History of wireless telegraphy and broadcasting in Australia/Topical/Biographies/Vernon Francis Kenna/Notes

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (1)
'''CHAPTER SEVEN. PRESIDENTS.''' In any organization the choice of a suitable President is especially important - the ability he has and the image he projects are vital to success. History shows that the five men listed below served the WIA Q with great distinction throughout the 1930s. Collectively they were responsible for laying the foundations that successfully carried the Sunshine State Division through to WWII. All possessed outstanding ability in administration, communication and dedication, although they were markedly diverse in their approach and personal natures. Their names and period in office are as follows:
 * Matt M. O'Brien OA4MM April 1927 - April 1929
 * Matt M. O'Brien VK4MM April 1929 - May 1931
 * Leo J. Feenaghty VK4LJ May 1931 - April 1932
 * Pat Kelly VK4KB June 1932 - March 1933
 * Vern F. Kenna VK4FK March 1933 - April 1933
 * Arthur F. Walz VK4AW April 1933 - September 1939 (WWII).

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (2)
VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. Without doubt, his short term as President was the WIA's loss; he possessed physical bearing, the rhetoric (although quietly spoken) and the administrative ability to fill the WIA's top position in Queensland very admirably. Vern showed a very early interest in radio, qualifying for his AOPC in 1927 (sic, late 1926) and constructed and operated receiving and transmitting equipment (amateur station 4FK) at Allen St., Hamilton, Brisbane for a number of years as opportunity offered. Those who knew him in those days claim he was lecturing on the theory of wireless to students in the late 1920s, when in his late teens. His commitment to radio seems to have been almost total throughout his whole life. Born at Brisbane 6th May 1908, VK4FK commenced employment in the PMG in 1924 as a junior mechanic-in-training. He advanced through technical grades and finally assumed the position of senior engineer in the radio section of the headquarters administration in Melbourne. From 1931 to 1934 Vern was a member of the technical staff at Broadcast Station 4QG Brisbane. In 1934 he moved to the PMG Research Section in Melbourne, where among other radio assignments he assisted in the development of the now familiar top-loaded broadcasting radiator and also VHF radio relay equipment designed for use on outside broadcasting work. He qualified as engineer in 1935. During the early stages of WWII Vern was concerned with the installation of aeradio and assisted DF equipment at a number of centres in Queensland and other adjacent Pacific areas. Then, in the light of the critical war situation, he was involved in the urgent removal of the NBS metropolitan stations 4QG and 4QR to preferred sites outside the city limits. OOTers will remember the dismantling of the two lattice masts of station 4QG, atop the Taxation Building, cnr. George and Elizabeth Sts. - and the single, taller aerial of 4QR reaching skywards from the roof of the PMG building complex in Queen St., Brisbane. In 1950 VK4FK represented Australia as a delegate to the International HF Broadcasting Conference held in Italy. As further proof of his unlimited ability, he found time to rewrite the Constitution of the Flying Doctor Service (F.D.S.), in order to give it a Royal Charter and a new title of R.F.D.S. In 1961 he took up the position of Federal Controller of Technical Services with the ABC, until he retired in the late 1960s. Vern VK4FK had one other passion - sailing his own boat - which was often frustrated by the demands of his job. He now lives on the shore of Sydney Harbour, NSW, a fitting QTH for one who loves small ships. Author's Note: Vern VK4FK, together with a few of his contemporaries, gave their genius free rein by building what appears to be the first totally free-moving robot in Queensland (no umbilical control cord). Outwardly it assumed the shape of a well-fed Oriental Potentate; approximately 4 ft 6 ins tall, it had speech (2-way) and considerable mobility. It was introduced to the public of Brisbane at the Post Office Ball held at the Trocadero, South Brisbane in 1938 (sic, 1939). Its appearance caused quite a stir as it moved in and out of the alcoves and exchanged repartee with all concerned. Robo 1 even made a speech. Several VHF and UHF transmitters and receivers were installed, out of sight, in the Oriental's interior and were remotely controlled from a distance. This writer assisted with on-the-spot technical adjustments to make Robo 1's debut at the Ball a success.

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (3)
OA4FK - VERNON FRANCIS KENNA. AOCP Brisbane 1928 (sic, late 1926). Now VK2JR. Known to the fraternity as "Marconi". Vern, an OOTer of outstanding ability, now resides in Sydney, NSW. (See WIAQ Presidents.)

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (4)
THE (ROYAL) FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE - RFDS The Reverend John Flynn 8AC, an early member of the WIA, set up the first Flying Doctor wireless station at Cloncurry in 1928. Bases at Charleville and Charters Towers followed. Eventually a Flying Doctor Service (FDS) communication covered a large part of inland Australia. It was the ingenuity of the amateur experimenter that set the groundwork for this great achievement. In the 1920s, against the best advice that a QRP portable transceiver that would reach the isolated areas could not be built, John Flynn 8AC assisted by Alf Traeger VK5AX successfully designed the PEDAL RADIO SET - unique in the world at the time. Three Queenslanders figured prominently in the subsequent development of the FDS which was later reconstituted to become the RFDS. They were Harry Kinzbrunner VK4HK and Vern Kerr VK4LK (see Profiles) and Vern Kenna VK4FK (see WIAQ Presidents). Raconteurs claim that by chance John 8AC, Alf 5AX and possibly Harry 4HK arrived in Cloncurry on a Melbourne Cup Day. To maximize their cause they set up the transceiver outside the local pub. Curious imbibers poured out to inspect the "new fangled wireless" and, as a Cloncurry horse was running in the Cup, observers wanted to know the race result post haste. John Flynn was able to gain information of the event and announce that the horse had won. The locals, full of praise for the invention, returned to the pub to celebrate - and the Reverend John Flynn 8AC knew that God was "on side" with his venture to establish a Flying Doctor Service.

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (5)
(Photo Caption Start) MEMBERS OOTERS CLUB. All licensed BEFORE 1930 - except VK4FE. L to R: Perc Wood, Fred Matthews, Col Grant, Arthur Burton, Leo Feenaghty, Arthur Walz, Vern Kenna and Cliff Gold. (See Profiles.) (Photo Caption End)

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (6)
WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB - VK4WN Thirteen keen experimenters assembled on 4th August 1924 to set up the above club. The names of these charter members are not known. Most of them agreed they had little experience in what they proposed to do, nevertheless the resultant Wooloowin Radio Club became one of the most respected of its period. During the seven years of its activity (1924-31) many of Brisbane's outstanding wireless experimenters became members, thus giving it that touch of distinction that has remained associated with it to the present time. The names speak for themselves. To mention a few:
 * V.F. Kenna VK4FK was appointed President WIA VK4 Div. in 1933. His impressive professional career is outlined under the section on WIA presidents.
 * P. (Pat) Kelly was also a WIA President 1932-33 and a motivating force behind the club's activities for many years.
 * L.J. (Leo) Feenaghty VK4LJ was WIA VK4 President 1931-32. One of the most influential men in early wireless experimentation, Leo was known not so much for his technical expertise but for his administrative and organizational abilities. He was editor of the WIA's first news-sheet "QTC" - which is still the Queensland Division's official newsletter fifty-five years later

(Photo Caption Start) The Wooloowin Radio Club VK4WN, 1929
 * Back Row - Chas. Stephenson, 4RG; G.M. Percival, W. Blaikie, K. Taylor, Leo, J. Feenaghty, 4LJ; E.W. Butcher, R. Connolly.
 * Second Row - Geo. H. Payne (Hon . Sec.), V.J. Bouchard (Asst. Hon. Sec.), H. Oldham, E. Twiss, Gordon Shearer, 4GA; C.J. Grant, 4JG; Hal. Stephenson, 4RG.
 * Front Row - J. W. Robinson (Vice-President), H.A. Jiear (President), James Love, Esq. (Patron), H. Kington (Past President), L.P. Love, 4JL (Hon. Treasurer).
 * Absent - W. Rhode, 4RW; Bruce Munro, 4AL; C. George, F.E. Thomas, P. Kelly, V.F. Kenna, 4FK; A.J. Thomas. (Photo Caption End)

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (7)
4FK included in list of early amateur broadcasters in the Brisbane area Listed below are stations active during the abovementioned period. Exact wavelengthss have been omitted purposely as many appeared to have used several frequencies between 200 and 250 metres. The list is incomplete and possibly records only one-half of those who had a "play around" on MW. BRISBANE AREA.
 * 4AK - J. Milner. Kelvin Grove.
 * 4CM - Dr. V. McDowall and Tom Elliott. Preston House 1920, Observatory Tower 1926-35. (Jointly used by these 2 operators, accredited with 1st Sound B/C in Queensland 1920.)
 * 4EF - Evan Fell. Ashgrove 1933. (Very active. Started with a 1-valve modulator oscillator as tx.)
 * 4EL - Eric Lake. Kangaroo Pt. (Held record for lowest above-ground B/C antenna, yet was heard in N.Z.)
 * 4FE - Arthur Burton. Fortitude Valley.
 * 4FK - Vern Kenna. Hamilton 1931.
 * 4GO - G. Oxlade. Newmarket.
 * 4GS - G. Strohfeldt. Paddington 1934.
 * 4GW - G.W. Ham. Coorparoo 1931-33.
 * 4HR - H. (Tibby) Scholz. Coorparoo 1933.
 * 4HW - H.D. Walsh. Elizabeth St., Brisbane 1926.
 * 4JN - G. Augustesen. Mitchelton 1934. (1st class station set-up.)
 * 4JU - Frank Nolan. Wharf St., City.
 * 4KH - W.S. Argaet. Wynnum. (Received reports from N.Z.)
 * 4LW - L.R. [Cec) Morris. Ashgrove. (Noted for excellent quality. Was PR Officer for WIAQ.)
 * 4MF - D.C. Winterford. Annerley 1930. [Used crystal controlled rig.)
 * 4MM - Matt O'Brien. Toowong.
 * 4NW - T.W. Starkie. Nundah 1931-33. (B/C his own heart beat - first to do this.)
 * 4PC - P.C. Chapman. Sandgate.
 * 4RB - R.J. Browne. Toowong.
 * 4RJ - Rev. R.J. Delbridge. Hamilton. [One of State's most outstanding DJs. Winner of best B/C Station 1931.)
 * 4TS - Ted Shorten. Paddington 1933.

Shawsmith - Halcyon Days (8)
4FK included in chronology of amateur radio in Queensland 1927 (sic, AOCP 1/11/1926) - V.F. Kenna OA4FK, "Marconi" to his mates, passed the AOCP exam at 18 years. He then began a career as a trainee mechanic in the PMG, later rising to be senior engineer in the radio section of PMG Headquarters in Victoria, the highest position one could attain in this field. An outstanding Queenslander.

1865 09
Qld birth registration for 4FK's father Francis Kenna
 * Qld BDM
 * Birth registration: Francis Kenna
 * Birth date: 21/09/1865
 * Mother's name: Ellen Fleming
 * Father/parent's name: Joseph Kenna
 * Registration details: 1865/C/2091

1893 12
4FK's father's poem published in "The Antipodean." "'The Antipodean.' We are in receipt of the second number of this successful exponent of literature racy of the Australian soil. The editors, Messrs. Geo. Essex Evans ('Christophus') and John Tighe Ryan, 'express their gratitude for the kindly reception accorded to the first,' and no doubt the second will be equally appreciated. The mistake of running the magazine on names instead of merit has not been adopted to the same extent in the latter number, but where adopted has proved equally unhappy, with one exception. A well executed photograph (by Falk of Sydney) of Robert Louis Stevenson constitutes the frontispiece, and a poem of his the gem of the collection. It appears below. The rest of the poetical contributions, which comprise 'The Geebnng Polo Club,' by 'The Banjo,' 'A Dream Garden,' by G. Essex Evans, 'A Wayfarer,' by Francis Kenna, and 'Widderin,' by John Farrell, contain merits of their own. 'The Banjo's' effort is good as usual, and most happily illustrated by Frank P. Mahony. 'Widderin' is a spirited rendering of the great ride in Geoffrey Hamlyn. The finest line in the poem, 'Just a leaf from the large-hearted tale of magnificent years that are done,' is thoroughly Kendallian. 'The Dream Garden' is pretty and poetical. Among the prose stories, 'Dick's Letter,' by Lilian Blair, is the most pathetic and perfect. 'Five Men's Lives for one Horse,' by Rolf Boldrewood, is too slight, and the 'Taming of Kitty Brent,' by Winifred Scott, too sensational and uninformed. The former but not the latter defect applies to Ernest Favene's 'A tale of the Western Desert,' written with all the explorer-author's force and charm. The most valuable, and not the least interesting, paper is that of Price Fletcher, 'The struggle for supremacy in the Northern Jungles,' in which the observant eye of the naturalist is in evidence. '"

1894 12
4FK's father's poem "Where the Dead Men Lie" published in the Christmas Queenslander "THE CHRISTMAS QUEENSLANDER. The Christmas number of the Queenslander, advance proofs of which have just been struck off, well maintains the standard of the last few years. The illustrations are well printed on fine glazed paper, and the stories are nearly all by well-known and favourite Australian writers. The pride of place is given to a stirring story of the South Seas, by Louis Becke, who has sprung into fame since his connection with Rolf Boldrewood's latest work, 'A Modern Buccaneer,' became known. Mr. Becke has chosen for his title 'The Beachcombers of Kuria,' and the tale contains as much wholesome sensation as could be wished for. Mr. John Arthur Barry, who has hitherto written for the Queenslander under the nom de plume of ' L. L.,' relates a mystery of the sea under the title of 'A Mid-sea Meeting,' which is quite as good as anything he has written. Other old favourites are 'Carew,' who contributes a Victorian village settlement story, 'In the Heart of the Swamp Grass,' and Mr. G. Spencer Briggs, who furnishes a remarkably well-written sketch of shepherd life. Other stories are — 'The Return of Hoté,' by 'I. W.;' 'The Captain of the Albatross,' by 'Will Weatherhelm;' 'Mrs. Pen,' by 'Australienne;' 'Peace and Goodwill,' by 'Hugh Halero;' 'My Wife's Ghost,' by James Simson; 'The Western Women's Whim,' by E. A. Daly; and 'Where the Dead Men Lie,' by Francis Kenna. A descriptive poem by 'W. M.,' illustrated by the artist, forms an effective page; while the comic element in the supplement is supplied by Mr. G. Essex Evans in 'A Bear Idea,' a poem based on a native bear and a spiritualist séance. Mr. Evans's verses are also illustrated. The pictorial section is composed wholly of local subjects. 'An Introduction' represents a little girl presenting her doll to an astonished-looking Danish boar-hound. 'Haunted ' shows an assigned convict seated on a log meditating on his sins, and his thoughts are apparently as black as his surroundings. 'So Near and Yet So Far,' contains a world of pathos — comic pathos. A calf tied to a stump is trying in vain to reach its mother, who stands with the utmost unconcorn just too far off. Another picture which shows evidence of great skill with the pen is entitled 'Envy.' The drawing explains itself; the expressions on the faces of the two dogs which are gazing jealously at the cat on their mistress's lap are indescribable. A homely picture of a stalwart bushman, bare-legged, seated in his hut mending his one pair of trousers is one of the best, and will appeal especially to those who have been in just such a predicament. Besides the special stories the body of the paper contains an unusually large instalment of the running serial novel, 'The Exile's Daughter,' by Joseph Hatton, and a number of entertaining sketches. The Christmas number of the Queenslander will be issued tomorrow afternoon."

1895 01
4FK's father to publish a volume of poetry "GENERAL NEWS. Mr. Francis Kenna, a former Mary-borough boy and State school teacher, is about to published a volume of his poetry in Brisbane."

1895 03
4FK's father's volume of poems reviewed "Books for the People. 'Songs of a Season.' We have no sympathy with those who regard poetry as a kind of literary frivolity unworthy of serious and practical minds. On the contrary we regard true poetry as the noblest of all arts, the highest form of all literature, and the most elevating influence that can be brought to bear on the minds of men. The civilising and humanising influence of the great poets — the Shakespeares, the Shelleys and the Burnses — is absolutely incalculable. Shelley spoke the language of truth when he said, 'Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of mankind.' What is poetry? The Zoroastrian definition — apparent pictures of unapparent realities — unquestionably contains a large measure of truth. Great poetry gives concrete and objective form to the less apparent but not less real facts of human experience. This is doubtless what was in Shelley's mind when in his immortal 'Defence of Poetry' he wrote: 'Poetry redeems from decay the visitations of the divinity in man.' In other words poetry is the instrument by which the most exalted moods of the most exalted minds are preserved for all time, and made the common possession of all men. As an art poetry stands midway between painting and music, and in a sense partakes of the qualities of both. Sometimes the poet paints with words just as the painter paints with colours. Sometimes he aims, like the musical composer, at the production of harmonious sounds. Sometimes he does both. The line by Burns, The pale moon is setting beyond the white wave, is an admirable example of poetical word painting. On the other hand Edgar Allan Poe's 'Raven' is an equally fine example of what may be called poetical music. The recitation of that marvellous poem is capable of producing a profound impression even on the minds of foreigners utterly ignorant of the meaning of its words. In Shelley's 'Ode to a Skylark,' perhaps the greatest lyrical poem in English literature, both poetical qualities are combined — the author at once paints a glorious picture, or rather a series of glorious pictures, and sings a glorious song. Holding as we do the most exalted opinion of the poetic art it is at once natural and inevitable that we should hail with delight the advent in Queensland of a true poet. Accordingly we cheerfully welcome the publication of 'Songs of a Season,' by Francis Kenna, of Brisbane. This modest and charming little volume contains many beautiful thoughts and emotions beautifully and musically expressed, and will be read with keenest pleasure by all who have the ear to appreciate, and the soul to enjoy, poetry of the genuine order. Never, perhaps, was a volume of poems introduced to the world in more charming and exquisite verses than the following: AN INTRODUCTION. Within my breast, encaged, I held you long, Wild, white song birds! I heard you sing, and strove to write your song In these poor words. I heard you beat your wounded breasts all night Against the bars, For you were of the things that loved the light, The sky, the stars. You were a part of me, and of the air, The sun, the sea, Shy, wild, white things, whose songs, so full of care, Were dear to me. Now where the sea's eternal wastes expand I stand, and lo! I take you one by one within my hand And let you go. It must be confessed that Mr. Kenna is exceedingly pessimistic. He appears to regard the universe as a conspicuous failure, and life as a bad investment. He seems to be as far as possible from agreeing with Browning's dictum: All's right with the world. On the contrary, he evidently thinks that the world is sadly out of joint. We have no sympathy with the wiseacres who laugh at pessimism, and who set it down either to personal disappointment or an inactive liver. Some of the greatest minds have been pessimists. Indeed no really sincere and tender soul can contemplate the miseries of the world, the joyless, loveless, hopeless lives of the vast majority of mankind, without having moments of pessimism — moments when Death appears lovelier than Life, and when he longs to take his place in the silent chambers of annihilation. There is a core of tragedy in the heart of things, disguise as we will, and all true art must reveal it. The greatest poetry and the greatest music fills the heart with A feeling of sadness and longing That is not akin to pain, And resembles sorrow only As the mist resembles the rain. Mr. Kenna's poetry is sad, but it is none the less sweet, and no one can read his tender verses without realising the profound truth of Shelley's words — Our sweetest songs are those that tell of saddest thought. There is something in the following verses which reminds one of the sad and tender song of Heine: A DAY DREAM. When sunset hills are all aglow With tender tints devine, Her face is near me then, I know, Her hands are clasped in mine. And all the glow of sunlit seas, The warmth of ardent skies, Are cold beside the sympathies That light her wondrous eyes. A soothing peace her presence gives, A radiant, tranquil rest; She knows the deep turmoil that lives Within my troubled breast. She knows the wounds that bleed and smart Her touch, her kiss, is balm. She whispers: 'O, thou restless heart, Be calm awhile, be calm.' She soothes my brow; her gentle palms Are soft upon my hair; O, then I stretch my wistful arms — And gather empty air. From those beautiful verses we gather that Mr. Kenna is a bachelor. We regret this, and sincerely hope that his beautiful dream may soon become an equally beautiful reality."

As previous "Reviewer. A New Queensland Poet. 'Songs of a Season,' by Francis Kenna, published by Messrs. Melville, Mullin, and Slade, Melbourne, has a double claim to welcome, first because of its undoubted merit and further as the work of a fellow-citizen of Brisbane. The little volume contains in its fifty-two pages three-and-thirty poems, every one of which has something of poetic taste and feeling, and is constructed with due regard to rhyme and rhythm, whilst two of their number, the introductory verses and those entitled 'A Day Dream,' are worthy of higher praise. The stanzas in memory of a brother telegraph-operator are otherwise so good that the use of the cockney rhyme 'warning . . . dawning' which disfigures the second verse is particularly to be regretted. In the first mentioned of the poems referred to the author likens his poetic fancies to 'wild white song birds.' Within my breast, encaged, I held you long, he says, Yon were a part of me and of the air, The sun, the sea, Shy, wild, white things whose songs, so full of care, Were dear to me. Now where the sea's eternal wastes expand I stand, and lo! I take you one by one within my hand, And let you go. The second we have named we quote in full as the sorest means we know of to make our our readers wish to have Mr. Kenna book:— 'A DAY DREAM.' When sunset halls are all aglow With tender tints divine, Her face is near me then, I know, Her hands are clasped in mine. And all the glow of sunlit seas, The warmth of ardent skies, Are cold beside the sympathies That light her wondrous eyes. A soothing peace her presence gives, A radiant, tranquil rest, She knows the deep turmoil that lives Within my troubled breast. She knows the wounds that bleed and smart, Her touch, her kiss, is balm, She whispers: 'O, thou restless heart, Be calm awhile, be calm.' She soothes my brow, her gentle palms Are soft upon my hair; O, then I stretch my wistful arms, And gather empty air."

1895 12
4FK's father's poem again published in the Christmas Queenslander "'QUEENSLANDER' CHRISTMAS NUMBER. The Christmas number of the 'Queenslander' was issued yesterday, and has, the publisher reports, had an unprecedented sale, the coloured supplement being an unusual attraction. As no extra supplements can be procured when the present issue is exhausted, persons who desire to get copies should take the earliest opportunity of purchasing. Among the special literary matter in the Christmas number are stories by Ernest Favenc, Louis Becke, John Arthur Barry (who formerly wrote under the initials 'L. L.'), 'Alick Flax,' 'Bryan O'Lynn,' Mrs. Foott, and other favourite Australian writers. Mr. William Main, whose poetry, contributed over the initials 'W. M.,' has become familiar to readers of the 'Queenslander,' Mr. Francis Kenna, Mr. Frank Daly, and Mrs. Foott, are responsible for the various poems that are scattered through the supplement. The coloured picture, 'Widowed,' is from the brush of Mr. J. E. Ward, of Brisbane; and Mr. J. Cecil Gasking, the staff artist, has brightened the Illustrated pages of the paper with some excellent examples of the work of his facile pen. Those who intend to send copies oversea should remember that the postage on newspapers is now regulated by weight, and, as the 'Queenslander' this week is larger than usual by sixteen pages and a coloured supplement, a 3d. stamp is necessary to carry it to England and foreign countries. Newspapers insufficiently stamped are not forwarded to their destination, but are impounded by the Post Office and sold as waste paper or destroyed. The postage within Queensland or to any part of the Australasian colonies is also a little higher than usual — 1d. — owing to the paper being slightly over the regulation weight of 10oz."

1898 05
A poem by 4FK's father published in the Bulletin drawing upon his time as a Post Office telegraphist '''Bards of the Backblocks. (For The Bulletin). The Song of the Linemen.''' O, it’s out in the West, on the plains so wide, That a man is an ant on the farther side, Where the winds are hot, and the earth is dry, And the sunset flames in a blood-red sky; Where there’s never a soul on the way to be met, And there’s drought and hunger and cold and wet From end to end of the country-side— That’s where the telegraph linemen ride. O, it’s up and away while the sun’s abed, There’s a cross or a break in the lines ahead; There’s a fault to find, or a leak to mend, There’s a mate to be met at the other end; There are floods to brave, and there’s horses to drown When they pass the word that the lines are down. O, it’s up in the heart of the desolate North, Where the tyrant Sun goes fiercely forth, Where the cyclone whistles in fiendish glee, And the floods come down like a mighty sea. In the thick scrub-ways, where the lawyer clings, In the dark and the damp, where the tangle springs, Where the wild blacks lurk and the saurians hide— That’s where the Telegraph linemen ride. O, it’s up and away while the Sun’s abed, There’s a cross or a break in the lines ahead, There’s a fault to find, or a leak to mend, There’s a mate to meet at the other end; There are floods to brave, and there’s horses to drown, When they pass the word that the lines are down. That’s where the telegraph linemen go From early morn till the sun is low, Thro’ the scrubs and gullies, the hills among, With the clinking tools in their saddles hung, Under the wires when the great gaunt poles Sing the sorrows of saddened souls— Of men who strayed from the tracks and died— That’s where the telegraph linemen ride. O it’s up and away while the sun’s a-bed, There’s a cross or a break in the lines ahead, There’s a fault to find, or a leak to mend, There’s a mate to be met at the other end; There are floods to brave, and there’s horses to drown, When they pass the word that the lines are down. Q. FRANCIS KENNA.

1899 06
4FK's father's probationary appointment as editor The Worker and a stirring editorial "The 'Worker.' EDITORIAL MILL. The 'Worker' Editorship. The Board of Trustees have to announce their unanimous acceptance of the application of Mr. Francis Kenna, of Brisbane, for the position of Editor of the Worker. The appointment has been made in accordance with the rules of the Queensland Provincial Council A.L.F. Mr. Kenna, whose name is well-known in the columns of the Sydney Bulletin, has for the past fourteen years been connected with the Queensland Civil Service, from which he now retires to take up the duties and responsibilities of editor of this journal. He was a frequent contributor to the Boomerang in its day, and to the Worker downwards, from its second issue. In addition to high testimonials from all past Worker editors, Mr. Kenna holds excellent recommendations from most of the leading literary men of Australia, and his published writings have received flattering notices all over this continent and as far as London and Edinburgh. He is intimately known to some members of the Board, who unhesitatingly vouch for his sympathy with and interest in the success of the Labour Movement generally. Being a native-born Queenslander he is thoroughly conversant with the history of local politics. The literary management of the paper is now under Mr. Kenna's control, and with this formal introduction we leave him to speak for himself. On behalf of the Worker Board. Albert Hinchcliffe, Secretary A.L.F. I am introduced to the readers of the Worker today for the first time by name. My real introduction, however, began many years ago when the Worker was an infant in its swaddling clothes. I think it was after the appearance of the first number that, walking home together one night, William Lane said to me: 'You might do us something, in a friendly way, just to help the paper along.' And through Lane's time, Blackwell's, and Higgs' from that day downwards I have striven to do something in a friendly way through the Worker for the movement. In its swaddling clothes days the Worker was a monthly sheet issued from a shop up in Wharf-street by Lane and a comp. In Parliament there was a Labour Party of perhaps one. The federation of the unions had scarcely begun. The Labour Movement in Queensland lay dreaming in its sleep. But the silver streaks of dawn were in the sky. I have seen the Labour Party increase from one to twentyone in the intervening years. I have watched and I hope, in a small measure, helped the Worker to become the power that it is in the land today. I have seen the Union movement spread from end to end of Queensland, and its amalgamations and federations mature from thought to action, until finally its hand of Federation is about to be clasped I hope by all Australia. I have followed it through every phase of its development — through its great struggles and defeats, its triumphs and its sorrows, with sympathy and with interest. And now, at this important stage of its development, when I am called upon to emerge from my past enforced anonymity, and to take up a responsible place in the great fight that is being waged, I do so with a strong sense of my own deficiencies. In undertaking the control of the Worker I am conscious of the extent of the great trust and of the high responsibilities that will repose in me. For, as I take it, the Worker is the sentinel here at the sources of political power to thousands of unionists far and wide. Its voice must reach to them telling them how the fight wages from day to day. It must voice their wrongs with no uncertain voice in the ears of the people of Queensland. It must watch over and protect the interests of the wage-earners generally, openly and fearlessly, what time its own shoulders must be kept to the wheel, helping at every point, with all its strength, the march of the Army of the People onwards towards Social reform, and political and economic freedom. To me the Worker and the Labour Party are but the outward manifestations of the triumphs of the industrial organisations of Labour. Without Unionism neither would have been possible; without Unionism neither could hope to go far. Unionism is like a furnace in which the coal of Labour gives out the energy which drives the great ocean liner of Democracy, with all its passengers and crew, and all its appointments, steadily forward through the opposing waters towards its port of destination. Unionism, moreover, represents the protest of Labour against the reckless exploitation to which it would otherwise be subjected — the protest of men conscious of their inherent rights against the inhumanity of man-made conditions. It is, as it were, the clenched hand of Labour lifted against the aggressor — the 'thus far shalt thou go but no further.' Here in Queensland, however, it has been much misrepresented and reviled. It has been branded as anarchical and revolutionary, while all the time the cry of arbitration and conciliation has been upon its lips, and the aspiration for industrial peace in its heart. It has had its mistakes, being but human, but the good that it has achieved, industrially and socially, has far and away counter-balanced them. It has been of the greatest benefit not only to the workers but to the employers also. Its rate of wages has greatly prevented undercutting and underselling and at the same time ensured the freest and most efficient services in return for the living wage it has ever striven to maintain. It has taught the employers that in dealing with the Union they are dealing with an organised body of workmen — the aristocracy of toil — instead of a promiscuous rabble. Socially, the unions have also been educational centres in which the minds of men have been lifted out of narrow local grooves and new interests added to their lives. Unionism has taught the workers to look from revolutionary to peaceful measures in the rectification of their wrongs. It has preached the gospel of arbitration and taught men to interest themselves in government and the making of laws. It has broken down the barriers of ignorance and exclusion, and by broadening the thoughts and feelings of the people, it has inculcated the principles of the fellowship of man, and the unity of economic truths. For Truth is one; And in all lands beneath the sun, Whoso hath eyes to see, may see The tokens of its unity. Still for all that Unionism has achieved its mission is far from being accomplished. While men may live in idleness upon the labour of their fellow men, and while competition and the domination of any particular class exists, as it does in the present phase of economical development, Unionism as a defensive power industrially can never afford to relax its vigilance or remit one iota of its power. But while its attitude industrially is a purely defensive one, it must look to-wards wider and ever-widening federations abroad, and towards political aggression at home, in order to achieve other than merely temporary advantages. It must continue to be a propagandist movement, whose underlying truths are in accord with the teachings of the sciences of political economy and social evolution. It must still continue to gather devoted soldiers around its standards until the urgent political needs of the wage-earners are redressed and their reforms are em-bodied as living and vital principles in the laws of the land. And even when all this has been achieved the mission of Unionism will still remain unaccomplished. It will then have reached but the gateways through which long wide avenues of escape from the thraldom of wage slavery will open out. I do not believe anyone can forecast accurately the exact date of the advent of any particular stage in social evolution. The science of social evolution concerns itself with facts and tendencies. And looking to the facts with which we are acquainted, and weighing carefully the tendencies, it seems to me that we are already on the threshold of very tangible victories. That very denial of all popular reform on the part of the class governments that have succeeded each other here in Queensland has defeated its own object, inasmuch as it has still further fomented the agitation on the part of the people towards the accomplishment of their reforms. There was a time when a crust or a slice of the loaf might have stayed our hunger and satisfied us temporarily. It is not so now. The domination of the Continuous Class Governments is already tottering, and the advent of just and popular legislation will not brook much longer the old shuffling, the old denial, the old delay. The day when Queensland shall become, instead of an exploiting ground for rampant profit mongers, a country caring more for the welfare of its people than for that of any small section of it, seems to me, not very far distant. For the present, let me add that it is often said by our opponents that the Democracy is a hard taskmaster to serve — that it is suspicious, exacting, callous, and unrelenting. It appears to me that its exaction arises out of its very earnestness. It has been as often the spoil of politicians and of those who have used it, or would use it, and its aspirations, for the accomplishment of their own personal ambitions or their own purposes that its suspicions, if they should exist, are not without reason, right, or justification. The Labour Movement moves in its development towards its destiny in accord with inherent and inviolable economic laws. Its principles are based upon these. And when any of those to whom it delegates its authority, either wantonly or otherwise puts himself in opposition to these principles, his fate, be he ever so strong, is at once sealed. For then it becomes immediately a matter of the welfare of the many against the interests of the individual. .And the result has always been both fatal and inevitable to that individual, whoever he may happen to be. Francis Kenna."

1899 09
4FK's father's probationary period at the Worker concludes "Trustees' Announcement. In accordance with clause 2 — 'Journal of the Federation' — A.L.F. code, the Board of Trustees beg to notify that the three months' probationary period of Mr. FRANCIS KENNA'S Editorship of the Worker having now expired, it remains for the affiliated Unions to say whether his appointment permanently shall be confirmed. Secretaries will please be good enough to communicate to me the decision of their respective Unions as soon as possible. For the Board of Trustees, Albert Hinchcliffe, Business Manager, Worker. Brisbane, Sept. 11, 1899."

1901 07
4FK's father attends the eighth session of the Queensland Provincial Council of the A.l>F. "Queensland Provincial Council, A.L.F. Eighth Session. The Eighth Session of the above Council opened at the Trades Hall, Brisbane, on Thursday morning, June 27, and continued its sittings until Saturday, 29th, 1901. Mr. Wm. Kewley (President) in the chair. Credentials were presented and accepted from the following affiliations: Charleville Branch A.W.U., D. Bowman, M.L.A.; Hughenden Branch A.W.U., Chas. McDonald, M.P.; Longreach Branch A.W.U., W. Kewley; Operative Boot Trade Union, Wm. Strickland; Progressive Society Carpenters and Joiners, J. Izatt. Mr. F. Kenna, Editor of the Worker, C. Seymour, Treasurer, and A. Hinchcliffe, Secretary, exofficio members of the Council were also present. The A.W.U. at Mackay, A.W.U. at Charters Towers, and the Miners' Association at Croydon were unrepresented. . . . Secretary's Report. To the Members of the Queensland Provincial Council, A.L.F. Gentlemen,— I beg to present for your consideration my usual report together with the audited balance-sheets of the A.L.F. and Worker. . . . The Journal of the Federation, it is satisfactory to intimate, continues to exert a widespread influence in political matters, and is undoubtedly one of the chief factors which is keeping together and solidifying Labour's forces in this State. Its existence explains to a great extent why the Queensland Labour vote figured so conspicuously over that given in any other State of the Union during the recent Federal elections. A change has taken place in the Editorial control since the last Session. After his election to the State Parliament in 1899 Mr. Higgs tendered his resignation. Some three months elapsed before the vacancy thus created was filled, the duties of Editor in the meantime being carried out by Mr. C. Seymour. Applications were invited by advertisement and in accordance with rule the position was offered to Mr. Francis Kenna with the unanimous consent of the Trustees. At the expiration of the probationary period Mr. Kenna's appointment was referred to the affiliations and confirmation secured."

1901 08
4FK's father gives a speech on Militarism vs Defence against conscription "MILITARISM VERSUS DEFENCE. The Social Democratic Vanguard held a public meeting on Tuesday evening, at their rooms, in Queen-street, to hear an address by Mr. Francis Kenna on the subject of 'Militarism.' The speaker treated the question mainly from the Federal Defence Bill aspect. At the conclusion several persons spoke upon the matter, and finally the following resolutions were carried without one dissentient:— 1. 'That, in the opinion of this meeting, the best and truest interests of the Commonwealth of Australia will be conserved by the pursuance of a legislative policy based upon absolutely peaceful and non-aggressive lines.' 2. 'That the establishment of any permanent military administrative body in Australia is both unnecessary and uncalled for.' 3. 'That the members of the Federal Labour party be and are hereby specially asked to use the whole of their energy and influence to so amend the Federal Defence Bill in Committee that military conscriptive features of it shall be made distinctly subservient to the will of the people, as expressed on the matter through the medium of the referendum.'"

1902 01
4FK's father's fiery and heartfelt editorial upon his resignation as editor of the Worker "The 'Worker.' EDITORIAL MILL. Straight Ahead. 'Let us give over this Labour-or-nothing idea. Let us broaden out and include in our ranks everyone and everybody likely to help us in downing this Government. It is the exclusiveness of the Labour party that is keeping the present rotten administration in power.' This is the usual sort of whine that emanates from weak-kneed Labourists. The cry for something definite, something tangible, something of material benefit to themselves out of politics directly. This sort of thing has got to be faced and answered. And the very first answer is this: That the man who wants to get something out of the Labour movement himself for his services is no chop as a Labour man anyway. Not that we don't all want to get something out of it; not that we don't all long to see better condi-tions of life all round that the Labour movement aims at achieving; but if that something is to be got by subordinating principle to expediency, or by letting go the substance to grasp at the shadow, it will be bought at a very dear price indeed. What has to be recognised is this: That the Labour Party is not a spoils-to-the-victor party, but a direct protest against it. It is the sworn foe of the old idea of government by rich men, based upon the belief that the capitalist cannot be benefited by the Government without the community being benefited, and that the only way to benefit the people is to benefit the capitalists. After many years of trial this system has turned out a failure. The large mass of the people are today in the same precarious position as they were at the beginning. And a hundred years hence, if Government by richmen, on the lines of help yourself and your class to the political spoils, is allowed to continue, the lot of the big bulk of the people will be no better; nay, it will be worse than it is. The Labour movement is a direct negation of such dishonest and fallacious political methods. It denies that it is necessary to divorce politics and honesty or honour from each other. It denies the right of the capitalist class to a monopoly of Parliament House and the legislation emanating therefrom. It claims that Parliament should deal directly and impartially with the people of all classes, and that the interests of the minority should not be allowed to weigh against the welfare of the majority. This is the new principle of Government that the Labour movement ushers in; a principle founded upon the researches of great minds, based upon truly scientific grounds, and productive of the very best results already in those countries whose people have been quick enough to grasp, and intelligent enough to comprehend and apply it. Labour principles and the principles of the rich-man methods of Government are, therefore, directly antagonistic. They can no more be blended than water and oil. Labour principles can no more com-promise with the old idea than a young and vigorous plant can be engrafted on to an old and decaying trunk. The Labour movement is the crusade of a new political religion against an old, wornout form of political worship. It is the doctrine of Humanity against the doctrines of Mammon. It claims that the old order has served its phase, and, like everything else in the world, is passing. It claims that the old system has been based on a fallacy, and although fallacies often last long in this world and die hard they thrive only on the ignorance of the people, and they survive only until such time as the people become intelligent enough to find them out. The Labour movement claims to be based on great underlying truths, and everything that is true in this world in the long run is bound to prevail against error. Just how soon a truth will predominate over a fallacy will always depend on how uncompromisingly and how unflinchingly such truth is preached. To compromise with what we know to be false and erroneous would therefore be a wrong, and as certain to be fruitful of evil consequences as is the sacrifice of any principle for the sake of any expedient. The interests and the welfare of all must not be made subservient to any temporary and selfish gain to ourselves. We do not look to ourselves alone, but for those who will come after us as well. We Labour people have the right to try and make this State and this Continent as wholesome a place for ourselves and our children to live in as it is possible for our most strenuous and earnest efforts to make it. It is our duty to strive with all the means in our power to preserve untainted the principles which we believe will lead to this happy state of affairs, and of which we are after all but the custodians. What is best for all the people all the time, and not what is best for a few of the people a part of the time, is the guiding star to keep in view. We are like travellers desiring to reach the end of a journey. On each side of the way there are will o'-the-wisps leading but to quagmires, traitorous plottings and plannings, mocking cries of agony, selfish appeals for help — none of these must deter us. We must not pause to listen to them; we must harden our hearts against them; we must not look behind. A grave responsibility rests upon us. The road is hard, we know not how long it is — maybe a few miles, maybe many; there are brambles that tear the flesh till it bleeds, there are stones that cut the feet to the bones, but the men in the van must push steadily along undeterred. There is only one way to the journey's end — and that is the straight way — straight ahead — right straight ahead all the time. We must not be too impatient. We cannot alter things in a day, but we are altering them every day. Every new member added to a trade union, every new addition to a Labour organisation, every fresh Labour vote dropped in a ballot box, every new Labour member added to the Parliamentary Labour Party, is an indication of a steady progress towards a better state of things. The truths we are preaching spread slowly in the form of ideas, later these ideas transform themselves into actions, and actions in turn manifest themselves ultimately in Parliament. There is always this in a truth, that when once a man grasps it he cannot rest till he communicates it to others, and so it spreads. That is the reason why no power in this world has ever been strong enough to successfully cope with a truth when once it has got fairly started. That is why we may laugh to scorn the malice of the false teachers, and the poor feeble attempts of the heathen to barricade himself in the temple of Error. What are all the anti-Labour efforts of these Governments of ours but testimonies to the strength of the encroachments of the Labour forces upon the old strongholds of Mammon and the Financier? Of a verity they are hard pressed; our cannon is making breaches every day in their walls; they are falling — they must fall! Don't let there be any fear about it, the game is up. We are certain to win. I want these to be taken as my farewell words to the readers of the Worker. I have been selected to contest the Bowen electorate in the Labour interest, and have placed my resignation in the hands of the Trustees. For the last two and a-half years I have been privileged to speak to the workers of Queensland, and to a large number of workers outside of Queensland, through these columns from week to week. During that time I have made many enemies, I know. In a movement like the Labour Movement, and in a position such as the Worker editor occupies, it is inevitable that any man who tries to do his duty honestly and fearlessly, must incur much malignity and misrepresentation. But the friendship and the trust of honest hearted souls more than compensate him. I am glad to think I have made many friends during my term of office — men and women whose friendship I value. I have tried to be fair. I have given the Worker the best that was in me — for the Movement's sake — for the sake of the high hopes and honest hearts that have built it up, and that are zealously at work behind it. And now, when the time comes for me to lay down my pen, I cannot help feeling a sense of sorrow that the old relationship between me as editor of the Worker and its many readers, to thousands of whom I have been no more than a voice, will be henceforth broken. Farewell. Francis Kenna."

1902 03
4FK's father nominates for the State Bowen electorate for Labour "THE GENERAL ELECTION. YESTERDAY'S NOMINATIONS. The following nominations were received yesterday:— . . . BOWEN. John Thomas Annear (Ministerialist). Alexander Barbour Heron (Independent Oppositionist). Francis Kenna (Labour)."

Comment on 4FK's father's election win "ELECTION ECHOES. . . . Jack Annear promised railways, a new jetty, and other political 'carrots' to the Bowenites during the contest for that seat, but all to no purpose. The Bowenites are full up of Government pie-crust promises, and would have none of the J. T. Annear brand of politicians. They preferred a straight Labour man, and therefore put Francis Kenna at the top of the poll with a swinging majority."

1902 07
4FK's father takes his place in the Legislative Assembly "CHANGES IN THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY. In the Legislative Assembly yesterday, when members had assembled, it was noticeable that many old familiar faces were absent. Death, and retirement from the fighting section of politicians, and the will of the electors had combined to bring this circumstance about. Taking the names alphabetically we find Mr. Blair, an able young barrister, who defeated Mr. A. J. Stephenson for Ipswich, and then Mr. Cooper, instead of Mr. Chas. Fitzgerald, for the Mitchell, the seat having been won for the Government by the bright young grazing farmer, who succeeded in ousting the Labour representative. Next was Mr. Cowap, who succeeds Mr. A. J. Callan for Fitzroy, the latter declining a contest, and being later on transferred to the more placid realms of the Legislative Council. Mr. Grimes, who was one of the oldest members of the Assembly, has been removed by death, and his sturdy form was one of those most missed. Mr. Digby Denham, who is new to politics, was present to represent Oxley, coming in with a big majority. Dr. Henry Croker Garde is another new member, he having, on the lamented death of Mr. Barton, M.A., won a Maryborough seat back for the Government; but Mr. J. T. Annear and Mr. J. Bartholomew are missed by old friends. Mr. K. M. Grant, one of the new Labour members, was successful in ousting Mr. Curtis from Rockhampton, and Mr. Hawthorn, of Enoggera, is seen instead of the former member, Mr. M. Reid. Another member much to be missed is Mr. Denis Keogh, but in his place Rosewood sends Mr. R. S. Hodge, who promises to be an energetic member. The tall, commanding figure of Mr. Smith, of Bowen, is no longer to be seen in the Assembly, and in his place is Mr. Francis Kenna. .."

1903 07
4FK's father in State Parliament "SUMMARY OF NEWS. In the Legislative Council yesterday, it was decided that the House should meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for the present. A number of committees were appointed. Notice to pass an Appropriation Bill through all its stages on Tuesday was given. The debate on the Address-in-reply was continued by Mr. Barlow and Mr. Thynne, and adjourned. The House rose at 4.50. In the Legislative Assembly yesterday, the Attorney-General gave notice of intention to take the necessary steps for the introduction of a Workmen's Compensation Bill. Mr. W. H. Browne resumed the debate upon the Address-in-reply to the Speech of his Excellency the Governor, and moved an amendment to the effect that the Government did not possess the confidence of the country. The Premier having replied, the debate was continued by Messrs. Kidston and Forsyth. Mr. Kenna moved the adjournment of the debate, and the House rose at 10.45 p.m."

1904 03
4FK's father provides an opinion piece in the Worker as a former editor "Past Editors. Messages to Their Old 'Worker' Readers. . . . (Start Photo Caption) Francis Kenna. (June 10, 1899, to Jan. 18, 1902.) (End Photo Caption) In the face of the gratifying progress the Movement is making here in Queensland the part that the Worker has played in it should not be forgotten. The Worker is and has been a prime factor in that vigorous economic and political evolution which already characterises this State. It has been the leading educative force, and it is the educative forces that count in the long run. The Labour Movement isn't centred in the Labour party, nor in the Labour press, nor in the unions, nor in the political organisations. It proceeds primarily from the minds and hearts of the people, and Labour institutions and Organisations are, after all, but outward manifestations of an inward conviction. The inward conviction that the Labour Movement implies is that individual effort, having for its goal individual aggrandisement, is economically and ethically wrong, while individual effort in the direction of collective wellbeing is economically and ethically right. The Labour Movement pins its faith, not in State aid, but in State organisation. While Mr. Chamberlain and his Imperialists are calling upon British speaking people to 'think Imperially,' the Labour Movement all over the world is teaching people to 'think collectively.' Francis Kenna."

1904 04
4FK's father commences divorce proceedings against his first wife "Writ for Divorce. Kenna v. Kenna and Another. A writ has been issued for the dissolution of the marriage of Francis Kenna (member for Bowen) and Ruby Mary Kenna, his wife, H. Gardiner being named as codefendant. No damages are claimed. We understand it is only about eight months since Mr. Kenna entered the ranks of the benedicts."

1904 07
Difficult details of events leading up to 4FK's father's divorce action "Divorce Action. Kenna v. Kenna. Stranded Dramatic Company. The hearing of the action in which Francis Kenna, M.L.A., sues for a dissolution of his marriage with Ruby Mary Kenna on the grounds of her adultery, was continued yesterday afternoon, before Mr. Justice Real. Mr. Feez, with him Mr. McLeod (instructed by Messrs. Ruthning and Jensen), appeared for the applicant. There was no appearance on behalf of the defendant. His Honour said that his difficulty in this case would be to satisfy himself that the defendant had not signed the confession merely for the purpose of obtaining the divorce. Magnus Jensen, M.L.C., of the firm of Messrs. Ruthning and Jensen, solicitors for the plaintiff, said that the defendant stayed in his house from 17th August to 31st August last year. He was one of the witnesses of the marriage, which took place at the registry, Brisbane. On 21st April last he was at the office of J. W. S. Lucas, solicitor, Sydney, where he saw the defendant. When notice of the petition was handed to her she said, ' Of course I do not intend to defend this action.' He also saw a law clerk hand to the man who had been joined as codefendant an office copy of the petition. The man was trembling like a leaf, and he began to read the writ, evidently to hide his agitation. Francis Kenna, M.L.A. for Bowen, the plaintiff, said that he was a journalist. He was married to the defendant on 31st August, 1903. He first met his wife at the Queensland Club Hotel about 17th August. He was staying there at the time. A dramatic company, of which his wife was a member, also stayed there, but his wife stayed at another hotel. He had only a nodding acquaintance with her. Later he learnt that the company was stranded. The girl saw him at the hotel and told him her circumstances. She said that she had entered the company unknown to her parents; that she had left Adelaide ostensibly to visit friends in Sydney, and that she had then joined the company and had come with them to Brisbane. The company had made a fiasco. She was penniless, and had no friends in Brisbane, and that the landlord of the hotel had threatened to tum her out. He said that he was sorry to see such a superior girl in such a company. He told her to have no fear, that he would see the landlord and guarantee her board, and further that he would see some friends, and find whether they could not provide her with a home until she could go to her parents in Adelaide, which she said would be in a fortnight's time. That morning he went to a hotel, whither the girl had gone, and guaranteed her board. He then saw Mr. Jensen one of his oldest friends, explained the circumstances, told him he thought she was a girl of superior class, and asked him if he could extend his hospitality to her. He readily consented, and next morning he took her to Mr. Jensen's house at Wynnum, where she remained till they were married about a fortnight afterwards. He had no reason to suspect that she was other than a reasonably good girl. There had been no misconduct between them. They were married about 3.30 p.m., and she left Brisbane about 4 p.m. by steamer. The breakup of the company was well known, and there was a lot of talk about him and the girl, and he thought that he had compromised the girl and his friends too, because a wrong construction had been put upon his action. He wanted her to go home as engaged to him, but at her earnest wish they were married. It was partly to make the talk subside, and partly at her earnest wish that he consented. He would have preferred her to remain. She was a handsome girl and very attractive. She had a stubborn temper, and was somewhat lacking in moral sense. He received letters from Sydney. She was staying at the Hotel Australia, although he had told her not to go ashore, because he did not want her to meet any members of the company. The letters were written in affectionate terms. His wife went home, and about six weeks after she asked him to allow her to come back. He allowed her to do so, and went to Sydney to meet her. She broke the journey at Melbourne, much to his astonishment, and when he met her on the boat she left him for about ten minutes to talk to other passengers. He thought that also was strange. They went up to the Blue Mountains the same afternoon. Her conduct was such as to lead him and others to believe that she had no affection for him. They returned to Sydney at the end of six days. Her conduct became worse. She was querulous and fault finding, and seemed to desire a quarrel. She said that she would not come to Brisbane, as it was too hot. She told him that she would secure a room and remain in Sydney. As an alternative she suggested that he should pay her passage home to her mother. He agreed to this, and she left Sydney for West Australia. He came back to Brisbane, arriving here on a Monday night, and on the following morning he wired to her at Melbourne, saying that he would be glad if she would come to Brisbane. She, however, went on. He arranged her return to Brisbane, and eventually, on November 26, he met her in Sydney. She persisted in her querulous conduct, and again announced her intention of not returning to Brisbane. He determined to be very patient with her. She made herself as nasty as a woman could be. She boasted of the money she had lost and won at cards coming over on the steamer. She came to Brisbane with plaintiff by train, but she harped all the time about returning to Sydney. They stayed at a house in Brisbane for about three days. The only way he could describe her conduct there was that she was a wife on strike. She adopted a negative policy, refusing to do anything he asked, and threatening to go into a bar and drag his name into the mire. Fearing that she would put her threat into execution, he allowed her to go back to Sydney. Knowing by this time that she was untruthful, he asked her to state in writing that she left Brisbane against his wishes. She wrote that, and throw it at him. She then went to Sydney, and he went north. After a time he went to Sydney, and found her in a house at Darlinghurst. She came out and said, 'Well, what do you want?' He said, 'I thought you wanted to see me.' She said, 'I am not going back to Brisbane. You are not keeping me, and I have an appointment with a gentleman at ten minutes to 8.' He asked her three times whether she was determined not to go back to Brisbane. She said, ' Yes.' He asked whether she was determined to keep the appointment rather than come with him, and she said, 'Yes.' She refused to tell him where she was staying. He said that he could easily find out, and she said, 'Don't you send any detectives there.' On the following Monday night he and his brothers saw her come out of a house in Palmer street, and afterwards return with the man who had been joined as codefendant. They came out afterwards. She had her head on the man's shoulder. He also saw them go to and leave the house on other occasions. He went to Adelaide and reported his wife's conduct to her parents, and then he came back to Brisbane. He afterwards received a wire from his wife, and he went to Sydney, arriving there on 22nd February. She then told him that he could go for a divorce if he liked, for he could get plenty of evidence. She told him that the only man she had ever loved would soon be with her again, and that he would marry her. She admitted that she had been turned away from one house because she had kept this man there after 11 o'clock at night. She also admitted that she had 'gone wrong' before the plaintiff married her. He tried to persuade her to leave Sydney and go home to her people. She refused to go, and said, 'You had better go for a divorce.' He said, 'Do you admit that you have committed adultery.' She said, ' Yes,' and agreed to put the admission in writing. His Honour said that the document was most extraordinary. It had written on it, 'signed, Ruby Mary Kenna.' Plaintiff, continuing his evidence, said that he gave his wife no assistance in writing this admission. He never saw her again after that. The confession was in her handwriting. By his Honour: The man with whom his wife admitted having committed adultery was a single man. In answer to his honour, Mr. Feez said that the domicile of the wife followed that of the husband. His Honour said that he found that the defendant had committed adultery, but there had been the very narrowest evidence. He would not grant a divorce on a mere statement, though in this case he believed every word the plaintiff said. He adjourned the granting of a decree until Friday, in order that he might have authorities on the question of the wife's domicile. This, he said, was too serious a matter to decide offhand."

Points of law argued in the divorce case of 4FK's father "Divorce Case. Question of Domicile. Rule Nisi Granted. In the Supreme Court on Friday his honour Mr. Justice Real heard arguments in the divorce case of Kenna v. Kenna. Mr. Feez, with him Mr. McLeod (instructed by Messrs. Ruthning and Jensen), appeared for the plaintiff, Francis Kenna, M.L.A. The case had been adjourned in order that authorities might be cited as to the domicile of the wife. There was no appearance for the respondent. Mr. Feez remarked that it was a question of domicile. His Honour said it seemed to him to be in the first instance a question of the jurisdiction of the court in relation to the service of the writ. He was bound to obey the law of Queensland in this matter. Mr. Feez contended that the Queensland court had the same jurisdiction as the English court. His Honour said service and domicile were two different matters. Mr. Feez: The contract was made in Queensland. His Honour: But the cause of action did not arise in Queensland. Mr. Feez said this was the only court in which the plaintiff could sue. He cited the case of Bolt v. Bolt, of Maryborough, in which the same point had been decided, especially as to domicile. His Honour: That is all right, but what about the service? Mr. Feez submitted that the Federal Act, re service and execution of process, section 4, covered the question as to service, for it said that a writ or summons might be served in any part of the Commonwealth the same as in the State in which it was issued. His Honour said that nevertheless it was the point on which the corespondent had been discharged from the action. Mr. Feez said his contention was further fortified by section 11 of the same Act ; and here he tendered the rule granted for leave to proceed, he also quoted the case of Armitage v. Armitage, in support of his argument. His Honour expressed himself as satisfied as to the service of the writ. Mr. Feez then addressed himself to the question of the domicile of the wife, arguing and producing authorities to the effect that the domicile of a husband constituted the domicile of the wife. His Honour: It is so when a husband is seeking relief, but the international law on the subject is peculiar. In this case there is a strong point in the fact that the marriage never was consummated. Mr. Feez: At all events the domicile of a married woman is the domicile of her husband. His Honour said that having been satisfied about the service of the writ, and on the point of domicile, he granted a rule nisi returnable in three months."

1904 11
Decree absolute granted in 4FK's father's divorce of his first wife "KENNA v KENNA. In the Supreme Court to-day Mr. Justice Real made the judgement absolute in the divorce suit brought by Francis Kenna, M.L.A., against his wife, Ruby Kenna on the ground of adultery."

1905
4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1905 Brisbane North Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1905
 * Subdistrict: Brisbane North
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Brisbane
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry: 3224, Kenna, Francis, 21 Makerston St, M.L.A., male

1907 07
Qld marriage registration for 4FK's parents
 * Qld BDM
 * Marriage registration: Francis Kenna
 * Marriage date: 16/07/1907
 * Spouse's name: Edith Elvira Stamp
 * Registration details: 1907/B/5732

1908
4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1908 Brisbane North Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1908
 * Subdistrict: Brisbane North
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Brisbane
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry: 3310, Kenna, Francis, 21 Makerston St, M.L.A., male

1908 05
Qld birth registration for 4FK
 * Qld BDM
 * Birth registration: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Birth date: 06/05/1908
 * Mother's name: Edith Elvira Stamp
 * Father/parent's name: Francis Kenna
 * Registration details: 1908/B/17168

Reference to 4FK's birth VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. Without doubt, his short term as President was the WIA's loss; he possessed physical bearing, the rhetoric (although quietly spoken) and the administrative ability to fill the WIA's top position in Queensland very admirably. Vern showed a very early interest in radio, qualifying for his AOPC in 1927 and constructed and operated receiving and transmitting equipment (amateur station 4FK) at Allen St., Hamilton, Brisbane for a number of years as opportunity offered. Those who knew him in those days claim he was lecturing on the theory of wireless to students in the late 1920s, when in his late teens. His commitment to radio seems to have been almost total throughout his whole life. Born at Brisbane 6th May 1908. ..

1911 05
Qld birth registration for 4FK's brother Herbert Vivian Kenna
 * Qld BDM
 * Birth registration: Herbert Vivian Kenna
 * Birth date: 06/05/1911
 * Mother's name: Edith Elvira Stamp
 * Father/parent's name: Francis Kenna
 * Registration details: 1911/B/25690

1913
4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1913 Woodford Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1913
 * Subdistrict: Woodford
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry: 551, Kenna, Francis, Woodford, Timber Inspector, male

4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1913 Charters Towers Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1913
 * Subdistrict: Charters Towers
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Kennedy
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 3996, Kenna, Edith Elvira, Plant street, Charters Towers, home duties, female (mother)
 * 3997, Kenna, Francis, Plant street, Charters Towers, journalist, male (father)

1919
4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1919 Caboolture Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1919
 * Subdistrict: Caboolture
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 583, Kenna, Edith Elvira, Upper Caboolture, home duties, female (mother)
 * 584, Kenna, Francis, Upper Caboolture, farmer, male (father)

4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1919 Caboolture Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1919 (Second Print)
 * Subdistrict: Caboolture
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 642, Kenna, Edith Elvira, Upper Caboolture, home duties, female (mother)
 * 643, Kenna, Francis, Upper Caboolture, farmer, male (father)

1921 06
"SCHOLARSHIPS. SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES. LILLEY GOLD MEDAL. At the recent examination for State scholarships 2451 candidates sat, of whom 1237 were successful. The conditions provide for the granting of a scholarship to each candidate who gains not less than 50 percent of the total number of marks. The scholarships entitle the holders to free education in any approved secondary school in the State, and are tenable during good behaviour and the pleasure of Parliament for a period of two years and a half from July 1, 1921. They may, however, be extended for two years provided that the holder secure an approved pass in the Queensland University Junior Public Examination. In addition to free tuition, allowances at the rate specified will be paid to every scholarship holder, the income of whose parents does not exceed £156 per annum, or £30 per annum per member of family: — Holders of two-and-a-half year and four-and-a-half year scholarships, who must live away from home to attend a secondary school, £30 per annum; holders of two-and-a-half year and four-and-a-half year scholarships, who can live at home and attend a secondary school, £12 per annum. Details of the marks of each candidate will be supplied through the head teacher. The Lilley Gold Medal, which is awarded annually to the candidate who gains the highest place in the Scholarship Examination, has been won by Edna Davies, who secured first place in order of merit in the examination, with 87.1 per cent of the maximum marks. In the case of scholarship holders who intend taking out their scholarships at the State High School in Brisbane the following should be noted:— Those desirous of preparing for the ordinary Junior Public Examination of the Queensland University should attend at the Brisbane High School, late Junior State High School, corner of Edward and Adelaide streets. Those desirous of entering upon the course for the Commercial Junior Public Examination of the Queensland University, or the Domestic Science course or the vocational school course at the Central Technical College should interview the supervisor of the respective courses. The following is a list of the names of the successful candidates in the respective centres:—. . . R. M. Kay, L. V. Kelly, G. F. Kelso, V. F. Kenna, P. T. Kennedy,"

1923 12
"JUNIOR PUBLIC. SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES. 59.5 Per Cent Passes In Full Exam. In connection with the junior public examination held in November last, 1220 candidates submitted entries — 1209 for a full range of subjects for a junior or a junior commercial certificate, and 11 for a limited number of subjects for other than certificate purposes. Owing to illness or other reasons 14 candidates did not sit. The number unable to sit this year on account of illness was no higher (in fact, slightly less) than in previous years. Of the 1195 candidates who actually sat for the full examination, 713 (or approximately 59.5 per cent) have been successful in fulfilling the requirements for a junior or for a junior commercial certificate. Nine other candidates gained passes in a limited number of subjects for which they sat. Public Service Candidates. The junior examination is used as the examination of candidates for admission to the State Public Service. The results obtained by candidates for this purpose have been duly furnished by the University to the Public Service Commissioner's Department, and the names of the successful candidates will doubtless be announced by that department in the course of a few days. Student Teachership. The junior examination also constitutes the test for candidates competing for student-teacherships or junior scholarships to the Teachers' Training College. The results of the candidates who sat for the examination for these purposes have been supplied to the Department of Public Instruction. Extension Scholarships. State scholarship holders who secure an 'approved' pass in the junior public examination become entitled to an extension of their scholarships for a further period of two years — thus enabling them to proceed to the senior public examination. When entering for the recent junior examination 576 scholarship holders intimated their desire to obtain extension scholarships; the results show that 352 have fulfilled the requirements therefor. The extension scholarships are awarded by the Department of Public Instruction. The Byrnes Medal. The Thomas Joseph Byrnes memorial medal is awarded annually to the candidate who, sitting for the junior public examination for the first time, fulfils the conditions prescribed for a junior public examination certificate and at the same time obtains the highest aggregate number of marks in nine approved subjects. The medal for 1923 has been secured by James Charles Mahoney, Christian Brothers' College, South Brisbane, who is found to have obtained the highest number of marks yet gained by any candidate since the medal has been awarded by the University of Queensland. James Brunton Stephens Essay Prize. The subject of the James Brunton Stephens' essay prize for 1923 was 'The Wealth of Queensland.' This prize has been gained by Violet Pryke, who entered for the examination as a 'Private Study' candidate. Subjects Represented by Numerals. In the following list, the several subjects are represented by numerals as follows:— (1) English, (2) French, (3) German, (4) Latin, (5) Greek, (6) Arithmetic, (7) Algebra, (8) Geometry, (9) English History, (10) Geography, (11) Chemistry, (12) Physics, (13) Geology, (14) Botany, (15) Physiology, (16) Freehand Drawing, (17) Geometrical Drawing, and perspective, (18) Music, (19) Bookkeeping and Business Methods, (20) Stenotyping, and (21) Domestic Science. The abbreviation (C.C. only) entered at the end of a candidate's results indicates that the candidate has qualified for a junior commercial certificate only (in other words he did not qualify also for an ordinary junior public examination certificate); the abbreviation (C.C. also) indicates that the candidate has qualified for a junior commercial certificate in addition to the ordinary junior public examination certificate. The abbreviation (C.R.C.C.) indicates that the candidate previously passed the junior public examination, and took certain subjects at this examination in order to qualify for a junior commercial certificate. SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES. The names of the successful candidates are as follow:— BRISBANE CENTRE. . . . Brisbane State High School.—. . . V. F. Kenna, 1P, 6P, 7P, 8P, 12M;"

1924 01
"EXTENSION SCHOLARSHIPS. JUNIOR PUBLIC EXAMINATION RESULTS. The Junior Public examination constitutes the test by the passing of which the holders of State scholarships in secondary schools become entitled to the extension of those scholarships to enable them to proceed with their education to the Senior Public examination standard. In order to qualify for an extension scholarship a candidate (necessarily the holder of a State scholarship) must pass in not less than five subjects, including at least one subject with merit, or, in not fewer than six subjects if none of the passes be with merit. The number of scholarship holders who were successful in fulfilling the special requirements above mentioned was 352, namely, 212 males, and 140 females. The names of the successful candidates are as follows:— Two Years from January 1, 1924:— Males.— . . . . V. F. Kenna, State High School, Brisbane;"

1924 03
4FK passes examination for appointment as Junior Mechanic in Training with the Postmaster-General's Dept COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. Examination No. 1217. For Appointment as Junior Mechanic in Training, New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania. Held 5th January, 1924, and subsequent dates. THE candidates named hereunder were successful at the above examination, and have thereby qualified for appointment during the ensuing period of eighteen months, viz., until the 19th September, 1925. The following should be noted:— (1) The conditions contained in the notification of the above examination which appeared in Commonwealth Gazette No. 73, dated 18th October, 1923. (2) Where two or more candidates secure the same number of marks, their order of merit is determined by the number of marks obtained for (a) Arithmetic, and (b) Handwriting, and, where these numbers are also equal, then by ballot. (3) No marks are credited in an optional subject unless the number awarded is at least 50 per cent. of the maximum allotted. Where the marks awarded in an optional subject are less than 50 per cent. of the maximum, they are enclosed in brackets, and are not included in the candidate's total marks. (4) A successful candidate ceases to be eligible for appointment upon attaining the age of 17 years. (5) Upon appointment a successful candidate will be required to contribute to the Commonwealth Superannuation Fund. (6) Should a successful candidate change his address, he should immediately notify the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector of his State. . ..
 * Name. - Kenna, Vernon Francis
 * Compulsory Subjects. Maximum Marks. Pass Marks. - Actual Marks.
 * Handwriting. 100 50 - 70
 * Spelling. 150 75 - 96
 * Arithmetic. 200 100 - 100
 * Optional Subjects.
 * Wood Work. 100 50 - Not taken
 * Sheet Metal Work. 100 50 - 65
 * Total Marks. 550 - 331 (One candidate received 530)
 * C. B. B. WHITE, Chairman, Public Service Board of Commissioners.

1924 07
4FK commences with the PMGD VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. Without doubt, his short term as President was the WIA's loss; he possessed physical bearing, the rhetoric (although quietly spoken) and the administrative ability to fill the WIA's top position in Queensland very admirably. Vern showed a very early interest in radio, qualifying for his AOPC in 1927 and constructed and operated receiving and transmitting equipment (amateur station 4FK) at Allen St., Hamilton, Brisbane for a number of years as opportunity offered. Those who knew him in those days claim he was lecturing on the theory of wireless to students in the late 1920s, when in his late teens. His commitment to radio seems to have been almost total throughout his whole life. Born at Brisbane 6th May 1908, VK4FK commenced employment in the PMG in 1924 as a junior mechanic-in-training. . ..

4FK appointed as Junior Mechanic (In Training) with the Postmaster-General's Dept "COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. THE undermentioned Staff changes are notified in accordance with the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1922 and Regulations thereunder:— . . . Postmaster-General's Department. . . . Queensland. . . . Junior Mechanic (in training).— . . . Vernon Francis Kenna"

1925
4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1925 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1925
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 3408, Kenna, Edith Elvira, The Laurels, Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 3409, Kenna, Francis, The Laurels, Allen street, Hamilton, agent, male (father)

1925 01
4FK delivers a lecturette on Transformers at Wooloowin Radio Club fortnightly meeting "RADIO TOPICS. . . . By 'LISTENER' Written for 'The Telegraph' . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. The bimonthly meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club was held at headquarters on Monday, January 26. Mr. V. F. Kenna delivered a very interesting lecturette on 'Transformers.' The able manner in which he treated it and the lucid way in which he explained a very technical subject was greatly appreciated by all present. These lecturettes and debates are becoming very popular with the members, and are both interesting and instructive. The club wishes to remind all interested in wireless that Mr. A. Jackson, junior, will deliver a lecture, illustrated by lantern slides, entitled 'Electricity and Magnetism for the Beginners in Wireless' at the Guild Hall, Wellington street, Wooloowin, on Monday, February 16. There will be no charge for admission, and all interested are cordially invited to attend."

1925 04
4FK to lectures on Theory of Condensers at Wooloowin Radio Club and evokes considerable audience interest "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. BY 'ANODE.' . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. The following syllabus, extending from April 1 to October 1, has been issued by the Wooloowin Radio Club. The item and date are selected by the chairman at a current meeting from the following:— (1) Impromptu night. (2) Lecture, 'A' batteries, by J. P. Love. (3) Debate, 2BL v. 2FC. (4) Lecture, 'Aerial and Earth Systems,' by F. Williams. (5) Lecture, by H. Jiear. (6) Lecture, 'B' batteries, by J. P. Love. (7) Debate, 'Wireless Weekly' v. 'Radio.' (8) Lecture, 'Audio Frequency,' by H. Kington. (9) Lecture, 'Condensers,' by V. F. Kenna. (10) Examination evening. (11) Lecture, by D. Homan. (12) Lecture, 'How to Wire a Set,' by D. Homan. There is also Morse practice each evening for 15 minutes under the leadership of C. Stephenson. As previously notified through the Press the meetings of this club are now held each Thursday evening (formal meetings on the second and fourth Thursdays) at the club's new headquarters, in the residence of Mr. G. W. Jiear, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin. At the meeting held on 16th instant a very satisfactory attendance of members was noted. The secretary (Mr. H. A. Jiear) reported that arrangements were almost finalised for the acceptance of the club's transmitting license, approval having been given by the authorities in Melbourne some weeks earlier, and details of the proposed transmitting panel were brought up for the consideration of the meeting. A start will be made on the actual construction next Thursday night, and the club takes this opportunity of expressing its appreciation of the action of those members who have intimated their intention of supplying sundry component parts. A letter of congratulation has been sent to the newly formed Nambour Radio Club, offering any assistance that the Wooloowin Radio Club may be able to render. During the evening, Mr. V. F. Kenna gave an excellent lecture on 'The Theory of Condensers.' Leading the meeting through the various stages of the use of condensers from the earliest experiments with Leyden jars and Franklin pane types Mr. Kenna showed, without introducing technicalities, how a condenser is used in wireless and line telegraphy, and gave a very interesting outline of the manner in which condensers are used in the Brisbane telephone systems. At the close of his remarks Mr. Kenna was kept busy answering questions asked by the various club members, who evinced considerable interest in the details of the lecture. After the lecture the usual Morse practice was carried out for 20 minutes, and a satisfactory increase in reading speed was noticeable amongst the members. Intending members are invited to address their inquiries to Mr. H. A. Jiear, hon. secretary Wooloowin Radio Club, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin."

As previous "RADIO TOPICS. Doings of the Amateurs Logging Distant Stations. Written for 'The Telegraph.' By 'LISTENER.' . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. The usual meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club was held in the club room at the residence of Mr. Jiear, Lissen Grove, Wooloowin, last Thursday night. Mr. C. Stephenson presided in the absence of the president (Mr. H. Kingston [sic, Kington]). Mr. V. Kenna, handled the first item on the new syllabus, namely, a lecturette on the history and construction of condensers, and their use in wireless telegraphy and telephony. This was followed by Morse practice for a quarter of an hour. For the instruction of each member a list of abbreviations and procedure used in amateur transmissions was distributed. The construction work on the club's new transmitter is well advanced. The club meets every Thursday, and the club room is always open to members. An invitation is extended to all wireless enthusiasts to visit the club room and to become members. Following is the syllabus for the next six months. (1) impromptu night; (2) lecture on 'A' butteries. by Mr. J. P. Love; (3) debate, 2BL v. 2FC.; (4) lecture on aerial and earth systems by Mr. F. Williams; (5) lecture by Mr. H. Jiear; (6) lecture on 'B' batteries by Mr. J. P. Love; (7) debate, 'Wireless Weekly' v. Radio; (8) lecture, 'Audio Frequency Amplification,' by K. Kington; (9) lecture on condensers by Mr. V. F. Kenna; (10) examination evening; (11) lecture by Mr. D. Homan; (12) lecture, 'How to wire a set,' by Mr. D. Homan."

4FK stands in for president at meeting of Wooloowin Radio Club "WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB, BRISBANE. The club met at its headquarters on 23rd instant. In the absence of the president on business in North Queensland, Mr. V. F. Kenna occupied the chair, and the attendance was excellent. One application for membership was approved. Two further applications are promised for next meeting and the roll of members is reaching very satisfactory proportions. Mr. C. Stephenson described the manner in which the proposed transmitter was to be constructed. Two subcommittees were formed, one to attend to the construction of the transmitting panel, and the other to construct the necessary helix and attendant parts. The question of the manufacture of satisfactory rectifying and smoothing gear was left in abeyance until a power point has been installed in the club room. Meanwhile thanks were expressed to members who had kindly offered their Philco and Dutho batteries as a temporary source of plate current. The usual 15 minutes' morse practice was carried out, under the supervision of Mr. C. Stephenson. Nest meeting, 30th instant. Inquiries should be addressed to Mr. H. A. Jiear, hon. secretary, Wooloowin Radio Club, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin."

F. T. Matthews still holds 4FK callsign "AUSTRALIAN EXPERIMENTERS. LICENSED TRANSMITTERS. Below are given details of wireless experimenters in Tasmania who have been granted transmitting licences: . . . QUEENSLAND. . . . 4FK, F. T. Matthews, 57 Annie-street, New Farm."

1925 05
4FK tasked in a group to construct the 4WN transmitter "WIRELESS BY LOUD SPEAKER. . . . Wooloowin Radio Club. A good number attended the weekly meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club last Thursday night, when Messrs, Grant, Love, and Kenna, to whom have been alloted the job of making the helix, etc., for the club transmitter, reported good progress, and expect to be able to present it to the club by next meeting night. All apparatus required for the club transmitter has been loaned or given by members. A quarter of an hour was spent in the usual Morse practice. The address of the secretary, Mr. H. A. Jiear, is Lissen-grove, Wooloowin, from whom any information regarding the club may be obtained."

4FK places second in light-hearted contest of impromptu speeches at Wooloowin Radio Club, his topic "Jazz Garters" "CLUB ACTIVITIES. . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB, BRISBANE. On 28th instant the club considered the report of its delegates to the South Brisbane Radio Club in connection with the coming interclub debate. The delegates' actions were confirmed, and the two club will meet at the Wooloowin Guild Hall Wellington-street next Thursday evening, at 8 o'clock. The subject is, 'That this meeting considers that the interests of the average Queensland listener-in would be better served by the appointment of a committee of business men to control station 4QG rather than by leaving such control to the State Government.' Members of all radio clubs in the metropolitan area are invited to be present. Mr. W. Finney (ex-Radio Inspector) will adjudicate. The meeting occupied itself with a series of impromptu speeches and the efforts caused great amusement, intensified by the sudden explosion of the acetylene lamp in the middle of the table. Of the speeches, Mr. Ryan's peroration on 'Eggs,' Mr. Kenna's on 'Jazz Garters,' Mr. C. Stephenson's on 'Nothing,' and Mr. Kington's on 'Where the Flies go in Winter Time' were the most humorous; while of the more serious type those by Mr. Jiear on 'Nails,' Mr. Love on 'Cheerfulness,' Mr. Graham on 'Beauty,' and Mr. Grant on 'Smoking' were well received. A vote was recorded by all members, and resulted:— Grant, 1; Kington and Kenna, 2; Jiear, 3. At the meeting on June 11 Mr. Love will lecture on 'A Batteries.' Inquiries relative to club matters should be addressed to Mr. H. A. Jiear, hon. secretary, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin."

1925 07
4FK demonstrates a telescope at a meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club "CLUB ACTIVITIES. . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. At the weekly meeting on the 2nd instant two new members were welcomed. The secretary reported that arrangements had been made for the club to visit the Ipswich Radio Society's meeting on 15th instant. The majority of members present signified their intention of making the trip. It was reported that the club had applied to the Windsor Show Committee for a room at the coming show. the club intended to again stage an exhibit on the same lines as that of last year. A neat club badge of unique design was approved and would shortly be available for members. Last meeting was an 'Open Discussion' night. One group discussed the winding of low loss coils, while their confreres considered the merits of De Forest valves. Mr. C. Stephenson manipulated the Morse key for the instruction of a third group. Later in the evening Mr. Kenna secured a pair of long-focus lenses and an eyepiece and with the aid of a clothes prop, improvised an astronomical telescope and gave members an opportunity of viewing the mountains of the moon. Mr. Kenna's experiment was greatly appreciated. Next Thursday night a debate will be held between teams headed by Messrs. Ryan and Faber. Inquiries from new members are welcomed, and should be addressed to the Hon. Secretary (Mr. H. A. Jiear), Wooloowin Radio Club, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin."

4FK's team wins a debate at the Wooloowin Radio Club "WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. The monthly business meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club was held last Thursday night. Among the correspondence received was a letter from the Ipswich Radio Society, with reference to the proposed visit of this club, stating that it would not be suitable to receive members on the date mentioned on account of the absence of the president. It was decided to postpone the visit till the return of their president on July 23. The secretary reported that the Wireless Institute at the instance of the Wooloowin Club had decided to hold an all clubs night in August next, when the wireless film, 'The Wizardry of Wireless,' and supporting attractions would be shown. The social committee reported that arrangements had been made to hold a social and dance in the Guild Hall, Wooloowin, on July 23. Invitations will be forwarded to all nearby radio clubs. Arrangements have been made to stage an exhibit at the forthcoming Windsor Show, the same as last year, by which it is hoped the interest of the people of the district in this club will be aroused. The annual meeting will take place early in August. One new member was enrolled. The remainder of the evening was devoted to a debate between teams, consisting of Messrs. C. Ryan, V. Kenna, B. Homan, and W. Faber, R. Beatson, and H. Stephenson, which was won by the former by a substantial majority."

As previous "WOOLOOWIN CLUB. MANY ACTIVITIES. At the monthly business meeting a letter was received from the Ipswich Radio Society with reference to the proposed visit of this club. It was decided to postpone the visit till the return of the Ipswich president on July 23. A letter was read from the president of Wooloowin club (Mr. H. Kington), at present in North Queensland on business. He stated that good receptions were made of all Australian broadcasting stations and 4AE Wireless Institute, also two Japanese broadcasting stations had been received. The secretary reported that the Wireless Institute, at the instance of the Wooloowin club, had decided to hold an 'all clubs' night in August, when the wireless film, 'The Wizardry of Wireless,' and supporting attractions would be shown. The social committee reported that arrangements had been made to hold a social and dance in the Guild Hall, Wooloowin, on July 23. Invitations will be forwarded to all nearby radio clubs. Arrangements have been made to stage an exhibit of wireless gear at the forthcoming Windsor show, the same as last year, by which it is hoped the interest of the public of the district will be aroused. The annual meeting of the club takes place early in August. The remainder of the evening was devoted to a debate between teams consisting of Messrs. C. Ryan, V. Kenna, B. Homan, and W. Faber, R. Beatson, and H. Stephenson, which, was won by the former by a substantial majority. The next meeting takes place on Thursday, 16th instant."

As previous "AMONG THE CLUBS. . . . WOOLOOWIN. At the monthly meeting of the Wooloowin Club held Iast Thursday, there was a large attendance of members. One new member was enrolled. Because of the fact that the date originally fixed for a visit to the Ipswich Club was inconvenient to the country organisation, its president anticipating his absence from the coal city on that date. It was decided to fix the visit for July 23. Mr. H. Kingston, president of the Wooloowin Club, is at present in North Queensland, and he has been carrying out experiments on a three-valve set. He reports good reception of all Australian broadcasting stations, inclusive of 4AE (Wireless Institute), and also two Japanese broadcasting stations. The secretary of the club reports that the Wireless Institute, at instance of the Wooloowin Club, has decided to hold an 'all clubs' night' in August, when the film 'The Wizardry of Wireless' will be shown. The Social Committee report that arrangements have been made to hold a social and dance in the Guild Hall, Wooloowin, on July 23. Invitations will be forwarded to all nearby radio clubs. Arrangements have been made to stage an exhibit of wireless gear at the forthcoming Windsor Show by which it is hoped to arouse further public interest. The annual meeting of the club will be held early in August, when all wireless enthusiasts of the district are expected to attend. At the last meeting a debate took place between teams consisting of Messrs. C. Ryan, V. Kenna, B. Homan, and W. Faber, R. Beaston, and H. Stephenson. The first mentioned won by a substantial majority. The next meeting of the club will be held tomorrow night, when visitors and intending members will be welcome. Inquiries should be addressed to the hon. secretary, Mr. H. Jiear, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin."

1925 08
4FK elected to the committee of the Wooloowin Radio Club for the following year "AMONG THE CLUBS. WOOLOOWIN. The first annual meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club was held last Thursday at the club room in Mr. G. W. Jiear's residence, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin. There was a very good attendance of members. The president (Mr. H. Kingston [sic, Kington]) delivered his report, in which he spoke of the progress which the club had made during its existence, and the enthusiasm that had always been shown by members. The secretary, in his report, gave an outline of the club's doings in the past, and stated that the committee and officers had experienced a very busy year, but they could look back on what had been done with pleasure. If the good support was given by members in the future, still more interesting events could be arranged and much greater things accomplished for the advancement of the science of wireless. The treasurer's statement showed that the club had cash assets amounting to £10, together with gear to the value of another £25. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year: Patron, Mr. H. McCallum; president, H. Kingston; vice-presidents, J. Smith (of Harringtons Limited), W. A. Jolly, J. Love, sen., G. W. Jiear; hon. secretary, H. Jiear; hon. treasurer, J. P. Love, jun.; committee, C. J. Grant, V. Kenna, Mr. H. F. Coffey, c/o Pinkenba radio station, is to be approached and asked to accept the position of hon. technical adviser to the club; technical committee, C. W. Stephenson, A. Buck. The president issued invitations to members to be present at an evening to be held at his residence on Thursday evening, August 20. There will not be another meeting of this club until Thursday, August 27, on account of the all clubs' night and the president's evening falling on the previous meeting nights. All interested are invited to pay the club a visit, or communicate with the socretary, Mr. H. A. Jiear."

F. T. Mathews still holds 4FK callsign "QUEENSLAND AND NEW GUINEA TRANSMITTING LICENSES. . . . 4FK Mathews, F. T., 57 Annie-st., New Farm."

1925 09
4FK to lecture on telephone systems at Wooloowin Radio Club "WIRELESS. BY LOUD SPEAKER. . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. Members of the Wooloowin Radio Club spent an enjoyable evening on Thursday night last at the club room. On account of it being an off night members indulged in impromptu debates, and two of them gave recitations. There were also some visitors present, including Mr. F. Sharpe of 4AZ, who signified his intention of joining the club; also Mr. L. Read. On Sunday last members of the club visited station 4CW, Mr. A. Buck, at Geebung, in answer to his challenge to play a cricket match, which resulted in a win for the Geebungites. An enjoyable day was spent. The club has a busy time ahead of it for the present year, and a comprehensive syllabus of debates, lectures, etc., is being drawn up. The business for the meeting on Thursday, September 17, is to be a lecture on telephone systems by Mr. V. Kenna, which should be interesting as well as instructive. Any visitors or intending members are welcome. All inquiries regarding the club should be addressed to the hon. secretary, M. H. A. Jiear, Lisson-grove, Wooloowin."

Details of 4FK's lecture on telephone systems at Wooloowin Radio Club "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. At last night's meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club, Mr. V. F. Kenna gave a very fine lecture on 'Telephonic Communication.' Mr. Kenna brought out a fine selection of his own private gear, and showed members exactly what function each componont carried out. Then by means of blackboard diagrams, he drew several typical line circuits and showed how impulses travelled during a telephonic conversation. The lecturer also dealt in detail with the arrangement of switches and jacks, both at the subscribers' end, and at the central exchange. He detailed the circuits of an automatic telephone system and showed how 'dialling' connects the subscriber to the desired number. He also explained the working of the 'engaged' signals and how lines could occasionally be 'crossed.' After the lecture a very enthusiastic vote of thanks was carried to the lecturer. The Wooloowin Radio Club now numbers amongst its members the holders of three transmitting licenses namely, 4WN (the club station), 4KY (Mr. H. F. Coffey, officer in charge of the Brisbane Radio Telegraph Station), and 4AZ (Mr. F. V. Sharpe)."

1926
4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1926 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1926
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 3568, Kenna, Edith Elvira, The Laurels, Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 3569, Kenna, Francis, The Laurels, Allen street, Hamilton, agent, male (father)

1926 05
4FK indisposed, has to postpone giving his first AOCP class for Wooloowin Radio Club "WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. There was a good roll-up of members at the clubroom on Thursday evening. Owing to the indisposition of Mr. V. F. Kenna, of the technical committee, the first of a series of lectures on the amateur operators' proficiency certificate, which was to have been given by him, had to be postponed until Thursday evening next. These lectures should prove very interesting, as they deal with the subjects requisite to secure a transmitter's licence. Practical demonstrations also will be given. It has been decided to call a special meeting of delegates from the several radio clubs, to deal with the matter of the proposed petition referring to the question of interference from the local broadcasting station, and remedy for same. This meeting will be held on Thursday, June 10, when it is hoped that all clubs concerned will be represented. Wooloowin club is holding a dance on Friday evening, June 25, in St. Mark's Hall, Old Sandgate-road, by means of which it is hoped to augment the funds. The clubroom is situated on Mr. Thomas's property, Wilmington-street, off Chalk-street. Visitors and intending members are welcome any Thursday night, when the room is open."

1926 07
4FK gives another AOCP lecture at Wooloowin Radio Club on subject of "Meters" "RADIO TOPICS. BY 'LISTENER.' . . . There was a good attendance of members of the Wooloowin Radio Club at the clubroom last Thursday, evening when the usual business meeting was held. During the evening . Mr. Thrum, a visitor from the Croydon Radio Club, gave a talk on club doings in the south, and also dealt with some of his own club's doings, so far as holding the interest of the members. Mr. Thrum's talk was very much appreciated by the members, and it is hoped that he will pay the club another visit before he returns to the south. Mr. V. F. Kenna gave another of his series of lectures on the amateur operators' proficiency certificate, the subject of this lecture being meters. He dealt with some of the various types of meters and their uses, and gave a practical demonstration of a hot wire type of meter. The construction of simple meters for use in wireless circuits was also explained. The clubroom is open every Thursday evening, when visitors or intending members are welcome. All correspondence should be addressed to the hon. secretary, Mr. H. A. Jiear, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin."

1926 08
4FK exhibits a morse key and millimeter (milliammeter?) at Queenslands' first radio and electrical exhibition and 4FK elected to general committee and technical committee of Wooloowin Radio Club at its second AGM "RADIO TOPICS. BY 'LISTENER.' The radio and electrical show at the Exhibition Hall contains a wealth of interest to the amateur and the listener-in. There will be seen all that is latest in factory-made receivers and components, and one notes with pride that the Australian-made article occupies pride of place in many instances. Although there are American and English-made receivers and components of the highest quality, the locally made receivers suffer nothing in comparison either for selectivity or in cabinet design. There are really some wonderful sets in the exhibition, and a desire for possession must fill the minds of every listener who inspects them. The exhibition points to the great advances that has been made in receiver design during the last two years, an advance that would have been more emphasised had some of the less finished and less efficient sets of two or three years ago been placed side by side with the new for purposes of comparison. The display of some of the firms already have been reviewed in 'The Telegraph,' and suffice it to say here that the whole of the stalls reflect great credit on the organisers because of the attractive way in which all the articles have been displayed. One notes, with satisfaction that those in charge of the radio sections of the displays have shown a commendable willingness to assist amateurs with helpful advice which has been much sought, particularly by youthful enthusiasts. The amateur section is undoubtedly a big feature of the exhibition, and it is satisfactory to note that although the nature of the competitions was not announced until a very Iate hour, no less than 60 entries were received. One must congratulate the members of the Wooloowin Club on their wonderful contribution of a third of the exhibits, and also upon the general excellence of the apparatus shown by them. The club is represented in every competition, and although the results were not known when those notes were written, one feels sure that Wooloowin amateurs will figure prominently in the prize list. The competitions were arranged to encourage the experimental spirit among amateurs in Queensland. In all there are nine sections ranging from low power transmitter to novelties in crystal sets. Although the magnificently constructed multivalve sets must excite the admiration of all who see them, it is the novel crystal sets that attract most notice because of the sheer audacity of the constructors in some instances. For instance who would think after seeing the big crystal sets with their large coils and double sets of condensers that reception could be accomplished on a set made on an ordinary wooden match? Jack Clowes, of Milton, exhibits such a set, coil, crystal, and catswhisker, all on a wooden match. And it brings in Station 4QG splendidly. Another novel set is that shown by Anthony Thomas, of Wooloowin, who has successfully used an old blucher boot for the purpose. H. Darragh, Kangaroo Point, has a watch set — you can carry it about in your pocket and listen in just when the spirit moves you. Cyril Milliner, of Ithaca, has a fountain pen set, Walter A. Mitchell, Wilston, a flowerpot set, Albert Round, South Brisbane, a looking glass set, which you can use as you perform your morning shave. B. W. Dalton has a real catswhisker set. There is a model of a cat whose whiskers rest upon a crystal. One wonders if this set 'howls' like some of the oscillating valve sets one hears these nights. Thomas Davidson, of Wynnum-South, exhibits a set made in the form of a model wheelbarrow. There seems to be no end to the inventiveness of the amateur experimenters in our midst. Other exhibitors of novel crystal sets are Harold Thomson, Darra; Victor Adsett, Chermside; Roy Kington, Toombul; and Norman Riggall, Sherwood. Among the exhibitors of sets, one noticed splendid receivers by Norman Eagle, Red Hill; Trevor Duggan, Bowen Hills; Arthur E. Walz, Nundah; C. J. Grant, Wooloowin; B. Dalton, Wooloowin: J. P. Love, city; C. J. Grant, Wooloowin; Herbert Kington, Wooloowin; Edwin F. Blackboro, Chelmer; Charles O'Brien, Ascot; Charles Miles, Kelvin Grove. A balanced interflex set is shown by Thomas A. Foley, West End. There is a good display of wavetraps demonstrating how the problem of selectivity is being tackled by amateurs. There are several pieces of homemade apparatus, the contributors being Mr. Kenna, of Wooloowin, who displays a professional looking brass tapping key and a millimeter; Arthur E. Walz, Nundah, transformer; H. and C. Stephenson, Wooloowin, A and B battery charger. Each evening during the exhibition, station 4QG is transmitting a programme from a broadcasting studio, which has been erected on the stage. This gives country visitors a good idea of how broadcasting is accomplished from the station, and what is more it provides good entertainment for those attending the exhibition. The Monday and Tuesday night programmes were much enjoyed, opening as they did with lecturettes appropriate to the occasion. On Monday night Mr. J. H. Broome (Siemens Proprietary, Limited) lectured on 'Automatic Telephone Exchanges,' and last night Professor Parnell, of the Queensland University, dealt with 'The development of electrical science.' Tonight, Mr. J. W. Robinson (director, Queensland Radio Service) will lecture on 'Broadcasting'; tomorrow night Professor Hawkins (Queensland University) will speak on 'Engineers and Engineering' and on Friday night Mr. W. I. Monkhouse (president, Queensland division, Wireless Institution) will lecture on 'Experimenters.' The radio inspector has a stand at the exhibition where visitors may receive information pertaining to the wireless telegraphy regulations, and obtain wireless receiving licenses. In a foreword to the souvenir programme the Premier (Mr. W. McCormack) has this to say on the subject of radio: During the past ten years the world has witnessed some remarkable developments in connection with the science of electricity, and in no branch of the science do these remarks apply so strongly as in connection with radio. Had any person a mere matter of ten years ago attempted to convince the world that by 1926 millions of people in all parts of the globe would be entertained by speech or music, said, sung, or played at points many miles distant from them, and carried like a flash through space into their homes, he would doubtless have been laughed to scorn. Yet so rapid has been the march of radio progress that today these things are not surmises, but are accomplished facts. It is pleasing to note that so young a State as Queensland has not lagged behind the rest of the world. In Brisbane today one of the most modern and most powerful stations in the world is now providing a regular broadcasting service, and is doing its best to bring the country dweller in touch with the city, and so help to relieve his isolation. I am interested in radio both personally as the owner of a receiver and officially as Minister in Charge of the broadcasting In this State. On this, the occasion of the first radio and electrical exhibition held in Brisbane, I am pleased to have the opportunity of expressing the hope that the exhibition will be a big success, and will be the means of creating even further enthusiasm. . . . On Thursday evening the Wooloowin Radio Club held its second annual meeting, at which there was a good attendance of members. The president and secretary's reports showed that good progress had been made by the club during its existence. This no doubt was due to the interest and enthusiasm shown by the members. The treasurer's report showed that the club was in a satisfactory financial position. Two members of the club recently were successful in obtaining their amateur operator's proficiency certificates, arid it is thought that others will go up for certificates very soon. Most of the club members are unable to listen-in this week owing to their sets being at the radio and electrical exhibition. The club room will be open to members on Thursday evening next. Intending members and visitors are welcome. All inquiries regarding the club should be addressed to the hon. secretary (H. A. Jiear), Lisson Grove, Wooloowin. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year: Patron, J. Love; president, H. Kington; hon. secretary, H. A. Jiear; treasurer, J. P. Love; committee, V. Kenna, W. Dalton; technical committee, V. Kenna, C. Stephenson, H. Stephenson."

4FK wins prizes in amateur radio competition in the Radio and Electrical Exhibition "AMATEUR SETS. COMPETITION RESULTS. The following results have been available to 'The Daily Standard' by the 'Queensland Radio News,' who are conducting the radio amateurs' competitions in conjunction with the radio and electrical exhibition being held in the Exhibition Concert Hall. In all sections the competitors entered work of a highly creditable nature, and it may be said of some in particular that remarkable initiative has been shown in the design and construction of their sets. Much amusement was created by the sets entered in the most novel crystal set section, and some of these were of outstanding originality. Section 1.— Best low-power transmitter; first prize £3, second £1 10s: W. F. Scott, 1; W. J. T. Faber, 2. Section 2.— Best-designed short wave receiver (extra points allotted to receivers oscillating on very short wavelengths); first prize £2, second 10s: G. Grossett, 1; A. G. Stephenson, 2. Section 3.— Best home-made piece of apparatus (points allotted according to amount of work entailed): first prize £2, second 10s: V. F. Kenna 1, H. and C. Stephenson, 2; V. F. Kenna, highly commended. Section 4.— Most novel crystal set; first prize £2, second 10s: C. M. Emanuel, 1; J. Clowes, 2. Section 6.— Best 1, 2, or 3-valve set, which may be a reflex circuit, including a crystal; first prize. £2, second 10s: G. H. Payne, 1; C. J .Grant 2. Section 7.— Best multivalve set, 4 valves or over; first prize £3, second £1: H. and J. W. Kingston, 1; N. Eagle, 2. Section 8.— Juvenile, 14 years or under; best piece of homemade apparatus; first prize £1, second 10s: T. Thomas 1, and highly commended; D. Dahl, 2. Sections 5 and 9 have not been judged up to time of going to press. These sections comprise sets which have still to be considered upon their merits when working on the air, and will probably be judged in time for the results to be announced on Saturday. A pair of 'phones have been donated to the following by two of the Brisbane wholesale houses, Messrs. Lawrence and Hanson, Electrical Company, of Charlotte-street, and Siemen's Australia Proprietary, Ltd. Section 3.— V. F. Kenna for the award of highly commended. Section 8.— Fergus Thomas for the award highly commended."

As previous "RADIO TOPICS. BY 'LISTENER.' About 15,000 people attended the radio and electrical exhibition which was held in the Exhibition concert hall last week. Mr. E. C. Fernandez, secretary of the Electrical Federation (Queensland), under whose auspices the exhibition was held, told a representative of 'The Telegraph' that the exhibition had been most successful. All the expense accounts had not yet come in, but it was expected that the exhibition would pay its way. The attendance had been very satisfactory. On Monday, the opening day, the number of people who paid for admission was 468, Tuesday 1,241, Wednesday 3,733, Thursday 2,398, Friday 1,948, Saturday 3.359. Of this number nearly 11,000 were adults, children numbering about 2,150. Mr. Fernandez said that reports indicated that the exhibition had been vary satisfactory from the traders' point of view. It was true that the immediate benefits had not been very large, but the traders had not expected that. They hoped to reap benefits in the near future as a result of the great advertisement electricity and its uses, particularly domestic, had received from the exhibition. 'The Federation is indebted to the director of the Queensland Radio Service (Mr. J. W. Robinson) for staging broadcasting demonstrations each evening during the week,' said Mr. Fernandez. 'It was quite a feature of the exhibition, and was appreciated by the public who had not previously witnessed broadcasting under studio conditions. Uncle Ben and his party also gave wonderful assistance during the exhibition which the federation greatly appreciates, and there is no doubt that their efforts gave unalloyed pleasure to the many young folk who were in attendance. Uncle Ben and his party gave the whole of their services gratuitously, and it is pleasing to know that the whole of the proceeds of the sale of the booklet of words on 'How do you do' will be handed to the Children's Hospital. Mr. Fernandez also had praise for the amateur section, which, he said, was another big feature of the show, and justified the amount of space made available by the exhibition board of control. The cooking demonstrations by the City Council, and the Engineering Supply Company of America, which were made possible by the courtesy of the Hecla Electrics Proprietary Company of Melbourne, had also proved attractive to a large number of womenfolk. The secretary said it was hoped that the first exhibition was the forerunner of other exhibitions to be held on a larger scale in future, perhaps annually. A disadvantage on this occasion had been the lack of space. Firms that had exhibited had been subjected to a limitation of space in which to show, and demonstrate their goods, and other firms had been prevented from exhibiting because space could not be made available to them. The exhibition had been organised in an experimental way. The federation desired to see if one would prove as successful as electrical and radio exhibitions had been in Sydney and Melbourne. The results seemed to suggest that the federation could with confidence proceed to organise further exhibitions in the future. The board of control which was responsible for the staging of the radio and electrical exhibition consisted of Mr. B. C. Percy (chairman), J. H. Hindman, J. B. Chandler, and C. L. McLaughlin. Although the Radio Inspector for Queensland (Mr. Armstrong) was requested to accept space at the Exhibition, where new wireless receiving licences could be obtained, and information on the radio regulations received, the effort was hardly worth the trouble. Less than 20 new licenses were taken out. Over 14,000 wireless listeners' licenses have now been taken out in Queensland, and the prospects are good for the 18,000 mark being reached by the end of the year. Wireless listeners in Queensland who took out licenses prior to October 30, 1925, have lately received a welcome little note from the Radio Inspector informing them that the time of the expiration of the licenses has been extended to November 30, 1926. It is understood that this concession is being made because of the fact that station 4QG did not commence broadcasting on high power, as required by the regulations under which the 'A' class license was issued, until this year. Auckland's new high power broadcasting station 1YA has been heard in Queensland several times of late. One to hear him is Mr. W. O. Barber, of Southport, who reports signals loud and clear. Station 1YA is transmitting on 420 metres. The Electrical Federation (Queensland) was formed about twelve months ago. It now has a membership of about 50. The federation is made up of various electrical sections, each having its own particular functions. At the present time the sections are: Australian manufacturers, merchants, radio, overseas manufacturers, contractors. Provision is made in the articles of assoclaton for other sections which have not yet been formed. The governing body consists of a council, which is composed of two representatives from each section, together with a president and vicepresident. The objects of the federation are to secure co-operation between the various sections of electrical traders, to try and educate the public into the use of electricity, to protect the interests of employers in industrial matters, to elevate the status of the wiring contractor, and to see that the public get good work done at reasonable prices. 'Listener' would suggest to the Electrical Federation that representations be made to the Royal National Association for space at the Exhibition next year. The association co-operates with the motor traders and Queensland manufacturers for large and comprehensive displays at the annual Exhibitions, and there seems to be no reason why it should not also co-operates with such a large and growing trade as that represented by the electrical and radio dealers. As part of the big exhibition the display of electrical and radio goods would receive a much greater advertisement than would a display made in some separate hall, because of the much larger number of people that would view it. The Royal National Association might also be easily induced to encourage amateur wireless set makers by providing several competitions. The prize winners of the amateur competitions conducted by the 'Queensland Radio News' in conjunction with the radio and electrical exhibition are as follow: Low-power Transmitter.— Walter F. Scott, Clifton Villa, Boundary Street, West End, 1; W. Faber, Kedron Avenue, Mitchelton, 2. Short Wave Receiver.— Graeme Grossett, Sandford Street, South Toowong, 1: H. and C. Stephenson, care of Wooloowin Radio Club, 2. Homemade Piece of Apparatus.— V. F. Kenna, care of Wooloowin Radio Club, 1; E. and C. Stephenson, care of Wooloowin Radio Club, 2; V. F. Kenna, care of Wooloowin Radio Club, highly commended. Mose Novel Crystal Set.— C. M. Emanuel, Newman Street, Gaythorne, 1; Jack Clowes, Veronica, Moore Street. Milton, 2. Most Effective Crystal Set.— Ray Connelly, care of Wooloowin Radio Club, 1; George Marshall, Paten Street, North Ipswich, 2. Best 1, 2, or 3 Valve Set.— George H. Payne, Stafford Street, Kedron, 1; C. J. Grant, care of Wooloowin Radio Club, 2. Multivalve Set, 4 Valves or Over.— H. and J. W. Kingston [sic, Kington], care of 'Wooloowin Radio Club, 1; Norman Gayle, Cambridge Street, Red Hill, 2. Homemade apparatus by juvenile, 14 years or under.— Fergus Thomas, care Wooloowin Radio Club, 1; David Dahl, 13 Mountjoy Street, Petrie Terrace, 2. Fergus Thomas, care Wooloowin Radio Club, commended. Wave Trap.— L. Whitlam, 246 Leichhardt Street, Brisbane, 1; C. J. Grant, care of Wooloowin Radio Club, 2. Hundreds of little listeners on Saturday made a personal acquaintance with such well known loud speaker and head phones friends as Uncle Ben, Uncle Jim, Mabel Sunshine, the Sandman, Sambo, Pete, and the Jolly Coppersmith. Responding to the invitation of the two uncles, the youngsters crowded the Exhibition Hall gallery on Saturday night, and gave their favourites a reception which must have cheered the hearts of the bedtime storytellers. It was some reward for all their efforts to please the young people who listen in from 6.30 p.m. each evening. Mabel Sunshine and her dog were the first to peep round the screen. Then followed Uncle Jim, and after they had sprung a surprise on the popular Uncle Ben the two 'black men' appeared. For fortyfive minutes and more the party entertained listeners at the hall and listeners-in at home, with a bright programme, including, the now well known 'How do you do' verses. But perhaps the most popular item was the extraction of Sambo's teeth by Uncle Ben, who had had previous experience with Mabel Sunshine's molars. And of course Sambo had to give his rollicking laughing song and some of his small talk, too; and the Sandman had to play his magic flute, flexophone, and other instruments with which he is so accomplished a performer. Finally streamers were thrown to and from the stage, cheers were given for the entertainers, and the small people marched home happy In the knowledge that they had something more than a radio acquaintance with the uncles, the Sandman, and other entertainers. The diversion was so successful that perhaps the principals may later consider it advisable again to invite the children to meet them when more comfortable conditions may be available for those who attend. It has been previously mentioned in these notes that one-third of the entries in the amateur competitions at the radio and electrical exhibition were made by members of the Wooloowin Radio Club. The club is proud of this fact, but prouder still of the results. The following prizes were won by Wooloowin club members: Second for short wave received; first, second, and one highly commended for homemade piece of apparatus; second for one, two, or three valve set; first for multivalve set; first and one highly commended in juvenile competition for homemade apparatus. The Wooloowin Radio Club has made arrangements to display a large collection of homemade wireless apparatus at the forthcoming Windsor show. The Wooloowin Radio Club hopes to arrange a schedule of transmissions for its transmitting plant in the near future. The club is one of the best organised and enthusiastic in Brisbane. A question box is now to be placed in the club room, and members' wireless difficulties will be answered at each meeting. A special meeting is to be held tomorrow evening. The hon. secretary of the club is Mr. H. A. Jiear, Lissen Grove, Wooloowin. The prize money in the nine competitions for amateurs at the radio exhibition did not amount to more than £23 10s., which would hardly cover the cost of one multivalve receiving set. In the circumstances, there was a surprisingly large number of entries, competitors no doubt being attracted, not so much by the prospect of winning a paltry couple of pounds, but by a prldeful desire to show to the public what amateur constructors can do. Some of the receiving sets, and some of the homemade components, too, were quite equal to the best factory standards. One or two sets showed signs of having been hurriedly constructed. In this connection a contributing cause was probably the fact that particulars of the competitions were not announced until three or four weeks before the exhibition."

4FK continues his AOCP lectures at the Wooloowin Radio Club "RADIO TOPICS. BY 'LISTENER.' At a special meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club, Mr. V. F. Kenna continued his series of lectures on the amateur operator's proficiency certificate, and also on transformers. He illustrated his lecture with the aid of a blackboard and by practical demonstrations. Three more members of the club recently sat for the proficiency certificates. In future all members subscriptions will date from August 1; new members joining between the dates of the beginning and expiration of the subscription period will be asked to pay a pro rata amount. Mr. Kenna will give another of his series of lectures at a meeting to be held tomorrow night, Mr. H. A. Jiear, Lisson Grove, Wooloowin, continues to hold the position of secretary of this flourishing club."

1926 09
4FK continues his AOCP lectures at the Wooloowin Radio Club "RADIO TOPICS. BY 'LISTENER.' . . . At the last meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club its technical adviser, Mr. H. F. Coffey, of VIB, detailed certain research work which, he said, was within the scope of accomplishment, by members of the club. Mr. McKenna (sic) continued his series of lectures, dealing with condensers. The prizes won by Mr. Kimpton (president of the club), at the recent radio and electrical exhibition, were presented to him during the evening. At the Windsor show last Saturday the Wooloowin Radio Club staged an interesting and comprehensive display of wireless sets and apparatus. In the evening the club entertained patrons with a programme of music transmitted from station 4QG, which was received on a four valve set kindly loaned by a member of the club."

As previous "RADIO TOPICS. By LISTENER. . . . A number of important matters were dealt with at last week's meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club. Three new members were enrolled. Immediate steps are being taken to operate the club's transmitter on a wave length of about 250 metres so that both phone and Morse may be used for the benefit of owners of receiving sets which will not tune down to the very short wave lengths. Short wave transmissions will also be carried out occasionally. With a view to creating even greater interest among the clubs of Brisbane the secretary was instructed to write to the various clubs asking for their co-operation in a scheme whereby an interchange of club lectures might be arranged. The club room will be open to members and visitors tomorrow evening, when Mr. V. F. Kenna will continue his series of lectures. All inquiries regarding club matters should be addressed to the hon. secretary (Mr. H. A. Jiear), Lisson Grove, Wooloowin."

1926 11
4FK issued with AOCP 301 (was he initially issued with a callsign different to 4FK, prior to Mathews becoming unlicensed??) VK4FK - Vernon Francis Kenna - AOCP Issue
 * Certificate No.: 301
 * Date of Issue: 1/11/1926
 * Family Name: Kenna
 * Given Name: V. F.
 * Street Address: "The Laurels", Allen St
 * City / Suburb / Town: Hamilton
 * State: Qld
 * Transmit Endorsement: blank
 * Register Callsign: blank

4FK qualifies for his AOCP VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. Without doubt, his short term as President was the WIA's loss; he possessed physical bearing, the rhetoric (although quietly spoken) and the administrative ability to fill the WIA's top position in Queensland very admirably. Vern showed a very early interest in radio, qualifying for his AOPC in 1927 (sic, late 1926)and constructed and operated receiving and transmitting equipment (amateur station 4FK) at Allen St., Hamilton, Brisbane for a number of years as opportunity offered. Those who knew him in those days claim he was lecturing on the theory of wireless to students in the late 1920s, when in his late teens. His commitment to radio seems to have been almost total throughout his whole life. . ..

1928
4FK's father's Electoral Roll registration 1928 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1928
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 3832, Kenna, Edith Elvira, The Laurels, Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 3833, Kenna, Francis, The Laurels, Allen street, Hamilton, agent, male (father)

1928 07
4FK takes second place in competition for best low-power transmitter at Radio and Electrical Exhibition "Radio Exhibition. Opened by the Premier Amateur Competitions. The Radio and Electrical Exhibition in the Bohemia Theatre, South Brisbane, was officially opened last night by the Premier (Mr. W. McCormack), before a very large attendance. The Premier first of all congratulated the organisers of the show which he described as splendid. On looking round the exhibition he had been impressed with the many articles that were manufactured in Australia, and without in any way deprecating the splendid exhibits, of imported goods they could all entertain a hope that in the future Australia would do more and more work in this direction (Applause). The exhibition was useful, it was educational, and he felt sure that housewives and prospective housewives who saw the exhibits would express a wish to have some of them installed in their own homes. He hoped that with the advance of electricity in the domains of domestic uses much of the drudgery of work in the homes of the people would be eliminated. Referring to broadcasting Mr. McCormack said that he unfortunately was the political head of the department which controlled station 4QG, and it fell to him to receive many letters of abuse and grievance against the programmes broadcasted by the station. He knew that Mr. Robinson (director of the station) also got his share of such letters, and his sympathy went out to the director, the staff, and the artists. He believed that in Mr. Robinson they had a very capable director and that the staff was also a most efficient one. It was a most difficult thing to find artists night after night, and week after week, who could satisfy the thousands of listeners, and he thought that most people would agree with him that the director and his staff were doing their very best with the material at their disposal, and the future of broadcasting seemed to be assured. Broadcasting was a splendid thing for people living in isolated parts of Queensland. The large gathering at the show that night was, he thought, a fine testimonial as to how the people of Brisbane regarded station 4QG and those associated with it. The Premier was introduced to the assemblage by the director of 4QG, and after the opening speech a flash light photograph was taken of the scene. The explosion of the flashlight powder could be clearly heard on the home receivers, through which thousands of people heard a description of the show and by means of which they enjoyed the splendid programme which was staged in the Bohemia Theatre for the entertainment of those who visited the show. Earlier in the evening the bedtime storytellers from 4QG contributed a programme which made a special appeal to hundreds of young people. The children were delighted to meet their 'radio uncles' and 'aunts' in the flesh. AMATEUR COMPETITIONS. The amateur section, attracted a great deal of attention last night, the skilful workmanship of the competitors being a subject of much favourable comment. The following progressive list of winners was announced last night:— Best piece of homemade apparatus: G. H. M. Birkbeck, Wooloowin Radio Club, 1 and 2; Frank Norris, Lutwyche, 3. Best made crystal set: Cecil O'Mara, Gaythorne, 1; F. M. Nolan, Woolowin Radio Club; 2; F. Clarkson, Valley 3. Best one or two valve set, any circuit: W. Fullagar, Norman Park, 1; G. Payne, Wooloowin Radio Club, 2; Wm. Johnson, East Brisbane, 3. Best three or four valve set: W. Rohde, Wooloowin Radio Club, 1; G. Payne, Wooloowin Radio Club, 2; F. M. Nolan, Wooloowin Radio Club, 3. Best five-valve or over set: P. J. Golden, Wynnum, 1; C. J. Grant, Wooloowln Radio Club, 2; F. Brazier 3. Best shortwave receiver: K. L. Elliott, Hawthorne, 1; A. T. Bauer, Annerley, 2; C. J. Grant, Wooloowin Radio Club, 3. Best low-power transmitter: W. F. Scott, West End (A.R.T.L., Queensland Division), 1; V. F. Kenna, Wooloowin Radio Club), 2; T. W. Starkey (sic, Starkie), A.R.T.L. (Queensland Division) and 4TC, 3."

1928 08
4FK elected to both at AGM of Wooloowin Radio Club: general committee, technical committee, press correspondent to Qld Radio News and chief operator of 4WN "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. The annual meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club was held on August 22, the president (Mr. Jiear) in the chair. The proceedings were broadcasted by the club's transmitter station, OA4WN. The election of officers for the ensuing year resulted as follows: Patron, Mr. James Love; past president, Mr. H. Kington; president, Mr. H. Jiear (reelected); hon. secretary, Mr. G. Payne; assistant secretary, Mr. V. Bouchard; treasurer, Mr. J. P. Love (re-elected); committee, Messrs. V. F. Kenna and L. J. Feenaghty; technical committee, Messrs. V. F. Kenna, H. Stephenson, L. J. Feenaghty, C. J. Grant; technical adviser, Mr. T. Armstrong; auditors, Messrs. W. Rhode and C. George; Press correspondent to Q.R.N., Mr. V. F. Kenna; chief operator for 4WN. Mr. V. F. Kenna."

1928 10
4FK included in a list of Brisbane shortwave stations RADIO NOTES. (By "DX Hound"). . . THE FOURTH DISTRICT.
 * 4AW.— Owner-op. A. Walz, started transmitting August 1926. He uses a series Hartley with a UX210 tube. Input, 5 to 72 watts. His antenna is tuned to the 5th harmonic. Note is rac.
 * 4CG.— Owner-op. Cliff Gold., Started June 1926. Uses L.C. Hartley with a UX210 tube. Input 35 watts, antenna 3rd harmonic. Note rac.
 * 4FN [sic, 4FK].— Owner-op. V. Kenna, started December 1926. Uses L.C. Hartley with a UX210 tube. Input 20-30 watts. Antenna 3rd harmonic. Note dc. Wavebands 32 85.
 * 4GO.— Owner-op, G. Oxlade, started February 1925. Uses T.P.T.G. with a UX210 tube. Input 40 watts with antenna 5th harmonic. Note supply dc.
 * 4LJ.— Owner-op. L. J. Feenaghty. Started October 1926. Uses T.P.T.G. with UX210 tube. Input 18-28 watts. Antenna 3rd harmonic.
 * 4NW.— Owner-op. T. Starkie. Started November 1926. Uses L.C. Hartley with a UX210 tube. Input 40 watts. Antenna 3rd harmonic.
 * 4TC.— Owner Toombul Radio Club, op. 4AW. Started October 1926. Uses L.C. Hartley with Mullard 10 watt tube. Input 15 watts. Antenna 3rd harmonic.

1929 09
4FK takes first place in Love Trophy "WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB. THE ANNUAL MEETING. The fifth annual meeting of the Wooloowin Radio Club was held at the Guild Hall, Wooloowin. Visitors present were representatives of the Wireless Institute of Australia, Toombul, and Indooroopilly, and Technical College Radio Clubs, and several Brisbane radio dealers. The election of officers for the ensuing year resulted as follows:— Patron, Mr. James Love; past-president, Mr. H. Kington; president, Mr. H. A. Jiear; vicepresidents, Messrs. J. W. Robinson, J. B. Chandler, Jas. Malone, A. T. Bartlett, Trackson, F. J. Thomas, H. Oldham, and M. M. O'Brien; hon. secretary, Mr. M. V. Bouchard; hon. assistant secretary, Mr. M. W. Rhode; hon. treasurer, Mr. J. P. Love; general committee, Messrs. C. George and C. J. Grant; technical committee, to consist of all experimental ticket holders: hon. technical advisor, Mr. M. F. Armstrong; hon. Auditors, Messrs. W. Blaikie and E. Twiss; publicity engineer, Mr. G. H. Payne. During the supper that followed the meeting, several speakers complimented the club on the spirit shown by members since the club's inception, also remarking on the good quality of the club's transmissions on 250 metres. The results of the Love trophy competition resulted as follows:— V. K. (sic, V. F.) Kenna, 1 (electric reading lamp and pennant); M. Rhode, 2 (electric toaster and pennant); G. H. Payne, 3 (a pennant). After five years of keen activity the club is still going strong, and listeners everywhere are enjoying the good quality of test transmissions every Sunday from 9.30 to 11 a.m., and sometimes on Thursday nights between 7 and 8 p.m. Interested listeners are invited to give reports on these tests which would be very much appreciated."

4FK attends party with fellow amateur J. P. Love for opening of yachting season on Love family yacht "Opening of the Sailing. White wings on the river and a cloudless blue sky overhead formed a perfect setting for an enjoyable afternoon's outing on Saturday, when the opening of the combined sailing clubs of Brisbane, under the auspices of the Queensland Yacht Racing Association, was held. Mr. J. W. Whatmore's yacht, the Stradbroke, was the official boat for the races, and those present on board included the officials and representatives of the various affiliated clubs. Numbers of parties were given aboard private yachts during the afternoon. Mr. and Mrs. James Love entertained a number of friends on the Sweetheart. Their guests included Sir David and Lady Hardie, Dr. and Mrs. John Ralston, Mesdames J. M. Boyd, R. Henry, Misses Jean Hardie, Thelma Couldery, Violet Dash, Zoe Earl, Nan North, Mavis Duncan, McStay, Ellen Love, Dr. Harold Love, Dr. Wilton Love, Messrs. Ronald Grant, P. Vidgen, V. Kenna, J. P. Love, and Master Hardie. . .."

1930 01
4FK part of the PMG team that took over responsibility for the operation of 4QG transmission system from 31 January 1930 "By July 1929, the Queensland Government was exchanging correspondence with a commercial firm, The Australian Broadcasting Company Ltd of Sydney through S. F. Doyle its managing director. This company had been formed by Sir Benjamin Fuller and C. F. Marden was its general manager. It was proposed that this company should take over all program provision in the A class stations and at ·the same time the Postmaster General would take control of the technical aspects of the stations. Lists of equipment and valuations were prepared and the Broadcasting Company took control of the studio operations on 31 January 1930. At the same time the Postmaster General assumed control of the technical services and the National Broadcasting Service was officially inaugurated. . . . Officers of the Transmission Section of the PMG Department in Brisbane took over the operation with A. J. (Arthur) Clark as the first Foreman Mechanic in charge. J. R. (Jim) Hutchison was the Divisional Engineer and S. J. (Sam) Ross the Supervising Engineer. For the next 12 years the station remained in the State Government Insurance Building (which became in 1933, the State Taxation Building) and during this period many PMG men spent time on the maintenance staff. The list is long and may not be complete, but the following are known to have served there: Vern Kenna, Bill Rohde, Bert Cowling, George McFarlane, Vince Henderson, Jim Todd, Snow Hendry, Blue Hamilton, Hughie Thain, Nat Gould, Ralph Bongers, Harold Oxford, Dan Baxter, Gordon Booker, Geoff Beetham, Reg Baker, Jack Loth, George Carrier."

1930 05
4FK installs crystal control for his transmitter "Amateur Notes. . . . VK4FK has now installed crystal control."

Newly formed Telephony (= broadcast) Section of WIAQ meets (4FK an attendee) and agrees a frequency plan for use of the members, 4WN (4FK chief operator) allocated 241.8 metres (= 1241 kHz) "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMATEUR TELEPHONY STATIONS. The newly-formed telephony section of the Wireless Institute of Australia held its first meeting last Monday night at Golden's premises in Elizabeth-street. The meeting was convened by the secretary (Mr. Harold D. Walsh), and was attended by Mesrs. L. J. Feenaghty (4LJ), R. J. Browne (4RB), V. Kenna (4FK), C. Morrison (4LW), P. J. Golden (4PG), G. Ham (4GW), R. Stevenson (4RG), H. D. Walsh (4HW), and representatives from the Wooloowin Radio Club (4WN) and Toombul Radio Club (4TC). Mr. C. Morrison was elected president of the section. The object in calling the meeting was to decide on some method of reducing the mutual interference and jamming at present experienced on the 200-250 metre band, and so render the amateur telephony transmissions more satisfactory to both operators and listeners. For the past few months at least five telephony stations have been working simultaneously each Sunday morning on approximately the same wavelength, with the result that listeners have found it well nigh impossible to separate the stations. The meeting decided that the most satisfactory solution would be to allot a definite wavelength to each station in such a manner that stations in the same locality would be rather widely separated on the tuning dials of receivers. The position of each station was marked on a map, and a list drawn up showing the most suitable wavelength for each, and the meeting decided that the allotment as shown should be recommended to the council of the institute for adoption. The meeting decided that at an early date a test should be carried out by operating all stations simultaneously, each on its allotted wavelength. Listeners would then be able to make reports which would assist in determining the efficacy or otherwise of the system. It was suggested that the co-operation of the Queensland Listeners' League should be invited for this test, for which a date has not yet been fixed, but probably it will take place on a Sunday morning. The allocation of wavelengths is as follows: 4NW, 249.9 metres; 4PG, 245.8 metres; 4WN, 241.8 metres; 4LW, 238.0 metres; 4GW, 234.2 metres; 4HW, 230.6 metres; 4RB, 227.1 metres; 4GO, 223.7 metres; 4AL, 220.4 metres; 4JU, 217.3 metres; 4CG, 214.2 metres: 4WA, 202.6 metres. It is hoped that if the stations adhere rigidly to these wavelengths listeners will experience no further trouble in separating them."

1930 06
WIA tests their 200 metre frequency allocation scheme (4FK involved, as previous), likely 4FK ("well known PMG engineer") to lecture at next WIAQ meeting "Wireless Institute. Recent Activities. The test to determine the efficacy of the Wireless Institute Council's frequency allocations for telephony stations on the broadcast bands was conducted last Sunday morning, and from the tone of the reports received from listeners it would appear that with very slight changes the allocation recently published will suffice to eliminate any undue interference. When new stations commence transmitting telephony on these bands it will be necessary for the council, through the phone section of the Institute, to examine the application of the station operator in conjunction with its geographical location and the power &c., which it is proposed to use. Later, when the numbers increase to such an extent as to necessitate it 'silent hours' or alternate periods will have to be resorted to as is done with the Victorian Division of the Institute. Listeners who heard the test and have not yet reported are asked to do so to Box T1412 G.P.O., Brisbane. All reports received will be acknowledged. As the test was conducted by the Institute and not by the individual stations all reports should be sent to the Secretary of the Institute and not to the station operators. OFFICIAL STATION. At the next council meeting to be held June 23, consideration will be given to the furthering of the construction of the official station, VK4WI. On the agenda there will be two very important letters from public departments asking the institute to co-operate with them in regard to emergency transmissions by means of fixed and portable stations. As the communications, for the time being are confidential it is not possible to give details, but the institute is very pleased at this definite evidence of the recognition which it has earned and of its standing in the wireless world of the Commonwealth, The institute is the only body representing the amateur experimenters of Australia, and it has been in existence for 18 years. It was started in New South Wales in 1912. It is now firmly established in every State and numbers in its ranks every well known private experimenter as well as many of the men whose names are household words in wireless and electrical circles in the country. INTERESTING EXPERIMENT. On Wednesday, June 11, at the invitation of the management, the institute receiver was brought to the Regent Theatre in an endeavour to obtain direct reception of overseas broadcasting so that the cricket scores could be made available to patrons direct during the Test Matches. Conditions were bad owing to local interference and no English broadcasting stations were logged. However, a Russian station (RA97) was received, and was put through the amplifiers, much to the delight of the members of the staff, who remained after the programme. Surprise was expressed at the strength at which the station was heard. The members of the institute responsible for the test were VK4HW (Mr. H. D. Walsh), VK4PG (P. J. Golden), and the secretory, VK4LJ (Major Leo J. Feenaghty). The next monthly meeting is to be held on Monday, July 7, in the rooms of the State Service Union, 59a Elizabeth Street, and all interested in wireless communication are cordially invited to be present. An interesting talk is promised by a well known electrical engineer who has been for some years associated with the P.M.G's. Department. Any inquiries regarding the institute, or any of its activities, should be addressed to the secretary (Major Leo J. Feenaghty), Box T1412, G.P.O. For the Information of those who may be desirous of joining the ranks of the institute with a view to securing their transmitting license it is pointed out that the associate members' section meets every Wednesday evening in Room 24, Victory Chambers, opp. G.P.O., Queen Street, where classes of instruction are held regularly. That they are effective is proved by the fact that at the last examination the section presented four candidates, all of whom were successful with high passes. The secretary of this section of the institute is Mr. Les Williams, Salisbury Street, Indooroopilly, Brisbane."

1930 09
4FK working 40 metres with crystal control "Amateur Stations. . . . VK4FK is also working on the 40-metre band with crystal control."

4FK on holidays at Teewantin with 4MM and 4LW "Amateur Stations. . . . VK4FK on 40 metres with crystal control. FB indeed. . . . VK4MM, 4FK, and 4LW will be taking a portable transmitter and a Kodak movie camera to Tewantin for a holiday next week."

1930 10
As previous "AMATEUR NOTES. . . . VK4LW, 4MM and 4FK are on holidays."

4FK and 4JL designated operators of yacht "Sweetheart" "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMONG THE AMATEURS. . . . It is expected that this summer there will be a great increase in the number of yachts fitted with radio apparatus, both sending and receiving. Mr James Love's Sweetheart is equipped with an excellent installation, operated by VK4JL and VK4FK."

1930 11
4FK participates in Wooloowin Radio Club field day at Cash's Crossing but damages his transmitting tube "WOOLOOWIN CLUB. RECENT OUTING. The recent outing of the Wooloowin Radio Club at Cash's Crossing was a great success. A large number of members attended, and there were visitors from the Toombul Radio Club and the Wireless Institute of Australia (Queensland Division). On the Saturday night before the main event, members spent the time testing equipment, and adjusting the various transmitters. George Ham (4GW) was successful in transmitting phone, using a number of B batteries for his plate supply. More visitors arrived on Sunday morning, and the parties were then selected for the hunt. There were three parties, BN1, BN2, and NME, each being controlled from headquarters' transmitters, which was in charge of VK4MM. Each party was provided with a portable transmitter and receiver, and a map of the surrounding country, which was divided into lettered squares. The BN1 party entrenched itself near Cash's Crossing, commanding a good view of the hills above. It had a fair idea of where the NME party was, and desired to prevent it conveying on and attacking headquarters. BN2 party meanwhile was up in the hills, and, from listening to the messages passing between headquarters and NME was able to get very close to the NME party, actually sighting but not capturing it. At 3 p.m. BN1 party radioed BN2 party, and suggested a retreat to headquarters. The NME party was unfortunate in not listening at the time. Headquarters were reached after an almost interminable scramble through barbwire fences. NME was then a long way from headquarters, and VK4MM kept it on the move for quite a long while before it realised that its way to headquarters was unimpeded. This was done quite easily by altering the note of the transmitter to resemble that of the BN parties. Some nicely made transmitters and receivers were used. 4AW brought his KHAB; It made a fine heliograph. GN had a receiver designed for 40 metre operation, with full dial coverage of the band, and plug in loop. Vern. Kenna (4FK) had bad luck in damaging his transmitting tube, a Phillips TB04/10. Much credit for the success of the outing is due to Messrs. J. B. Chandler and Co., for the use of the radiola service van and tents, also to the Clayfield Boy Scouts for their fine assistance."

1930 12
4FK appointed to the WIAQ technical committee, with several tasks to be completed "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMONG THE AMATEURS. The monthly meeting of the Wireless Institute of Australia (Queensland division) was held last Tuesday night, and a very fine attendance was recorded The chief item for discussion was the appointment and duties of a Technical Development Committee. This committee, as now appointed, consists of Messrs. Harold Walsh (4HW), A. Walz (4AW), V. E. Kenna (4FK), C. Morris (4LW), R. Browne (4RB), M. M. O'Brien (4MM), and P. Kelly. The objects of this body are to encourage, promote, and assist in technical development and research, and these will be carried out with the assistance of other members of the institute who desire to interest themselves in this branch of the radio art. It was decided that a large proportion of the institute's funds should be made available for the purchase of instruments and special apparatus for use by the committee, and these will be available for the use of members engaged on this work. Discussion took place on the subject of crystal control, and it was decided that as it is desirable that as many stations as possible should be crystal-controlled the matter should receive the early attention of the Technical Committee, which will make arrangements for a supply of accurately calibrated crystals to be available for sale to all members at a reasonable price. With this end in view a supply of unfinished crystals has been ordered from Melbourne, and these will be ground locally to the correct frequency. The committee also will be responsible for development of improved methods of keeping local stations on a correct and definite frequency, and it is hoped to attain this by the possession of an accurately calibrated wavemeter, from which approved wavemeters constructed by individual members will be calibrated. The committee also will do as much as possible to improve and maintain the quality of amateur telephony transmission, and will carry out considerable experimental work in this connection. During this week all members have been asked to keep a careful watch on the amateur bands, and report any infringements on these by commercial stations. During the last few months a number of powerful foreign stations, mostly using automatic transmission, have appeared on the amateur bands, and have caused considerable interference. All reports received will be consolidated and forwarded to Geneva and Washington for attention. Members are urged, therefore, to forward their reports to the secretary as soon as possible after the end of this week."

As previous, further detail "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMONG THE AMATEURS. WIRELESS INSTITUTE. The main topic discussed at the December general meeting of the Queensland division was technical development. At the recent Melbourne convention the Federal technical development section was located in South Australia, and all divisions were instructed to form divisional sections and to inauguiate a vigorous campaign of technical development. In furtherance of this policy a strong technical committee has been formed, comprising the president, Mr. O'Brien (VK4MM), the technical director, Mr. R. J. Browne (VK4RB), Messrs. Walsh (VK4HW), Walz (VK4AW), Kenna (VK4FK), Morris (VK4LW), and P. Kelly. This committee will be responsible for the conduct of experimentation in Queensland, and a series of groups, each being devoted to a particular phase of technical work, will be formed. The first of such groups will deal with the closely allied subjects — crystal controlled oscillators and frequency measurement. It will, therefore, cover the calibration of frequency meters for institute members, using for the purpose the recently constructed substandard, which is being calibrated in Melbourne against the institute's general standard. A fee to cover expenses will be charged for this calibration service. Other groups to be formed later will cover such matters as high frequency telephony transmissions, fading, heaviside layer, investigations, &c. Any member or associate member of the institute is eligible to associate himself with any group in the investigations of which he is interested, and notification should be sent to the secietary of the institute for the present. In a short time a Technical Committee Secretary will be appoint-ed, who will receive all such applications."

1931
4FK works as a member of the technical staff at 4QG, now within the National Broadcasting Service VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . Born at Brisbane 6th May 1908, VK4FK commenced employment in the PMG in 1924 as a junior mechanic-in-training. He advanced through technical grades and finally assumed the position of senior engineer in the radio section of the headquarters administration in Melbourne. From 1931 to 1934 Vern was a member of the technical staff at Broadcast Station 4QG Brisbane. . ..

1931 01
4FK busy on construction work and not heard on air "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMONG THE AMATEURS. A meeting of the Wireless Institute of Australia was held last Monday night but perhaps owing to the holiday season a very poor attendance was recorded The council reported that as not a single report had been forwarded in response to the request for observance of commercial interference on amateur bands it was felt that there was a considerable lack of enthusiasm among the members and the whole council in consequence tendered its resignation. This, however, was not accepted by the meeting, and the council was requested to carry on. Congratulations were tendered to the associate members who recently passed the test and obtained their amateur operator tickets thus qualifying for promotion to full membership. It was decided to hold the annual meeting on April 13 next, and that this should take the form of a business meeting followed by presentation of trophies and supper. A committee consisting of Messrs. Harold Walsh, R. Browne and an associate member was appointed to investigate and decide the awarding of the various trophies. The meeting decided to hold a field test during 17-18th instant. The bulk of the party participating will proceed to Scarborough, but some will go to Bribie and various tests will be carried out using portable apparatus. It is likely, however that other attractions usually associated with the seaside may prevent members from devoting much of the time to serious experimental work. Conditions have been almost impossible lately for short wave work and most stations have temporarily gone 'off the air.' On the 200 metre band 4LW and 4GO are heard consistently, also occasionally 4NW. 4HW has been rebuilding his transmitter to comply with fire underwriters' rules, and expects to be back on the air with crystal control at an early date. 4JU is still heard regularly and appears to get good contacts; 4RB and 4FK have been devoting most of their time to constructional work, and are seldom heard on the air. However, when winter begins and static diminishes somewhat, it is hoped that the old keenness will be observed, and that many new records will be established by local amateurs."

4FK appointed to the RAAF Wireless Reserve and Air Guard for Qld "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMONG THE AMATEURS. A number of members of the Wireless Institute spent an enjoyable weekend at Scarborough recently, and carried out some interesting tests with portable apparatus. Those taking part comprised Messrs. L. J. Feenaghty (4LJ), R. Browne (4RB), A. Walz (4AW), Harold Walsh (4HW), and V. Jeffs. Two separate sets of transmitting and receiving equipment were installed and put into operation with as little delay as possible, one set being operated from the mains, and the other with battery supply. The members all thoroughly enjoyed the swimming and other attractions offered by this fine seaside resort, but, in spite of the many outside attractions, a considerable time was spent on experimental work. At a meeting of the council of the institute on Tuesday night, the question of co-operation at the aerial pageant on 31st instant was discussed, and it was decided that members should do all in their power to help to make it a success. Five complete transmitting and receiving stations will be established, one on the aerodrome, and one at each turning point on the course. The station on the 'drome will be equipped with a number of receivers, so that, if necessary, all outside stations may be heard at once, and this station also will, be connected by temporary telephone lines with various officials on the grounds. An official observer will be situated at each point, and reports will be sent to the central station as each competitor passes each turning point. The matter of constructing an official institute station (VK4WI) also was discussed, and various suggestions were made as to what form the apparatus should take. Although, perhaps, it would be preferable to use the simplest type of outfit to secure ease in adjustment and operation, it was considered that crystal control should be installed to secure the utmost possible stability, especially as this system is the one preferred and recommended by the Federal Council of the institute. The secretary made a report to the council of the recent interdivisional traffic handed on behalf of the institute. This is now carried out entirely by the secretary (Mr. L. J. Feenaghty, 4LJ) from his own station. Mr. V. F. Kenna (4FK) has been appointed to the Air Force Wireless Reserve, and made Air Guard for this State."

1931 02
4FK included in a list of calls heard in Sydney by "Metre" "BY METRE, Activity on the Experimental Band. 41 Metres. On Saturday (31/1/'31), between 3.30 p.m. and 4.30 p.m., the following experimenters were on the air. Victorians were more numerous than the other divisions. It also appeared that the 3rd district of the WIA. had a field day, although the signals from the mobile sources were not recordable in Sydney. Time (p.m.) - from - to - Characteristics, &c. 3.20 - 3GU - 3JA - Calling only. Good CW signal. R7. 3.25 - 3GU - 2WD - Calling CW. Steady signal. R8. 3.28 - 3WD - 3GU - Calling. maximum signal. Steady. 3.39 - 4FK - CQ - Calling. Crystal control. Max. 3.40 - 3JA - CQ - Calling. RAC note fading. R5. 3.45 - 3CW - CQ - Calling. Steady signal. R8. 3.46 - Z3RM - CQ - Calling. Fading slightly. R6. 3.47 - Z3CV - CQ - Calling. RAC. Steady. R7. 3.48 - 2LZ - 2WD - 'Phone. Fair quality. Selective fade. 3.53 - 5JK - CQ - CW. Good signal. - R5/6. 4 - 3LM - CQ - Calling. Maximum signal. 4.02 - 2ZK - 3LM - Answered. Good steady CW. R7. Around 2.40 p.m. there was a batch of Victorians working, whereas very little activity was noticeable on the Eastern States. The following were working almost simultaneously: Time (p.m.) - from - to - Characteristics, &c. 2.40 - 3BC - 2RB - Calling, and working. Speech very clear, with a low noise level. 2.40 - 3TD - CQ - Morse. C.W. Steady, R8. 2.42 - 3TD - 2WD - Calling only. Slight frequency change now. Signal still R8. 2.44 - 4BS - 2HG - Calling, working (raining in Brisbane, &c.) 2.46 - 3CW - CQ - Calling. Steady signal. R7/8. 3 - 7JR - 3KI - Windy and cool in Tas-mania. R6. 3 - 3WT - WIA - Calling at intervals. Steady, R6/7. 3.2 - 3TD - 3HJ - Working. (Raining in Melbourne). Slight frequency change. Otherwise good signals, R6/7. During this brief period of observation, you will note there were 18 Australian stations working whose signals were very strong and steady in Sydney. Signals from four States are recorded, and two stations from New Zealand. Receiver used was the ordinary 4-valve 'Press' Universal."

4FK bust building new transmitter for WIAQ "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMONG THE AMATEURS. At the monthly meeting of the Wireless Institute of Australia last Thursday night, Mr Leighton Gibson (4AN) delivered an interesting lecturette on Philips products. A talk on X-ray apparatus and its applications to medical science, by Philips' Queensland representative, was well received. Among matters discussed were the building of a new transmitter for the institute, allotment of trophies for work, and experiments during the past year, and proposals for procedure of the Technical Development Committee The new transmitter is now under construction by Mr. V. F. Kenna, and will be crystal-controlled, and of the latest improved type. Although shortwave signals from all over the world are now being heard in Brisbane with remarkable strength, static is very bad, and militates against successful long distance two-way communication. Interference from power lines and induction also is very bad, sometimes making reception almost impossible. This has been particularly noticeable since the recent heavy rains, and is probably due to breaking down of insulation on some of the high-tension cables. Broadcasting from G5SW on 25 53 metres is heard very well each night after 10.30, usually relaying programmes from 2LO (London). W9XF (Chicago) has been heard each Sunday lately, being particularly loud just before closing down at 6 p. m., Brisbane time, announced as 3 a.m. Chicago time the wavelength is 49.8 metres. Good loud transmission also is heard from W2XAF (New York), 31.5 metres; ZLW (Auckland), 24 metres; PLW (Java), 24 metres; GBX (London), 28 metres; RV15 (Russia), 70 metres; and occasionally Dutch and other foreign stations. 4HW is still off the air rebuilding his transmitter. 4JU has been unwell but still manages to find a few minutes for the key, and works stations all over the earth. 4NW is putting over some very fine musical transmission on 200 metres."

1931 03
4FK participates in control activities organised by WIAQ for Aerial Pagent "Aerial Pageant. Radio Communications. By 'LISTENER' At the aerial pageant, which was held at Eagle Farm by the Australian Flying Corps Association last Saturday the Wireless Institute of Australia (Queensland division) took a prominent part, maintaining wireless communication between the aerodrome and the various turning points during the races. The central control station at the drome was in charge of VK4MM (M. M. O'Brien), who had with him associate members J. W. Young, Neale, and Bentzen. The Meeandah turning point was operated by VK4AW (A. E. Walz), who was assisted by associate members Bouchard, Luckman, and Scholtz. Queensport had VK4FK (V. F. Kenna), who was assisted by VK4LL (J. L. Lumb), and associate member Kelly. Texaco was staffed by VK4WA (W. A. Young), with VK4YG (I. H. Young) as assistant. Racecourse was operated by VK4GW (G. W. Ham), VK4FB (F. S. Beech), and associate member Tonge. The divisional secretary and traffic manager of VK4WI (Major Leo J. Feenaghty) was in charge of the arrangements for the day. The stations were operated successfully. Touch was established at a very early hour and was maintained consistently throughout the afternoon. VK4AW, operated from Meeandah, used telephony; the remainder of the stations used the code. Much traffic was passed and reports were received actually during the course of the races. In view of the isolated position of some of the points, the fact that all stations were on the air and in touch before the start of the first race speaks well for the organisation and for the keenness and skill of the operators in charge. Many and various means of transport were used, not omitting a yacht. This is the second occasion upon which the institute has carried out such arrangements. The first occasion was the aerial pageant in August, 1929."

4FK continues construction of the new WIAQ transmitter VK4WI "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . AMONG THE AMATEURS. At a recent meeting of the Wireless Institute an interesting lecture was delivered by Mr. Barkis, of the Dicta-phone Co., his subject being 'Audio Amplifier Systems.' It was reported that, thanks to the generosity of several city firms, it was now possible to make a start on the construction of the new institute transmitter, which is being built by Mr. V. Kenna (4FK). Sundry parts are still required, and it is hoped that more donations will be forthcoming. .."

1931 04
4FK attends WIAQ fourth AGM and is appointed sectional guard for RAAF Wireless Reserve for the following year "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. FOURTH ANNUAL MEETING. At the fourth annual meeting of the Wireless Institute of Australia (Queensland branch), on Thursday night, Mr. T. Armstrong, radio inspector, said that in many phases of wireless the experimental stages had not been passed. Particularly was this so in regard to directional finding and transmission from aeroplanes. He was glad that the amateurs in Queensland were now organised into a progressive and energetic body. The newly-appointed president, Mr. L. J. Feenaghty, expressed the hope that the work of the institute would progress rapidly when the proposal to acquire suitable quarters was adopted. He suggested that the public should be educated on wireless matters by the delivery of free lectures on non-technical subjects. In his report he showed that the Queensland division had 45 members and 41 associate members. Office-bearers elected were: president and treasurer, Mr. L. J. Feenaghty; secretary, Mr. M. M. O'Brien; technical director, Mr. R. J. Browne; publicity director, Mr. H. D. Walsh; assistant secretary, Mr. A. E. Walz; sectional guard of Air Force wireless reserve, Mr. V. F. Kenna."

1931 05
As previous, a more detailed report "Wireless Institute. The New Officers. Series of Lectures. The fourth annual meeting of the Queensland division of the Wireless Institute of Australia proved to be the most successful yet held. Apart from the usual business there was the presentation of trophies won during the year. These comprised cups and pennants. The winners of the awards were: Rev. R. J. Delbridge (VK4RJ) gold cup for the best station. VK4GK was awarded the cup for work on 20 metres and below. VK4RJ being second in this grade. The Feenaghty cup for 250-metre phone work went to Mr. G. Oxlade (VK4GO), with Mr. G. W. Ham (VK4GW) in second position. For experimental work Mr. A. E. Walz (VK4AW) received the cup, and Mr. A. H. Mackenzie (VK4GK) was runner up. A special pennant was awarded to Mr. Frank Nolan (VK4JU) for special services consistently rendered to the institute during the year in connection with traffic relays, vigilance, &c. During the evening the retiring secretary, Major Leo J. Feenaghty (VK4LJ) was made the recipient of a token of esteem from the council, and Mr. P. J. Kelly received a presentation from the associate members' section in recognition of his services as honorary lecturer to the section. ELECTION OF OFFICERS The election of officers resulted in Major Leo J. Feenaghty (VK4LJ), who has been secretary for four years since the inception of the organisation in Queensland being elevated to the presidential chair, the past president, Mr. M. M. O'Brien (VK4MM) taking over the position of secretary; Mr. R. J. Browne (VK4RJ) and Mr. H. D. Walsh (VK4HW) were re-elected technical and publicity directors respectively. The representatives from the various sections are as follow: Key section, Mr. W. A. Yeung (VK4WA); phone section, Mr. G. W. Ham (VK4GW); country secretary, Mr. A. E. Walz (VK4AW); associate members' section, Mr. Scholtz. Messrs. Walz and Kenna (VK4FK) were reappointed to their positions of assistant secretary and section guard, Air Force Wireless Reserve, respectively. The positions of treasurer and traffic manager will continue to be filled by VK4LJ. The institute has concluded arrangements with the Epworth House Trust for the occupancy of a room in the Methodist Book Depot building as apartment headquarters. Classes and meetings will be held there, and an attractive programme has been arranged. On Mondays there will be preliminary lectures for those desiring of learning something about the science of wireless but who are not, at present, anxious to go for their transmitting license. The transmitting license class will be held on Tuesdays, Morse Code class Wednesdays; public non-technical talks on one or two Thursdays each month; and all meetings of the council sections; and general meetings will be held Fridays. The first class will be held Tuesday, May 5 and every night thereafter will be occupied. Members of the public are cordially invited to attend the public lectures, the date for which will be announced soon. Get in touch with W.I.A. headquarters and learn something of this most fascinating hobby. A programme of publicity is being embarked upon from the leading phone transmitters on 200 metres each Sunday morning. Listen in from 9 to 10.30 a.m. Any inquiries regarding the institute should be addressed to the secretary, Mr. M. M. O'Brien (VK4MM), Fewings Street, Toowong."

4FK busy with construction of the new WIAQ transmitter, a sneak peek "Wireless Institute Queensland Division. . . . THE OFFICIAL STATION. The institute's official station, VK4 WI is proceeding apace, and construction is in the capable hands of Mr. V. F. Kenna (VK4FK), who is making not only an efficient but a very handsome looking job. It is hoped to have the station testing on the air at an early date. For the time being, its use will be restricted to the handling of traffic between Queensland and Southern States, but later on it will be pressed into service as a propaganda station for W.I.A. publicity. This is being handled at the present time by the secretary, Mr. O'Brien, from Station VK4LW, which is owned and operated by Mr. C. R. Morris at Each Sunday morning Mr. O'Brien interpolates interesting and instructive items between the musical items, and already numerous complimentary letters have been received. If you wish to hear good and interesting programmes listen to the station using the title a wireless institute station. This is the hallmark of efficiency and all-round entertainment. A considerable amount of traffic is passed each week from Brisbane to headquarters either direct or via Sydney, the operation of the official station being in the hands of the president, Major Leo J. Feenaghty, VK4LJ. Four weekly schedules are maintained, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, contact is being kept with Sydney, and Tuesday with Melbourne direct. These schedules are all timed for 7 a.m. Arrangements have heen made for the appointment of district representatives in most suburbs, and these will act as centres of information regarding the institute's activities. Announcements will be made in the local shops, picture shows, &c., giving the address of the district representative. It is pointed out that in some quarters there is an erroneous impression that the wireless institute is only open to the 'highbrows' of wireless. This is quite wrong, because the principal idea in the formation of the institute was to enable it to become a centre of instruction. Although it includes the leading amateur experimenters, it is nevertheless the body which one should join to learn more about this wonderful hobby."

1931 07
New WIAQ transmitter VK4WI commissioned, 4FK complimented as constructor "Wireless Institute. New Station Operating. Description of Transmitter. The official station of the Wireless Institute of Australia — VK4WI — has been completed and put on the air. The transmitter is a crystal controlled oscillator using a crystal 'blank', with a fundamental frequency of 3639.5 kilocycles. This stage is followed by a frequency doubler, which increases the frequency to the operating frequency of 7,279 kilocycles. The doubler stage is followed by a power amplifier with provision for a modulation stage for telephony. The normal operating wave is 7,279 kilocycles, but by means of a special micrometer holder it is possible to shift the frequency up to 7,283 or down to 7,275 without any other alterations to the adjustment than just sliding a rod across the front of the panel. By means of a selector switch there is a choice of two other crystals which will have fixed frequencies. One will be used on 7,010 kilocycles. The frequency of the other one has not yet been determined, but it will probably be in the vicinity of 7,150 kilocycles, the centre of the amateur band. The transmitter is entirely self-contained and has been constructed by Mr. Vernon Kenna — VK4FK — to whom the greatest praise is due for his unremitting energy during the past three months in devoting the whole of his spare time to the construction of this station. It. is not only very efficient, but it is a handsome looking job, standing 5 feet 6 inches high and 18 inches broad, the depth being 15 inches. The panel is duco finished with all the designations of the dials and metres neatly printed on in white. Above the panel there is a pediment containing the badge of the institute in natural colours with the letters VK4Wl on either side. The station went on the air for the first time on Friday last, and at the council meeting on Friday evening a very hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Kenna for his yeoman service in constructing the station, and the secretary was directed to place this minute on record and to write to Mr. Kenna in appreciation of his services. It is proposed to transfer the station to the residence of the traffic manager — VK4LJ — on Thursday next so that the normal traffic schedules will be continued by him as from Friday. For the past two weeks the schedules have been conducted by VK4FK and VK4AW. The next general meeting will be held on Friday, August 7, when it is hoped to have a lecture upon an aeronautical subject. Any inquiries regarding the institute should be addressed to the secretary — VK4MM — Mr. M. M. O'Brien, Box 5, Post Office, Toowong."

As previous, further detail "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. By 'ANODE.' . . . WIRELESS INSTITUTE OF AUSTRALIA, QUEENSLAND DIVISION. The official station of the Wireless Institute of Australla — VK4WI — has been completed and put on the air. The transmitter is a crystal controlled oscillator, using a crystal blank with a fundamental frequency of 3639.5 kilocycles. This stage is followed by a frequency doubler, which increases the frequency to the operating frequency of 7279 kilocycles. The doubler stage is followed by a power amplifier, with provision for a modulation stage for telephony. The normal operating wave is 7279 kilocycles, but by means of a special micrometer holder it is possible to shift the frequency up to 7283 or down to 7275 without any other alterations to the adjustment than just sliding a rod across the front of the panel. By means of a selector switch there is a choice of two other crystals which will have fixed frequencies; one will be used on 7010 kilocycles, the frequency of the other one has not yet been determined, but it will probably be in the vicinity of 7150 kilocycles, the centre of the amateur band. The transmitter is entirely selfcontained, and has been constructed by Mr. Vernon Kenna — VK4FK — to whom the greatest praise is due for his unremitting energy during the past three months in devoting the whole of his spare time to the construction of this station. It is not only very efficient, but it is a handsome-looking job standing some 5ft. 6in. high and 18in. broad, the depth being 15in. The panel is duco finished, with all the designations of the dials and meters neatly printed on in white. Above such panel there is a pediment containing the badge of the institute in natural colours, with the letters, 'VK4WI' on either side. The station went on the air for the first time on Friday last — 10th instant — and at the council meeting on Friday evening a very hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Kenna for his yeoman service in constructing this station, and the secretary was directed to place this minute on record and to write to Mr. Kenna in appreciation of his services. It is proposed to transfer the station to the residence of the traffic managerVK4LJ — on Thursday next, so that thenormal normal traffic schedules will be continued by him as from Friday, 17th Instant. For the past two weeks the schedules have been conducted to VK4FK and VK4AW. The next general meeting will be held on Friday, August 7, when it is hoped to have a lecture upon an aeronautlcal subject. Any inquiries regarding the institute should be addressed to the secretary, VK4MM, Mr M. M. O'Brien, Box 5, Post Office, Toowong."

4FK praised for his efforts in constructing the new WIAQ transmitter at the official opening of the station "RADIO. Wireless Institute. New Station Opened. On Monday last the new official transmitting station of the Wireless Institute of Australia was opened by the Radio Inspector in the presence of the members of the council. Through the co-operation of Mr. C. R. Morris, operator of station VK4LW, the proceedings were broadcast on 200 metres, and several reports were received by telephone after the relay advising that it had been very successfully received. In opening the proceedings the president (Major Leo J. Feenaghty, VK4LJ) pointed out that the function represented the culmination of the efforts and hopes of the division extending over a period of years. He briefly described the transmitter, and stated that it represented the most modern engineering practice in regard to low-powered transmitting stations. The secretary (Mr. M. M. O'Brien, VK4MM), in supporting the president's remarks, gave some details of the activities of the institute in the way of instructions to intending amateurs and those who desired to acquire knowledge of the science of wireless communication. He pointed out that a new series of classes would commence on August 3 at the Institute's Headquarters, 2nd Floor, Queensland Book Depot, corner Albert Street and Burnett Lane. Mr. T. Wishart spoke on behalf of the student members' section of the division. In officially opening the station the radio inspector, Mr. T. Armstrong, congratulated all concerned upon the excellence of the transmitter and upon the enterprise and keenness displayed by the division, and in particular by the council. He stated that the classes had proved their worth by the fact that the standard of knowledge of candidates submitting themselves for examination was extremely high and compared more than favourably with the standard he had observed during his experience in other parts of Australia. As he has often said before he stressed the fact that owing to the existence of an organisation such as the Wireless Institute of Australia his many official cares were considerably lessened because he had one body to approach rather than a big number of scattered units. The constructor of the station (Mr. V. F. Kenna, VK4FK) then gave a detailed description of the transmitter and pointed out its many novel and interesting features. At the conclusion of his remarks a hearty vote of thanks was tendered to Mr. Kenna for the unremitting energies and tireless enthusiasm displayed by him during the several months he was constructing the station in his spare time. Mention was also made by the president of Mr. Kenna's activities in connection with Air Force Wireless Reserve, the purpose of which organisation was briefly outlined by the speaker. After the relay had ceased, members took the opportunity of examining details of the transmitter, and the traffic manager broadcast a message of 7,265 kilocycles (40 metres) to the effect that the station had just been officially opened by the Radio Inspector and would in future maintain regular schedules. Any inquiries regarding the institute should be addressed to the secretary, Mr. M. M. O'Brien, Box 5, Post Office, Toowong. The attention of all is drawn to the fact that the next meeting will be held at headquarters on Friday, August 7, when the subject of lecture will be an aeronautical one. It is hoped that there will be a big attendance of interested persons."

1931 08
4FK operates his portable transmitter in a plane flown by VK4AL "WIRELESS NOTES AND NEWS. . . . By 'ANODE.' . . . WIRELESS INSTITUTE OF AUSTRALIA (QUEENSLAND DIVISION). Some members of the institute played a prominent part in a function recently at Archerfield Aerodrome. Mr. B. W. Munro (VK4AL) who is a qualified pilot was in charge of the Moth plane which journeyed over the city during the afternoon and evening and from which a description of the city was broadcasted. The operator of the set with Mr. Munro was Mr. V. F. Kenna (VK4FK) who constructed the transmitter in use. The ground arrangements were in the hands of Mr. H. D. Walsh (VK4HW) who also is a qualified pilot. This event represented the first time that wireless telephony has been transmitted from an aeroplane in flight at night time in this country, and it marks a definite stage in the advancement of amateur wireless. Great credit is due to all concerned with this event. The first series of classes for 1931 is drawing to a close and the next series will start on Monday, August 17. There will be vacancies for more student members and any interested should make application to the class supervisors at institute headquarters next Monday evening. The official station which was opened recently, as reported last week, is maintaining regular schedules on traffic with Sydney and Melbourne and in addition, other work is being carried out. All members who have so far inspected the station have expressed themselves in very favourable terms about it. The eighth annual convention of the Wireless Institute will be held in Sydney commencing on Monday, October 12. The delegate from Queensland will be the secretary (Mr. M. M. O'Brien, VK4MM). The president (VK4LJ, Major Leo. J. Feenaghty), also is going to the convention in his capacity as managing editor of the official organ of the institute — 'QTC.' It is understood that the New South Wales division is making very complete arrangements for the entertainment of the delegates during the weekend, and an opportunity will be taken to view the harbour through the courtesy of the local yacht club. Inquiries regarding the institute should be addressed to the secretary (Mr. M. M. O'Brien, Box 5, Post Office, Toowong)."

1931 09
4FK finds the treasure in a field day by Wooloowin Radio Club reunion "WOOLOOWIN RADIO CLUB REUNION. The reunion of the members of the late Wooloowin Radio Club took place, in the form of a radio-controlled treasure hunt. The 'gang,' numbering 20, assembled at their old headquarters, and were met by the organisers — Messrs. J. P. Love and Vic. Bouchard — who issued sealed instructions to the various motor cars. Vic. Bouchard's car carried the transmitter, and the other cars were equipped with receivers. The operators were 4JL, 4JG, 4FK, and 4AW. The course covered was from Wooloowin to Pinkenba. The clues to the treasure were hard to find, one being in an abandoned coal mine, while another was found on Bartley's Hill, and the final clue was located at Luggage Point, in a chimney. The actual treasure, after a search of about an hour by the entire company, was located by Mr. Vern. Kenna, who was amazed by his find — two halfpennies! The outing was successful, and the unusual method adopted was favourably commented upon. From an experimental radio point of view much information was gained on the behaviour of short waves when transmitted from cars. It is hoped to arrange a similar function at a future date."

1931 10
Further details of 4FK's involvement in record establishing transmissions from aeroplane in August 1931 "AERIAL BROADCASTING. Sir,— In your edition of Tuesday night I read an article headed 'Night Flying,' commencing, 'For the first time in Queensland broadcasting was carried out from an aeroplane last night.' This surprised me, as I have myself carried out broadcasts from aircraft in flight on several occasions. I believe that the first transmission of actual speech from the air in this State took place on July 20 last, when Messrs. B. W. Munro, V. F. Kenna, and myself installed a transmitting set in a Moth belonging to the Queensland Aero Club and put through some satisfactory tests. Two days later, on Saturday, August 1, we flew round the town most of the afternoon, transmitting a continuous programme, which was heard by many of our friends. It was done without any previous publicity, and as the wavelength was 39 metres it would only be by chance that outsiders heard it, but quite a number of reports were received. That night we continued the broadcast for the benefit of a dance at the new Aero Club house, a powerful receiver and amplifier being installed at the Archerfield aerodrome. At 10 o'clock that night a special speech transmitted at a height of over 4,000 feet was clearly heard by all guests and members of the public assembled on the field. I believe this was the first night transmission in Australia. Last Saturday afternoon Mr. Arthur Walz and myself carried out telephony transmission from a Puss Moth lent for the occasion by courtesy of Qantas, and several interested spectators were permitted to listen in on sets we provided at the aerodrome. The apparatus was designed and built by ourselves, and is improved after each test. — Yours, &c., HAROLD D. WALSH. Pilot Member, Matheson Flying School."

1931 12
4HW gives talk to WIAQ meeting on aeronautical tests and acknowledges 4FK's involvement "Among the Clubs. WIRELESS INSTITUTE. The December monthly meeting of the institute was well attended. Mr. H. D. Walsh, VK4HW, gave a talk on aeroplane wireless. Mr. Walsh is not only one of the oldest amateur wireless transmitters in Brisbane, but is also a qualified pilot, so he was in a position to give an interesting talk upon this subject. In the course of his address he mentioned that in his tests he had had the co-operation of Messrs. Kenna (VK4FK), Walz (VK4AW), and Munro (VK4AL). In the last few months, with the co-operation of these other transmitters, he had conducted the first transmission of speech from an aeroplane in flight and definitely the first night transmission of speech under these conditions. The tests had been satisfactory and the signals had been picked up at the aerodrome and heard by 300 people assembled there. It is interesting to note that during the course of the night flight the aeroplane was made visible to those at the aerodrome by neon tubes on the wing tips. Mr. Walsh gave many interesting details regarding the requirements for airplane transmitters, including the method of suspending the transmitter to save it from vibration. Many different types of aerial systems had been tried, including the conventional trailing aerial with the 'fish' at the end for weighting purposes. They had also utilised a rather weird-looking arrangement of wires draped backwards and forwards from the fuselage to the wing, but the vibration proved to be too great on this method. He pointed out that no serious efforts had yet been made to test reception in the air owing to the necessity for bonding the wires in the plane and shielding the ignition wires. He urged all the members to co-operate to the fullest in this particular branch of technical development and stated that no difficulty would be experienced in securing flights for any member desirous of trying out his particular transmitter to prove its suitability for aircraft work. He had with him a typical air plane transmitter, the various points of which he demonstrated to the members. The next meeting will be held on Friday, January 8, when a talk will be given upon old-time methods of transmission, back even to the days of spark coils and coherers. The speaker will be an old commercial operator who is very familiar with his subject. The new classes will start in the New Year and a big enrolment is required. Any inquiries regarding the institute should be addressed to the secretary, Mr. M. M. O'Brien, VK4MM, Box 5, Post Office, Toowong."

4FK and 4JB relieve WIAQ traffic manager 4AW "AMONG THE RADIO CLUBS. Wireless Institute. At the last meeting of the Council of the Queensland Division of the Institute the Federal President of the Institute, Mr. S. W. Gadsden, VK3SW of Melbourne was present. The new series of instructional classes will commence on Monday, January 4. The traffic channels which have been in existence for over twelve months are proving extremely efficient and four schedules are kept each week with southern States. The traffic manager is Mr. A. E. Walz, VK4AW, and when he is not able to undertake the schedules on account of work he is relieved by Messrs. Kenna (VK4FK) and Alder (VK4JB). A considerable quantity of the correspondence of the Institute is handled by means of radiograms and the fact that there has not been a mutilation for over eight months speaks well for the skill of the operators at each end. The Federal traffic manager has announced a new low-power test commencing on January 4, and ending on January 31."

1932 05
4FK acknowledged at WIAQ AGM for his work done in their AOCP classes "Wireless Institute. In the course of his presidential address at the annual meeting of the Queensland Division of the Wireless Institute of Australia, Major Leo. J. Feenaghty (VK4LJ) reviewed the work done in connection with classes, &c., and voiced his appreciation of the lectures. Many enthusiasts had acted as lecturers from time to time, he said, but a few names stood out pre-eminent amongst them — Messrs. P. J. Kelly, A. Tonge, F. Buch, and L. Williams. Of late the scope of the classes had been widened, and Messrs. Jeffs and Kenna were undertaking the instructional work therein. Messrs. R. J. Browne, A. E. Walz, H. D. Walsh, W. Rohde, and several others also had rendered splendid service with the classes. The president suggested to the incoming council consideration of the formation of a business man's course, consisting of the fundamentals covered by the preliminary class and some elementary practical work. Laboratory work had not proceeded with the degree of vigour he would have liked to have seen, and he hoped that experimental work would receive an added impetus this year. 'There is another matter upon which I desire to lay stress,' the president added, 'and that is what we might term the 'window-dressing' of the Institute. In business houses the windows display just the goods people will buy. This is what the institute must do. It is of little use dressing our windows with a display of monthly meetings. We must have a special bargain sale display of laboratory instruments, technical development, post graduate courses, practical station work, field-day exercises, and social events. By this means we will attract customers, and they will enter our shop. Once they are inside we must make 100 per cent. sure not only that we have ample stocks of the goods we display, but also that we deliver them in an efficient and salesmanlike manner. To carry this into effect I consider it is essential that our council should be of the full strength of nine. Of these, say, four should be sufficient to cope with the machinery and business side of the institute, leaving two or three to organise and supervise laboratory work and technical development, and two more to arrange field days and social activities. Classes and instructional work would also form part of the functions of the technical committee of the council. By this means I feel sure greater activity would be manifest, and the greatest number of people would have a definite and useful job of work to do. It would also ensure that the closest touch will be maintained between technical and activities committees (whose appointed member would have a seat on council) and the council itself, thus ensuring that every branch of institute activity would have adequate representation and voice on the governing body. This would obviously serve a dual purpose.' Thanks were expressed to the radio inspector (Mr. Armstrong) and others who had assisted during the year."

4FK leads a discussion on Class B amplifiers at WIAQ AGM "WIRELESS NEWS & NOTES. ARTICLES OF CONSTRUCTIONAL & TECHNICAL INTEREST. By 'ANODE.' . . . WIRELESS INSTITUTE OF AUSTRALIA. The Queensland division of the Wireless Institute of Australia has entered on another year of its activities in the interests of the amateur radio in this State. At the last general meeting the new president (Mr. P. Kelly) occupied the chair, and was officially welcomed by the past president (Mr. L. J. Feenaghty). Mr. Kelly suitably responded. A discussion on B class amplifiers was led by Mr. Kenna (VK4FK), during which several interesting points were raised. Classes of instruction are held for those who desire to know the fundamental principles governing transmission and reception. The Monday night class is for the beginner, Tuesdays for the advanced, while on Wednesday Morse is practised. Information concerning the institute may be obtained from the secretary, Epworth House, corner Burnett Lane and Albert Street, city."

4FK gives a lecture on copper-oxide rectifiers at a WIAQ meeting "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. Amendment of Rules The Wireless Institute of Australia has decided to amend and alter several rules. Circulars and ballot papers have been distributed to all financial members and the result of the ballot will be made known at the adjourned annual meeting on June 17. The second lecture of a fortnightly series was given by Mr. Vern Kenna (VK4FK) on copper oxide rectifiers. These lectures are arranged primarily for those who have passed their examination, but they are of such a nature as to be of interest to the enthusiast. The classes are being well patronised by those who are keen on gaining their amateur operator's ticket. Mr. R. Browne has kindly offered to calibrate frequency meters for members free of charge. These will be calibrated from substandard. The institute has decided to open headquarters on the top floor of Epworth House, corner Burnett Lane and Albert Street, during lunch hours, for the benefit of intending members. The secretary will be in attendance to answer inquiries."

1932 06
Qld death registration for 4FK's father Francis Kenna
 * Qld BDM
 * Death registration: Francis Kenna
 * Death date: 23/06/1932
 * Mother's name: Ellen Fleming
 * Father/parent's name: Joseph
 * Registration details: 1932/B/17640

Death Notice for 4FK's father "DEATHS. KENNA.— At Brisbane, on June 23rd, 1932, Francis Kenna, beloved Husband of Mrs. E. E. Kenna, Allan Street, Hamilton, and beloved Father of Messrs. Vernon and Herbert Kenna. Privately interred at Lutwyche Cemetery."

Brief obituary for 4FK's father "PERSONAL. . . . The death occurred in Brisbane on Thursday of Mr. Francis Kenna, a former member of the Assembly and a well known journalist. Deceased was born in Maryborough 67 years ago and became a member of the Assembly for Bowen from 1898 to 1908. He was editor of the Brisbane 'Worker' and Brisbane 'Sun' and in 1913 was appointed editor of the Charters Towers 'Telegraph.' About 1918 he settled for a short time on the land in the Caboolture district, but has been virtually retired for the last four years, though he continued to contribute to different journals."

As previous "MR. FRANCIS KENNA. MR. FRANCIS KENNA, poet, short story writer, journalist, and formerly a politician in the Queensland Parliament, died early yesterday morning. Mr. Kenna was a well-known Queensland verse writer and journalist. As far back as 1895 he published his first volume of poems, entitled, 'Songs of a Season.' Deceased at one time was editor of Brisbane 'Worker.'"

Poetic obituary for 4FK's father "FRANCIS KENNA. Poet and Journalist. Mr. Francis Kenna, poet, short story writer, journalist, and formerly a politician in the Queensland Parliament, died early yesterday morning, after a brief illness. Mr. Kenna had been a contributor of the 'Courier' for several years, being in charge of 'Sidelights' in the Saturday issue. About three weeks ago he became seriously ill, and entered a private hospital. Until two weeks ago he continued his work for the 'Courier,' and none of his colleagues realised that his end was so near, or that his illness was likely to prove fatal. He leaves a widow. Mr. Kenna was born at Maryborough in 1865, and was educated at the local State school. He served for a time in the old Queensland Post and Telegraph Department, and, later, he qualified as a teacher in the Education Department. In the year 1902 he was returned to the State Parliament as member for Bowen, and served in four Parliaments, being a supporter of the Labour Party, and afterwards of the Kidston Government. Before he entered Parliament Mr. Kenna was a well-known Queensland verse writer and journalist. As far back as 1895 he published his first volume of poems, entitled 'Songs of a Season,' and some years later he published another volume, entitled 'Phases.' He had also been an editor at one time of the Brisbane 'Worker'; and some years ago he was a regular contributor to the Sydney 'Bulletin' and to the old 'Boomerang.' In his politics Mr. Kenna had a derided tendency towards complete independence; in fact, in later years, he was really an Independent. The same characteristic was apparent in his verse. In 'Songs of a Season' there was a clear note of revolt against (Start Photo Caption) THE LATE MR. FRANCIS KENNA. (End Photo Caption) conventions; but 'Phases' revealed greater contentment, and a tendency to treat in humorous mood the things that as a younger man he had viewed very seriously. Of recent years most of his verse, especially that contributed to the 'Courier,' was of the humorous vein, but occasionally he reached a high standard in some of his more serious verse. In one of the last verses he wrote for the 'Courier,' written during the turmoil of the election, he thoroughly expressed his real nature, his impatience of political strife, and his growing toleration for all shades of opinion. When I am tired of making thoughts That sometimes may be bitter, I go outside and gain repute In doing something fitter. I potter round the flower beds, And there I find revealing A hundred little outstretched arms, To me in mute appealing. And this one wants another drink, And this one wants uplifting, And one complains it's too much cramped, A seedling asks for shifting. They speak to me in varied tongues, For most of them are alien; The sturdy ones are rough of voice, The tender ones vocalion. I try to give them all a show — Each one an opportunity, To realise itself and grow In freedom and immunity. I sometimes think unto myself, As back and forth I go, That it would be a splendid world If it were governed so. THE FUNERAL. The funeral, which was of a very quiet nature, moved from K. M. Smith's funeral parlour to the Lutwyche Cemetery during the afternoon. The chief mourners were Messrs. Vernon and Hubert (sic, Herbert) Kenna (sons), and Mr. Kenna (brother). The service at the graveside was conducted by the Rev. Canon Garland. His Honour the Chief Justice (Hon. Sir James Blair, Kt.), who was an old personal friend of Mr. Kenna, but who was indisposed, was represented by his associate, Mr. Duncan Pelrson. Among others present were Messrs. F. Kennedy (Registrar of the Supreme Court), C. S. McGhie, J. S. Love, A. D. McKay, and J. F. Power."

Detailed obituary from Qld Worker for 4FK's father "DEATH OF FRANCIS KENNA. Former 'Worker' Editor The death occurred in Brisbane last week of Francis Kenna, a well known figure in the literary world of Australia. Born in Maryborough 67 years ago, Francis Kenna, after receiving a State School education, entered the service of the Post and Telegraph Department as a telegraph operator. He became well known as a contributor to various Australian journals, some of his verses, in the writing of which he was prolific, reaching a high standard of excellence. In June, 1899, he resigned from the Public Service to take over the editorship of the 'Queensland Worker,' and he filled the position with ability for two and a half years, when he resigned to contest the Bowen seat in the State Parliament in the interests of Labor. In this he was successful. He held the seat in the elections of 1904 and 1907, but, following the defection of Kidston, who had become leader of the Labor Party, and with whom he threw in his lot, Kenna was defeated at the next appeal to the people, in October, 1909. He thereupon reverted to journalism, occupying the editorial chair in succession of the Brisbane 'Sun,' and the 'Charters Towers Telegraph.' After the war he became proprietor and editor of the 'Bangalow Herald,' and later of the 'Logan and Albert Bulletin' at Southport. Later he settled on the land in the Caboolture district for a short time, after which he retired, although devoting himself a good deal to freelance journalism. He was always a keen student of literature and anxious to assist in the development of local talent, and, with this end in view, he took a big part in the founding of the Queensland Authors and Artists' Association. Although in the turmoil of political events of a quarter of a century ago he withdrew from the Labor Movement, his intimates knew that he always regretted his action, and at heart he remained a democrat hopeful to see the working class movement make progress against all obstacles and despite its many handicaps. Perhaps the best evidence of this was shown in a visit by him to 'The Worker' office in September last when the pressure of the Money Power was becoming more and more insistent. On that occasion, after a lapse of many years, he again sought to express through the columns of 'The Worker' something of his real sentiments on the social problem in its latest manifestations. His contribution, which was in stirring and vigorous verse, was entailed 'Get You Back: An Ode to the Money Lords' and was as follows: Get ye back to your dens, oh! ye people! To your place in the scheme of affairs, Where the god of the demigods placed you — Get ye back to your dens and your lairs. Get you back to your jobs; we are masters Once more of the mighty machine You have had a good share of the fatness: Get you now to the toilsome and lean; To your blind and incompetent leaders Who have led you to marshes and tarns, Who stupidly believed they could gather The corn we had stored in our barns The fruits of our skill that we planted We garnered of yore from your kind, And used as a gaoler, his shackles As gyves on your ankles to band Who came to us seeking our credit To squander on schemes that we knew Were but destined to fall in our clutches When the millions so sorrowed were due. Get you back! We, the Lords of the Money, No more will we lend you or give Though your children with hunger shall languish In poverty, begging to live. To your blind and incompetent leader Who deemed they had Aladdin's ring, Forgetful that ever and always The Master of Money is King. That his Empire is boundless whereever The sea in its boundlessness rolls, To the ends of the earth and its vastness, We lend, and we gather the tolls. For we are the rulers of peoples, Whatever their governments be, Of Kings and of Kaisers — dictators Of policies always, are we. The makers of wars and the masters Of nations, though mighty they be, The Master exploiters of Labor; Get you back to the bend of your knee. Get you back to the place of your duty, Bend your back to the scourge of our whips — To the making of gains for your Masters — 'Get you back' is the word of our lips. The funeral took place to the Lutwyche cemetery, representatives of many public bodies being present. Deceased leaves a widow and two sons. (Start Photo Caption) FRANCIS KENNA (End Photo Caption)"

1932 07
Probate Notice for 4FK's father "IN THE SUPREME COURT OF QUEENSLAND. In the WILL of FRANCIS KENNA formerly of Bangalow in the State of New South Wales late of Allen Street Hamil-ton Brisbane in the State of Queens-land Journalist Deceased. Notice is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen days from the date of the publication hereof application will be made to this Honourable Court that PROBATE of the WILL of the above-named Francis Kenna deceased may be granted to EDITH ELVIRA KENNA of Allen Street Hamilton Brisbane aforesaid Widow of deceased the sole Executrix named in the said Will. Any person interested who desires to object to the application or to be heard upon it may file a Caveat in the Registry at any time before the grant is made. Dated the Twenty-ninth day of June 1932. McGHIE & CHAMBERS Inns of Court Adelaide Street Brisbane Solicitors for the said Executrix."

Belated obituary for 4FK's father "FRANCIS KENNA. Francis, or 'Frank,' Kenna died this week of complications which ended in dropsy. From a pupil teacher in Maryborough he had certainly carved out a career above most boys. His next step was telegraph operator, then to journalism, later to Parliament and to the end he was poetic journalist writing for the 'Courier' a weekly column of humorous verse, under the name of 'Txon.' R.I.P. Brisbane, June 27th, 1932."

4FK elected to the council of the WIAQ "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. The adjourned annual meeting of the Wireless Institute was held last Friday. The main item on the agenda was the counting of votes of the recent postal ballot dealing with amendments to certain rules. All amendments with the exception of one were carried. The defeat of the amendment concerning government by general meeting will mean that the entire control of the institute's affairs still remain vested with a selected council. Nominations were called for positions on the council and the following officers were elected: Messrs. P. Kelly (president); V. Bouchard (secretary), H. Angel (students' representative), R. J. Browne (treasurer), A. Walz, V. F. Kenna, L. J. Feenaghty, W. T. Wishart. A number of trial tests of portable transmitting and receiving equipment were made at the Archerfleld Aerodrome over the weekend in preparation for the Aero pageant to be held on August 6. Results were very satisfactory. The talks by the secretary, Mr. Vic. Bouchard, over station 4LW every Sunday morning at 10 o'clock, are finding quite a few interested listeners. The institute greatly appreciates the courtesy of Mr. Cec. Morris, owner of 4LW, in allocating this portion of his programme to W.I.A. matters. The first meeting of the newly elected council will be held next Thursday when a considerable amount of business will have to be cleared up. A meeting of the technical developmental section and the 'five-metre' group will be held at headquarters next Friday, July 29, and a technical lecture by Mr. Vern Kenna, 4FK, will conclude the meeting. Meetings are held every Friday night at 8 o'clock in the institute's rooms in Epworth House (corner Albert Street and Burnett Lane), and all members should make a point of being present. Postal communications should be addressed to the secretary, Box 1524V, G.P.O., Brisbane."

1932 08
4FK provides a portable station for control of the Aerial Pagent "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. At the monthly meeting of the Queensland division of the Wireless Institution of Australia the council's report was presented. It showed that the institute had considerably increased its membership since last report. The increase has mainly been in the students' section, where during the last month 16 additional names were added, bringing the strength up to 45. In this section beginners learn the elementary principles of radio transmission and reception, thereafter transferring to the advanced class before sitting for their amateur operator's certificate. The secretary thanks Messrs. Morris (VK4LW), Starkie (VK4NW) for placing their stations at the disposal of the institute when required. Mr. O'Brien (VK4MM) gave a brief description of Telefunken modulation as used by Mr: Ray Carter (VK2HC), illustrating the circuit arrangement on the blackboard. The advantages of the Heising system over Telefunken was discussed by members, but it was thought by some that the additional expense of installing Heising modulation was not warranted, providing that trouble was taken to get Telefunken to work efficiently. As mentioned in 'The Telegraph' recently, the Wireless Institute co-operated with the Aero Club last Saturday at the pageant at Archerfield Airdrome. The following control points were established to supply details concerning the planes:— At the Club House, VK4HR portable station, operated by Mr. H. Scholz and was assisted by Major L. J. Feenaghty, with Messrs. Kelly, Bahr, Irving, Soden, Bouchard, and Angel as observers. At Rocklea Hotel, VK4FK, portable station operated by Mr. Vern Kenna, assisted by Mr. O'Brien (VK4MM) with Messrs. Hocken, Chapman, Turner, McMahon, and Mee as observers. At a point on Sherwood Road VK4AW's portable transmitter was operated by Mr. Walz assisted by Mr. W. Wishart (VK4WT) with Messrs. Greenham and McGowan as observers. Owing to weather conditions, which were entirely against the erection of portable stations in the open, and also to the fact that static was particularly heavy reliable contact with outside points was found impossible. Had the day been a fine one there is no doubt that the messages would have been received. During the morning test, a contact was made with an amateur station in Sydney proving that the apparatus was entirely satisfactory. Owing to the holiday there will be no Morse class tonight. There will not be a meeting on Friday. The meeting of the Technical Development Section Five Metre Group will be held on Friday week, August 19. The Institute rooms at Epworth House, corner Burnett Lane and Albert Street, will be open from 12 to 2 p.m. daily for the benefit of country radio enthusiasts who are in Brisbane for the Exhibition."

1932 09
4FK continues with his AOCP lectures for the WIAQ "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. At the monthly general meeting held on Friday night the president urged all members who were contemplating the construction of short wave receivers to make them completely portable and to include all batteries in the one metal case, pointing out that in that form they would serve the treble purposes of station receivers, portable receivers, and monitors. He also said that when the five meter receiver and the 200 metre transmitter were finished work would be commenced on the institute's portable apparatus. Mr. Wishart, VK4WT, was complimented on the excellent design of his portable receiver, and he signified his intention of constructing a transmitter to match. Mr. Jeffs, VK4VJ, is hard at work on the crystal controlled radio frequency panel of the new VK4WI which will be of completely modern design. The president, P. Kelly, has completed the modulator and speech amplifier panels, which, he claims, will give practically linear response over the complete audio range. The amplifier is bass compensated and its ability to reproduce fifty cycle hum from a power transformer fifteen feet away, seems to indicate its amplifying powers at that frequency. He may also be seen with a worried look, staring into the ether, for it is no mean feat to get a quarter wave Marconi antenna into the average back garden. Three interesting publications on fading, skip distance, polarization, and similar problems were received from the Bureau of Scientific Research, and were perused with considerable interest by the members. They will form a valuable addition to the club's literature. A new course of lectures will be starting shortly and intending members are advised to start at the beginning of these lectures. A meeting of the five metre group and technical development section will be held on Friday next when Mr. Kenna, VK4FK, will deliver a technical talk. Any information regarding the institute's activities may be had on application to the secretary at the Institute rooms, Epsworth House, Albert Street, between the hours of 12 and 2 dally."

As previous "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. The five-point relay contest is now in full swing and several local stations have been heard transmitting a number of test messages, it is not yet too late for any transmitting amateur to join in as the tests do not conclude until October 2. Although the contest is intended mainly for W.l.A. members there are no objections to non-members taking part. Full information may be obtained from the divisional secretary or from the last issue of the W.l.A. official organ, 'Radio Monthly.' The setting by once a month of an 'informal' night for the exchanging of views and ideas among members was approved of by the council at last Thursday's meeting. 'Informal' nights were always well attended in the days of the Queensland Radio Transmitters' League when meetings were held at Wooloowin. With the more central headquarters of the W.l.A. It is expected that they will prove even more popular. A RADIO PIONEER. Several institute members were fortunate in meeting one of the grand old pioneers of amateur radio in the person of Mr. Chas. Whitelaw, who recently passed through Brisbane on his way north. Mr. Whitelaw is perhaps better known by his station callsign VK3BH. Far back in the 'rockcrusher' days of 1905 he was operating an experimental station using a spark coil transmitter and the then popular coherer receiver. He is one of the very few real pioneers who are still actively interested in amateur radio. The W.l.A. lectures broadcast every Thursday night from 4QG are being followed by a large number of listeners. The lectures are in serial form and, in the main, are historical and biographical portraying us they do the development of wireless from the crude magnetic properties of lodestone to the present day high-efficiency transmitting and receiving equipment. The next lecture from 4QG is scheduled for Thursday, September 22. The technical section and the 'five-metre' group will meet at headquarters next Friday night. After a preliminary discussion a talk will be given by the popular technical lecturer, Mr. V. F. Kenna, 4FK. Any information regarding the institute may be obtained from the secretary at the W.l.A. rooms in Epworth House, corner of Burnett Lane and Albert Street, the postal address being Box 1524V, G.P.O., Brisbane."

4FK gives a well-received lecture on Three-phase Alternating current at WIAQ meeting "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. A large number of members attended last Fridays' combined five-metre group and technical development section meeting. Mr. P. Kelly led the discussion on five-metre work. Working on data obtained during the last five-metre field tests, he advanced an opinion that ultra-shortwave signals from low-angular radiating or else directional antenna systems should be receivable at all points within visual range from the transmitter. As Toowoomba can be seen from several vantage points around Brisbane the meeting decided to test the theory by arranging with Toowoomba W.I.A. members to listen for 5-metre signals which it is proposed to transmit from the high-level districts around Brisbane. Schedules and full particulars of the transmissions will be made available as soon as replies are received from Toowoomba. After the five-metre discussion a technical talk on 'Three-phase Alternating current,' given by Mr. V. F. Kenna (VK4FK), was well received, and the lecturer was accorded a vote of thanks. Classes. The new term of instructional classes commences on Monday, October 3. All intending students holding application forms are requested to send them in to the secretary as soon as possible so as to save unnecessary delay in the commencement of the classes. Mr. A. Tonge is back again as a lecturer and will take the Monday night's preliminary class. Messrs. P. Kelly and H. Scholz will instruct the Tuesday night advanced class. Morse classes on Wednesday nights are still in the able hands of Messrs. W. D. Hepton, (VK4WD) and R. J. Browne (VK4RB). All of these classes will commence at 7.30 p.m. Wall space is reserved in the institute meeting room for photos of experimental stations and members' QSL cards. It is hoped to collect quite an attractive display of cards and photos to surround the honour board which has been presented to the W.I.A. by the past president, Major. L. J. Feenaghty (VK4LJ). The Sunday morning radio talks by the secretary, Mr. V. Bouchard, over VK4LW, are proving very popular. These talks will continue until the institute's official station VK4WI comes into operation. The occasional talks through VK4NW, Nundah, have also been instrumental in bringing many inquirers to the W.I.A. headquarters. RELAY CONTEST. The five-point relay contest closes at midnight next Sunday, October 2. Competitors are reminded that all station logs must be in hand at A.R.A. headquarters, Sydney, by October 22. Meetings are held every Friday night at the institute headquarters in Epworth House, corner Burnett Lane and Albert Street, city. Next Friday's meeting will take the form of an 'informal' night. The postal address of the Queensland division of the W.I.A. is Box 1524V, G.P.O., Brisbane."

1932 10
4FK to lecture at the WIAQ technical development section "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. At last Friday night's meeting of the five-metre group a 56 m.c. night test was arranged with Toowoomba. This test will last for two hours and will commence at 8 p.m. next Thursday, October 20. Mr. H. V. Herschel (VK4UK), of Toowoomba, is co-operating. AMATEUR WAVEBANDS. A circular from the P.M.G.'s Department has been received by all licensed experimenters. The circular is a notification of the closing of the 175 to 250 metre waveband to amateurs. The use of this band, however, may be authorised by the radio inspector in a limited number of cases. The amateur wave bands as they now stand are as follows: 5 — 5.35 metres, 10 — 10.7 metres, 20.8 — 21.4 metres, 41 — 42.8 metres, 75 — 85 metres, 150.8 — 175 metres. The divisional secretary, Mr. Vic. Bouchard, is at present out of town on business and may not be back for a few weeks. Despite his absence the W.I.A. meeting room in Epworth House will be open daily between 1 and 1.30 p.m. Large attendances are being reported at the students' instructional classes, the new term of which has recently commenced. The classes commence at 7.30 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. The first two nights are for preliminary and advanced theory respectively; Wednesday is for Morse instruction. Meetings are held every Friday night at the W.I.A. headquarters in Epworth House, corner of Burnett Lane and Albert Street. At the technical developmental section's meeting next Friday another interesting lecture will be given by Mr. V. F. Kenna (VK4FK). A council meeting will be held on Thursday, October 27. The postal address of the Wireless Institute is Box 1524V, G.P.O., Brisbane."

1932 12
4FK provides control communication for Autocycle Union's grand prix 100-mile motor cycle race "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. NEW STATION OPENED. The Wireless Institute's official station, VK4WI commenced transmitting from the new location at Dutton Park last Sunday morning on 200 metres. This transmission was effected on temporary equipment but the reports received from listeners have been of so flattering a nature that it is confidently expected that when the new crystal-controlled transmitter is installed and a few adjustments are made to the modulator and audio gear 4WI will set a new high standard for telephony transmissions in Queensland. (The transmission last Sunday was of excellent quality, music being better than voice, and the strength good. Many entertaining items were presented. Welcome 4WI.— 'Listener'). Work on the crystal-controlled transmitter was held up owing to its constructor, Mr. V. Jeffs (4VJ), having to go into hospital, but as he is now up and well again the transmitter will probably be ready for next Sunday. When VK4LW closed down it was felt that it was an opportune time for 4WI to open up. Three W.I.A. transmitters were working at the Autocycle Union's grand prix 100-mile motor cycle race last Saturday. All three points worked very satisfactorily and much useful information concerning the progress of the race and the safety of the competitors was sent by radio to the officials and public at the pits. 4FK was operating his portable crystal-controlled transmitter at one point while 4TS and 4AW, assisted by members and students, operated at the other two points with S.E. outfits. All communication was carried out on telephony. Last Friday night's 'junk' sale was a great success. The meeting room was packed and much spirited bidding took place as the secretary, Mr. Vic. Bouchard, like a professional auctioneer, offered up all kinds of gear— new, defunct, and obsolete — for sale. Some particularly fine equipment changed hands notably one bargain in the shape of a large power choke which was secured for the institute's station from 4GK. All W.I.A. weekly meetings and instructional classes will be suspended after next week and will resume in the second week of January. A test examination for those students who intend sitting at the next A.O.P.C. exam, will be held next Tuesday commencing at 7.30 p.m. The meeting next Friday will be mainly of an informal nature although a brief five-metre group discussion will take place during the first portion of the evening. All five-metre work is at present on the slack side pending negotiations with 4K4UK [sic, VK4UK] (Mr. V. Herschel, of Toowoomba). For the information of intending students and members the headquarters of the Queensland division of the Wireless Institute are on the second floor of Epworlh House, corner of Burnett Lane and Albert Street, city. All postal Inquiries should be addressed to Box 1524V, G.P.O., Brisbane."

4FK attends a pre-wedding party for 4LW "PRE-WEDDING PARTY. Listeners-in will be interested to hear that Mr. Cecil R. Morris of experimental station, VK4LW, Rosalie, will be married on January 5 to Miss Jessie Dalziel, of Atherton (North Queens-land). Mr. Morris and Miss Dalzlel were tendered a party at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. L. S. Cole, of Oakland Parade, East Brisbane, last night. Solos were given by Misses O. Plant, J. Day, E. Mapleston, and Mr. E. R. Locke; duets by Messrs. K. McKeesing and A. Chay, and elocutionary items by Mr. Cecil R. Morris. Competitions were won by Mrs. W. W. Streten, Mr. S. Snowden, Miss Mapleston, and Mr. T. R. Cook. Mr. L. S. Cole presented the guests of honour with a set of crystal ware. Others present included Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Streten, Mr. and Mrs. W. Hine, Mr. and Mrs. N. Luck (Warwick), Mr. and Mrs. G. Dixon, Mr. and Mrs. L. S. Cole, Misses Beryl Wendt, E. Hopper, F. Little, and E. White, Messrs. H. Dalziel, A. W. Holliday, K. McKeesing, A. J. Farrar, J. Lumb, V. F. Kenna, E. R. Locke, L. M. Pope, J. Biddle, and W. Rhode."

1933 01
4FK attends the funeral of 4JL's father "OBITUARY. DR. W. W. R. LOVE. REPRESENTATIVE FUNERAL. The widespread esteem in which the late Dr. Wilton Wood Russell Love, who passed away on Tuesday night after an illness of about three months duration, was held was shown by the representative gathering at his funeral to Toowong cemetery yesterday. Prior to the departure of the cortege for Toowong, a service was conducted in St. John's Cathedral by the Right Rev. H. H. Dixon (Bishop Coadjutor of Brisbane), assisted by the Rev. Canons D. J. Garland and W. Thompson. Bishop Dixon said that he whom they mourned was so loved and so well known that it seemed almost unnecessary to attempt to review in detail a life of such wide and constant activity and usefulness as his. Not only was he deeply interested in his own wonderful profession, but he took an extraordinarily active interest in education, art, and music, and was truly a man of very great width and beauty of outlook. He had two outstanding characteristics. One was his sweetness of nature towards every one -his utterly unselfish disposition, and the other his intense love of his fellow man. They believed, without doubt, that those two outstanding attributes were the product of his strong Christian faith -a faith developed in the atmosphere of one of Brisbane's most notable rectories -that of Holy Trinity, in the Valley of which parish his father was the rector many years ago. There in his early days he gained that appreciation of the truth of the Christian faith that never failed him in his later days. Now when standing on the threshold of the judgment seat of Christ they commended the soul of their brother to His mercy, and they could believe that he would hear the voice of the Master whom he loved, say unto him: 'Well done, thou good and faithful servant.' What more could any one want than that? The service at the graveside was conducted by Bishop Dixon and Canon Walter Thompson, both of whom were old friends of the deceased. The chief mourners were Messrs. James Love (brother) Guilford Love (son), J. P. Love, and Dr. Harold Love (nephews), Misses E. C. Love and L. Love (sisters), Mrs. Twigg-Patterson (nieces), Dr. Gilford Davidson (brother-in-law), and Miss J. M. Davidson (sister-in-law). Others who attended the funeral included Sir David Hardie, Canon D. J. Garland, the Rev. D. A. Brown (Goondiwindi), Dr. W. N. Robertson, Dr. D. A. Cameron, Dr. S. F. McDonald, Dr. A. C. F. Halford, Dr. H. Marks (president of the Medical Defence Society), Dr. Alec Murphy (president), and Dr. G. W. Macartney, representing the British Medical Association, Dr. B. M. Beith, Dr. J. M. Thomson, Dr. Glynn Connolly (president), and Dr. A. J. Turner, representing the Medical Board, Dr. G. P. Dixon, Dr. K. B. Fraser, Dr. Kerr Scott, Dr. A. B. Carvosso, Dr. W. N. Robertson (Vice Chancellor), Dr. Cumbrae Stewart (representing the chancellor), Dr. Lockhart Gibson, Messrs. J. F. McCaffrey (Registrar), and T. E. Jones (member of the staff), representing the Queensland University, Messrs. W. R. Parker (Queensland Dental Board), F. C. Bennett (Queensland College of Pharmacy), J. Richardson (Pharmacy Board), H. M. Russell, M.L.A., J. G. Nowlan, W. T. Evans, S. D. Fletcher, G. C. Crouch, and R. S. Stephenson (Brisbane Grammar School Old Boys' Association), E. G. Herring, D. B. McSwaine, E. C. Griffiths, F. Summers (Birt and Co.), W. G. A. Smyth (Isles, Love, and Co., Ltd.), G. V. Halford, J. W. Ward, C. B. Marshall, G. E. Gall (Registrar, Diocesan Registry), N. Watkins, D. F. Maxwell, and C. A. Munro (Q.N. Bank), W. M. L'Estrange (City Electric Light Co.), M. J. Gallagher, F. J. Morgan and J. E. Dixon (National Bank of Australia), H. W. Barltrop (United Insurance Co.), R. J. Muller, J. F. Church, G. Wasa, A. J. Hull, Macaulay Turner, O. M. Fletcher, C. E. White, C. J. Grant, V. F. Kenna, W. O. Vidgen, C. Vidgen, A. Thurlow, S. Larard (Cooroy), W. J. Strachan and V. J. Howard (Howards, Ltd.), A. E. Cleghorn, Percy W. Greenfield, and J. East (Messrs. A. P. Greenfield and Co., Ltd.), E. F. Sunners, Ernest Wickham, H. B. Fraser, T. P. Power, J. Simpson, R. H. Bere, R. E. Howard, W. J. Wallace, F. C. Capner (McGregor, Given, and Capner), C. B. Fox, Eric Jacob, D. Watt, G. W. Munro, F. S. N. Bousfield, A. Spowers, and Leonard C."

1933 03
4FK elected WIA President to complete 4KB's term '''CHAPTER SEVEN. PRESIDENTS.''' In any organization the choice of a suitable President is especially important - the ability he has and the image he projects are vital to success. History shows that the five men listed below served the WIA Q with great distinction throughout the 1930s. Collectively they were responsible for laying the foundations that successfully carried the Sunshine State Division through to WWII. All possessed outstanding ability in administration, communication and dedication, although they were markedly diverse in their approach and personal natures. Their names and period in office are as follows:
 * Matt M. O'Brien OA4MM April 1927 - April 1929
 * Matt M. O'Brien VK4MM April 1929 - May 1931
 * Leo J. Feenaghty VK4LJ May 1931 - April 1932
 * Pat Kelly VK4KB June 1932 - March 1933
 * Vern F. Kenna VK4FK March 1933 - April 1933
 * Arthur F. Walz VK4AW April 1933 - September 1939 (WWII).

1933 05
4FK attends WIAQ 6th AGM as president, retires to become past president "WIRELESS INSTITUTE. OFFICIAL NOTES. On Friday, April 28, members, of the Wireless Institute gathered once again, on the occasion of the sixth annual meeting, which was one of the most enthusiastic held for some years. Approximately 40 members and students were present, the H.Q. room being filled to capacity, temporary seating accommodation having to be procured. Transmitting members present were: 4FK, 4WT, 4AW, 4GK, 4LJ, 4RY, 4NG, 4RB, 4JM, 4AS, 4LS, 4AH, 4FB, 4TS, 4VJ, 4AG, 4PG, 4XL, 4JY, 4GS, 4EF. At the outset the secretary, Mr. W. T. Wishart (VK4WT) read the minutes of the last annual meeting. The President, Mr. V. Kenna (VK4FK) submitted his report dealing with the Institute past and present, and his remarks on the future were very encouraging. Other reports in reference to treasurer, auditor and official station 4WI were dealt with. It is pleasing to note that the treasurer, Mr. Browne, VK4RB, was able to show a decided improvement over last year's financial position. The election of officers resulted as follows: Past President, Mr. V. Kenna (VK4FK); president, Mr. A. Walz (VK4AW); secretary, Mr. W. T. Wishart (VK4WT); assistant secretary, Mr. L. Williams (VK4LS); treasurer, Mr. R. Browne (VK4RB); traffic manager, VK4AW; chief operator, 4WI, VK4RB; publicity manager, VK4XL; hon. legal adviser, VK4HW; student representative, Mr. Angel, pro tem. Council Members: VK4AW, WT, RB, LS, AH, LJ, TS, and Mr. Tonge. Student representative to be appointed. During the evening the presentation of trophies took place. The 'best station cup' was won by Mr. Mackenzie (VK4GK) of Wynnum. Mr. Kenna, in presenting the winner with cup and pennant, commended GK on his excellent station, both in layout and neatness, and also the amount of home construction gear. Mr. Mackenzie suitably responded. The red pennant for second place was won by Mr. W. T. Wishart (VK4WT.), of Graceville, Mr. Kenna remarked on the fine performance shown by Mr. Wishart, and also the neat appearance of the station. In response, Mr. Wishart congratulated Mr. Mackenzie, (4GK) on his performance and also thanked Mr. Kenna for his remarks. The 28 MC. Cup was awarded to VK4XN (Mr. Nissen, of Dalby). The president spoke of his activities, this being the second occasion in which 4XN has won the cup. Any information may be obtained from the secretary, Mr. Wishart, (VK4WT), who will be in attendance at headquarters, Heindorff House, third floor, room 30, daily, between 1-2 p.m. Next Friday night a lantern lecture on whaling in the great white south will be given by Mr. King, of Graceville. All members are requested to invite friends, O.W. and Y.L. The secretary trusts this lecture will be a great success. Others will be arranged in the near future. A meeting will take place on Friday week, May 19, to discuss a camp which it is hoped will be of extreme interest because 5 metre work, with phone, on 40 and 80 metres will be engaged in. A new series of lectures have commenced. Mr. Tonge was the lecturer last Monday night, and it was noted with satisfaction that many new members were present."

4FK in his role with the PMG establishes landline to Ipswich for a broadcast of Blackstone-Ipswich Cambrian Choir "BROADCAST PROGRAMME. Entertain Australia. Cambrians and Vice Regals. Preparations are now complete for the broadcasting from Station 4QG this evening of a national musical programme by the Blackstone-Ipswich Cambrian Choir and the Ipswich City Vice-Regal Band assisted by several well-known vocalists and instrumentalists. The occasion will be one of outstanding significance in a musical sense. More than one Eisteddfod adjudicator has proclaimed the singing of the Cambrian Choir to be as near perfection as it is possible for any humain combination to be, and undoubtedly also the Vice-Regal Band has attained a high standard of excellence. The national broadcast of singing by a Queensland choir is the outcome of protests that followed the announcement by the Australian Broadcasting Commission that no more singing by amateur societies would be broadcast. Attention was then directed to the hlgh standard of choral singing here, and finally the Commission yielded to a request that Queensland should be given an opportunity of showing what it was able to do in that way. The management of the radio station desired to pay the closest at-tention to detail in transmission to ensure the full beauty of musical achievement being given to listeners throughout Australia and to others farther afield. A land line between the Cambrian Hall in Ipswich, headquarters of the choir, and Station 4QG, Brisbane, was tested yesterday. Mr. Leonard Francis, with whom the choir has won so many successes at competitions in Queensland, and in other States, conducted the choral singing and Mr. J. W. Burgemeister wielded the baton for the band. The rehearsal was supervised by Mr. Dave Felsman, programme director of 4QG, who had to see that the choir or the band always came in with precision to the split second, and that the correct balance between the two was always preserved in pieces in which the band was playing the accompaniment to the choir. It was necessary also to check any departure from the true ratio between the higher and lower voices in the choir or between the bass and treble instruments in the band. Attention had to be given to other points of detail, the neglect of which might mar the transmission. The testing apparatus was in charge of Mr. V. Kenna. For the broadcast tonight the choir will sling and the band will play in the Cambrian Hall. No trouble has been spared in making the acoustics of the hall as nearly ideal as possible for the transmission. The whole of the walls have been draped, between 300 and 400 yards of material, having been used."

1933 09
Probate granted on estate of 4FK's father "GRANTS OF PROBATE. Probate has been granted in respect of the estates of the following deceased persons: . . . Francis Kenna, late of Hamilton, Brisbane, journalist; realty, £1495; personalty, £795."

1933 12
4FK a contributor to a concert for the fourth anniversary of the opening of the Brisbane central automatic telephone exchange "ANNIVERSARY CONCERT. Four years have elapsed since the establishment of the Brisbane central automatic telephone exchange, and the officers of the Posts and Telegraphs Department have celebrated the anniversaries. Last night 400 persons attended a concert, and the opening scene, 'In a Telephone Exchange,' a humorous portrayal of everyday incidents, was most appropriate. Mr. E. M. Dowse (metropolitan engineer in charge of equipment) and Mrs. E. M. Dowse were host and hostess at supper, at which Mr. J. W. Sutton, Acting Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs in Queensland, and other officers, were guests of honour. The celebration had been organised by an energetic committee, with Mr. Dowse as chairman, Mr. E. P. Lather secretary, and Mr. E. M. Richards assistant secretary. Contributors to the concert programme were Misses Mae Summers, Yvonne Lochner, Nancy Muirhead, N. Hicks, Peggy Culley, Ita Guyatt, Dorothy Wastle. Lorraine Hansen, D. Culley, Hazel Wilson, J. Thorne, M. McDiarmid, Lorraine Thompson, and Messrs. S. Kensett, L. Raymond, C. Duncan, M. Martin, W. O'Donnell, L. Cole, W. Holliday, J. Atkinson, J. Steele, G. Brian, W. Donald, R. Locke, G. Inwood, A. Howard, J. Whittaker, A. E. Davis, Leo Guyatt, J. Morrison, A. Howard, G. Inwood, G. Macfarlane, R. Murphy, R. Cook, J. West, and V. Kenna."

1934
4FK transfers to the Radio Research section, works with Alex McKenzie on top-loaded sectionalised radiators inter alia VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . Born at Brisbane 6th May 1908, VK4FK commenced employment in the PMG in 1924 as a junior mechanic-in-training. He advanced through technical grades and finally assumed the position of senior engineer in the radio section of the headquarters administration in Melbourne. From 1931 to 1934 Vern was a member of the technical staff at Broadcast Station 4QG Brisbane. In 1934 he moved to the PMG Research Section in Melbourne, where among other radio assignments he assisted in the development of the now familiar top-loaded broadcasting radiator and also VHF radio relay equipment designed for use on outside broadcasting work. He qualified as engineer in 1935. . ..

1934 03
4FK's father's property transferred to his wife "GOVERNMENT NOTICES. TRANSMISSION BY DEATH. REAL PROPERTY ACTS OF 1&81 AND 1877. Notice is hereby given that applications have been made for the Registration of Transmission of Title to the Lands hereinafter mentioned. Particulars of such applications are given below, and any person desiring to oppose must do so by lodging a Caveat, on or before the day specified, at the Principal Office of the Registrar of Titles, in Brisbane, unless the Lands are situated within the Central or Northern Districts, in which case the Caveat must be lodged at the Local District Registry at Rockhampton or Townsville. . . . Name of Deceased Proprietor.— Francis Kenna, late of Hamilton, Brisbane. Date of Death.— 23rd June, 1932. Name of Claimant.— Edith Elvira Kenna, of the same place, widow of deceased. Description and Situation of Land.— Subdivisions 37 to 48 and 75 to 80 of portion 58, parish of Capalaba, subdivision 72 (together with easement No. 778938) and subdivision 73 (together with easement No. 778939) of allotment 8 of portion 2, parish of Toombul;-both in the county of Stanley; and portion 117. county of Ward, parish of Numinbah. Estate Claimed to be Transmitted.— Fee-simple. Particulars of Will or Otherwise.— Will dated 9th July, 1915. Date within which Caveat may be Lodged.— 1st May, 1934."

1935
4FK qualifies as an engineer (not clear whether at a University or within the PMGD system) VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . In 1934 he moved to the PMG Research Section in Melbourne, where among other radio assignments he assisted in the development of the now familiar top-loaded broadcasting radiator and also VHF radio relay equipment designed for use on outside broadcasting work. He qualified as engineer in 1935.

1936
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1936 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1936
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 4802, Kenna, Edith Elvira, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 4803, Kenna, Herbert Vivian, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, motor mechanic, male (brother)
 * 4804, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, postal electrician, male

1936 07
4FK leaves Rockhampton for Mackay "PERSONAL. Mr V. Kenna left for Mackay and Mr J. L. Barber left for the West. They had been staying at the Gresham Hotel."

1936 08
4FK back at Rockhampton "PERSONAL. . . . Messrs V. Kenna and J. B. McAlister are staying at the Gresham Hotel."

1936 10
4FK again in Rockhampton, no doubt tending to 4RK "Paragraphs About People. . . . Mr P. Cassidy left for Bajool and Messrs E. Bell, V. Kenna, and H. Roberts left for Brisbane, and Mr E. Doyle left for the North. They stayed at the Gresham Hotel during their visit."

1937
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1937 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1937
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 4833, Kenna, Edith Elvira, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 4834, Kenna, Herbert Vivian, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, motor mechanic, male (brother)
 * 4835, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, postal electrician, male

1937 03
4FK joins the Love family for a yachting party on the Sweetheart "THE EASTER HOLIDAY TREK. Call of the Seaside, the Bay and the Mountain Yachting and Golf Have Big Following. The surf calls, the south calls and the hills call — at Easter. Where are you going during the holiday season? With the shop windows filled with camping gear and swim suits half Brisbane seems to be packing its cases in preparation of a trip or tour. Many are planning visits to adjacent resorts. Sailing and golf supply strong attractions for others. Others again have heard Sydney — with its show and races — calling. . . . Mr. James Love, who always says in jocular fashion that he 'cannot go with-out his sweetheart,' will have a party on the Sweetheart, which will include Messrs. W. F. Gardiner, Paddi Vidgen, H. Layton, Nim Love, Beau Palmer, Geoff Boyd, V. Kenna and Dr. Carvosso."

1937 06
4FK in Charters Towers "GOSSIP. . . . The following visitors to Charters Towers during the week stayed at the Excelsior Hotel: Mr. and Mrs. E. T. Russell (Townsville), Mr. S. Young (Townsville), Mr., Mrs. W. and Miss Chisholm (Strathelen, Torrens Creek), Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Robinson (Rokeby, Hughenden), Mrs. and Master J. Pollard (Ayr), Mr. J. Bentley (Townsville), Mr. C. G. Power (Brisbane), Miss Bentley (Townsville), Mr. E. T. Hatfield (Caerphilly), Mr. A. S. Waldhiem (Brisbane), Mr. J. A. McGarry (Brisbane), Mr. T. B. Kent (Brisbane), Mr. C. L. Hall (Queensland Inspector for Bank of N.S.W.), Mr. D. Chapman (Cape York), Mr. V. R. Wyatt (Brisbane), Mr. W. Bragg (Brisbane), Mr. A. L. Parton (Brisbane), Mr. F. M. Andrews (P.M.G. Department), Mr. E. E. D. White (Toomba), Mr. T. M. Barber (Brisbane), Mr. V. F. Kenna (Brisbane), Mr. A. Laidlow (Brisbane), Mr. O. P. Woodbine (Townsville), Mr. A. Long (Rockhampton), Mr. E. J. Davies (Townsville), Mr. A. Portrate (Brisbane), Mr. O. T. Siddens (Brisbane), Mr. R. K. Shaw (Townsville), Mr. F. T. Hing (Sydney), Mr. A. J. Hutson (Hilltop, Barabon), Mr. W. T. Yates (Mt. Emu, Hughenden), Mr. P. Rose (Mt. Emu, Hughenden), Mr. W. R. Smith (New Zealand), Mr. G. D. Thompson (Brisbane), Mr. J. K. Chandler (Charleville), Mr. E. Doig (Townsville), Mr. E. T. Phelan (Townsville), Mr. R. H. Rice (Brisbane), Mr. T. M. Flett (Brisbane), Mr. F. K. Lester (Sydney), Mr. C. R. Cumming (Brisbane), Mr. A. E. D. Dickson (Brisbane), Mr. N. M. Hepburn (Melbourne), Mr. H. F. Gillan (Mackay), Mr. B. P. Casey (Brisbane), Mr. H. H. Jackson (Sydney), Mr. J. J. Kelly (Brisbane), Mr. A. E. Symons (Brisbane), Mr. D. T. Ryan (Brisbane), Mr. V. I. Carrol (Caims), Mr. B. D. Holland (Brisbane), Mr. T. Kennedy Ipswlch), Mr. F. L. Jenkins (Sarina), Mr. F. T. Fitzgerald (Rockhampton), Mr. B. A. Ball (Brisbane), Mr. C. N. Mathers (Brisbane), Mr. Simmons (Bowen), Mr. Y. T. Parker (Brisbane)."

1937 09
4FK attends a party for the opening of the sailing season on the Love family's Sweetheart "Novel Costumes On River for Opening of Sailing Season. Appropriate yachting costumes were donned by a number of hostesses who entertained on their private launches this afternoon at the official opening of the sailing season. None proved more effective, however, than the frock featured by Mrs. A. S. Huybers, wife of the Commodore of the Royal Queensland Yacht Club ( Mr. A. S. Huybers), who has just returned from a trip abroad. . . . LARGE PARTY. A large party was entertained by Mr. and Mrs. James Love on the Sweetheart. Navy and white linen ornamented with navy buttons in the shape of frogs, and a navy straw hat formed the choice of Mrs. Love. The guests were Mr. and Mrs. D. J. Forbes, Professor and Mrs. J. L. Mitchie, Mesdames Robert Jackson, P. Bond (Sydney), Misses Edna Rose, Shev. Joyce (Beaudesert), Girlie Vldgen, Flora Cran, Minnie Palmer, Mesdames A. Vidgen, Max Duff, Arthur Palmer, G. Boyd, Edgar Joyce (Beaudesert), Verne Kenna and Nim Love."

1937 12
4FK, having acquired the 30ft yacht Quest in Cairns, passes through Townsville on a holiday cruise through the Great Barrier Reef and on to Brisbane "On a holiday cruise from Cairns to Brisbane, the well-known Cairns motor boat, Quest, is due hourly at Townsville. Her complement comprises the owner, Mr. V. F. Kenna, a familiar figure in Brisbane boating and radio circles who recently acquired the Quest from a well-known Cairns doctor, and Messrs. M. Unwin and T. England, both well-known in Townsvllle sporting circles. Mr. Kenna is an engineer in the Trans-mission Branch of the Posts and Tele-graphs Department, Brisbane, while Messrs. Unwin and England are both mechanics in the Townsville branch of the same department. The Quest has an overall length of 29ft. 3in., a beam measurement of 9ft. and a draught of 6ft., and her complement are confident of her ability to weather the most uncharitable South-Easters that may be encountered during their sojourn on the Barrier Reef or on their long punch to Brisbane."

4FK's Quest, having arrived safely in Brisbane goes to Bulimba for overhaul "OVERHAUL AFTER TRIP FROM CAIRNS. (Start Photo Caption) The 28ft. auxiliary sloop, Quest, which arrived from Cairns this week, is at present being overhauled at Bulimba. She was acquired from a Cairns owner by Mr. V. Kenna, of Hamilton, who intends using her for cruising around Moreton Bay. She was originally built in Sydney for a sportsman who intended making a round the world tour in her. (End Photo Caption)"

1938 04
4FK attends a performance by Kipnis at City Hall "The Social Round. . . . MODEL GOWN. It is not every visiting celebrity's wife who has her photograph in the newspaper beforehand, in the dress she will wear at her husband's first public appearance. Consequently there was much speculation before the arrival of Mrs. Alexander Kipnis at the City Hall last night as to whether her Paquin model would really be as beautiful as it appeared in 'The Telegraph' a couple of days ago. And it was, the large handpainted floral motifs providing a gay splash of colour against the very full white chiffon and black chantilly lace skirt. . . . OTHERS PRESENT. Others noticed were Miss May Moran in black georgette with a taffeta coat, Lorraine Drew, whose bronze shot taffeta model featured a deep swallow tail basque. Grace Marriott in white lace, Mr. and Mrs. Reg. Vickers, the latter in blue, Joan Darvall in black lace over taffetas, Mr. and Mrs. Colin Bingham and Ruth George, Dr. and Mrs. Bedford Elwell, Mrs. Gilbert Wilson, Mrs. R. B. Dowling, Carmel Doneley, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Francis, Maida Marley, Vera Cottew, who banded her white floral model in blue and red, and Mr. Vern Kenna."

4FK delayed on his flight to Longreach "WEEK'S AIR MAIL. . . . BOGGING CAUSES DELAY. Rain in New South Wales this week resulted in the Butler Aerial Service machine getting bogged at Bourke on Tuesday when flying from Cootamundra to Charleville. This delay affected the schedule of Qantas Empire Airways, and the R.M.A. Canberra on the outward run to Singapore did not reach Longreach until 8.16 a.m. on Tuesday, having to stay overnight at Charleville. Acting Captain A. R. Sheppard was in charge, and he had with him First Officer K. C. Berry. The machine carried 560 lbs. of mail and 250 lbs. of freight. The passengers were: Captain W. H. Crowther and Major J. B. Pye (Brisbane to Singapore); Messrs. V. Kenna (Brisbane to Longreach); K. M. Traves (Brisbane to Cloncurry); A. S. Bengle (Brisbane to Camooweal); H. Heffernan (Roma to Longreach). Inspector G. D. Vines, of the Civil Aviation Department, joined the machine at Longreach for Cloncurry."

1938 05
4FK passes through Rockhampton travelling from north to south "PERSONAL. . . . Messrs V. Kenna and J. L. Barber arrived from the North, and Messrs P. Lock and N. Sharpe arrived from the South, and are staying at the Gresham Hotel."

1938 06
4FK in Longreach in connection with Longreach aerodrome communication services "PERSONAL. . . . Messrs. V. Kenna and -. Ross, of the engineering transmission section of the Postmaster-General's Department, Brisbane, arrived in Longreach by the outward air mail yesterday afternoon. They are in Longreach in connection with the establishment of a radio station at the aerodrome for the east and west bound air mail services. Mr. W. E. Hagarty, of the Longreach Post Onice staff, is ex-pected to be in charge of the new station."

1938 07
4FK attends the annual Post Office Ball "Many Novelties at Post Office Ball. Alcove 'Phones: Mystery Parcels: Caricatures: 'Personality' Machine. 800 Attend Trocadero Gathering. INSTEAD of crossing the ballroom to communicate with members of other alcoves, dancers at the annual Post Office Ball at the Trocadero last evening sent messages by means of a special telephone exchange installed between alcoves, or by telegrams, transmitted through a special machine and delivered by small, uniformed boys. Special 'Directory' NUMBERS of alcoves were superfluous in the addresses on these telegrams, for names such as 'Deputy's Dump,' 'Postman's Pew,' 'Cleaners' Cloister' and 'Blacksmiths' Boudoir' were employed to indicate the various parties. Names of all alcoves were compiled in a special 'directory' printed for the occasion. Postmen delivering mystery parcels, paper P.M.G. caps, whistles, and other such novelties, caricatures of postal personalities, and a special 'yumph' machine, for indicating character, were included in the novelties at this annual ball which was attended by about 800 guests. MAROON and gold streamers and balloons featured in the decorations, and poinsettia and wattle made bright floral touches. An operatic dance was given by Miss Margaret Richards. The ball was held under the auspices of the Queensland Postal Institute. The deputy director of Posts and Telegraphs (Mr. A. B. Corbett) and Mrs. Corbett, as host and hostess, were assisted in receiving the guests by the President of the Postal Institute (Mr. E. M. Richards) and Mrs. Richards, and the chairman of the social and ball committees (Mr. E. M. Dowse) and Mrs. Dowse. Others in the official party included Mr. and Mrs. F. V. Becke, Mr. and Mrs, W. Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. O'Reilly, Mr. and Mrs. H. Sugden, Mr. and Mrs. S. Weaver, Mr. and Mrs. C. R. Carson, Mr. A. M. Cameron, and Miss Flora Cameron, Messrs. F. G. Haywood and Wardrop. The ball committee comprised Messrs. E. M. Dowse (chairman), E. M. Richards, H. Stansfield (secretary), Misses Rita Ahern, Jessie Day, D. Connolly, Doreen Robertson, F. Farrington, A. Affleck, Clare Christie, and D. Ludwig, Messrs. L. Cole, C. Bowser, V. H. Doig, B. A. Murphy, J. Crannitch, P. W. O'Donnell, D. Suffern, J. West, and G. Porter. Some Of The Frocks. MRS. CORBETT'S Empire frock of black velvet featured a high cowled neckline and long pointed sleeves, and on the shoulder she wore a pink spray. Of nemi blue triple chiffon was Mrs. Richards's frock, and she added a brocaded bolero. The lemon spray across the neckline of Mrs. Dowse's floral satin frock matched the shade, which, with green, patterned the silver background, and her coat was of white fur. Mrs. Stansfield's rococo blue crepe charmante frock displayed small swathed sleeves and a matching coatee. Blue was also the choice of Mrs. Bowser for her brocaded silk frock. In a saxe shade it featured a neckline trimmed with rows of shirring and the sash was caught with a silver brooch. A swathed belt finished the waistline of Mrs. Murphy's white broderie Anglaise frock. Mounted on a brighter shade of taffetas was Miss Day's lime green brocaded chiffon, and she added a gold necklet more than 100 years old. Miss Connolly's eau ne Nil satin frock was sprigged with red, and Miss Ludwig favoured red shot taffetas. To her frock of magnolia satin Miss Christie added red accessories, and Miss Robertson's trained frock of delphinium blue lame satin displayed sequin trimming. A trail of deeper shaded flowers extended from the waistline of Miss Affleck's tamarisk pink velvet frock, to which was added a matching jacket. Among The Throng. NOTICED among the dancers were Mr. and Mrs. C. Beswlck, Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Forbes, Mr. and Mrs. L. G. Batching, Mr. and Mrs. J. Davies (Melbourne), Mr. and Mrs. R. Bennett, Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Palmer, Mr. and Mrs. L. Cole, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Dunstan, Mr. and Mrs. T. G. Hope, Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Holliday, Mr. and Mrs. Dawson Corrigan, Mr. ind Mrs. J. Heywood, Mr. and Mrs. Alec. Edmiston, Mr. and Mrs. Lenthwaite, and Mrs. T. O'Mara. Misses Betty Greenup, Joyce Cavill, Monica and Joyce Doughty, Khreena, Betty, and Gwen Codan, Mary Corrigan, Agnes Donaldson, Mary Humphreys, G. Griffiths, Kathleen Doyles, Lydia MacFarlane, Jean McPhail, Hazel Lane, Iolanthe Slater, V. Burke, Eona Mclnroth, Marjorie Stewart, Mary Carew, Daphne Smith, Dorothy, Marjorie, and Ida Brighouse, Joan Thomson, Freda Little, E. Jouravel (Shanghai), G. Willys, M. Henderson, E. Wood (Melbourne), J. Martin. Messrs. R. Boys, G. Gaulth, R. Ferguson, G. Nicholls, H. Nicholls, M. Golch, H. Donald, L. Ferguson, H. Hinds, D. McLean, L. Outridge, N. O. Vidgen, V. Kenna, J. Johnston, C. Willy, J. Amell, R. Gooch, T. Dillon, T. Munro, J. Codan, J. Condon, P. Mclntyre, R. Roslind, G. Bennett, T. and P. Salon, C. Thelander, Captains J. R. Ellery and R. H. Smith. (Start Photo Caption) AT THE G.P.O. BALL LAST NIGHT. No. 1: Miss Belle Hinch and Miss Vivian Robinson found complete posting facilities. No. 2: A telegram, 'flashed' across the ballroom, is received by the Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs (Mr. Corbett). No. 3: Misses Doris Kitchen and Jean Munro and their partners paused to watch the operators at work at the telegrams desk. No. 4: Miss Clare Christie kept the flow of conversation going. She was switch operator for the inter-alcove telephone service.(End Photo Caption)"

1938 09
4FK provides his yacht Quest for honeymoon of his friend Norris (Paddy) Vidgen "CHOIR SINGS BRIDAL CHORUS at the Wedding Of Clayfield Doctor's Daughter. Vidgen — Stewart Ceremony In St. Andrew's. IN honour of the bride, who has been one of their fellow choristers for several years, the church choir sang the bridal chorus from 'Lohengrin' last evening in St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Creek Street, when Miss Marjorie Elizabeth Anne Stewart was married to Mr. Norris Octavious (Paddy) Vidgen. The Rev. Norman Millar officiated. Gold flowers and palms decked the church and gold and green marked the guests' pews. THE wedding unites two well known Brisbane families, as the bride is the only daughter of Dr. H. J. Stewart, Wyndlawn, Old Sandgate Road, Clayfield, and the late Mrs. Stewart, and the bridegroom is the sixth son of Mr. A. R. Vidgen, The Haven, Gaythorne, and the late Mrs. Vidgen. Dr. Stewart gave away his daughter, whose frock of magnolia satin in Empire mode was made with a heart shaped neckline, and long sleeves. The skirt, which featured a twisted satin girdle at the waistline, extended to a long circular train. Cream and gold leaves held her Brussels net handembroidered veil, and she added a pearl pendant worn by her mother on her wedding day. Her sheaf of Eucharis lilies and gladioli introduced touches of gold, with daffodils and sprigs of orange blossoms from the bride's own garden. MRS. A. C. PAIN (Rockhampton), as matron of honour, and Misses Joyce Kerr and Lesley Chambers as bridesmaids, were frocked alike in Empire gowns of green velvet finished at the waist with twisted girdles of velvet. They wore coronets of gold leaves and carried sheaves of daffodils. Mr. Arthur Vidgen (Townsville) was best man, and Messrs. Ian Stewart and Harold Crawford groomsmen. Bowls of golden flowers decorated Wyndlawn, where the reception was held. The bride's aunt (Miss M. Macfarlane) received the guests wearing beige needlerun lace, with a matching coatee and a widebrimmed delphinium blue ballibuntle hat. She carried a bouquet of pink carnations and blue delphiniums. The bridegroom's elder sister, Miss A. Vidgen, favoured lemon organdi patterned with clusters of pastel shaded flowers, with which she wore a green velvet coat and a wreath of pastel flowers in her hair. Leaving for the honeymoon, which will be spent cruising around the Bay Islands in The Quest, Mr. V. Kenna's yacht. Mrs. N. O. Vidgen wore sea blue silk linen trimmed with white and blue anchor buttons, and a white hat finished with a silver anchor ornament. Above: Friends pressed forward to offer good wishes to Mr. Norris Vidgen and his bride, Miss Marjorie Stewart, as they left St. Andrew's Church, Creek Street, last evening after their wedding. Centre: The bride's attendants, Mrs. A. C. Pain, Misses Joyce Kerr, and Lesley Chambers. At right: The bridal pair and attendants leaving the church."

1939 04
4FK leaves Townsville for Rockhampton "THE AIR SERVICES. . . . The Grafton leaves for Brisbane at 8 a.m. today with Mrs. C. Turner, Messrs. C. Turner, B. Brown, R. W. Heggie, S. J. Jones (Townsville — Brisbane), Mrs. G. Muller, Mr. V. F. Kenna (Townsville — Rockhampton), Messrs. G. N. Phillips and McDonald (2) (Rockhampton — Brisbane) as passengers."

4FK in Rockhampton "TODAY'S PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. . . . Mrs J. McLean arrived from the South, Miss M. McKay arrived from Biloela, Mr C. Lloyd Jones (Barcaldine) arrived from the South. Mr R. Sollart arrived from the Dawson Valley and Messrs V. Kenna and G. C. Pestorius (district Inspector of schools) arrived from the South. They are staying at the Gresham Hotel."

4FK returns from Rockhampton to Brisbane "TODAY'S PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. . . . Mr and Mrs Patulla left for Emer-ald, Miss M. McKay left for Biloela. Messrs V. Kenna, A. Beale and J. An-derson left for the South, and Mr G. C. Pestorius (district inspector of schools) left for the North after stay-ing at the Gresham Hotel while in Rockhampton."

1939 05
4FK best man at his friend's wedding (Harold Nicholls) "Nicholls — Henderson Wedding. OF interest in the Northern districts, where both families formerly lived at Gympie, was the wedding of Miss Mary Henderson (second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. N. Henderson, Ascot) and Mr. Harold Nicholls of Brisbane (only son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Nicholls, Vila, New Hebrides), which, was celebrated by the Rev. Ivor Morris at St. Andrew's Church, Creek Street, last evening. Miss V. McFadden (Gympie) sang. A gold bangle, which was a wedding gift of her mother's, was worn by the bride, who was given away by her father. A deep hem of lace edged her frock of white silk tulle, and the ruched bodice was topped with a bolero of matching lace. A pearl Juliet cap, finished with tuberoses and lily of the valley, held her tulle veil, and she carried lily of the valley and carnations. The bridesmaids, Misses Laurie McQuade White and Pamela Cribb (the bride's niece), were frocked alike in pale blue chiffon banded with taffetas. Their shoulder-length blue veils were held with red rosebuds to match their bouquets. Mr. V. Kenna was best man and Mr. D. G. Henderson groomsman. The reception was held at the Belle Vue Hotel, where Mrs. Henderson received the guests wearing blue chiffon inlet with lace and carrying deep cream roses. The bridegroom's aunt, Mrs. J. Matters, wore a black ensemble and carried mauve asters. Mr. and Mrs. Harold Nicholls will leave today by the Manoora for Sydney, whence they will travel to New Hebrides for their honeymoon tour."

1939 06
4FK leads a group which constructs Robo 1 for the 1939 Post Office Ball VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69). . . Author's Note: Vern VK4FK, together with a few of his contemporaries, gave their genius free rein by building what appears to be the first totally free-moving robot in Queensland (no umbilical control cord). Outwardly it assumed the shape of a well-fed Oriental Potentate; approximately 4 ft 6 ins tall, it had speech (2-way) and considerable mobility. It was introduced to the public of Brisbane at the Post Office Ball held at the Trocadero, South Brisbane in 1938 (sic, 1939). Its appearance caused quite a stir as it moved in and out of the alcoves and exchanged repartee with all concerned. Robo 1 even made a speech. Several VHF and UHF transmitters and receivers were installed, out of sight, in the Oriental's interior and were remotely controlled from a distance. This writer assisted with on-the-spot technical adjustments to make Robo 1's debut at the Ball a success.

4FK's Robot features at the Post Office Ball "Many Attractive Features at Post Office Ball. HUMOUR AND MYSTERY. A unique attraction at the Post Office Ball tonight at the Trocadero will be a robot mystery man, Ranji Ganji, who will move about the hall under remote control. Many novelties have been arranged to add to the enjoyment of the evening. Postmen in full uniform will deliver packages containing novelties, and telegrams will be accepted for transmission to dance patrons. Specially designed telegram forms will be used. Another amusing feature of the dance is the nomenclature of the alcoves. Each will be named after a postal district, with humorous silhouettes to indicate the special interest of the district. Numbered balloons will be released from the ceiling, with a lucky number prize. RURAL TELEPHONE EXCHANGE. Three telegram boys will be kept busy delivering messages between the guests. A rural automatic telephone exchange will enable patrons to communicate directly with each other from the alcoves, and a telephone directory has been compiled for the occasion. THE OFFICIAL PARTY. The official party for the dance, which is held under the auspices of the Queensland Postal Institute, includes Mr. F. V. Becke (Acting Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs), Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Dowse, Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Richards, Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Hayward, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Sugden, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Stewart, Mrs. A. B. Corbett, Misses Jill Stewart and Flora Cameron, Messrs. R. E. Page and G. Cameron. THE COMMITTEE. The committee responsible for the dance arrangements comprises Misses Rita Ahern, Cath White, Dot Connolly, Jessie Day, Coral Campbell, Irene Griffiths, Marjorie Roche, and Clare Christie, Messrs. E. M. Dowse, E. M. Richards, L. S. Cole, A. W. Holliday, C. Bowser, W. Wiseman, A. N. J. Heywood, J. Cranitch, D. Suffern, W. O'Donnell, G. Porter, G. Milton and H. Stansfield (secretary). SOME OF THE FROCKS. Mr. Richards will wear a clear brown satin model cut on princess lines, and featuring elbow length puff sleeves. She will add a fur coat. Mrs. Dowse, who will assist Mrs. Richards in her duties as hostess, will favour pale green lame woven with a silver thread. A pale pink posy will give a finish at the waist, and she will add a black bolero. A moulded grey frock, worn over mauve, will be the choice of Mrs. Sugden. Grey buttons give a trimming. A long sleeved dress of saxe blue silk crepe, cut on straight lines, will be favoured by Mrs. Hayward. Mrs. Stansfield will wear apple green French lace with a taffeta scarf finish, relieved by silver and poinsettia, red accessories. PAISLEY EFFECT A finish in Paisley effect will be featured on Mrs. Corbett's black velvet gown. Miss Flora Cameron will be frocked in black plaid sheer, finished by a shirred bodice and cerise shoulder straps. A green velvet cape to tone will be worn Miss White with a flame and green shot taffeta dress. Mrs. W. Streten will feature black Chantilly lace relieved by a spray of blush pink velvet roses at the neckline. GOLD COWL CLIP. A gold cowl clip matching the buckle on belt will be featured by Mrs. Bowser on a pink floral silk frock. A spray of gold flowers will be added. Silver buttons trim the pale blue georgette dress to be worn by Mrs. W. Holliday. Mrs. L. Cole will favour watermelon pink triple ninon. GOLD ACCESSORIES. Gold spotted coral red taffeta cut with a circular skirt will be worn by Miss Christie. A coatee and gold accessories are featured. Nile green coin spot net over taffeta is the choice of Miss Griffiths. Velvet touches give a finish. Miss Campbell's bouffant frock of clover and dahlia net over blue taffeta is shirred on the bodice. Miss Connolly will favour marine blue georgette allied with a red cloak. CYCLAMEN SILK NET. Cyclamen silk net over sky blue is the choice of Mrs. Heywood. Gold sheer with a ruched skirt and embroidered bodice will be worn by Miss Roche. Miss Day will feature minuet blue marquisette mounted on primrose taffeta. Mrs. Porter's choice is black chiffon velvet, to be worn with a floor length coat and muff of the same material. A high waist is featured on the coral satin frock to be allied by Mrs. Murphy with a velvet coatee."

As previous "NOVELTY FOR G.P.O. BALL. (Start Photo Caption) The grotesque robot which has been installed at the Trocadero for the amusement of dancers who will attend the Post Office annual ball tonight. The robot, radio controlled, will move among the dancers and answer questions. (End Photo Caption)"

As previous "AT THE TROCADERO. (Start Photo Caption) A GROUP OF OFFICIALS (top picture), glimpsed at the Post Office Ball at the Trocadero last evening. Left to right: Mr. E. M. Dowse, Mrs. E. M. Richards, Mr. F. V. Becke, Mrs.E. M. Dowse, Mr. E. M. Richards, and Mrs. A. B. Corbett. LOWER PICTURE: Miss Bridie Ross (left) chatting to a friend in another alcove by telephone while Miss Patricia Silk 'listens in,' at the Post Office Ball at the Trocadero last evening. (End Photo Caption)"

As previous "(Start Photo Caption) A telegram delivered to their alcove at the Post Office ball at the Trocadero gave a great deal of amusement to Misses Jean Lowndes, Iris Rogers, C. O'Driscoll, and Joyce Lowndes. (End Photo Caption)"

As previous "'Number Please!' (Start Photo Caption) MISS DORRIE CONNOLLY working the switch board by which guests were able to make 'phone calls from one alcove to another at the Post Office Ball at the Trocadero last evening. (End Photo Caption)"

As previous "Mystery 'Robot' In Ballroom. MANY NOVELTIES FEATURED AT P.O. 'ANNUAL.' Telephones for Guests. PROMINENT among the many features which characterised the Post Office Annual Ball at the Trocadero last evening was the 'robot' mystery man of the East, Ranji Ganji, who appeared on a 'magic' carpet in the ballroom between dances, answering questions and 'foretelling the future.' A RURAL automatic telephone exchange was erected, and connected to each alcove, and a telephone directory, containing the names and numbers of the guests present, was published. Three uniformed telegram boys were kept busy dispatching 'wires,' containing humorous texts, to the various alcoves, which were named after the postal districts. Each alcove bore an amusing cartoon, and postmen in full uniform delivered packages containing novelties. Mr. F. V. Becke (acting Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs), assisted by Mr. E. M. Dowse (president of the social and ball committee) and Mrs. Dowse received the guests, and others in the official party included Mr. E. M. Richards (president of the Queensland Postal Institute) and Mrs. Richards, Mr. and Mrs. F. G. Hayward, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Sugden, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Stewart, Mr. H. Stansfield (hon. secretary of the ball committee) and Mrs. Stansfield, Mrs. A. B. Corbett, Miss Flora Cameron, Messrs. R. E. Page and G. Cameron. The Frocks Mrs. Richards wore a frock of deep mid-brown satin, made on moulded lines, with elbow-length puff sleeves. Pale green lame, showing a silver thread design, and finished with a cluster of pink flowers at the waistline, was worn by Mrs. Dowse. A Paisley motif relieved the black velvet moulded frock worn by Mrs. Corbett, and Mrs. Sugden's choice was grey georgette mounted on mauve taffetas, and showing a high neckline. Mrs. Hayward wore a dinner frock of saxe blue silk crepe, and Mrs. Stansfield chose apple green French lace allied with taffetas, with a lace bolero. Cyclamen flowers were worn by Mrs. Stewart with her frock of ice blue wind-swept crepe, and Mrs. Hughes allied a black crepe skirt with a gold lame blouse. Miss Cameron wore a cerise bow in her hair to match the shoulder straps on her frock of black sheer, which was patterned in a red, blue, and yellow plaid design. On Committee The committee responsible for the arrangements also included Misses Rita Ahem, Catherine White, Dorothy Connolly, Jessie Day, Coral Campbell, Irene Griffiths, Marjorie Roche, Clare Christie, Messrs. L. S. Cole, B. A. Murphy, A. W. Holliday, C. Bowser, W. Wiseman, A. N. J. Heywood, J. Cranitch, D. Suffern, W. O'Donnell, G. Porter, and G. Milton. A trained frock of white satin, figured in blue, and made with a halter neckline, was worn by Miss Ahern, and Miss White chose flame and green shot taffetas, with a bouffante skirt. Gold-spotted tomato taffetas with gold accessories, was the choice of Miss Christie, and Miss Griffiths' full-skirted frock of green coin spot net was mounted on taffetas. Miss Connolly wore marine blue georgette, with a scarlet cloak. Bands of dahlia velvet ribbon trimmed Miss Campbell's frock of clover and dahlia net over blue taffetas, and Miss Roche wore gold sheer, with a ruched skirt and embroidered bodice. Miss Day chose minuet blue marquisette over primrose taffetas."

1939 07
4FK passes through Longreach on his way from Cloncurry to Brisbane "WEEK'S AIR MAIL. THE PASSENGERS. Travellers by Qantas Empire Airways Ltd.'s air liners this week were — Mesdames Wills (Winton-Brisbane); G. V. White and Sister M. Brown (Longreach-Brisbane); Messrs. T. R. McCulloch (Mt. Isa-Brisbane); H. Hollingworth (Winton-Charleville); W. Tennant and J. Mathieson (Blackall-Brisbane). Two passengers were picked up at Charleville and Roma. Miss Lyons (Brisbane-Longreach). Mr. and Mrs. Ryan and infant (Roma-Cloncurry), Messrs. W. H. Greenhalgh, C. C. Bowley (Brisbane-Winton) and A. J. Kennin (Brisbane-Longreach) were aboard the westbound air liner on Tuesday afternoon. Messrs. M. S. Herring and J. Jeffery and Mrs. L. H. Horsfall joined Thursday's air liner at Longreach for Brisbane. Mrs. Horsfall will proceed from the metropolis by A.O.A. air liner to Melbourne. Mr. V. F. Kenna went through from Cloncurry to Brisbane and Mr. Bennett travelled from Blackall to Charleville. Captains A. L. Ashley and E. Donaldson were in charge of the respective machines; they had with them First Officers K. C. Berry and L. J. Sloan. Passengers by yesterday's air liner were Messrs. H. F. Heussler and W. B. Cameron (Brisbane-Longreach); G. D. Vines (Brisbane-Cloncurry); R. H. Andrews (Brisbane-Camooweal); lan McLean (Roma-Cloncurry); A. J. Keanan (Blackall-Cloncurry), Mr. D. Walz joined at Longreach for Cloncurry."

1939 08
4FK arrives in Townsville from Brisbane "THE AIR SERVICES. Airlines of Australia's Douglas air liner Pengana commanded by Captain D. R. Way, arrived from Sydney and Brisbane at 7.45 p.m. on Monday with Misses E. Quinns, K. Brown, M. Taylor, Messrs J. Boyd, V. Kenna, Denny, J. Mulholland, Barton, E. Peacock, J. Blunt, L. O. Ashby, Stokes, A. Colvin and C. Ward as passengers."

1939 12
4FK arrives in Townsville from Brisbane "THE AIR SERVICES. Airlines of Australia's Stinson air liner Townsville, commanded by Captain A. O. Gilbertson, arrived from Sydney and Brisbane at 6.50 p.m. on Thursday, with Mrs. G. E. Carter, Messrs. V. F. Kenna, G. W. McDonald, R. G. Clark, G. Brown, B. Newman, S. G. Griffiths, S. H. Brazier and Borrowes as passengers. . .."

1940
4FK works on provision of Aeradio and DF services during WW2 VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . During the early stages of WWII Vern was concerned with the installation of aeradio and assisted DF equipment at a number of centres in Queensland and other adjacent Pacific areas. . ..

1940 06
4FK departs Townsville for Brisbane "THE AIR SERVICES. Airlines of Australia's Loila, commanded by Captain D. R. Way, arrived from Cairns at 8.10 a.m. yesterday with Messrs. A. C. Lynch, J. Rosenfeld, J. F. Barrow, T. E. Downs and E. V. Davis as passengers. This machine left for Brisbane via Intermediate airports at 8.50 a.m. with Messrs. J. Rosenfeld, J. F. Barron, V. F. Kenna, J. G. Mowbray, R. K. Macdonald, F. Caren, L. A. Wilkinson, F. Beasley and E. F. Hanman as passengers."

1940 07
4FK departs Townsville for Brisbane "THE AIR SERVICES. Airlines of Australia's Loila, commanded by Captain A. O. Gilbertson, arrived from Cairns at 8.10 a.m. yesterday with Miss L. Francis, Mrs. W. J. Francis, Messrs V. A. Craig, J. G. Mowbray and L. C. Oliver as passengers. This machine left for Brisbane, via intermediate airports at 8.50 a.m. with Miss L. Francis, Mesdames W. J. Francis, C. Ricketts, Messrs E. Withers, J. G. Mowbray, V. A. Craig, V. F. Kenna, P. Burns, F. Windsor, J. Liddle, G. Setter. A. J. Pettit, G. H. Murray and G. Stevens as passengers."

1940 11
4FK departs Townsville for Brisbane "THE AIR SERVICES. Airlines of Australia's Stinson airliner Townsville, commanded by Captain C. Jones, arrived from Cairns at 10.10 a.m. yesterday with Mrs. Sharpe, Messrs J. Fisher, B. CawIey and G. D. Maddock as passengers. This machine returned to Cairns at 10.30 p.m. with Mr. G. Clarke and Dr. W. J. Chapman as passengers. The Douglas airliner Pengana, commanded by Captain D. H. Way, arrived from Brisbane, via intermediate airports, at 11.55 a.m. yesterday with Mesdames E. Ellis, V. Gibbons, Miss N. Garbutt, Captain F. Cohen as passengers. This machine returned South at 1 p.m. with Misses M. Armstrong, M. S. McMillan, Mr. and Mrs. J. Maher, Messrs V. F. Kenna, J. Fisher, A. Sakzewaki, R. Clifford, D. Barnett and Ferguson as passengers."

4FK departs Rockhampton flying North "PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS. . . . Departures from the Gresham Hotel during the week were Messrs R. Carlisle, E. Kidman, and V. Kenna for the North, Messrs C. Norris, I. Tarbutt and C. B. Perry for the South."

1941
4FK leads a team relocating 4QG and 4QR from the City to Bald Hills as a war measure VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . Then, in the light of the critical war situation, he was involved in the urgent removal of the NBS metropolitan stations 4QG and 4QR to preferred sites outside the city limits. OOTers will remember the dismantling of the two lattice masts of station 4QG, atop the Taxation Building, cnr. George and Elizabeth Sts. - and the single, taller aerial of 4QR reaching skywards from the roof of the PMG building complex in Queen St., Brisbane. . ..

1942 06
4FK departs Longreach for Brisbane by rail "SOCIAL. . . . Mr. V. Kenna, who has been on a business visit to Longreach, returned on Thursday's train to Brisbane."

1943
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1943 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1943
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 5475, Kenna, Edith Elvira, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 5476, Kenna, Herbert Vivian, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, superintendent, male (brother)
 * 5477, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, postal electrician, male

1943 07
Brief obituary for 4FK's uncle Joseph Kenna "Death of State's Oldest Accountant. The late Mr Joseph Kenna, of Rockhampton, who died on Sunday, was Queensland's oldest practising public accountant. Principal of an accountancy firm in Rockhampton, with a branch office in Brisbane, Mr Kenna, despite his 80 years, was mentally and physically vigorous. He was an ardent horticulturist, devoted to his picturesque gar (Start Photo Caption) Late Mr. J. Kenna (End Photo Caption) den at Silverton on the Range. Half a century ago Mr Joseph Kenna was well known in amateur foot racing circles and in the athletic spheres generally. He married twice. He had three daughters — Mrs Cowan and the Misses Nancy and Winnie Kenna — by the first marriage, and a son (now a prisoner of war) and daughter, Alexis, wife of Dr R. Richards (Canberra), by the second. Some years ago Mr Kenna was an alderman of the City of Rockhampton. One of his brothers was the late Mr Francis Kenna, MLA."

1943 12
4FK's brother Herbert Vivian Kenna dies in aircraft crash near Bendigo "PLANE DOWN AT BENDIGO. OFFICER KILLED. OFF COURSE IN HEAVY GALE ON FLIGHT FROM BRISBANE. Off its course on a flight from Brisbane to Melbourne, a DC2 passenger airliner made a forced landing at Bendigo during a heavy gale about 4.45 a.m. today and crashed into a belt of trees. First Officer Herbert V. Kenna, or Allen Street, Hamilton, Brisbane, was killed. The pilot, Captain Kevin T. E. Shersby (of Brisbane), and Frederick Johns, of Finsbury Way, Camberwell, a passenger were taken to hospital, suffering shock and abrasions. The other five passengers and the hostess, Miss June Westbrook, were uninjured, except for bruises and shock. The plane, which was owned by the Commonwealth Government, and operated by Australian National Airways, had left Brisbane at 8 p.m. after leaving Sydney hoped to reach Melbourne about 2.30 a.m. The plane appeared over Bendigo about 4.10 a .m., during the gale, and the pilot brought it down low over Golden Square, apparently; calculating his chance of landing on some or the waste mining areas. The landing lights illuminated mullock and sand heaps. The plane then made several runs low over the city, and went toward White Hills where it dropped flares. After circling around for some time it headed for Bendigo East, and the pilot selected a big open paddock about four miles from the city. The pilot brought the plane down, but the length of the strip was too short to effect a safe landing and the machine crashed into a belt of gum trees, some of them a foot thick. One wing was torn off and 12 trees were uprooted and carried along. The propeller was torn away and one of the landing wheels stripped off. The plane entered a patch of scrub and then was stopped by saplings, which slewed it around. Ambulance, firemen, a doctor, and police were quickly on the scene. The injured pilot and passenger were taken to hospital. Their condition is favorable. Some of the passengers left Bendigo by the 7 a.m. train for Melbourne. The paddook on which the plane landed forms part of a site selected for a proposed aerodrome. Three officers of the Department of Civil Aviation and company officials, went to the scene of the accident early today. PASSENGERS WERE CALM. BENDIGO. 'We would board a plane right now and fly with Captain Shersby anywhere,' said Pte. W. Cartner, of Princess Street, Newmarket and Mr G. H. C. Norman of Bay Street, Port Melbourne, two of the passengers, who escaped without a scratch, and were little the worse for their frightening experience. 'The Captain was marvellous, and stuck to his task like a champion doing everything humanly possible to bring the plane down safely,' said Pte Cartner. Cartner said the plane left Brisbane soon after 8 o'clock, and they had hoped to be in Melbourne at 2.30 a.m. At 3.35 the air hostess came to the passengers, several of whom had been sleep-ing and told them to tighten their safety belts. After coming through a thick bank of cloud the plane came out in the clear over Bendigo, flying very low, and the passengers then knew they were lost and in trouble. 'Over Bendigo the visibility was fairly clear, and I recognised the large white glass building in the Conservatory Gardens as a Bendigo landmark,' he added. Evidently the pilot also recognised Bendigo, as he kept close to it and used it as a guide in seeking a landing ground. 'On five or six occasions on the outskirts of Bendigo he made attempts to get down, but each time a large tree loomed up in front of the plane and he had to gain height and search for another clearing. 'The air hostess was cool and right through the whole of the plane's search for a landing ground did not acquaint any of the passengers of the danger they were in. 'There was no suggestion of panic among the passengers when we knew we were in trouble,' said Mr Norman. 'We just did not talk about it, and altogether there was only a few words spoken during the half-hour's flight over the city. 'When the crash came we were thrown about in the plane, but soon collected ourselves, and made little of the experience.' Other passengers were Messrs Wallace M. Kane, of St. Paul's Terrace, Brisbane; Frederick M. Munster, of Burke Road, East Kew; and Frank Clune, of Princess Ave., Vaucluse, Sydney. The first report of the plane being in trouble was made by the Volunteer Air Observers Corps' post at Bendigo at 4.23 a.m. This post made arrangements for an ambulance, two doctors and transport to Bendigo, a VDC guard for the plane, and an Air Force officer to take charge of the mail. EMERGENCY LANDING GROUND WANTED. BENDIGO.— Feeling is high in Bendigo that no emergency landing ground was available for the air liner forced down. The municipal authorities had an aerodrome constructed at Emu Point, but it was taken over as the site for a factory, and no other landing ground has been provided."

As previous "2 DIE IN TRAIN, AIR CRASHES. MELBOURNE, Saturday.— Two were killed and several injured in an air crash and a train accident within a few hours of each other between Sydney and Melbourne during the night. First officer of a DC2 airliner, H. V. Kenna, of Allen Street, Hamilton (Q.), was killed when the plane crashed at Bendigo. B. Clough, 56, of Harding Street, Seymour (V.), was killed when a steel girder protruding from a passing goods train ripped open a carriage on the Goulbum Valley train. The plane crash occurred when the pilot, Captain K. E. T. Shirby, of Brisbane, attempted to make a forced landing in a storm. The plane came down in a paddock and crashed into a belt of trees. Heavy Gale It appeared over Bendigo at 4.10 a.m. during a heavy gale. The pilot selected an open paddock for a landing about four miles from the city, but it was too short and the machine crashed into a belt of trees. One wing was torn off and 12 trees uprooted. Kenna was found on the wing. Shersby, who suffered cuts and minor injuries, was admitted to hospital. His condition is favourable. Only passenger admitted to hospital was Frederick Johns, of Melbourne, who suffered shock and abrasions. Ten people were injured in the the side of the engine cab and all one side of the leading passenger carriage was torn away. First-Officer Herbert V. Kenna, 32, was born in Brisbane. He was educated at the Eagle Junction State School and the State High School, and joined the Shell Company of Australia, Ltd. He was for some years associated with the Queensland Aero Club, and joined A.N.A. about 14 months ago. Captain Shersby is the only son of inspector A. E. Shersby (Traffic Superintendent). This is his first serious accident. He has been associated as pilot with Air Lines of Australia and A.N.A. for many years. He was one of the pilots who worked day and night to evacuate the civilian population from New Guinea and Rabaul. When the Australians smashed the Japanese at Buna and Gona, Captain Shersby landed his aircraft within two miles of the front line, brought out the wounded, and took in supplies."

As previous "FATAL PLANE CRASH. Airliner Hits Trees. BENDIGO, Sunday.— Blown off its course during a heavy gale at 4.45 a.m. on Saturday, a D.C.2 passenger airliner from Brisbane to Melbourne made a forced landing and ran into a group of gum trees. A member of the crew was killed, and the pilot and a passenger injured. The victims were:— KILLED. First Officer Herbert V. Kenna, of Allen-street, Brisbane. INJURED. Captain Kevin T. E. Shoresby, pilot, of Brisbane; Mr. Frederick Johns, of Finsbury Way, Camberwell. Both admitted to hospital with shock and abrasions. Neither of the injured men is in a critical condition. Five other passengers and the air hostess were uninjured except for bruises and shock. The plane, which was operated by Australian National Airways, and was owned by the Commonwealth Government, appeared over Bendigo about 4.10 a.m. The pilot circled low over Golden Square, but when the landing lights illuminated the mullock and sand heaps the plane made several low runs over the city and headed for White Hill, where the pilot dropped flares. Finally the pilot headed for Bendigo East, where he made a landing on a big, open paddock about four miles from the city. The length of the strip, however, was too short for a safe landing, and when the plane crashed into a belt of gum trees, both wings were torn off, and twelve trees were uprooted and dragged with the plane. The propellor was torn away, and one of the landing wheels stripped off. The machine came to a standstill near some saplings. An ambulance, doctor, fireman and police, warned by the Volunteer Air Observers' Corps first that a plane was in trouble, arrived quickly on the scene, and the injured pilot and passenger were taken to hospital. Aerodrome Lack The site selected by the pilot for a landing forms part of the site selected for a proposed aerodrome. An aerodrome had already been constructed by the municipal authorities at Emu Point, but this was taken over for a factory site, and no other landing ground has yet been provided. Bendigo residents are expressing strong indignation that no emergency landing ground was available for the airliner. All of the passengers remained calm during their frightening experience. Private W. Cartner, of 4 Princess-street, Newmarket, said later: 'We would board a plane right now and fly with Captain Shoresby anywhere. He was marvellous, and stuck to his job like a champion, doing everything humanly possible to bring the plane down safely. Mr. G. H. C. Norman, of 200 Bay-street, Port Melbourne, said there was no suggestion of panic when the passengers knew they were in trouble. 'We just did not talk about it, and altogether there were only a few words spoken during the half-hour's flight over the city,' he added."

As previous "AIRLINER CRASHES AT BENDIGO. Co-Pilot Killed; 8 Others Escape. In extremely bad weather conditions which intensified radio interference, a Douglas airliner from Brisbane made a forced landing and crashed in a belt of timber 3 miles east of Bendigo about 4.25 am on Saturday. First-Officer Herbert V. Kenna, 31, of Allen st, Hamilton, Q, copilot of the plane, was killed outright Capt Kevin T. E. Shersby, the pilot, of Brisbane, and Frederick Peter Johns, 36, a passenger, of Finsbury Way, Camberwell, were admitted to Bendigo Hospital with shock and lacerations. Their condition is not serious. The other passengers and Miss Joan Westbrook, 24, of Sydney, air hostess, escaped with bruises and shock. They were Pte William George Cartney, 41, AIF, of Princess st, Newmarket; George Harold Charles Norman, of Bay st, Port Melbourne; William Michael Kane, St Paul's ter, Brisbane; Frederick Maxwell Munster, Burke rd, East Kew; and Frank Clune, journalist, of Princess av, Vaucluse, NSW. Some left by train for Melbourne at 7am, and others, together with mail, arrived by car later in the day. PLOUGHED THROUGH TREES. When the aircraft landed the starboard wing struck the fringe of a belt of trees and snapped off. The plane veered so that it ploughed through the clump of trees for 50 yards uprooting many. The other wing was torn off before the plane came to rest. Kenna was killed in the first impact, which made a gaping hole in the nose and forced the copilot's seat back several feet to the lug (Start Photo Caption) Pte W. Cartney (End Photo Caption) gage compartment at the rear. Johns was seated on the other side of the compartment, which probably saved his life. The pilot was hurt when the port wing was shattered. The aircraft, owned by the Commonwealth Government, was operated by Australian National Airways. It left Brisbane about 9pm, and, after taking off from Sydney at 12.22am, was due in Melbourne at 3.30am. The last distinct message received by the flight checking officer at Essendon aerodrome was that the pilot expected to land within 15 minutes. When the plane did not come in on the beam it was realised that the pilot was having difficulty with his radio communication. Because of the bad conditions, it is thought that he could not clearly exchange messages with the aerodrome. BLOWN OFF COURSE. There were strong SW to southerly winds, of almost gale force, and gusty surface conditions probably prompted the pilot to return to Benalla aerodrome for a safer landing. How he came to be over Bendigo would be explained by the fact that he would make westward to avoid mountainous country in the east, and at the same time try to pick up the Adelaide leg of the radio beam for guidance. Wind probably carried him farther west than expected. At about 4.10am the plane appeared over Bendigo, and after circling and making several low runs over the city, it headed for White Hills. Three miles from Bendigo flares were dropped, and the pilot chose an open area of 150 acres which has been selected as a site for a proposed aerodrome. Sen-Const Bentley, of White Hills who was one of the first at the scene of the crash, said yesterday that the pilot had made an excellent landing in the circumstances, and his skilful handling prevented a more serious disaster. The plane had been completely wrecked. The airscrew had been torn away, and the landing-wheels stripped off. VAOC GAVE ALARM. An RAAF spokesman said last night that first official information came from the Bendigo post of the Volunteer Air Observers' Corps, which reported an airliner in trouble at 4.23 am. Arrangements were made immediately for ambulances and doctors and transport to Bendigo for passengers and crew. The VAOC also arranged for VDC members to stand guard over the crashed aircraft and for an RAAF officer to take charge of the mail. Three officers of the Civil Aviation Department, and ANA officials went to Bendigo on Saturday to begin an inquiry, and returned to Melbourne yesterday. They had a few minutes' conversation with Capt Shersby in hospital, and examined the damaged aircraft. It is expected that the inquiry will be completed today. Capt L. McK. Johnson, ANA operations superintendent, said radio failure in bad conditions might have caused the mishap. Capt Shersby had stated that there was no engine trouble. Mr F. F. Kowarzik, ANA manager, said the pilot had apparently found conditions so unsatisfactory near Melbourne that he had decided to seek an alternative aerodrome. Only the abnormal weather conditions had prevented the radio from functioning efficiently. First-Officer Kenna had been employed by ANA for 14 months. Previously he had been employed by the Shell Oil Co in Brisbane, and had had wide flying experience in Queensland. Miss Westbrook, who returned to Melbourne on Saturday afternoon, had performed excellent work among the passengers."

Date of coronial inquiry into the airliner crash set "Country News. BENDIGO. . . . The city coroner (Mr. D. J. Duggan) has fixed January 12 as the date for an inquiry into the Douglas air liner crash at Bendigo East on December 4, when First Officer H. V. Kenna, of Brisbane, lost his life."

1944 04
Coroner brings down his finding on the death of 4FK's brother "PLANE OFFICER'S DEATH IN CRASH. Coroner's Finding. BENDIGO, Fri: In his finding at an inquest into the death of First Officer Herbert V. Kenna, 31, of Brisbane, who was killed when an ANA Douglas airliner crashed at Epsom, near Bendigo, on December 4, Mr D. J. Duggan, PM, coroner, absolved Kevin Thomas Shersby, commercial pilot, of Brisbane, from any responsibility for Kenna's death. The pilot had done everything possible in a difficult position, Mr Duggan said. The coroner also commended the splendid part played, by the air hostess, Miss June Westbrook, of Sydney, in the accident. He suggested to those controlling airlines the advisability of providing a radio operator on passenger planes, in addition to the flying crew, to permit pilots to concentrate on the flying of the aircraft. In his evidence Kevin Shersby said that the plane left Brisbane at 8.40pm, being delayed on account of radio trouble. The radio worked well between Brisbane and Benalla, where he called for a bearing and tried to get a weather report from Melbourne, but failed to get a reply. He continued on to Bendigo, and as the fuel supply was low he circled the town, as he thought a town of that size would have a landing-ground. He landed in a paddock and struck a belt of trees which wrecked the plane."

1946 02
4FK staying at Rockhampton "PERSONAL. . . . Staying at the Gresham Hotel are Mr and Mrs C. H. Goodwin (Lands Department, Mackay) Mr and Mrs A. L. Falkuner (Canoona), Mr and Mrs J. T. Creagh (Springsure) Mr and Mrs H. Newett (Cairns), Mrs F. Houlahan (Elnsdale Station, Ilfracombe), Misses V. Diamond and E. F. Green (Brisbane), Messrs L. Pryde and J. Cooper, F. Mills, K. W. McCann (Clermont), R. Knight (Mackay), F. Roberts and V. F. Kenna, and H. Timmins ( Brisbane), and C. Purdy (Capella)."

As previous "PERSONAL ITEMS. . . . Staying at the Gresham Hotel are Mr and Mrs C. H. Goodwin (Lands Department, Mackay) Mr and Mrs A. L. Falkuner (Canoona), Mr and Mrs J. T. Creagh (Springsure) Mr and Mrs H. Newett (Cairns), Mrs F. Houlahan (Elnsdale Station, Ilfracombe), Misses V. Diamond and E. F. Green (Brisbane), Messrs L. Pryde and J. Cooper, F. Mills, K. W. McCann (Clermont), R. Knight (Mackay), F. Roberts and V. F. Kenna, and H. Timmins (Brisbane), and C. Purdy (Capella)."

1946 08
4FK attends farewell to A. N. Finlay, Qld Manager ABC "FAREWELL GIFT TO A.B.C. HEAD. Musical history in Australia should record the efforts made by Mr. A. N. Finlay (Queensland manager of the Australian Broadcasting Commission) to encourage the Brisbane Symphony Orchestra, said its conductor, Mr. Clive Douglas, yesterday, at a farewell gathering tendered by the A.B.C. staff to Mr. Finlay. Mr. D. Felsman, acting manager of the A.B.C. in Queensland, presented a mulga wood desk set and smoker's set to Mr. Finlay, who will leave shortly for Sydney to become assistant general manager for Australia. Mr. M. Humfress for the Alice Street staff, and Mr. V. Kenna, for the Postmaster-General's Department, spoke of the happy relations between the staffs and Mr. Finlay. In acknowledgment, Mr. Finlay said that since coming to Queensland 10 years ago, he had received most generous co-operation and friendship from the entire staff."

1947 03
4FK departs Longreach by air to Brisbane "Women's World. Personal. . . . BY AIR To Brisbane: Mr. Donaldson, F/O. G. Eaton, Capt. G. Morgan, Mr. T. Cooney, Mr. D. Cameron, Dr. T. I. Wallace, Mrs. T. L. Wallace, Miss J. Wallace, Mr. Green, Mr. E. T. McCann, Mr. C. Harburg, Mr. J. Ingram, Mr. C. Pumpa, Mr. S. J. Ross, Mr. C. Rushton, Mr. G. Cory, Mr. D. Barrett, Mr. V. F. Kenna. To Charleville: Mr. Mulholland, Mr. G. Leaver, Miss C. Crombie, Mr. Wester weller. To Blackall: Mr. Williamson. To Cloncurry: Mr. M. J. O'Neill. To Sydney: Mr. and Mrs. A. Deane, Mr. A. King. From Brisbane: Mr. Hickey, Mrs. Mc Clatchey, Mr. Donaldson, Mr. Brookes, Mr. Reed, Mr. Bourke, Mr. F. N. Bell (Blendon), Mr. D. Dickson, Mr. Wright, Miss J. McGill, Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Gib son and infant, Miss Crossley, Miss Janet From Charleville: Miss Crombie. From Cloncurry: Mr. H. Laurie."

1947 12
4FK retires the Reserve Citizen Military Forces, Australian Corps of Signals following conclusion of WW2 "AUSTRALIAN MILITARY FORCES. HIS Excellency the Governor-General in Council has approved of the following changes being made in con-nexion with the Australian Military Forces:— RESERVE CITIZEN MILITARY FORCES. . . . AUSTRALIAN CORPS OF SIGNALS. 1st Military District.— The following officers are retired, 4th August, 1947:— Lieutenant-Colonel G. J. C. Hargreaves, O.B.E., Majors L. C. Clifford, W. S. Geddes, M.B.E., P. B. Robin, W. R. Scalley, H. K. Wade and A. W. Webb, Captains J. M. Bolton, J. P. Burke, G. R. Crabtree, S. J. L. G. Ross, W. Skinner and G. Strohfeldt, Honorary Captain G. T. A. Oxlad, Lieutenants H. S. Abell, E. A. Barker, A. Bensley, J. H. M. Biddle, F. W. I. Buising, B. Christensen, H. Christian, A. G. Coomber, D. C. Craig, L. G. Craig, W. G. K. Cusack, D. G. W. Dall, H. A. Davis, A. MacD. Evans, R. A. Foord, W. J. Gardiner, E. C. Gofton, C. M. Hall, T. A. Housley, L. A. Johnson, D. R. W. Keene, V. F. Kenna, E. C. Lather, C. McK. Lindsay, J. H. Mallyon, F. Moore, H. A. Mortley, R. W. Nicholas, G. Oxlade, G. H. Pope, R. A. Price, F. W. Rae, L. A. Reason, J. N. Steyning-Brown, T. J. Thomson, R. C. Ware, D. Warman, J. R. Wilkinson, E. M. Wood and R. S. Worfold."

1949
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1949 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1949
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 5758, Kenna, Edith Elvira, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 5759, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, postal electrician, male

1950 01
4FK oversights opening of new Cairns ABC station 4QY "CAIRNS REGIONAL RADIO STATION. TOTAL COST £28,000. TECHNICAL DETAILS. The Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs (Mr. J. C. Stewart) has supplied the following details of the new Cairns Regional Broadcasting Station 4QY, which is to be opened tomorrow night. The total cost was £28,000. The station will operate on an aerial power of two kilowatts on a frequency of 890 kilocycles and has been designed to serve the Cairns and Innisfail districts. The station was to have been established before the war, and a contract for the supply of equipment had been placed. The outbreak of hostilities, however, led to the cancellation of this contract and it was not renewed until the end of the war. Equipment for the new 4QY was supplied by Standard Telephones & Cables Pty. Ltd. The antenna system consists of a 135ft latticed steel mast supplied and erected by Messrs. Johns & Waygood under contract. The mast is about 800ft from the transmitter building and is connected to the radio equipment by an overhead transmission line. The transmission line and coupling equipment have been designed, manufactured and erected by the Postmaster-General's Department. An earth system consisting of about 10 miles of heavy copper wire is buried radially about the base of the mast. The plant installed at the station consists of duplicate radio transmitters and audio equipment. Dual transmitters have been provided to ensure that interruptions to transmission brought about by equipment failure will be of the shortest duration. Mr. V. F. Kenna, Divisional Engineer, Radio Installations, will be the engineer in charge of the technical arrangements at the opening, on Friday night. The building equipment of the station cost in all £28,000, made up of: Building and land £9500; radiator mast and equipment £2500; transmitters and aerial equipment £16,000."

1950 03
4FK represents Australia at the 1950 HF broadcasting conference VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . In 1950 VK4FK represented Australia as a delegate to the International HF Broadcasting Conference held in Italy. . ..

4FK to represent Australia at HF Broadcasting conference in Italy "For talks on wave lengths. When the allocation of high frequency broadcasting channels is discussed by an international conference next month, Australia's interests will be matched by the Divisional Radio Engineer for Queensland (Mr. V. F. Kenna). Mr. Kenna will leave Sydney by Constellation aircraft on Monday for Florence, Italy, where the conference, called by the International Telecommunications Unit, will meet on April 1. The P.M.G's. Department's chief engineer (Mr. R. V. McKay) will lead the Australian delegation. Australia was interested in the allocation of high frequency channels because Radio Australia used them for overseas broadcasts, Mr. Kenna said last night."

1950 11
4FK is best man at 4WR's wedding "Coorparoo Wedding. A wedding of considerable interest which took place quietly in Brisbane yesterday was that of Miss Iris Allen, Coorparoo, to Mr. Bill Rohde, Belmont, St. James Church, Coorparoo, was the setting. The bride, who wore a street length frock of powder blue crepe and a cartwheel hat of blue straw, was attended by Mrs. Jock Allen, Coolangatta. Mr. V. F. Kenna was the best man. The couple are spending their honeymoon on the south coast."

1951 02
4FK enters his yacht Quest in the Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race "BRISBANE-GLADSTONE YACHT RACE. TWELVE ENTRIES RECEIVED. BRISBANE, Feb. 21.— Twelve boats had nominated for this year's Brisbane-Gladstone yacht race when entries closed today. The race will start at 11 a.m. on Good Friday off Woody Point. Last year's entries totalled 17, including three Sydney yachts. No southern entries have been received, but a late entry is expected from the Hawaiian sloop White Wings. Several new boats, including the newly-launched Tauranga, are included in this year's fleet. The entries accepted tonight were: Cetonia, 52-ft yawl (skipper, J. Manahan); Sari Marais II, 53-ft. sloop (Hugh Manahan); Hoana, 33-ft. sloop (George Pickers); Sea Tang, 30ft. 6in. double-ended cutter (Doug. Grouyn); Norseman, 37ft. 6in. sloop (Alec Wilson); Cimba, 33ft. ketch (Trevor Early); Sea Prince, 28ft. cutter (Harry Renton); Sirius, 33ft. gaff-rigged sloop (Norman Wright, snr.); Quest, 33ft. double-ended sloop (Vern Kenna); Bona, 50ft. sloop (Len Fields); Snow Goose, 28ft. ketch (G. Watson, Jnr.); Tauranga, 41ft. sloop (Bill Morgan)."

1951 03
4FK continues preparing his yacht for the Brisbane-Gladstone yacht race "Yachtsmen racing the clock. By MAX HAWKINS Leading Brisbane yachtsmen are working against the clock to get their yachts ready for the 320-mile Jubilee Brisbane-Gladstone race which starts next Friday at 11 a.m. The 28 ft. sloop Quest, which has been completely refitted and rerigged in the last six months, will probably not be ready for a tryout by skipper Vern Kenna until next week. It will be Quest's first appearance for many years. George Pickers took Hoana out of his dry dock 'barge' this week and is hurriedly putting the finishing touches to gear. The veteran 52 ft. sloop, Bona (Len Fields), which has been refitted, will have its first tryout on Sunday. Norseman's skipper, Lex Wilson, hopes to have a new centre board in time to start in the race. Norseman broke her centre board in a bay race last weekend. Form boats of the fleet are Bill Morgan's Tauranga, who took fastest time to Mooloolaba and in the Q.C.Y.C. race last Saturday, and Cetonia, Joe Manahan's 50 ft. yawl which won both Q.C.Y.C. and R.Q.Y.C. races on the bay last weekend. The Magnetic, Hayles Cruises' new launch, will leave North Quay at 8.30 next Fri day as flagship for the start of the race."

4FK's yacht Quest favoured in the yacht race "Forecast calm for ocean race start. By MAX HAWKINS The prayers of 13 Brisbane yacht skippers and their crews for moderate to heavy breezes for the Brisbane-Gladstone yacht race, which starts tomorrow off Woody Point, may have been in vain. In a special forecast, the Brisbane Weather Bureau predicts that the race will start in a near dead calm. Until tomorrow afternoon very light southeasterly to easterly winds from three to six knots are forecast. The Bureau expects this to be the general wind for the Easter holidays. However, tomorrow afternoon the breeze could swing to a north-easter of 10 to 15 knots close inshore. Fine weather is predicted. The refitted 28 ft. sloop, Quest, skippered by Vern Kenna, is a strong tip to win the race on corrected time, particularly in anything but a headwind. Quest is the lowest rated yacht of the 13 competitors and skipper Kenna knows the coast well. A moderate following breeze or westerly would suit Quest best. Kenna has refitted the sloop with a bigger mast and bigger sail. There will be a battle for fastest time. Hoana (George Pickers), first across the line two years ago, is being freely favoured. Pickers has extra sails for the light air this time and if the weather is as predicted he should be at an advantage. The 52ft. yawl Cetonia (Joe Manahan), now has a tubular steel top mast, but will be suited by particularly heavy weather. The 52 ft. sleek Bermudan rigged cutter, Bona (Len Fields) is also expected to do well. Since refitting, however, Bona has not had a tryout. In 15 to 20 knot headwinds, Hoana, Sari Marais II, Norseman, and Bona are expected to do best. But in the lighter weather, the babies of the fleet, Cimba, Sea Prince, Snow Goose and Quest should shine."

1952 04
Status report on forthcoming yacht race "Brisbane-Gladstone Yacht Race. Interest is becoming greater in Gladstone as the time for the start of the Brisbane-Gladstone yacht race draws near. The Sea Prince, carrying the colours of Port Curtis Sailing Club left Gladstone last Monday for Brisbane, but has had to shelter at Bustard Heads owing to bad weather. The Sea Prince carries an all-Gladstone crew and is expected to give a good performance this year. Other yachts have Gladstone crewmen and one of these is Alvis, in which Ken Patrick will sail as navigator. The Alvis is considered a good bet for the race, as she has given a good performance in races in Moreton Bay and elsewhere around Brisbane. The Alvis is a smaller edition of the Kyeema, which won the 'drifting' race of 1950. The Sea Tang is among the entrants again and as usual carries C. Heselwood as a member of the crew. This team has started in every race and generally finishes in the first three. There are 15 starters to date and they are as follow: Pronto Too (R. Haughton); Alvis (F. J. Markwell); Bona (L. Field); Sea Prince II (H. Renton); Snow Goose (C. Watson jun.); Quest (V. F. Kenna); Rapid (Greg Cavill); Joy Bird (R. C. Paterson); Sea Tang (D. Drouyn); Hoana (G. Pickers); Sari Maris (H. Manahan); Natoonda (J. Tickle); Southern Maid (T. W. Trautewin); Taranga (W. W. Morgan) and Norseman (A. Wilson). Advice has been received from the Rockhampton Motor Boat Club that 11 boats will visit Gladstone during Easter.— Gladstone correspondent."

As previous "Quest tip for big yacht race. By MAX HAWKINS The 28 ft. double-ended Burmudan sloop Quest, skippered by Vern Kenna, is a strong tip to win on handicap the fourth annual 305-mile Brisbane-Gladstone yacht race which starts tomorrow off Woody Point. Quest, sailing in her second Brisbane-Gladstone race, is the lowest rated of the 15 entrants and has the lowest time correction factor. Yacht with the highest rating and highest time correction factor is the 50-year-old, 53 ft. Bermudan cutter Bona, skippered by Len Field. But most fancied to win fastest time is the all-steel 54 ft. Sydney boat, Southern Maid, owned and skippered by Bill Trautwein. Light winds likely In a special race forecast the Weather Bureau today said the race should start with a 10-knot south-wester tomorrow morning, but the breeze should veer to south east in the afternoon. Fine weather, with some cloud is expected for the remainder of the race with light south-east winds. The Gladstone sloop Sea Prince II, one of the 'babies' of' the fleet, arrived off Woody Point about midday today after an 11-day battle against big seas and headwinds. The race starts at 11.0 a.m. The Koopa, acting as flagship on her way to Bribie, will leave Brisbane at 9.0. Trains leaving Central tomorrow morning for Sandgate and connecting with buses, to Redcliffe are: 8.12, 8.46, 8.55, 9.15, and 9.40 a.m. Fastest twice Performance of Hoana, the 32 ft. gaff rigged sloop owned by George Pickers, should be most interesting. Hoana, with two fastest times to her credit in the last three races, is trying to win the handicap this year more than secure fastest time. Pickers has reduced his sail area, thus giving him a better rating. He considers he has a much better chance of winning the race on handicap this time, particularly in a medium to heavy breeze. In light headwinds the 44 ft, Burmudan sloop Alvis (Fred Markwell) could do well. Another consistent performer is Norseman, A. L. M. Wilson's 37 ft. gaff rigged sloop who won the race last year."

4FK's yacht comes last in the race "Last yacht in. GLADSTONE, Wednesday.— The small sloop Quest, last contestant in the Easter yacht race to reach Gladstone, arrived soon after 1.30 today."

1954
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1954 Toombul Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1954
 * Subdistrict: Toombul
 * State: Queensland
 * District: Lilley
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 5287, Kenna, Edith Elvira, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, home duties, female (mother)
 * 5288, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 41 Allen street, Hamilton, postal electrician, male

1954 10
4FK provisionally promoted to Sectional Engineer, Radio Section in Central Office (Melbourne) '''COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. PROMOTIONS — SECTION 50 AND REGULATION 109.''' THE following promotions are provisional and subject to appeal by officers to the Public Service Board, and, where consequent upon another provisional promotion, shall be dependent upon the latter being confirmed. Appeals should be lodged, either by letter or telegram, within twenty-one days of the date of this notification, as follows:— (a) if the promotion is to be made in a State, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector in the capital city of that State; (b) if the promotion is to be made in the Australian Capital Territory, with the Public Service Inspector in Canberra, unless the promotion is to be made to a vacancy in the Postmaster-General's Department, in which case the officer shall lodge his appeal with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Sydney; (c) if the promotion is to be made in the Northern Territory — (i) with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Brisbane, in the case of a promotion to a vacancy in the Department of Trade and Customs; (ii) with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Adelaide, in the case of a promotion to a vacancy in the Postmaster-General's Department; (iii) with the Public Service Inspector, Canberra, in other cases; (d) if the promotion is to be made in Norfolk Island, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Sydney; (e) if the promotion is to be made in the Territory of Papua and New Guinea, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Brisbane; (f) if the promotion is to be made in a place outside the Commonwealth (and not being a place specified above), with the Public Service Inspector, Canberra. An appellant shall forward his appeal direct to the Public Service Inspector and the following particulars in respect of his permanent position should be set out at the foot of the appeal:— Full name (block letters) Age (in years) Designation Standard salary scale Office or Branch Department. Appeals not lodged with the appropriate Commonwealth Public Service Inspector within the prescribed period will not be accepted. Under Section 50 (7a) of the Public Service Act, the Board may regard an appeal as having been made against a provisional promotion notified hereunder by an officer who, at any time within the time prescribed for lodging an appeal, is absent on leave for war service, or is absent from Australia on official duty. Where an officer desires to appeal against two or more provisional promotions a separate appeal should be lodged in respect of each. The grounds of appeal must be prescribed in Section 50 of the Public Service Act, viz.:— (1) Where a promotion is to be made to a position prescribed in Regulation 109g, viz.:— Assistant, Grade 1; Assistant, Grade 2; Assistant Storeman; Clerical Assistant, Grade 1; Hospital Assistant (Female), Grade 1; Hospital Assistant (Female), Grade 2; Labourer, Grade 1; Labourer, Grade 2; Lift Attendant; Line Foreman, Grade 1; Lineman, Grade 2; Mail Officer; Monitor; Monitor (Female); Orderly, Grade 1; Phonogram Monitor (Female); Postal Assistant; Postal Assistant (Mail); Postal Clerk in the Fourth Division, Postal Officer; Preventive Officer, Grade 1; Quarantine Assistant, Grade 1; Senior Postal Clerk, Grade 1; Storeman; Storeman, Grade 1; Storeman, Grade 2; Telegraphist in the Fourth Division — that the appellant is senior to the officer provisionally promoted and is efficient. (2) In other cases — (а) Superior efficiency; or (b) equal efficiency combined with seniority. * Cost of living adjustments payable pursuant to Regulation 106a — (a) Adult male officers, married minors (male) in receipt of an allowance under Regulation 87b, and minors (male) occupying positions for which no minor rates are prescribed — £198 per annum. (b) Adult female officers, and minors (female) occupying positions for which no minor rates are prescribed — £149 per annum. (c) Minors (Males) other than those covered by (a) — Under 18 years — £99. At 18 years — £119. At 19 years — £149. At 20 years — £178. (d) Minors (Females) other than those covered by (6) — Under 18 years — £99. At 18 years — £109. At 19 years — £129. At 20 years — £143. (N.B.— Where positions have been the subject of an Arbitration Determination, the salary scales shown are those prescribed by Determinations.). ..
 * PROMOTIONS — continued. Name. Present Designation and Station. Position to which Promoted. Salary on Promotion (*Exclusive of Cost of Living Adjustment). £. Date of Promotion. . ..
 * POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. . . . Engineering Branch.
 * Kenna, Vernon Francis Divisional Engineer (£1,154-£1,244), Third Division, Queensland. Sectional Engineer (£1,274-£1,428), Third Division, Radio Section, vice R. J. Boyle 1,274  21.10.54
 * Duties.— Responsible for the operation and maintenance of broadcasting and radio telephone and telegraph services.

1955 03
4FK rewrites the constitution for the RFDS VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . As further proof of his unlimited ability, he found time to rewrite the Constitution of the Flying Doctor Service (F.D.S.), in order to give it a Royal Charter and a new title of R.F.D.S. .. .

FDS granted prefix "Royal," 4FK plays a part "'Royal' Flying Doctor Service Now. Australia's Flying Doctor Service has been granted the use of the Royal prefix. The Acting-Prime Minister, Sir Arthur Fadden, who announced this yesterday, said the Queen had been pleased to grant the use of the prefix to the Flying Doctor Service."

As previous "ROYAL AUSTRALIAN FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE NOW. CANBERRA, March 25 — Australia's flying doctor service has been granted the use of the Royal prefix. The Acting Prime Minister (Sir Arthur Fadden), who announced this total, said the Queen had been pleased to grant the use of the prefix to the Flying Doctor Service. Sir Arthur added: 'This great honour is a most fitting tribute by the Queen to the unselfish devotion of all members of the service in fulfilling the needs of those living in sparsely populated areas of Australia.'"

1955 05
FDS (Qld) adopts new name RFDS, partly as a result of 4FK's efforts "'Royal' Service BRISBANE, May 12.— After 27 years work the flying doctor service in Queensland will become a 'Royal' service. An extraordinary general meeting of the Queensland members today unanimously approved the addition of the prefix 'Royal.' The new title will be the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Queensland section)."

1955 06
RFDS acknowledges assistance of the PMGD in provision of its service "Flying Doctor Gives More Than Medicine. The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia not only provided medical services for people in outback areas but also broke down the barriers of distance and made life less tedious. The pedal radio transceivers, which are a vital part of the service, enabled neighbours hundreds of miles distant to conduct conversations and also provided a medium whereby children in isolated areas could be given regular lessons by teachers. These benefits of the service were outlined to members of the Rockhampton Rotary Club yesterday by Mr J. W. Collings, of Melbourne, who is the secretary of both the Federal Council and Victorian section of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia. Although most of the preparatory work had been done by Victorians, Queensland was the first State in which a base was established. After the First World War, John Flynn persevered with the idea of the service, and after a pedal radio service had finally been evolved, the first base was established at Cloncurry about 27 years ago as an experiment. It was operated by the Australian Inland Mission which hoped that if it proved successful, a national service would be established. Their hopes were realised and at the Premiers' conference in 1934 it was decided that a national organisation be formed and that the State governments support it. Mr Collings said that although many people thought the service was maintained and supported by the governments, this was not so. The cost of maintaining and operating the service was between £100,000 and £200,000 a year. State Government contributed between £35,000 and £40,000, while the Federal Government made an annual grant of £20,000. The Queensland Government, which was very appreciative of the work done in Queensland by the service, now contributed 25/- for every pound donated. The success of the Cloncurry base was followed by the establishment of bases in other States, and just before the Second World War the Queensland section of the service was formed with the AIM handing over control. ADDITIONAL BASES. Since then, additional bases had been set up at Charleville and Charters Towers. Mr Collings paid tribute to the assistance received from the PMG's Department, the Health Department and the Bush Church Aid Society, all of which had given valuable assistance. The service not only provided medical assistance but fostered a community spirit among people widely separated, and enabled children to be given regular lessons. Other States were now following the lead of Queensland and Victoria in providing a mobile dental service to visit outback centres and provide treatment. The service had been so successful that inquiries had recently been received from Port Moresby seeking details of organisation with a view to the establishment of a similar service in New Guinea. The prefix 'Royal' had been granted to the Service by Queen Elizabeth who was greatly impressed by the organisation and placed it among her three great impressions of her visit to Australia, Mr Collings said, urging Queenslanders to do all they could to assist the Service's work."

1956 08
Error in Gazettal of 4FK's replacement corrected "PROMOTIONS — continued. . . . (c) Other variations of promotions — . . . D. A. Brooke, 23.8 56 — Cause of vacancy should be 'vice V. F. Kenna'."

1961
4FK departs the PMGD to take up position as Federal Controller of Technical Services with the ABC VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . . . In 1961 he took up the position of Federal Controller of Technical Services with the ABC, until he retired in the late 1960s.

1961 07
E. J. Wilkinson (future manager ABCB) promoted to 4FK's former position in the PMGD '''COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. PROMOTIONS—SECTION 50 AND REGULATION 109.''' THE following promotions are provisional and are subject to appeal by officers to the Public Service Board, and where consequent upon another provisional promotion, are dependent upon the latter being confirmed. The date of promotion is the date of this Gazette except where otherwise specifically indicated. Where an officer desires to appeal against two or more provisional promotions a separate appeal should be lodged for each one. Where to Lodge Appeals. Appeals should be lodged either by letter or telegram within twenty-one days of the date of this notification. If the promotion is to an office in:— (a) a State, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector in the capital city of that State; (b) the Australian Capital Territory, with the Public Service Inspector, Canberra, unless the promotion is to a vacancy in the Department of Civil Aviation or the Postmaster-General's Department, when the officer should lodge his appeal with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Sydney; (c) the Northern Territory, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Brisbane, for a promotion to a vacancy in the Department of Customs and Excise; with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Adelaide, for a promotion to a vacancy in the Department of Civil Aviation or the Postmaster-General's Department; and with the Public Service Inspector, Canberra, in other cases; (d) Norfolk Island, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Sydney; (e) the Territory of Papua and New Guinea, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Brisbane; (f) the Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands, with the Commonwealth Public Service Inspector, Perth; (g) a place outside the Commonwealth (and not being a place specified above), with the Public Service Inspector, Canberra. Appeals not lodged with the appropriate Commonwealth Public Service Inspector within the prescribed period will not be accepted. Grounds of Appeal. The grounds of appeal are:— (i) (a) Superior efficiency or (b) Equal efficiency combined with seniority; (ii) That the appellant is senior to the officer provisionally promoted and is efficient where promotion is made to one of these positions: Assistant, Grade 1; Assistant, Grade 2; Assistant Storeman; Clerical Assistant, Grade 1; Hospital Assistant (Female), Grade 1; Hospital Assistant (Female), Grade 2; Labourer, Grade 1; Labourer, Grade 2; Lift Attendant; Lineman, Grade 2; Mail Officer; Monitor; Monitor (Female); Orderly, Grade 1; Phonogram Monitor (Female); Postal Assistant; Postal Assistant (Mail); Postal Clerk in the Fourth Division; Postal Officer; Preventive Officer, Grade 1; Quarantine Assistant, Grade 1; Senior Postal Clerk, Grade 1; Storeman; Storeman, Grade 1; Storeman, Grade 2; Telegraphist in the Fourth Division. How to Lodge AppeaL The appeal must show the Gazette date, promotee's name and Department, and ground of appeal. It should be sent direct to the Public Service Inspector with the following particulars at the foot of the appeal:— Full Name (block letters); Personnel Number; Date of Birth; Designation and Salary Scale of permanent position; Office or Branch; Department; Seniority date (or number). Positions having either Third or Fourth Division Status. For the purposes of appeal against provisional promotions to positions of Assistant Chief Drafting Officer; Chief Drafting Officer; Communications Officer; Drafting Assistant, all grades; Drafting Officer, all grades; Postal Clerk; Principal Technical Officer; Senior Communications Officer, all grades; Senior Drafting Officer, all grades; Senior Technical Officer, all grades; Supervisor-in-training (Mail); Technical Assistant, all grades; Technical Officer, all grades; Telegraphist; Trainee Engineer, seniority of officers of the Third and Fourth Division shall be determined in accordance with General Order 4/A/3, i.e., according to date of appointment. Salaries, &c. By reason of the operation of Regulation 106a the annual rates of salary are increased as follows:— Adult Males and Married Minors (Males) .. Increase of £102 per annum. Adult Females .. Increase of £76 per annum. Minors — Proportionate adjustments as specified in Regulation 106a. Where positions have been the subject of an arbitration determination, the salary scales shown are those prescribed by Determinations.
 * Name and Personnel Number (also seniority reference if Regulation 109G applies). Present Designation, Salary Scale, Division and Station. Position to which Promoted, Salary Scale, Division and Station. . ..
 * POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. Central Staff — Melbourne. Engineering Division — Radio Section.
 * Wilkinson, Edward James 59/55412 Divisional Engineer (£2,033-£2,228), Third Division, Engineering Division, Victoria Sectional Engineer (£2,293-£2,488), Third Division, vice V. F. Kenna
 * Duties.— Responsible to the Assistant Supervising Engineer for all matters relating to the provision and operation of National Television Stations.

1963
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1963 Balwyn Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1963
 * Subdistrict: Balwyn
 * State: Victoria
 * District: Kooyong
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 4709, Kenna, John Cornelius, 55 The Boulevarde, E.9, contractor, male (may not be related)
 * 4710, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 18 Morris street, E.9, engineer, male

4FK Electoral Roll registration 1963 Killara Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1963
 * Subdistrict: Killara
 * State: New South Wales
 * District: Werriwa
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 4371, Kenna, Delba Letitia, 8/35 Lorne avenue, Killara, home duties, female
 * 4372, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 8/35 Lorne avenue, Killara, engineer, male

1968
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1968 Willoughby North Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1968
 * Subdistrict: Willoughby North
 * State: New South Wales
 * District: North Sydney
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 1863, Kenna, Delba Letitia, 5 Victoria Ave, Middle Cove, home duties, female
 * 1864, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 5 Victoria Ave, Middle Cove, engineer, male

4FK elected President IREE VERNON FRANCIS KENNA, VK4FK (President IREE 1968-69) The abilities of Vern VK4FK were such that he excelled in every task he undertook. . ..

1972
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1972 Willoughby Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1972
 * Subdistrict: Willoughby
 * State: New South Wales
 * District: North Sydney
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 3969, Kenna, Delba Letitia, 5 Victoria Ave, Middle Cove, 2068, home duties, female
 * 3970, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 5 Victoria Ave, Middle Cove, 2068, engineer, male

1977
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1977 (1) Willoughby Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1977
 * Subdistrict: Willoughby
 * State: New South Wales
 * District: North Sydney
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 4318, Kenna, Delba Letitia, 5 Victoria Ave, Willoughby, 2068, home duties, female
 * 4319, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 5 Victoria Ave, Willoughby, 2068, engineer, male

4FK Electoral Roll registration 1977 (2) Willoughby Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1977
 * Subdistrict: Willoughby
 * State: New South Wales
 * District: North Sydney
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 4200, Kenna, Delba Letitia, 5 Victoria Ave, Willoughby, 2068, home duties, female
 * 4201, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 5 Victoria Ave, Willoughby, 2068, engineer, male

1980
4FK Electoral Roll registration 1980 Willoughby Australia, Electoral Rolls, 1903-1980
 * Name: Vernon Francis Kenna
 * Gender: Male
 * Electoral Year: 1980
 * Subdistrict: Willoughby
 * State: New South Wales
 * District: North Sydney
 * Country: Australia
 * Entry:
 * 3980, E, Kenna, Delba Letitia, 5 Victoria Ave, Willoughby, home duties, female
 * 3981, L, Kenna, Vernon Francis, 5 Victoria Ave, Willoughby, engineer, male

1987 12
Index of Death Notice for 4FK
 * Surname: KENNA
 * Given Names: Vernon Francis
 * Notice Type: Death notice
 * Date: 26 DEC 1987
 * Event: Death
 * Age: blank
 * Other Details: late of Middle Cove, Sydney, formerly of Qld
 * Publication: The Age (Melbourne)
 * Published: 28 DEC 1987

Another Index of Death Notice for 4FK
 * Surname: KENNA
 * Given Names: Vernon Francis
 * Notice Type: Death notice
 * Date: 26 DEC 1987
 * Event: Death
 * Age: blank
 * Other Details: formerly of Middle Cove
 * Publication: Sydney Morning Herald
 * Published: 28 DEC 1987