Some Interesting Reminiscences from Jannes Keuken

In September 1958 I started training with the Bureau for the position of Observer (Radio) at Davis, Antarctica, where I was located from December 1958 until March 1960. My time at Davis was very enjoyable and the whole trip was a great experience which I will never forget. Everything we had to do was learnt the hard way; at least you don't forget it so quickly. On our trip down on the Thala Dan one moment will never be forgotten. I was sea sick after the first week at sea. One day, after having lunch, I was leaning over the railing on the top deck feeding the fish as usual. But, since the ship had a terrible sway, the fish feed never reached the sea, landing on the deck below all over the first mate who was having a spell from his normal duties. But he took it in great spirit.

After coming back from Davis I reported to Staff Section, Harry Smally I think, and was told I had earned my 10 weeks leave and to report back when I finished them. Two days later the phone rang and Harry said we are looking for a 'tech' to go to Willis Island. To make a long story short, six weeks later I was at Willis Island. Well the fishing was good then. We had a lot of fresh fish in those days. My stay at Willis Island was cut short due to an appendix infection, and I was rushed to Townsville Hospital by RAAF crash launch. When my sun baking days after the operation were over I was sent back to Melbourne.

For the following 14 months I had several postings including Laverton, Hobart and Gladstone, as well as a stint at Training School during 1961. I remember the fishing trip we had one day. If I recall it the five man party comprised myself, Ray Clarke, Joe Grey and, I think, Neil Davies. I'm not sure about the last one; didn't catch any fish but had a great time.

After the Training School stint I had several postings, the main ones at Cobar, Wagga Wagga, Sydney Regional Office, Victorian Regional Office and finally the Head Office, Communications Centre. I took early retirement at age 55 in July 1987, settling in Healesville, Victoria, on a small property. I have no regrets and am still enjoying life. At present, I am still in good health.

Bureau of Meteorology