HMAS Melbourne & On the Beach

[Whitto1]

Just watched ( again ) the old movie On TheBeach with Ava Gardiner when I was researching the cars in the Philip Is race scenes.
I had forgotten there are several good shots of the old girl including some from inside the Sick Bay which brought back memories as I was working in the Bay '69 and '74. ( O/SBA- LSBA(O) )
Cant pick the Surg Cmdr but possibly Cotsall?

Should be mandatory watching for all politicians.

ciao

[steve roberts]

Hi Whitto 1.I agree with you on 2 points.Should be force fed to politicians,who are only after expense claims,never mind what they might do to the world. 2 Shure were some great shots of the old ship.My only carrier was Hermes,and like you the Sick bay on there holds fond memories as Im ex Medical branch as well.Sold my sole though and went into boats (The Trade)But the promotion and pay was better,so call me a mercenary but I enjoyed all my time in the Medical Branch.Would have retired gracefully as a POMA,but general Galteari had other ideas about that!! So I did an extra year and ended up a Chief!!!!.Why o Why did they not save such great old ships?Now the Indians are thinking of scrapping Hermes! Regards Steve.:(

[Portsmouth Bill]

A Great film and even better book - Neville Shute being one of my favourite authors, now overlooked for writers who are incapable of holding a story together. My only gripe about the film was that they had to get three American actors, but I reckon Aussie has returned the compliment since - with interest;)

O.K. Contest Time. Who can tell us where the title 'On The Beach' comes from?

First prize: homemade c.d. of Portsmouth Bill singing sea shanties.
Second prize: Two homemade c.d's of Portsmouth Bill singing sea shanties
Third prize: Three..................:rolleyes:

[steve roberts]

Hi Bill. At the risk of getting third prize!I believe the trem originates from a period when Naval officers were retired on half pay,there being no ship billets for them in peace time.Regards Steve.:D:D

[Portsmouth Bill]

Not bad Steve, I hadn't thought of that, but.....sorry, you won't get the prize yet. It looks like nobody will, no? Is it my singing?:rolleyes:

[steve roberts]

Could well be Bill! There certainly a'int no rush to enter is there? Steve.:D:D:D

[Portsmouth Bill]

I'm gutted :(

I'll post the answer tonight - and it looks as though I won't need to give up my day-job :rolleyes:

[Portsmouth Bill]

'In this last of meeting places
We grope together
And avoid speech
Gathered on this beach of the tumid river'

T.S. Eliot 'The Hollow men'