next Wednesday 21st February and would particularly like to meet up with Ken Nettleship. Unfortunately, he hasn't got an address or phone number for him. If any of you do know Ken's details, will you please drop Ted an e-mail at: Ted.jeggo@web.de
E-mail: SShie70652@aol.com
Name: Stu Shields
From: High Wycombe
http:// www.swiremariners.com

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Feb 17, 2007 - 15:23 - Ken, Head for the hills rapidly! Kung Hei Fat Choi to all.
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 17, 2007 - 21:20 - Howdy do. I moved from HK to Vancouver last year and am now living here permanently. What a great spot. Rita says hi to those who remember her. I would like to catch up if any of you are in this neck of the woods.
E-mail: smailliwat@yahoo.com
Name: Andy Williams
From: N. Ireland & Hong Kong
http://

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Feb 18, 2007 - 22:02 - QANTAS News Flash! Todays newspapers report that Ralph Fiennes and a 38 year old stewardess Lisa Robertson on a Qantas flight from Darwin to Mumbai joined the "mile high club" in the loo. Is this the new meaning of "In flight sevices ?"
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land --firmly on the ground
http://

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Feb 19, 2007 - 06:53 - Now there's your answer Bob!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 19, 2007 - 09:23 - I say, that really is rather splendid, isn't it? I wonder whether the young lady in question reads this forum? Her timing is impeccable. Mind you, I always understood that QANTAS stood for "Quite A Nice Takeoff, Any Survivors?". I wonder if that German paraglider who managed to get to 9,000 metres (unintentionally) in the middle of an East Australian thunderstorm was looking for Ralph Fiennes' flight? She survived, by the way, despite temps of -50 and being unconscious for nearly an hour... if you haven't read this story, look up the Sydney Morning Herald online. It's elsewhere too, of course. What a gal!
E-mail: MABeaumont@aol.com
Name: Mark, Dark, whatever
From: You'd wonder, wouldn't you?
http:// www.paxship.com

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Feb 19, 2007 - 18:00 - Under the CNCo. coat of arms is the motto "Esse Quam Videri" What is the correct translation of what I suspect is in Latin. I heard a few in "dog Latin" in the 1960's which are not really appropriate.
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

And you an Internet man, Alistair?! A quick Google will give you the answer in a mo. "To be, rather than to seem". What's more, if you hover your mouse over our motto on the main pages of this site, "To be, rather than to seem to be" will pop up, which was my own translation at the time when I built this site. It is also the motto of North Carolina - MAJB

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Feb 20, 2007 - 15:01 - Over 50 years ago I learnt to goggle,then it was salt water two kettles three legs and a pump, next they put them in a box called it an "infernal" combustion engine which went suck bang puff blow, and I followed this up with blood guts and ice blocks. Now it's LCD's, keyboards, remote controls,CD's etc.and I can't see how they work, and now I have to learn to Google---life just gets more and more complicated every day. But there is still a "Bright Moment", I can still goggle and-----"I just feel a XXXX coming on --"
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: Life's great in a XXXX state
http://

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Feb 20, 2007 - 16:18 - A private seven year battle with cancer finally saw off poor old Charlie Tannock who died on 19th.January in Chiang Mai, where he had made his home for the past eighteen years. He was aged 64. Late of Bay of Plenty Stevedores, CNCo and SPO he continued working up until late last year on the oilfields in the Gulf of Thailand, were his mortal remains have since been commited. He is survived in New Zealand by his two children and three grandchildren.
E-mail:
Name: Geoff Garrett
From: New Zealand.
http://

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Feb 21, 2007 - 00:54 - You "sly old fox" it was the other closet you came out of,the water one, after just joining the mile high club!!!! FANTASTIC,like WOW we have a member of that club,"MOST VENERABLE,ANCIENT ONE" You are the best,Salaahms!!!!
E-mail:
Name: bob Steer
From:
http://

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Feb 21, 2007 - 04:11 - You forget my advancing years,Bob, it was a 707 and "another airline"!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 21, 2007 - 04:39 - I think the most incredible thing Mark is the german "paraglider" is doing it again today practicing for the world championships,in much better weather though.
E-mail:
Name: bob Steer
From:
http://

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Feb 22, 2007 - 04:14 - Now that looks familiar!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 23, 2007 - 04:58 - This is a story from the 1950's which I heard long time ago about one of the steam ships on the Bangkok/Hong Kong run. The C/E was Harold Beech, who was supposed to be a bit of a tyrant to the 2/E and other engineers.On leaving Bangkok there was a bit if a knock from the L.P. cylinder. The old chief said to the 2/E "second you've left a hammer in there and when we get to Hong Kong I'm going to open up the L.P. cyl and if there is a hammer there I'm going to sack you". On arrival Hong Kong, it was evening time, the C/E went ashore telling the 2/E to be ready to lift the cyl. cover in the morning. The 2/E got the boys ready and as soon as the C/E had left the ship proceeded to lift the L.P.cyl. cover, and actually found the remains of a hammer inside, removed it and replaced the cyl. cover.The next morning when the C/E came on board, he went down the engine room telling the 2/E to open up the L.P.cyl.immediately "and if there's a hammer in there laddie your FIRED" The L.P. cyl. cover was duly lifted and found inside there was an oil lamp still burning from the night before !! This was too much for Harold-------he just left the engine room--speechless.
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 24, 2007 - 15:36 - I sailed with Harold in the 1950's on Hanyang, it is a stain on his character to suggest that he went into the engine room! He one day found the 2/E stripping down a pump and asked what was wrong with the pump, "nothing,said 2/E, just routine maintenance". Harold's reply was " if it's working don't touch it". I have a photograph of Harold's retirement presentation in the old boardroom, apart from me ther was also C.T.Hardie,George Moore,David Baker,(son of CAN Baker)and Mr.J.K."Jock" Swire. Must have been about 1966 I think.
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 25, 2007 - 04:35 - Bob, we must now offer the Ancient Mariner in his time of sadness and humiliation to enjoy his wake in peace, at the Poms defeat in the 15 aside game to the "Men in Green". Even those north of the border suffered at the hands of the men from the Med. Our deapest sympathies to you "Ancient One". Beware the All Blacks are coming !!!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Feb 26, 2007 - 12:52 - Open letter to Marcus Harrison, previous poster, on Crossing The Line Certificate: Marcus, thanks for sending a copy by mail. I was immediately intrigued as to why the Certificate was in French, because 'Changchow' was, indeed, a CNCo vessel; but a little exploration at www.theshipslist.com (a most valuable resource) shows that she was in fact chartered 1951/1952 to Compagnie Des Messageries Maritimes, which is when you travelled aboard her. So, hopefully, you had English officers and French food, the perfect combination! And the South Pacific, of course... anyway, Peter Barton has managed to dig up a CNCo Crossing The Line Certificate, courtesy of Chris Ryden who could find his whereas I used mine as a placemat decades ago. When I get around to scanning it, I'll put it on the site here for interest.
E-mail: MABeaumont@aol.com
Name: Lord Mark of Neptune, sometimes doubling as The Barber or Surgeon
From: Under the Sea
http://

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Feb 26, 2007 - 17:17 - Re the Changchow'/ Chungking and the The Messargerie charter.People who had the luck to have sailed in those ships(Paddy Gorman,Dicky Frappell , Jimmy Morrison-et al. all sadly departed) were still talking about their delights when I joined CNCo three years later in '55. You are right they appeared to have provided just about every thing a mariner could have wished for, plus a bit more, leaving us late comers, who missed them, to rue the day we were not there - so to speak.
E-mail: jamesaldiss@iprimus .com.au
Name: aka ben
From: Ma's
http://

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Feb 26, 2007 - 17:59 - I did manage to find the Crossing the Line certificates, and Mark, if Peter should get them to you to scan all well and good. I think they will have needed a little cleaning up, yellowing at the edges. The CNCo one was actually given to my wife who at the time in Jan 1985 was the nurse on the CORAL PRINCESS, signed by Calum Anderson, and I would guess it was on the first trip down to Fremantle, Mark ? Rolled up with it was a blank with the CORAL PRINCESS name in place of CNCo across the top. Peter has had them both to scan. While on line, thank you to Geoff Garrett for the news of Charlie Tannock. I spoke to him a year ago when he was still in the Unocal field north east of Songkhla, and knew he was looking towards retiring soon, but to go so soon, a shame. Regards.
E-mail: Chrisryden@aol.com
Name: Chris Ryden
From: Presently in Japan on leave
http://

I should have been more precise with my description of what Peter sent me, Chris; the two are in my hands digitally, I just need to sort them out for the site here. I have some rather jolly pics to hand of Crossing The Line ceremonies on the CP; I might post a couple of those at the same time, so that Geoff Garrett can see you dressed as a princess.

Ah, Fremantle.. definitely not the first trip down there. CP was there for the America's Cup in 1983, for a start... I think our first jolly down there was about 1981/2 - MAJB

EDIT: I'm a pompous twat. You are absolutely right, of course: the Fremantle event was 1986/87, and a good bash it was too. I shall never forget running that 'Mystery Cruise' to the Leeuwin Estates vineyard when the Cup was over too quickly and the pax had nothing to do. It's just the years that confuse me :(

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Feb 27, 2007 - 04:48 - Never did get anything from CNCo for crossing any line! Flying back to HK from Perth on CPA they had a competition to time the crossing of the equator, guess who won the bottle of Glenmorangie! The Captain, a neighbour of mine at Shatin,said he couldn't really give me the prize as people might talk!! Interesting chap, the pilot, he started out as a Flight Engineer and ended as a 747 training Captain.
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Feb 28, 2007 - 07:12 - I feel I must take issue on two counts with the recent entry concerning the legendary H.S.Beech. Firstly, the yarn concerning the 'duck lamp' is as old as the hills and has been linked to many C/Es in as many Companies. Secondly,and in full agreement with Ancient Mariner, I can vouch for the fact that HSB never ever showed signs of tyranny during my time as 2/E with him on the 'HANYANG'. We were together from late 1958 when he returned from leave until I eventually left the ship in early 1960. It may be difficult to believe but I can assure you that he entered the Engine Room only once in all that time and we were on anchor watches in the p.m. prior to entering drydock at Kobe on the 12th. April 1959 when I noticed a strange figure at the cylinder tops level. It was Harold and he was wearing a crisp white UK style boiler suit. I said I'm sorry Chief, I didn't recognise you and he told me that he bought his boiler suit when he joined the new 'FOOCHOW' on the Tees in 1945 and it was the first time he'd worn it. I can still remember it because it had a large brass buckle at the front, unlike all our custom tailored boiler suits. The reason he was in the Engine Room was because he had seen a launch approaching the ship and he suspected it was Bill Adam coming out to discuss the docking list. Harold had never net him before and was worried about Adam's reputation. It would appear it was ill-founded because Adam said he could go for a short break to the Arima Spa resort if I was prepared to do the docking without him. We were on the Hong Kong/Japan/Bangkok run throughout all this time and dependant on what time we crossed the 'bar' on the approaches to Bangkok determined whether Harold would go ashore on arrival that afternoon or the following morning. There was always a chauffeur driven car waiting for him on the quayside ~ where he went to was always a secret but he always returned the day before sailing. My spell on 'HANYANG'with HSB was one of the happiest times in my ten years at sea. Just for the record he joined the CNCo in 1925 ~ 40 years with the Company and 34 years as Chief Engineer. RIPHSB. In conclusion, during my time on 'HANYANG' we had 7 different Masters together with numerous Mates and 2nd. Mates. I can't remember all the Masters but there was Hunt?, then a Master whose wife was in a wheelchair(a Kiwi), then Jock Hunter, then a Chinese Master(one trip) and finally L.L.Watson. The Mates were Ancient Mariner(Maurice Burbidge),Dennis Langdon, Jimmy Innes, Denis Hoden, Bob Crowhurst,Ralph Brooks.The 2nd.Mates were John Dymock followed by three different Aussies whose names I cannot recall and one Chinese.
E-mail: jack.lyemun@btinternet .com
Name: Jack(buffalo)Higgs
From: near Liverpuddle
http://

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Mar 01, 2007 - 04:40 - I have pics somewhere proving that Jack did have a boilersuit himself! The Chinese Captain, Jack, was S.H.Liu who ran the Chinese Crew Dept. You nearl got me that trip but I declined the invitation from Capt.Torrible having just got married, there is a limit to multi-tasking! That makes the date June 1959 and I was a boy of 25!!! (No pics please Bob). Incidentally, am waiting with bated breath to see report and pics of Sydney reunion, did the old geezer from SOUTH of Sydney behave himself?
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Mar 03, 2007 - 16:48 - MOST Ancient and Venerable One (M.M.H.C.)0f course the old geezer was there as was him from uup north who was exercising the elbow for his next venture o.s.He will drink anything you know in copious amounts so be prepared,you have been warned!!!!! We generally have a guest from "way back when" and I was expecting Ted Jaggo and who turned up in his place Twiggy Thorburn,a very pleasant surprise,where do you get them from Mike?There was a goodly gathering this year and a very pleasant time had by all,the photographs I leave to the expert,Cyril where are they?
E-mail:
Name: Bob Steer
From:
http://

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Mar 04, 2007 - 17:19 - Jimmy Lough told me that I really ought to read an article in "Blackwood's Magazine" by Archie Blue, called "Squeeze". Has anyone read it, and can anyone recall roughly when it came out? (Jimmy said it caused quite a stir, and Dr Blue's name was not to be mentioned in Company company for some years after).
E-mail: acraigbennett@aol.com
Name: Andrew Craig-Bennett
From: The China Ocean Shipping Company
http://

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Mar 04, 2007 - 23:22 - Bob, Were you there at the reunion? If I had known that you had been there I would have bought you a drink our two. We all had a GREAT time, it only gets better. Dare I ask if your going to Sydney on the following weekend was a genuine lapse, you know our reunion never clashes with the Mardi Gras.
E-mail: crowmountain@telstra.com
Name: Tony Ravenhill
From: Sunny Queensland
http://

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Mar 05, 2007 - 11:52 - What mean "Squeeze"?
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
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Mar 08, 2007 - 12:57 - Has anyone of you visited China recently? I'm planning visit end May but haven't been there for 39 years!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
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Mar 08, 2007 - 15:52 - Is this the answer to the question on "Squeeze"? Chinaman say "you ask me for more, I very poor man, business very bad, I no can pay more" and YOU still ask for more !!!!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Mar 09, 2007 - 16:37 - Most Ancient and Venerable One returning to the home of your forefathers? I can only say that by the looks of things you will have a "squeezy" time at Heathrow and your flight will also be "squeezy" one especially in your "club" area!!!!!The flights in China are all squeezy but then all of China is squeezy and I am sure a man of your experience will get your way through and may even be able to show them a trick or two,you tricky one you. Have a great squeezy time and I will try and survive in your absence on the net.
E-mail:
Name: bob steer
From:
http://

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Mar 16, 2007 - 15:11 - Ancient Mariner, which airline will you fly with to Hong Kong considering what they stand for? B.A. - Bl**dy awfull. American Airlines - Anywhere Any time. Canadian Pacific Airways - Can't promise anything. Air Pacific - Air pathetic [previously, Fiji Airways - Fiji Scareways]. QANTAS now means - Quick -Action Next Toilet - All Sevices. Bon Voyage.
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From: XXXX land
http://

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Mar 17, 2007 - 07:51 - Well, I don't know, I'm sure; we get to the 17th of March and not one of you fellas pointed out to the cerebrally-challenged web brat that the Pinup Calendar was still showing February's lass. What's the point, eh? Are you all poofters or summat? Does no one ever look at it, not to mention proudly display it on their desktop every month? Am I wasting my time perusing suitable ladies for inclusion every month? Don't answer that... dumb question :)
E-mail: MABeaumont@aol.com
Name: The Lone Ogler
From: Women's World
http:// www.terriblysaucypictures.com

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Mar 18, 2007 - 15:19 - All, What goes around comes around, my daughter Sophie is a Design and Estimating engineer and her Company is sending her to China in May this year, like many others here my knowledge of the Middle Kingdom is forty years out of date. Any updates gratefully received. Yours aye, John Kelly 1964-1967
E-mail: john.kelly15@virgin.net
Name: John Kelly
From: Norfolk UK
http://

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Mar 19, 2007 - 12:17 - Dark Moment I think your contributions to the calendarist's art are supreme. Having reviewed your past efforts I was particularly impressed with the April 2005 "wobbling". Can we have another in the same vein - perhaps an "upper torso wobble" !
E-mail:
Name: Alan Perry
From: Brixham-on-Sea
http://

Hmmm... tricky one, Perry. I'll have to give that some thought.



I might have guessed that the SMA Pinups would not have escaped your eager gaze. Even though you hang your coat on the same hook these days - or so we are led to believe - there's no doubt that man is always the hunter. It's just that these days we have to hunt with a camera, not with a gun :( - MAJB

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Mar 19, 2007 - 18:00 - The Pommie cricket revival seemes to have stalled and skipper Flintoff has played up again. Even went for a dip during the night. I wonder did he ever sail with C.N.Co.!!!!!!!!!!
E-mail:
Name: Wallaby supporter
From:
http://

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Mar 20, 2007 - 03:15 - I'd like to see who is under that writhing female!!
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

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Mar 21, 2007 - 00:30 - That does my head in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am all shook up
E-mail:
Name: bob Steer
From:
http://

Don't worry, Bob, it's all in the mind :) - MAJB

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Mar 23, 2007 - 17:46 - erm? Dark moment? any pics for the ladies who peruse these pages from time to time?!!
E-mail: memcconnell58@yahoo.com
Name: Mary
From: Glasgae
http://

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Mar 23, 2007 - 19:46 - Good thinking, Mary!
E-mail: ddikibraw@westnet.com.au
Name: Bev K.
From: Oblivion
http://

Ladies! Ladies! Are your memories so short? Have you already forgotten the sensationally curvaceous lines of our esteemed Secretary, Stuart "The Bod" Shields, who was kind enough to pose for our calendar in October 2003? Here's a direct link: Sexy Stu. Not to mention, Curvaceous Cyril in our Rogues Gallery.

Fair comment, though. It's all Perry's fault; for ten years we've managed to maintain our standards around here, but I can see that we shall have to lower them still further. The April Pinup is already at the printers, but watch out for May. We'll see what we can do :) - MAJB

P.S. Good to hear from you both. Mary, hi, and Bev, send our collective best to Robbie, please.

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Mar 24, 2007 - 00:11 - HI Mark, and No! How could I possibly forget Sexy stu, he is still my wallpaper to this day, honest!!
E-mail:
Name: Mary
From: still Glasgae
http://

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Mar 24, 2007 - 02:57 - MAJB What an invitation, how about an infamous "Dark Moment Moon" for Mary !
E-mail:
Name: Perry
From: Brixham-on-Sea
http://

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Not on your nelly, Perry. I can't imagine to what you refer; as you know, I am the model of decorum when out and about. However, a private email from YET ANOTHER lady known to most of us has asked "Why do we have to wait until May?". So, herewith and at great expense (to those featured, at least) we are pleased to offer a sneak preview of those who will grace the May Pinup Calendar this year. Click if you dare - MAJB



All models are over 18. You must be 18 or over to enter this site, or to telephone Alan Perry. If shiny, rippling muscles offend you, you're either not gay or not a woman. Please enter at your own risk. Swire Mariners Association disclaims all responsibility for anything that might eventuate following your exposure to this page. What's more, if any of the models portrayed object to the public exposure of their oiled and sensuous bodies in this manner, then they should think themselves lucky we didn't come up with pictures of the real thing. Our men.

Well this casual snap gives an idea of who was there...



but we have nowt official as yet. Mike? - MAJB

See Manley Men - well, in North Ryde, actually - MAJB

'Taiyuan' in the Basilan Straits, 1965. By Alistair Thomson

Gordon McLennan of New Zealand has sent us this excellent overview of Taikoo Docks, circa 1950, courtesy of Jack McIiravey's family. Click the pic for a larger rendition.

Gordon has sent us many more old HK shots which you'll find in our Rogues Gallery - MAJB

Just before we leave the downward spiral of lavatorial humour that arrested our attention before deck and engine resurrected long-gone turf wars, I feel I have to post this wonderful series of shots sent to us by one of our more respected members who probably ought to know better.



So did he, or didn't he? Click on the image for a better look at Her Majesty's expression in the last shot! God Save The Queen! - MAJB

It's a while since we've updated our 'jokes' page, having heard most of them before, but there's a new contribution from one Sue Norman (nee Thornley) that we consider worth inclusion! See it as the first item here - MAJB

The web-brat must apologise for the fact that the August Pinup Calendar will be late onboard; yet another operating system (or maybe hard drive, don't know yet) has bitten the dust on his primary computer and Miss August is in there covered in electronic rubble or whatever. Bare with us :) - MAJB

Henley 2007 is online at last! And while the mood took us, we managed to sort out the pile from Falkirk, too. Enjoy. - MAJB

We have no picture of John in his new strip as yet, but take this opportunity to alert you to some Health and Safety initiatives that Colin Billimore has brought to our attention. Find out more in our Funnies section - MAJB

I regret that the following note has been sent to us by Tony Ravenhill:

"My wife Margaret Passed away on thurs 25th. Oct at 11pm AEST. She had a swift but vicious battle with cancer and the cancer won. She was as close to CNCO as I was and had many happy times wining and dining the various Chief Boat officers over a long period of time. I shall miss her dearly. Pls let the lads know."

I know that you will wish to extend your condolences to Tony at this sad time, which I hereby extend on your behalf. If anyone should want to be in touch with Tony personally, you can reach him at aravenhi@bigpond.net.au - MAJB

Well, little did your web brat realise when he cobbled together a uniform for our venerable Chairman, above, that the Top Bod had actually been wearing baronial garb at Chepstow. What frivolity! He had an incentive though, clearly...



Snaps of the chaps at Caldicot Castle are now online and linked from our Photos page - MAJB

I know we'll all be sorry indeed to hear of the demise of the poor little LE. Before we leave the subject of Baron "Check out my Codpiece" Drewery, however, we thought it might be pertinent to assist him should he have any IT problems in the Middle Ages. Check out this Medieval Help Desk :) - MAJB

Aren't we all glad that Christmas comes but once a year? I know I am. Anyway, I finally got my Christmas tree up - MAJB

Regular visitors will have noticed that we have been having problems again with the dreaded Spammer bots, which odorous ulcers have resurfaced. We think that after a lot of headscratching we have dealt with the problem for now, hopefully; but, should they reappear, please just carry on posting, ignore the creepy slimeballs and do NOT follow links. Malicious monsters lurk therein - MAJB

EDIT - Ignore my last - they're fighting back. But we'll kill 'em soon, stay with us.

I thought it was something in code from Dark Moment! What is "sexual urge"? Thank goodness it's nearly year-end,takes ages to scroll down these days,(no rude comments please).
E-mail: mauber85@tiscali.co.uk
Name: Ancient Mariner
From:
http://

Heck, that time already? We'd better be off then. Here ya go.