Wind turbines, heralded as one of the pillars of sustainable energy, are not without their environmental drawbacks. One significant issue that has recently come to light is the loss of carbon microfibers from the turbine blades over the years due to abrasion at the wing edges. These carbon microfibers, which are tiny fragments of the composite materials used to manufacture the blades, become dislodged through natural wear and tear.

Environmental Impact of Carbon Microfibers

Soil Contamination

As these carbon microfibers are released, they settle into the surrounding environment, including soils. The accumulation of these fibres can alter soil composition and structure, potentially affecting soil health and the organisms that inhabit it. Microfibers can disrupt the natural processes of soil microorganisms, which play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and plant health. This contamination could lead to a decline in soil fertility over time, impacting agriculture and natural vegetation.

Water Pollution

The microfibers are also likely to be carried by rain and surface runoff into waterways. Once in the water system, they can spread widely, contaminating rivers, lakes, and possibly even reaching the oceans. In aquatic environments, these fibres can be ingested by various organisms, from small plankton to larger fish, leading to bioaccumulation and potentially entering the human food chain. The presence of these fibres in drinking water sources is a significant concern, as their long-term health effects on humans are still not fully understood.

Health Implications

While the specific health risks associated with carbon microfibers are still being studied, there is growing concern about their potential impact. Inhalation of microfibers, similar to other fine particulates, could pose respiratory risks. If these fibres are present in drinking water, ingestion could lead to unknown health consequences. Research is needed to determine if these fibres can pass through biological barriers and accumulate in human tissues, which could lead to chronic health

Conclusion

As we continue to innovate in the field of renewable energy, it’s imperative to consider the full environmental impact of our solutions. Wind turbines provide clean energy but also contribute to environmental and visual pollution in ways that were previously overlooked.

On the night of May 31st and into the early hours of June 1st, 1942, three Imperial Japanese Navy Midget Submarines launched a daring attack on Sydney Harbour. This event, sometimes referred to as the “Battle of Sydney,” marked a significant moment in Australia’s involvement in World War II.

The audacious attack was meticulously planned and preceded by several reconnaissance flights over Sydney, which gathered valuable intelligence. The primary targets within the harbor were the Allied warships, including the HMAS Canberra and the USS Chicago.

The first of the three midget submarines to penetrate Sydney Harbour was M-27, commanded by Lieutenant Kenshi Chuman and Petty Officer Takeshi Omori. Entering around 8 pm, M-27 soon encountered trouble as its propellers became entangled in anti-submarine nets near the western boom gate. The disturbance was quickly noticed and reported, leading to the deployment of patrol boats HMAS Yarroma and HMAS Lolita. However, by the time these patrol boats arrived, the crew of M-27 had detonated demolition charges, destroying their vessel at 10:37 pm.

The second submarine, M-24, entered the harbor at 9:48 pm, manned by Sub-Lieutenant Katsuhisa Ban and Petty Officer Mamoru Ashibe. Despite being sighted by the USS Chicago, M-24 was not successfully repelled by the defensive gunfire. Approximately half an hour after being spotted, M-24 fired two torpedoes at the Chicago. Both torpedoes missed their intended target; one ran ashore at Garden Island, while the other struck the sea wall near the Sydney Harbour ferry Kuttabul, which was serving as a Royal Australian Navy depot ship. The explosion caused the Kuttabul to sink, resulting in the tragic loss of 21 Allied naval ratings and leaving others injured or trapped. M-24 and its crew managed to exit the harbor, but their fate remained a mystery until 2006 when the wreck was discovered off Sydney’s northern beaches.

The third and final midget submarine, M-22, entered the harbor in the early hours of June 1st. Crewed by Lieutenant Kieu Matsuo and Petty Officer 1st Class Masao Tsuzuku, M-22 was detected in Taylors Bay. The patrol boats launched repeated depth charge attacks, severely crippling the vessel. The following day, the two-man crew was found dead inside M-22, having taken their own lives.

The unexpected and bold attack by the three midget submarines served as a stark wake-up call to many Sydneysiders, who had previously viewed the war as a distant conflict. This incident marked a turning point, reshaping perceptions of Australia’s role in the war and highlighting its strategic importance as a springboard for Allied operations against Japan in the Pacific. The loss of 21 Allied lives, along with the deaths of the four Japanese submariners, underscored the harsh realities of war.

The 19 Australians and 2 British ratings who perished were honoured with a burial service with full naval honours. The four Japanese submariners were also accorded a funeral with naval honours at Rookwood Cemetery, a gesture that was appreciated by Japan in the years that followed. Two months later, their cremated remains were repatriated to Japan in a diplomatic exchange.

The remnants of the two recovered midget submarines were combined to create a composite vessel, now displayed at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. This exhibit, which includes the wheelhouse from the Kuttabul, serves as a poignant reminder of the events of that night.

This year marks the 82nd anniversary of the attack on Sydney Harbour. As we reflect on this historical moment, we honour and remember those who defended Australia on the night of May 31st and into June 1st, 1942, recognizing their bravery and the profound impact of World War II on our nation.

Photo: Ferry Kuttabul lying on the seabed following M-24’s torpedo attack. Source: www.navy.gov.au

In May, soldiers from the 1st Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery (1 RAA) participated in an intensive live-fire training exercise at Shoalwater Bay Training Area. The training included “danger close” serials as part of a combined arms activity, enhancing the soldiers’ ability to defend their gun positions with both heavy weapons and small arms.

The exercise involved direct and indirect artillery fire, with one battery firing dangerously close to within 360 meters of the defending troops. This scenario tested the soldiers’ readiness and precision under pressure.

Lieutenant Colonel Khalid El-Khaligi, Commanding Officer of 1st Regiment, highlighted the significant benefits of the exercise. “This is our advanced live-fire training for both small arms and gunnery,” he stated. “It’s a surreal experience for the soldiers to have another battery firing danger close to defend another gun line. This opportunity sets a high watermark for our training.”

The chance to fire live rounds and test multiple skill sets was particularly exciting for the soldiers. Bombardier Luke Del Borrello noted the heightened focus and attention to detail brought on by the live-fire setting. “We’ve conducted similar training with blank fire before, but for most of us, this is the first time doing it live,” he explained. “Having danger close dropped near us pushes our readiness and training to new heights.”

Using live rounds required the soldiers to be exceptionally vigilant with their weapons drills and muzzle awareness. “You’re always conscious of these factors, but the use of live rounds intensifies that awareness to another level,” Del Borrello added.

This advanced live-fire training exercise has undoubtedly elevated the skill and preparedness of the 1 RAA soldiers, providing invaluable experience in a high-stakes environment.

China’s extensive spy network in Australia took centre stage at the Defending Australia Summit in Canberra, attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles and various military leaders. The summit heard a startling claim that over 1200 Chinese intelligence agents are currently operating in Australia.

Minister Marles acknowledged the heightened tensions in the Pacific region due to China’s recent military activities near Taiwan. He noted that China’s significant defence buildup presents challenges for Australia. Despite these concerns, Marles emphasized the federal government’s commitment to maintaining a strong relationship with China, Australia’s largest trading partner. “We want to have the most productive relationship with China that we can,” Marles stated. He underscored the approach of working with China when possible but standing firm on disagreements to stabilize the relationship.

The Minister also reaffirmed the importance of the AUKUS pact, under which Australia will acquire nuclear-powered submarines. He announced the selection of design partners for the construction of submarine yards in South Australia, a project expected to create 4000 direct jobs at its peak, with an additional 4000 to 5500 direct jobs for the submarine construction.

The summit also featured a former spy’s revelation about the presence of over 1200 Chinese intelligence agents in Australia. These agents are reportedly involved in information gathering, surveillance, and harassment activities for the Chinese regime. The former spy’s interpreter quit moments before his speech, fearing repercussions for speaking negatively about the Chinese government.

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has called for a national political and social reawakening in response to emerging issues, following the release of their report, An Australian National Security Strategy – Adapting to Poly-Crisis. The report, authored by Professor John Blaxland and supported by the RSL’s national defence and security committee, urges Australia to strategically harness its natural and human resources to meet future challenges.

Key Recommendations:

• Increase Defence Spending: Expand military capacity beyond current levels, including more fighter aircraft, warships, and combat brigades.
• Strengthen International Ties: Enhance connections with ASEAN, particularly Indonesia, address the Myanmar refugee crisis, and deepen relations with the United States and South Pacific countries.
• National Community Service Scheme: Introduce a program similar to the US Peace Corps.
• New National Institute: Establish a statutory National Institute of Net Assessment to monitor strategic threats.

RSL National President Greg Melick emphasized that these issues impact all Australians, not just veterans and Defence personnel. He highlighted the need for a substantial increase in resourcing and visionary engagement to address growing threats and ensure national preparedness.

The report also calls for more flexible Defence recruiting standards and employment conditions to adapt to modern combat roles in cyber and space security.

“The time to act is now,” Melick concluded, urging immediate and serious commitment to these recommendations for Australia’s security.

ED: A message from the Naval Association of Australia

The Naval Association of Australia will commemorate HMAS Sydney and all the ships and the Navy, Army and RAAF veterans who answered the call of their country in the Vietnam War at 11am at the Jack Tar memorial at Southbank on Thursday 30 May. All welcome.

Mention the ‘Vung Tau Ferry’ to any Vietnam veteran and they will immediately recall HMAS Sydney (III), the former aircraft carrier converted to a troopship that became the mainstay of naval support operations for Australian forces. Regular Army and conscripts got their first glimpse of the war from her upper deck. The affectionately designated moniker was due to her journeys to the port of Vung Tau in South Vietnam, the naval base for the Australian Task Force. Many of these sailors were 16-year-old junior recruits getting their first taste of life at sea.

Commissioned in 1948, HMAS Sydney was key to Australia’s post-war naval aviation capability and served with distinction in the Korean War. Refitted for troopship duties, she began her first voyage to Vietnam in May 1965, transporting the First Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR), from Sydney to Vung Tau. Over this period, she embarked troops and equipment from Brisbane and Townsville.

Between 1965 and 1972, Sydney undertook 25 voyages to Vietnam and transported 16,094 troops, both Army and RAAF. She also moved 5,753 deadweight tons of cargo and 2,375 vehicles including rations, medical supplies, weaponry and ammunition.

The Vung Tau Ferry brought together men from 2 very distinct cultures: the Navy and the Army. In the days before leaving Australia, Sydney would be loaded and crewmembers detailed to act as ‘sea daddies’ to groups of soldiers, helping them to get their bearings on the ship, showing them where to stow their gear and how to sling their hammocks. Apart from the unfamiliarity with shipboard life, or with the ways of the Navy, the soldiers often found Sydney to be uncomfortable, particularly in tropical waters with no air conditioning when the heat below decks was intense.

It was no pleasure cruise for the troops, recalls Brisbane’s Richard Kenny OAM from 7RAR. ‘The Army continued with fitness and weapons training, range practice and the Navy insisted we pitch in with cleaning decks and showers as well,’ he says.

‘The big surprise was sleeping in hammocks, then the loud “Wakey Wakey Call to Hands” that blasted us out of them. Tasks such as refuelling the ship in the middle of the heaving ocean were fascinating to us, unlike driving an Armoured Personnel Carrier up to a bowser.’

On every voyage, Sydney was protected by at least one escort that provided security against potential hostile forces. Escorts included HMA Ships Melbourne, Anzac, Derwent, Duchess, Parramatta, Stuart, Swan, Torrens, Vampire, Vendetta and Yarra.

For those like Richard on the return voyage after their 12-month tour of duty, the passage to Australia offered a chance to relax, reflect on their experiences and prepare for the transition from war to peace. Such a period of reflection was denied to those soldiers who returned home by aircraft, leaving Vietnam and being home within 10 hours.

For more information, please contact Jayne Keogh at [email protected]

The Battle of Omdurman in 1898 was a decisive conflict in which British and Egyptian forces, led by General Herbert Kitchener, defeated the Sudanese Mahdist forces. This battle marked the culmination of the British campaign to reassert control over Sudan. The British utilized modern weaponry, including machine guns and artillery, overwhelming the Mahdist warriors who suffered heavy casualties. The victory effectively ended the Mahdist state and established British dominance in Sudan.

The 5 RAR Association is pleased to announce the celebration of its 60th Anniversary Reunion, scheduled to take place from 27 February to 2 March 2025. This special event will be hosted at the Twin Towns Services Club, located in the beautiful Tweed Heads.

Members, past and present, along with their families and friends, are warmly invited to join in commemorating this milestone occasion. The reunion promises to be a memorable gathering, offering a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the rich history and camaraderie of the 5th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment.

To confirm your attendance or for further details, please reach out to Gary Townsend. He can be contacted via phone at 0412 767 975 or by email at [email protected]. Don’t miss out on this significant comemorative5RAR event!

Regards,

Gary Townsend

5 RARA Membership Officer/Tiger Tales Editor 

[email protected]

82 Lake Hills,

117 Palm Meadows Drive,
CARRARA, QLD, 4211, AUSTRALIA
Ph: 07 5594 4780   Mob: 0412 767 975

Recent arrests of high-ranking Russian military officials have raised questions about President Vladimir Putin’s motives and control over the Defence Ministry. The arrests began last month with a deputy defence minister and have since included several senior officials. All face corruption charges, which they deny.

These arrests come as Putin starts his fifth term and shifts Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu to a new role. Analysts speculate this could be an effort to reassert control over the military, a result of internal power struggles, or a broader anti-corruption drive.

The Role of Corruption in Russia

Corruption is deeply ingrained in Russian governance, serving as both a tool for maintaining loyalty and a method of control. Experts suggest that the state uses compromising material on officials to selectively target them, thus reinforcing Putin’s grip on power. The war in Ukraine has increased defence spending, creating more opportunities for graft.

Key Arrests

• Timur Ivanov, former Deputy Defence Minister, accused of taking large bribes, oversaw major military construction projects, including in Mariupol.
• Yury Kuznetsov, head of the Defence Ministry’s personnel directorate.
• Ivan Popov, former top commander in Ukraine, known for criticizing the Defence Ministry.
• Vadim Shamarin, deputy chief of the military general staff.
• Vladimir Verteletsky, from the defence procurement department, charged with abuse of office.

Why Now?

The crackdown suggests a shift towards reducing blatant corruption within the Defence Ministry. Putin’s replacement of Shoigu with economist Andrei Belousov indicates a focus on integrating defence spending with broader economic goals. Russia’s defence budget, now 6.7% of GDP, underscores the need for efficient spending.

The appointment of Belousov and the subsequent arrests may also be an effort to address internal criticisms and ensure the war in Ukraine is managed more effectively. Analysts believe this could either be a Kremlin-led initiative or a move by the security services to counter military dominance.

Potential Outcomes

Further arrests are likely as the new defence minister seeks to demonstrate accountability. However, the pervasive nature of corruption in Russia means that aggressive crackdowns could destabilize the system. If more officials are targeted, it could lead to panic and unrest within the government.

Overall, while the Kremlin denies any purging, the situation indicates significant internal shifts and a potential power struggle within Russia’s political and military hierarchy.