History of wireless telegraphy and broadcasting in Australia/Topical/Biographies/Alfred Harold Masters/Notes

Alfred Harold Masters - Transcriptions and notes

1860s

1866

1866 09

Death notice for Masters' maternal grandfather Andrew Anderson

DEATHS. Anderson — On the 14th inst., at Bond street, South Yarra, suddenly, of apoplexy, Mr Andrew Anderson, late of London and Geelong, aged 58 years.

1870s

1872

1872 03

Marriage notice for Masters' parents

MARRIAGES. . . . Masters — Anderson.— On the 13th March, at the Congregational Church, St. Kilda, by the Rev. A. Gosman (cousin of the bride), Joseph Masters, B. A., Congregational Minister, Stawell, to Ann, daughter of the late Andrew Anderson, of South Yarra.

1876

1876 01

First advertisement for J. and T. Gunn, supplier of building materials, Masters first employer

LIME — ROCHE AND SLACK, PORTLAND CEMENT, PLASTER PARIS, DRAIN PIPES, BRICKS Palings, Shingles, Laths, and Other Building Materials. J. and T. GUNN, Brisbane-street Timber Yard.

1880s

1880

1880 12

Death notice for Masters' maternal grandmother, Ann Anderson nee Auchterlonie

Deaths. ANDERSON.— On the 21st inst., at Murphy-street, South Yarra, Ann Auchterlonie, widow of the late Andrew Anderson, aged 74 years.

Funeral notice for Masters' maternal grandmother, Ann Anderson nee Auchterlonie

Funeral Notices. THE Friends of the family of the late Mrs. ANDREW ANDERSON are respectfully informed that the remains of their late beloved mother will be interred in St. Kilda Cemetery. The funeral leaving her late residence, No. 7 Murphy-street, South Yarra, THIS DAY (Thursday, 23rd December), at 3 o'clock p.m. JOHN ROMANIS, undertaker, 64 Toorak-road, South Yarra.

1884

1884 12

Birth notice for Masters' brother Herbert Masters

BIRTH. MASTERS.— At the High School, Albury, on the 9th inst, the wife of the Rev. J. Masters, M.A., of a son.

1890s

1890

1890 02

Masters' wins a prize for art at the exhibition of the Government Technical School (later Launceston Technical School)

GOVERNMENT TECHNICAL SCHOOL. The exhibition of work of the pupils attending the above institution was held in the No. 1 schoolroom, Quadrant, last night. There was a fair attendance of visitors, who spent an instructive hour in examining the various exhibits. One of the principal centres of attraction was a model of the common high-pressure steam engine, in which the working of the valves connected with the cylinder and steam chest was clearly indicated. This was constructed by Mr Bogle, the instructor of the class in machine construction for the benefit of his pupils. The same gentleman also exhibited drawings and models of various parts of engines and machinery, which were much admired. Among the work of pupils in this department, Mr Thomas Turner's work was by far the best, and was awarded the prize in this class. On entering the room of the art class, the eye of the visitor was at once attracted by the beautiful models from ancient statuary and architectural ornaments which have recently arrived from London, and had been displayed and thoughtfully labelled by the secretary. Of the work exhibited the palm for quantity, at any rate, must be given to Mr H. E. Killalea, who exhibited in almost every class, and had some really creditable work, although some seemed to lack that finish which other specimens of his work led one to expect. In the drawings of the human figure some of his exhibits deserved the highest praise. In Indian ink sketches, from models, the work of Mr. N. Parker was excellent, and elicited much commendation. In the class for crayon drawings a lion's head, by Mr R. Walker, was admired for the care bestowed and the regard to detail. In cut-line drawing from the flat Mr R. Gow exhibited some splendid specimens, and was the only prize-winner in the class. Geometrical drawings were shown by Mr Howard Button and were almost perfect of their kind, the perspective by the same gentleman being awarded the only prize in the class. On the blackboard was displayed a chalk drawing of the "Old soldier," which showed that though the pupils were of an advanced age school-boy tricks had not been discarded. In the mathematical department the nature of the study prevented an exhibition of work, although some creditable sets of account books were shown by Mr W. Wilkinson, and awarded a prize. Although a show could not be made, we are informed that really good work has been done in that department. At about half-past 8 o'clock Mr P. Barrett, M.H.A., stood at the head of the room, and declared the exhibition duly open. In doing so Mr Barrett said the visitors might be disappointed at the small number of exhibits displayed, but he would explain that by referring to the difficulties that had been encountered in the establishment of the school. Mr Schuetz had been appointed some two years since, and at that time there was no committee and no room provided for instruction. After ineffectual attempts to procure a suitable schoolroom, the Town Hall was placed at the disposal of the committee, but had to be abandoned owing to the unsuitable system of lighting. After another search the rooms now occupied were taken and were found suitable, only the accommodation was too limited, and thus prevented the formation of other classes which were in contemplation. When the new premises (the present Post Office) were entered upon the committee hoped there would be classes formed in mineralogy, metallurgy, experimental chemistry, and other useful subjects. In conclusion he would like to remind visitors that as the exhibition was only announced after the school had been dispersed for the Christmas vacation, the specimens of work had not been touched up" by the teachers of the school. The examiners were:— Art class, Mr A. Clerke, C.E.; Mathematics, Mr T. Gladman; Machine Construction class, Mr J. Clark, chief inspector of machinery, Hobart. The prize-winners were:— ART CLASSES.— Messrs. Howard Button, A. E. Evershed, J. Wilson, H. E. Killalea, R. Gow, A. H. Masters, N. Parker, J. H. Stanwix, R. Walker, A. E. Morgan, W. G. Cummings. MACHINE CONSTRUCTION.— Messrs. H. Brooker, R. Evershed, Thomas Turner, J. Harthen, A. Smedley, A. E. Evershed, W. Seddon, Thomas C. Archer, J. Batchelor, and J. T. Ritchie. MATHEMATICS AND BOOKKEEPING.— Mr W. Wilkinson. The exhibition will be open again today from 10 to 1, then from 2 to 6 p.m., and from 7 to 10 in the evening.

1892

1892 12

Masters' first employer J. and T. Gunn expand their business with new show rooms

J AND T. GUNN. Invite attention to their 5 NEW SHOW ROOMS, BRISBANE STREET, Which are replete with the latest designs and newest patterns in Marble, Enamelled Slate, and Iron Mantlepieces, Brass and Marble Kerbs, Tile Hearths, Kitchen Ranges, and Register Grates (600 to select from). Builders' Ironmongery, Electric Bells and Fittings in great variety. The public are respectfully invited to inspect our Stock, which is the largest and best selected in Tasmania.

1896

1896 03

Masters' completes his formal education at Launceston Technical School

TECHNICAL SCHOOL. PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATES. The annual presentation of prizes won by pupils of the Launceston Technical School at the South Kensington examinations took place in one of the classrooms last night. Mr Peter Barrett, M.H.A., chairman of the board of management, presided, and there was a large attendance of pupils and the general public. The walls of the school room were decorated with specimens of work done at and models used in the school. The exhibition of work consisted of a large number of drawings and paintings, neatly mounted, giving a very complete idea of the work done in the art classes. Many drawings were the work of the art students of the Technical School, and showed every step of art training from the elementary to the advanced. In some cases unfinished works were exhibited to give an idea of the technical processes involved in their production. Besides the works of students Mons. Dechaineaux showed a number of drawings illustrating the courses in geometry, perspective, science of shadows, architecture, design, decoration, freehand drawing, light and shade executed in pencil, charcoal, crayon, pen and ink, etc., and paintings in oils and watercolours from the cast. The chairman expressed the great pleasure he felt at seeing so many present, as it supplied evidence, he thought, of a growing interest in technical education. From the returns it was found that the pupils of the Launceston school obtained a far higher percentage of marks at the South Kensington examinations than those from any of the schools in Great Britain. That was certainly a very gratifying state of affairs, and should act as an incentive to the rising generation to attend the classes, and to the general public to do all that lay in their power to support the school. Unfortunately because of the retrenchment which had been found necessary in connection with all Government institutions, the committee had been compelled to cut down expenses in all directions, but still they had been able to carry on the same number of classes during the past year as formerly, and intended doing the same during the coming year. The examination superintendent (Mr A. Evershed) reported having received from the Imperial Department the following statement of results of examination held here in August last:— Art Subjects.— Perspective, elementary: Fred. French, Harold Masters, *Richard Green, first class; M. E. Goldsmith, second class. Drawing in light and shade, advanced: Hope Evershed, first class; elementary: Minnie Collins, Robert Morgan, second class. Freehand drawing, advanced: M. E. Goldsmith, first class; Ruby Rowley, second class; ditto elementary: *Osborne West, Minnie Collins, first class; M. Barwise, L. Nicholson, Lulu Allan, *Charles Ferguson, *James Ross, *Harold Green, *Wm. Sutcliffe, G. Walbridge, second class. Model drawing, elementary: Chas. Ferguson, first class; Wm. Brunton, Gertrude Wigan, second class. Science Subjects.— Mineralogy, elementary: Jack Birchall, Victor West, fair. Practical chemistry, elementary: Howard Stewart, pass; theoretical ditto, ditto: Howard Stewart, fair. Mathematics (arithmetic, geometry, and algebra): *Wm. Sutcliffe, *Leonard Morrison, pass; *Thomas Kay, fair. Building construction, elementary: Harold Masters, pass. Machine construction, advanced: Walter Seddon, second class; elementary: Henry Smedley, pass; Wm. Saul, fair. The students whose names are marked * are pupils of the High School, the remainder attended the Technical School classes. A certificate was also gained by No. 194,682, who removed the name slip before giving in the paper, and thus forfeited the distinction earned. Certificates granted at the Hobart International Exhibition.— First class: J. F. Batchelor, for electric dynamo drawings of engine of s s. Pateena. Ditto: R. H. Evershed, sketches for winding engine. Ditto: T. Turner, sketches engines for torpedo launch. Second class: T. Turner, drawing engine torpedo boat. Third class: J. Wilson, engineering drawing. Second class: J. Hawthorn, wood carving. Ditto: V. O'Halloran, shaded drawing from round. Ditto: J. Cochrane, ditto. Ditto, C. R. Hill, isometrical projection drawing. Ditto: W. Booker, drawing of water-wheel cranes. Mr A. Evershed and Archdeacon Hales delivered interesting addresses on the work of the school and the great benefits which accrued from technical education, and on their motion a hearty vote of thanks was awarded the chairman for presiding. The art classroom will be open to the public from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. today. The specimens of work done and examples used will be on view.

1896 09

Masters commences as instructor at the Launceston Technical School

Reminders. . . . The electricity class at the Technical School has resumed work under to Mr A. H. Masters.

1897

1897 12

First advertisement for Masters as sole trader

A. HAROLD MASTERS, ARCHITECT AND ELECTRICIAN, A.M.P. CHAMBERS, CAMERON-STREET, LAUNCESTON.

1899

1899 01

Masters' brother William Edward Masters awarded B.A. at Melbourne University

EPITOME OF NEWS. . . . SUCCESSFUL TASMANIAN STUDENT.— The friends of Mr. W. E. Masters, son of Mr. J. Masters, M.A., Inspector of Schools, who left Hobart to pursue his studies at Queen's College, Melbourne University, will be pleased to learn that he has taken the B.A. degree, and has also gained the Tamison Memorial Scholarship in philosophy for the second time.

1899 03

As previous, formal award of BA to Masters' brother William Edward Masters

MELBOURNE UNIVERSITY. ANNUAL COMMENCEMENT. MARKED INCREASE OF LADY STUDENTS. THE HONOR LIST. We're 'Varsity students all, Sir John he is our father; We throng the Wilson Hall, And love the ladies — RATHER. Toujours, toujours, Pour Bacchus et les amours. Yap-yap-yap tra la-la-la-la, Pour Bacchus et les amours. So lustily roared the undergraduates of the Melbourne University at Saturday afternoon's commencement. . . . DEGREES. Degrees were conferred as follow:— Bachelor of Arts.— Sarah Anderson, Lucy Mary Connell, Jane Hood Jamieson, Amy Julia Nethercote, Elsie Grace Stephens, Mary Ethel Tait, Mabel Aileen Wilson, William Er-nest Bennett, William John Greer, Archibald Daniel Gilchrist, George Merrick Long, William Edward Masters, William Caldwell McClelland, James Horatio O'Connell, Robert Robertson, Frederick Dalglish Rossiter, Walter St. George Sproule, Augustus Andrewes Uthwatt, Alexan-der Yule. In Absentia: John Thomas Matthews. . . .

1899 11

Masters the subject of a presentation at the Launceston Technical School on the occasion of his marriage

PRESENTATION AT THE TECHNICAL SCHOOL. An interesting ceremony to the parties concerned took place at the Technical School on Friday night, the occasion being the presentation of an address and handsome timepiece to Mr. A. H. Masters, the instructor in electricity, on the occasion of his marriage. The presentation was made by Mr. A. Evershed, secretary to the school, who stated that this was the first event of the kind among the staff since the school started, and that Mr. Masters's colleagues desired him to accept these mementoes as some slight mark of their esteem and good wishes for his future happiness. Mr. Masters, in reply, thanked his co-instructors for this mark of their goodwill, which, seeing he had been invited by the secretary to meet him that evening on business connected with the school, was as unexpected as it was agreeable. He felt that although they all knew each other they were not thrown much into each other's society, but they had always worked harmoniously together in the duties of the school. It was an occasion in which a man usually expected to go through but once in his lifetime, and he would always remember his colleagues in their gift, as it told the flight of time on his mantel shelf. After a few conversational remarks the meeting was brought to a close.

1899 12

Marriage notice for Masters

MARRIAGES. MASTERS — WEYMOUTH.— On the 29th November, at the residence of the bride's parents, by the Rev. W. Law, Alfred Harold, second son of J. Masters, M.A., Inspector of Schools, to Alice, third daughter of Alfred Weymouth, Launceston.

1900s

1900

1900 02

Death notice and funeral notice for Masters' brother Herbert "Bertie" Masters

Deaths. MASTERS.— On Monday, February 26, at the residence of his parents, Trinity Hill (Warwick-street), Herbert (Bertie), the youngest and dearly beloved son of J. Masters, M.A., Acting Director of Education. Funeral will leave the above address at 3.30 p.m. THIS DAY (TUESDAY) for Cornelian Bay Cemetery.

1900 03

Another death notice for Masters' brother Herbert (Bertie) Masters, notes cause of death typhoid and age 15 years

DEATHS. MASTERS.— On the 26th February, 1900, at the residence of his parents, "Mildura," Warwick-street, Trinity Hill, Hobart, from typhoid, Herbert (Bertie), the youngest and dearly beloved son of J. Masters, M.A., Acting Director of Education, aged 15 years and two months.

1901

1901 05

Masters' brother William Edward Masters awarded Bachelor of Laws at Melbourne University

THE HONOR LIST. The following is a full list of the honors conferred on the great occasion:— . . . Bachelor of Laws.— Thomas Backhouse, Frank Brennan, John Woolner Clarke, Herbert Christopher Forge, Stanley Dutton Green, William Edward Masters, George Arnold Rundle, Augustus Andrewes Uthwatt.

1901 09

Masters lectures to 200 people at the Victoria Museum on subject of X-rays, promises a future lecture on wireless telegraphy

CURRENT TOPICS. . . . Lecture at the Museum.— A most interesting and instructive lecture, entitled "High tension currents of electricity in vacuo, with special reference to the X rays," was delivered at the Museum last evening by Mr. A. H. Masters, in the presence of about 200 people. Mr. Masters, who was introduced by the curator (Mr. H. Scott), was well received, and kept the attention of his audience from start to finish. By means of a lantern the lecturer projected a number of diagrams illustrating the more technical part of his subject, such as the ratios of the vibrations which various waves bear to one another. The X rays, with their hypothetical trillions of pulses per second, were compared with the more modest millions of vibrations common to waves of monochromatic, violet, yellow, and red light, and these again with the sound waves produced by the human voice, the call of the bat, and other sources of sound. As an illustration of exhausted tube work in practical application, Tesla's suggested scheme for lighting was shown in diagram. Among the experiments were some which illustrated Tesla's method on a small scale. Exhausted tubes made of coloured glass, produced by the introduction into their composition of rare metals of the "thorium" group, were illuminated by discharges from storage cells, and an induction coil. A chain of these exhausted tubes thus illuminated, with a single one arranged to rotate, gave a very pretty effect. Some fluorescent screens and crooks were set up on separate tables to enable visitors to see the X rays in action. Mr. Masters proved himself to be a good speaker, and a capital entertainer all round. At the close of the lecture it was announced that a second one on "Wireless Telegraphy" would be given by Mr. Masters later on.

1903

1903 12

Masters lectures on Magnetism at the Launceston Technical School

CURRENT TOPICS. . . . A Popular Lecture.— The lecture room at the Technical School was crowded last evening, when Mr. A. Harold Masters delivered a lecture on "Magnetism." He explained that it had been his intention to lecture on "Magnetism and Electricity, as Applied to Motive Power," but he had decided to make two discourses out of the subject, and speak on magnetism first. Mr. Masters first showed a natural magnet, viz., a piece of magnetite, explaining how with this it was possible to produce other magnets, either temporarily or permanently. By several experiments with the aid of an electrical optical lantern Mr. Masters showed that Webber's molecular theory was a satisfactory explanation of the magnetic phenomena. The lecturer then dealt with the magnetism of the earth, and showed that all pieces of iron on the surface of the earth were practically magnets due to this influence. The experiments were of absorbing interest, and at the close of his lecture Mr. Masters was warmly applauded. Mr. W. H. Baker occupied the chair, and the usual votes of thanks concluded the proceedings. The second lecture will probably be given next week.

1904

1904 08

Death and funeral notice for Masters' mother Annie Auchterlonie Masters nee Anderson

DEATHS. MASTERS.— On August 17, peacefully, at Bellerive, Annie, the beloved wife of J. Masters, Director of Education. Funeral will leave Old Wharf This Day at 2.15, for Cornelian Bay Cemetery.

1904 09

Masters lectures on telegraphy at the Launceston Technical School, promises a future lecture on wireless telegraphy

TELEGRAPHY. At the Technical School last evening Mr. A. Harold Masters gave an interesting lecture on "Telegraphy," in presence of a large number of students and friends. The subject was a very popular one, and was introductory to another lecture on "Wireless Telegraphy," to be given at an early date. It was illustrated by slides and practical experiments showing the development of electricity during the past 80 years. Mr. Masters repeated some of the earlier experiments, such as Sommering's first practical telegraph in 1820, the needle instrument, and also the Morse recording instrument and code. This was followed by an explanation of the duplex and multiplex systems of telegraphy by which two or more messages can be sent over the one wire at the same time either in the same or opposite directions. He concluded by referring to the sub-marine cable, and in connection with this he showed an actual message received by the recording instrument at Southport, in Queensland. At the close a vote of thanks, proposed by the chair-man (Mr. A. Evershed), to Mr. Masters and to Mr. R. Low, who manipulated the lantern, was carried by acclamation.

1905

1905 05

Masters lectures on the telephone

CURRENT TOPICS. . . . Christ Church Circle.— A very successful meeting was held in Milton Hall on Thursday evening in connection with the Young People's Circle, when a lecture on the "Telephone" was delivered by Mr. A. Harold Masters. The lecturer proved quite at home with his subject, and gave a practical demonstration of its working, and also showed several interesting slides. The evening was most instructive and interesting. A hearty vote of thanks was moved by Mr. Ludbrook at the close, and carried enthusiastically.

1905 08

Masters lectures on electricity

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Last night a lecture entitled "Electricity" was given to the members of the St. John's Club by Mr Harold Masters, assisted by Mr James Jordan. The lecturer began by saying that electricity is still a mystery — we know it by its effects, which may be classified under three heads — chemical, heating, and magnetic. The experiments really illustrated the lecture. The usual vote of thanks was accorded.

1905 10

Brief announcement of Masters' wireless demonstration

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . NOTICES. . . . An enjoyable evening is anticipated at the meeting of the Australian Natives' Association to-night, when Mr A. Harold Masters will lecture on "Wireless Telegraphy." A musical programme will also be rendered, and the public are cordially invited, admission being free. Proceedings commence at 8.30 o'clock sharp. Members are to meet at 8 o'clock for the transaction of business. . . . TODAY. . . . 8.30.— A.N.A., Mechanics' Institute, lecture on "Wireless Telegraphy."

Full report of Masters' wireless demonstration

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . At the fortnightly meeting of the Launceston branch of the Australian Natives' Association held last night, the president (Mr C. P. Wilson) occupied the chair. Two new members were elected, one being received by clearance from the Brunswick branch in Victoria. It was resolved to accept the invitation of St. John's Young Men's Club for a return rifle match, to take place at their schoolroom on Tuesday, the 31st inst. A sub-committee was appointed to arrange all details. The syllabus item was supplied by Mr A. Harold Masters, who delivered a most instructive lecture on "Wireless telegraphy." He went to considerable trouble in arranging the lecture, and fitted up the Mechanics' class-room with the necessary instruments, the manipulation of which he concisely explained. Assisted by Mr Frank Smith he also showed lantern slides of the different Marconi stations and instruments in use, also the alphabet. Mr Masters demonstrated how messages were transmitted and at the close of his address was accorded a hearty vote of thanks. There was a crowded attendance of the public, and members of the branch also attended fairly well. It was without doubt an instructive evening and was one of the most enjoyable syllabus items that has been arranged by this branch.

1905 11

Advertisement makes clear that the wireless demonstration is of the Telefunken system, probably a condition of the loan of the equipment by the Telefunken agent in Melbourne

NOTICES. TELEFUNKEN WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. FREE EXHIBITION AT MUSEUM, THURSDAY EVENING NEXT, NOVEMBER 30, AT 8 O'CLOCK. C. W. ROCHER, Town Clerk.

As previous

SUMMARY. . . . An exhibition of the Telefunken system of wireless telegraphy is to be held at the Launceston Museum on Thursday evening next.

A detailed report of the plans for the demonstration, likely scripted by Masters

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Telefunken Wireless Telegraphy: An exhibition of the Telefunken system of wireless telegraphy is to be held at the Launceston Museum on Thursday evening next, free to the public. A demonstration set of apparatus has been obtained by Mr Lindsay Tulloch from the Melbourne agency of the Telefunken Company, and will be placed in the hands of Mr H. Masters for the purposes of practical illustration. Two operators will transmit and receive messages from one end of the Art Gallery to the other, and Mr Masters will elucidate the mysteries of this wonderful, electrical invention. During the evening a programme of vocal and instrumental music will be rendered by means of the gramophone, consisting of choice selections by all the greatest international artists. The title of each item played will be transmitted by telegraph from the gramophone manipulator to the audience end of the hall, and then announced as received. The concert programme will be under the management of Mr A. G. Ratten.

Further advertisement for demonstration that evening

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Exhibition at Museum: The public are reminded of the free exhibition of the "Telefunken system" of wireless telegraphy to be held at the Museum this evening at 8 o'clock. Mr H. Masters will lecture upon the subject, and the public will have an opportunity of sending messages by this novel method of electrical transmission. During the intervals a first-class gramophone concert will be presented under the management of Mr A. G. Ratten. Children without guardians will not be admitted.

1905 12

Daily Telegraph report of the 30 Nov Telefunken demonstration by Masters, with assistance by Braithwaite and Richardson

TELEFUNKEN WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. EXHIBITION AT THE MUSEUM. A lecture and exhibition of "Telefunken" wireless telegraphy was given at the Victoria Museum last night, about 400 persons being present. The lecturer, Mr H. Masters, was introduced by the curator of the Museum (Mr H. H. Scott), who pointed out the fact that — in connection with the local technical school — Mr Masters had been one of the very first experimenters in Australia to reproduce Marconi's original experiments, and to demonstrate practically the possibility of wireless telegraphy. A considerable amount of electrical apparatus was in use during the evening, and by means of a projecting lantern, the lecturer explained the elementary principles that underlie "spark telegraphy" — or as it is more commonly called — "wireless telegraphy." The system in use, as was stated above, was that known as the "Telefunken," and its appearance at the Museum last night was due to the kindness of the Melbourne agency of the firm, who lent a demonstration plant to Mr Lindsay Tulloch for lecture purposes. As most of the lecture was of a technical nature it will suffice to state that with his usual happy methods Mr Masters succeeded in instructing and entertaining his audience by diagram, experiment, and a liberal practical use of the Telefunken plant itself. Messages were sent by the public, skilled operators being provided for this purpose, by which means a thoroughly enjoyable and instructive evening was assured. During the intervals that arose a gramophone and phonograph concert programme was gone through, the chief items being supplied by Messrs. A. G. Ratten, C. Calver, and H. H. Scott. The operators, Messrs. G. Braithwaite, and T. P. Richardson, as well as the lecturer, came in for a round of applause at the close of the meeting.

As previous, Examiner report

CURRENT TOPICS. . . . Exhibition of Telefunken Wireless Telegraphy.— There was a large and interested assemblage, numbering about 400, at the Museum last evening, when an exhibition of the Telefunken system of wireless telegraphy was given. Before introducing the lecturer (Mr. H. Masters), the curator of the Museum referred in warm terms to the work done by that gentleman in the field of electrical experiment, particularly in the special direction of "spark," or as it is more commonly called "wireless," telegraphy. In this connection, Mr. Masters reproduced many of Marconi's original experiments, at the local Technical School, in the very early days of wireless transmission, and was not only the first to introduce the work into Tasmania, but one of the very first in Australia. Of necessity Mr. Masters's lecture was of a more or less technical nature, but by a fortunate combination of electrical experiment, optical projection and verbal demonstration, he succeeded in doing full justice to his subject, and at the same time imparted a liberal instruction to his audience. The kindness of in Melbourne Telefunken agency in lending the demonstration apparatus for the purposes of the lecture furnished a rare treat to one of the most appreciative audiences that have ever gathered at the Museum. These practical illustrations of great discoveries are of extreme importance to the general public, and it is pleasing to see efforts being put forth to supply such needs. During the intervals that arose while the public were examining the apparatus and transmitting messages by the help of skilled operators, a musical programme was submitted by means of gramophones and phonographs, the items being supplied by Messrs. A. G. Ratten, A. Calver, and H. H. Scott. The meeting closed with votes of thanks to the lecturer, the operators (Messrs. G. Braithwaite and T. P. Richardson), and others who assisted in making the evening a success.

Back by popular demand?

CURRENT TOPICS. . . . Wireless Telegraphy at the Museum.— The wireless telegraphy plant will be on view at the Museum this afternoon for the convenience of those who wish to see the same in operation prior to its return to Australia. Mr. Masters will have the apparatus in practical use from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

1906

1906 02

Masters part of the official party which visits the HMS Pioneer at anchor at Rosevears

ARRIVAL OF THE PIONEER. ANCHORED AT ROSEVEARS. A FINE VESSEL. H.M.S. Pioneer, a recent addition to the Australian Squadron, arrived at Rosevears at noon yesterday from Hobart, which port she left at 6.30 on Sunday morning. She entered Tamar Heads at 10 a.m. yesterday, arriving at Rosevears about two hours later, where she will remain for about ten days, afterwards returning to Hobart. The Pioneer is the largest warship to enter the Tamar, being 2200 tons register, and she draws 21ft of water, which is the reason of her having to remain at Rosevears. The rate of speed from Hobart to Tamar Heads was 12 knots, but her registered speed is 21 knots. The Pioneer is almost a new vessel, having been built in England about five years ago. She has seen service in the Mediterranean, and relieved the Mildura on the Australian station. Her crew consists of 250, all told, but at present she is about twenty short of that number. The majority are Australians, only about forty being from England. As usual on warships, everything is spick and span on board, the paintwork and brasswork being exceptionally neat. On board the Pioneer the wireless telegraphy apparatus has been fixed, and the vessel holds the record of the East, having been in conversation at Port Said with Poldhu, Cornwall, England, a distance of about 2000 miles. The Pioneer was in communication, with the flagship Powerful, bound from Hobart to New Zealand, a distance of about 800 miles, but in this instance the trial was not so successful. The Pioneer makes a speciality of this work, and several on board are being trained to operate the instruments. The armament of the Pioneer consists of eight 4in guns, eight 3-pounders, four Maxims, and 2 torpedo tubes; and her officers are as follows: Commander G. Borrett; first lieutenant, T. H. Bainbridge; navigator, W. T. R. Ford; engineer-lieutenant, H. G. Leader; sub-lieutenant, F. M. Kerri; and paymaster, H. Murray. Lieutenant Rankin, R.N.R., of Sydney, is also on the Pioneer. The vessel is moored a little way from Rosevears; she looks well at anchor, and no doubt she will be visited by a large number of people during her stay in the river. Yesterday afternoon the Marine Board's tug Wybia left for the warship with the following gentlemen on board: The Mayor (Alderman C. Russen), Aldermen W. C. Oldham, A. Munnew, W. C. Wilson, and Messrs. S. Eardley-Wilmot, L. S. Bruce, A. E. Evershed, R. J. Sadler, M.H.A. (Master Warden), Dr. Haines (Perth, W.A.), A. H. Masters, C. W. Rocher (Town Clerk), and several others. After an enjoyable run down the river the Wybia anchored alongside the warship at half-past four. The Mayor, accompanied by the other gentlemen, went on board, where he formally welcomed Commander Borrett and his officers to the Tamar, and trusted their stay would be an enjoyable one. He regretted the vessel was unable to go farther, up the river, but the citizens were thankful to have one there at all. Commander Borrett, on behalf of his officers and crew, thanked those present for their kind welcome. He very much admired the river as far as he had seen it, and hoped it was the same all the way up. The Wybia left about half-past four and peached the wharf at 6.30 p.m. A number of the sailors arrived in the city yesterday, and they took part in a concert last night. They will leave at 10 o'clock this morning in the Wybia for their vessel. The Pioneer will be thrown open for public inspection on Wednesday and Thursday, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Daily Telegraph report of Masters and team at Launceston, likely using his older Marconi apparatus, communicate with HMS Pioneer at Rosevears

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Wireless Telegraphy: On Thursday night some interesting experiments in wireless telegraphy were conducted between the Albert Hall and H.M.S. Pioneer at Rosevears. Mr A. H. Masters, with Messrs. Richardson and Braithwaite, of the Electric Telegraph Department, had charge of the apparatus at the Albert Hall, and for the purpose of the experiment the flagstaff surmounting the centre of the building was used. Messages were successfully transmitted to the warship but the operations directed from that end did not result so satisfactorily.

As previous, more detailed report by the Examiner

WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. LOCAL EXPERIMENTS. Mr. G. Braithwaite on Saturday received the following telegraphic message from Mr. Boyes, yeoman of the wireless telegraphy signals on board H.M.S. Pioneer, at Burnie:— "Looked out Thursday; signals very clear. Fairly well Friday. Did you receive ours?" This referred to the tests that were made between the Albert Hall on Thursday night and H.M.S. Pioneer, then lying at Rosevears; and again on Friday, when the warship was on her way to Devonport. The operators at the Albert Hall were Mr. G. Braithwaite, of the Post and Telegraph Department; and Mr. Harold Masters, electrical instructor to the Launceston Technical School. On Thursday evening there were also present the Mayor (Hon. C. Russen, M.L.C.), Mr. D. Storrer, M.H.R., Dr. Ramsay, Messrs. R. F. Irvine, F. Allison, F. Richardson, and others. The operators were very pleased to get Mr. Boyes's telegram, informing them of the success of the experiment on board the ship, but they were somewhat disappointed at the result of the receiving end, but attribute it to the hurried manner in which they had to fit up the receiving instruments. The messages that were described by Mr. Boyes as "very clear" passed over a distance of 11 or 12 miles. They hope on the next opportunity that offers to have their arrangements perfected, so that the test shall be successful. Messrs. Braithwaite and Masters are indebted to Commander Borrett and his officers for permitting them to study the set of instruments on board H.M.S. Pioneer; to the Mayor, for the use of the committee-room in the Albert Hall, in which the experiments were made; and to Dr. Ramsay, for the loan of a coil. ROSEVEARS, Saturday. H.M.S. Pioneer, which anchored here on Monday, took her departure on Friday. This vessel is fitted with Marconi's wireless telegraphy instruments, and each night the operator between the hours of 8 and 9, tried to get in touch with Sydney or other places. Bright sparks could be seen ascending to the top of the wires at that time.

Annual report of the Victoria Museum and Art Gallery for 1905 highlights the November wireless telegraphy demonstration

VICTORIA MUSEUM. CURATOR'S ANNUAL REPORT. At the meeting of the Launceston City Council yesterday the curator of the Victoria Museum (Mr H. H. Scott) presented the following annual report of the Museum and Art Gallery for 1905: . . . Class Work.— During the winter session twenty-six weekly class meetings were held for biological and microscopical purposes, but owing to extra work in other directions the syllabus was less consecutive than usual. Several public exhibitions were given, including one illustrating wireless telegraphy, at which Mr A. H. Masters, of the Technical School, delivered an interesting lecture, the apparatus being very kindly obtained from the Melbourne branch of the Telefunken Company by Mr Lindsay Tulloch. All the public meetings were well attended. . . .

1906 05

Masters delivers a lecture on wireless telegraphy to the St. John's Young Men's Club and operates his equipment within the classroom

CURRENT TOPICS. . . . St. John's Young Men's Club.— In St. John's schoolroom last night, under the auspices of the Young Men's Club, Mr. Harold Masters delivered a lecturette on "Wireless Telegraphy." All the instruments necessary for a full and detailed explanation of the marvels of the science were in evidence, and Mr. Masters elucidated his subject principally by means of experiments.. He first showed the magnetic influence of electricity, and the manner in which it was utilised in the ordinary system of telegraphy. Continuing, he explained in detail the apparatus employed for producing the ether waves, by which the wireless messages are transmitted. Sending and receiving stations were set up in different portions of the room, and practical illustration of the system given, by the successful transmission of signals. The large number present were given an opportunity of witnessing the instruments at work, actually as they are used in the various and important phases of its wonderful existence. During the evening Lieutenant-Colonel Martin officially opened the miniature rifle range, and in a brief speech referred to the popularity which this branch of pastime had attained.

1906 07

Report of Daily Telegraph interview with Masters which gives a little detail of his early experiments but mostly a history and explanation of wireless

WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. QUEENSCLIFF AND DEVONPORT. THE SYSTEM EXPLAINED. AN INTERESTING INTERVIEW. In view of the experiments in wireless telegraphy between Queenscliff and Devonport, and the transmission of the first official message from the Governor General (Lord Northcote) to the Governor of Tasmania (Sir Gerald Strickland) tomorrow, Mr A. Harold Masters (lecturer on electricity at the Launceston Technical School) was interviewed yesterday regarding the recent developments in this system of telegraphic communication. "I understand," said the interviewer, "that you have made a special study of wireless telegraphy in connection with your work at the Technical School?" "Yes," replied Mr Masters. "I have, and believe that I can claim the honor for the local technical school of being the first to repeat Marconi's original experiments with Hertzian waves as applied to signalling through space, and before his system had been tried on a commercial scale. We have on several occasions since constructed experimental apparatus to illustrate recent developments. Has there been much recent development in connection with this system? We have not heard so much during the last two or three years of results attained as when the earlier experiments were being carried out? "It is usually so with all important scientific discoveries, such as the X rays, radium, etc. The public hears all about the thing when it is new, and it is not until the novelty wears off that experimental work in earnest really begins, the results of which are practically confined to the technical journals. The development that has recently taken place has been more in matters of detail. Several rival systems have been brought into the field, each claiming some distinct advantage, more particularly as regards syntonising or tuning." Can you briefly describe the general system of wireless telegraphy in popular language without introducing superfluous technicalities? "A general outline of the underlying principals can be given in a popular way, but it is hardly possible to explain the apparatus used and modus operandi without introducing technicalities. The most usual questions put to me by those unfamiliar with electrical science are such as: How can the message be sent through space? What form does the energy take? etc., and I think these can best be explained in the following way: The earth is always charged electrically, and we can imagine the surface of this electric charge as normally coinciding with the surface of the earth or sea, but capable of disturbance in much the same way as is the surface of smooth water. So that if we can by any means cause an electrical disturbance or "splash" at any point on the earth's surface, electromagnetic waves or ripples will travel out in all directions from that point, in much the same way as the ripples that follow a splash made on the smooth surface of a lake or pond, but these electromagnetic waves, as they are called, travel with a velocity equal to that of light, or 186,000 miles per second, or, in other words, could travel backwards and forwards between Devonport and Queenscliff at the rate of about 1200 times in one second, which for practical purposes can be regarded as instantaneous. The receiving instruments on one side of the strait would really work in unison with the sending instruments on the other side during the transmission of a message. There would be no appreciable loss of time. Now, as regards the apparatus used, the sending station consists essentially of some form of electric oscillator, usually a modification of that due to Professor Righi, and capable of setting up electric oscillations at the rate of something like 230 millions per second, so you can readily understand that fairly energetic electric disturbance can be set up at any place with this apparatus. To make the instrument more efficient one side of the spark gap is connected to an aerial wire, or system of wires, and the other side "earthed." The primary current energising the oscillator is controlled by a key similar to that used for sending ordinary telegraphic messages, so that the wave impulses, or electric surgings thrown out into space (or, more strictly, along the surface of the earth) can be made of long or short duration, and are recorded at the distant station as an intelligible message composed of the well-known dots and dashes of the Morse code. If a wire is placed vertically in the path of these electromagnetic waves, and especially if its lower end is connected to the earth, a minute but rapidly oscillating current of electricity is induced in the wire while the wave impulse is passing over it. It is this induced current which is used to detect the signals sent out from a distant station. For long distance work Marconi has devised a wonderfully sensitive magnetic receiver, which is a form of induction coil, the primary of which is connected between the aerial and the earth, and the secondary is connected with an ordinary telephone receiver, in which a passing wave impulse is heard as a 'buzz,' the long or short duration of which will give the dot or dash, and in this way the message is read. It is more usual, however, to employ some form of coherer, in most cases a modified 'Branley's tube,' which consists of a small glass tube containing some metal filings between two conductors, which are connected respectively to the aerial and earth, and also placed in circuit with an ordinary battery and the usual telegraphic receiving instruments. The resistance of the loose filings in this tube is normally so great that the battery current cannot pass, but when the oscillatory current is induced in the aerial small sparks take place between the filings in the tube, and they cohere at their points of contact with each other, thus forming a good metallic path across which the battery current flows and gives the signal on the usual receiving instruments. The same current is also made to mechanically shake up, or de-cohere, the filings in the Branley tube, and thus restore it to its original condition, ready to receive another impulse. In this way the dots and dashes thrown out by the distant sending station are picked up by the apparatus as an intelligible message, and can, if required, be permanently recorded by a Morse ink writer on a paper ribbon. Of course all stations are provided with both sending and receiving apparatus, and the one aerial wire, or system of wires, is used for both sets of instruments." Can these wave impulses be sent out in only one direction, or recorded by only those for whom they are intended? With small, or what I might call experimental apparatus, this is quite possible, but powerful apparatus, such as that set up at Poldhu, on the Cornwall Coast, in England, for signalling across the Atlantic, it is only possible within certain limits. Waves can be sent out of such a character that only those instruments similarly tuned will receive them, but as the message is practically 'launched into space' there is nothing to prevent anyone equipped with the proper apparatus making the necessary adjustments and receiving the message. As a matter of fact, messages sent out from Poldhu and intended for Cape Cod, in America, have been picked up in Germany and other places. In some cases this may be an advantage. For instance, a ship at sea might throw out signals of distress, which would be received by all ships or other stations within the range of that particular set of apparatus, or the Admiral of a fleet could send out signals that would be received by all his ships irrespective of their position, weather conditions, etc. It would then, I suppose, be possible to pick up in Launceston the messages being sent from Devonport and intended for Melbourne. "Yes, quite possible, and I would like to try the experiment, but it may not be generally known that an Act has lately been passed by the Commonwealth Parliament making it illegal for anyone to set up or maintain wireless telegraph apparatus in the Commonwealth without the special permit of the Postmaster-General. This is done, and I think wisely, to prevent outside interference. It would, however, be possible to have three stations, say, at Low Head, Devonport, and Circular Head, and the instruments at each place could be adjusted at will, so that any two of these stations could get into communication without affecting the third, but there is nothing to prevent the operator at the third station joining in if he so wished. There is another difficulty, however, which may crop up in time of war. An enemy having the necessary equipment could not only pick up signals not intended for him (which can to a great extent be overcome by using secret codes), but has it in his power to send out counter or interfering signals, so as to make all other messages being sent or received by similar apparatus and under similar conditions quite unintelligible. I do not think, however, that interference in this way would be much resorted to, as the enemy's own apparatus would for the time also be rendered useless, but it is quite conceivable that the wireless messages of two fleets at close quarters might unintentionally interfere so much with each other as to put both systems 'out of action.' " Do you think that wireless telegraphy will eventually supersede the ordinary method of telegraphic communication? "It will, I think, to a great extent supersede the submarine cable, but in its present state of development cannot possibly replace the permanent wire installations on land. One wire between Hobart and Launceston is arranged to carry four distinct messages, two going in one direction and two in the opposite direction, at the same time. This is one of the marvels of telegraphy, and cannot yet be accomplished 'wirelessly.' The latter system has its own field of operation, especially where portable units are required, and generally where the ordinary system could not be applied."

Report of Examiner interview with Masters which neatly summarises the invention of wireless

WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY. DISCOVERY OF HERTZIAN WAVES. MARCONI'S INVENTION EXPLAINED. As the official opening of Marconi's system of wireless telegraphy takes place at Devonport tomorrow, it is interesting to record that some minor tests were made here some months ago. Mr. A. Harold Masters, electrical instructor of the Technical School, was one of those actively engaged in the experiments, and so an "Examiner" representative yesterday waited upon him to get an account of wireless telegraphy. During the course of the interview Mr. Masters said:— "Wireless telegraphy, although regarded as a new thing, is really the outcome of a long series of scientific experiments and research, as is the case with all important scientific discoveries. For instance, the X-rays were known long before Rontgen's important discoveries were made, Professor Rontgen was, in fact, investigating these rays with a Crook's tube especially made for their generation, when he found that they had the peculiar property of penetrating different substances, according to their varying densities. This was, however, an important discovery, as it showed that by virtue of this property it was possible by using these rays to photograph articles embedded in some other material or substance less dense than themselves. There is, however, an inclination to regard Rontgen as the discoverer of these rays. It is much the same in connection with wireless telegraphy. "The two essentials of this system of telegraphic communication are — 1st, an electric oscillator for producing the ether waves now so intimately associated with the name of the late Prof. Hertz; and secondly, a detecter, or receiver, to make the effects of electric waves produced by the oscillator seen, heard, or felt. The first of these was originally devised by Prof. Righi, and the latter by Prof. Branly, but the honour is due to Marconi for having first conceived the idea of applying these ether waves to signalling through space without wires. "Clerk Maxwell, in 1867 put forward the theory that the waves of light are not merely mechanical motions of the ether, but that they are electric undulations, and that electromagnetic effects could be propagated through space, like light, and at the same velocity; and reading in the light of latter-day science some of the accounts of old experiments with Leyden jars, Franklin's plates, and frictional machine discharges, it is clear to us now that many of the effects noted by the old electricians were due to electric wave actions in the ether, and that they were working 'wireless telegraphy' without knowing it. "In 1888 the late Prof. Hertz found the most convincing experimental proofs of Maxwell's theory. "Professor Henry, of America, sent sparks from an electrical machine through a parallelogram of about 60ft. by 30ft. of copper wire suspended by silk strings round the ceiling of a room; a current was induced in a second parallelogram placed immediately below the first in a cellar of the building, through two floors and thirty feet distant. "There can be no doubt that Henry was on the right track towards discovering Hertzian waves. The wire from the roof to the well only wanted a Branly coherer to make it a receiving station for wireless telegraphy. Lord Kelvin, nearly 50 years ago, first demonstrated the oscillatory nature of capacity discharges, but it remained for Hertz to demonstrate that these oscillatory discharges or currents threw off waves into space, which could be detected by his ring conductor with a spark-gap. This was but a poor detecter, yet Hertz demonstrated the theory with it completely. Later on the coherer was introduced, and as a detecter of ethereal electric waves proved immensely superior. All the elements of a wireless telegraph were discovered but the wire. This sounds paradoxical, for what do we want with wire in wireless telegraphy? Well, it needs a wire in fact, many wires. And here Marconi comes in. He discovered that a long vertical wire attached to a coherer acted as a very sensitive detecter. In fact, while a coherer without a vertical wire could only detect waves within a mile or so from the oscillatory discharges the coherer with vertical wires could detect them 30, 50, 100, and up to 3000 miles. "The way in which these ether waves are utilised for signalling through space can be best understood by supposing the earth to be charged electrically, and this electric charge to have a surface, so to speak, which is capable of being disturbed or thrown in wave motions, in much the same way as the surface of smooth water. If a disturbance, or what might be called an electric splash is caused at any point on the earth's surface, electric or ether waves would travel, but in all directions from that point in much the same way as ripples that follow the splash made by a stone in water. This disturbance is set up by means of what is known as an electric oscillator, one pole of which is connected to the vertical aerial wire or wires, and the other connected to the earth, and is capable of producing ether waves, which oscillate with a velocity of something like three million vibrations per second, and travel with a velocity equal to that of light, i.e., 186,000 miles per second, so that the signals sent out are practically instantaneous. "This really forms the sending station, and the current which produces these oscillations is controlled by a key similar to that used in ordinary telegraphy, so that the ether waves can be thrown out from the aerial wire in impulses of varying duration to correspond with the dots and dashes of the usual Morse code. If now a wire is placed vertically in the path of these waves, a small but rapidly oscillating current of electricity is induced in the wire, and it is this current which it utilised to detect the ether waves sent out, and so interpret the message sent from the distant station. For long distance work the Marconi uses a delicate form of magnetic instrument, which admits of the signals being heard by an ordinary telephone receiver as a buzz of long or short duration to give the dots and dashes of the Morse code, but it is more usual to employ a coherer and the ordinary telegraphic instruments, so that the message can, if necessary, be permanently recorded by a Morse ink-writer on a paper ribbon.

1906 08

Masters gives a lecture on wireless telegraphy to St. Andrew's Young People's Guild

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . St. Andrew's Guild: The fortnightly meeting of St. Andrew's Young People's Guild was held last night, when Mr A. H. Masters delivered a lecture entitled "Wireless Telegraphy" to a large attendance. Rev. W. Beck introduced the speaker, who explained, with the aid of apparatus, the uses of wireless telegraphy. Mr Masters also had on view various electrical machines, which added greatly to the evening's entertainment. At the close of the lecture Rev. W. Beck proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the lecturer, which was carried unanimously. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, the 30th inst., when a mock marine board election will be held.

1907

1907 03

Masters appointed superintendent of Launceston Technical School continues teaching drawing, building construction, electricity and magnetism

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Launceston Technical School: At a recent meeting of the committee of the Launceston Technical School the resignation of the secretary (Mr A. Evershed) was tendered in the following terms: "With much regret I ask the committee to accept at some early date my resignation as secretary and director. My Marine Board engagements are increasing, and although my work at the school has been done in my spare time, I now feel that I cannot continue to devote the time and thought to these duties which they require. I thank the committee very sincerely for recent expression of appreciation and for appointing me director of the school, and am very sorry that under the circumstances it will be impossible for me to continue to act in that capacity. May I draw your attention to the interesting fact that the Launceston Technical School is now in its twentieth year of existence, and express the hope that my successor in office may see it grow in usefulness in the future as I have seen it develop and prosper in the past." The chairman of the committee has addressed the following letter in reply: "It is with sincere regret that the committee of the Launceston Technical School receive your resignation as secretary and director. For the last 20 years you have worthily and efficiently fulfilled the onerous duties connected with these offices, and the committee feel that they cannot allow this opportunity to pass without recording their appreciation of your valuable services and thanking you for the courteous and willing manner in which they have always been discharged. The committee trust that although you are unable to fulfil the secretarial duties connected with the school you will see your way to accept a seat on the board, so that the school may not be entirely deprived of your valued council experience. With every assurance of goodwill from all the members of the committee." With the approval of the Minister of Education Mr A. H. Masters has been appointed superintendent of the school as from the 31st inst., on which date Mr Evershed retires. Mr Masters will be responsible for the whole management of the school, and will himself conduct a special class for instruction in architectural drawing and building construction, as well as continue to hold the position of instructor in electricity and magnetism. The appointment of Mr Loftus Hill, B.Sc., to teach chemistry, assaying, geology, and physics has also been approved by the Minister. Mr Hugh Cunningham, of carving fame, will carry on the repousse work, and the art department will continue under the charge of Miss Hope S. Evershed. It was feared that the somewhat sudden changes that have necessarily been made in the personnel of the staff, added to the attractions of the Exhibition, would detrimentally effect the attendance at the beginning of the session, but there has in fact been no diminution in the interest manifested by the students, and work is being resumed under quite favorable conditions.

1907 05

Masters appointed superintendent of Launceston Technical School at a time of considerable staff turnover

OUR WEEKLY LAUNCESTON LETTER. (From Our Own Correspondent.) May, 17. Several changes have been made recently in the arrangements of the Launceston Technical School, owing to the resignation of Mr. A. Evershed, who was secretary to the institution from its inception in 1888, and of Mr. Edwin Bogle, one of the original teachers, instructor of the machinery construction class, and the appointment of Mr. L. Deschaineux, who had been in charge of the art department for several years, as principal of the Hobart Technical School. Mr A. Harold Masters has been appointed superintendent, and, in addition to carrying out the duties of secretary, and having general supervision of the institution, will give instruction in the science and art departments — electricity, building, construction, and architectural drawing. Miss Hope Evershed will continue to teach freehand and model drawing. Mr. Hugh Cunningham has taken the carving and repousse classes, and Mr Loftus Hills, B.Sc. of the University of Tasmania, is now teaching chemistry and allied science subjects. Mr. Harold R. Evershed, a local engineer, who has just completed several years' experience in Europe and America, now takes Mr. Bogle's place as instructor in the machinery-construction and drawing class. Mr. H. Frazer, M.A., will continue to teach mathematics; Mr. Leslie H. Larkin shorthand and type-writing; and Mr. Alexander Douglas carpentry. Some? other new appointments have been made:— Mr. A. Evershed and Mr. C. St. John David, the city surveyor have been given seats on the board of management, in place of Mr. A. Simson, resigned, and Mr. J. T. McDonald, deceased.

1907 08

Masters gives a lecture and demonstration of X-rays at his Launceston Technical School

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Lecturette: A lecturette and practical demonstration of the X Rays was given last evening by Mr A. Harold Masters in the chemical laboratory of the Technical School. The room was comfortably filled by students of electricity and their friends. The lecturer gave a popular explanation of the nature of X rays, and the apparatus necessary for generating them, illustrating each example by an experiment. Mr Masters concluded an instructive demonstration by taking a photograph by means of the rays of a student's arm, which had been broken at one time.

1908

1908 04

Masters gives a popular demonstration of X-rays at the Launceston A.N.A. exhibition

A.N.A. EXHIBITION. A LARGE GATHERING. The attractions for last night at the exhibition were such as to bring a very big crowd of visitors. The various parts of the building were crowded. The bioscope displays were again a great draw, and were followed with interest, and the opinion was generally expressed that they are the finest set of films ever shown in Launceston. One of the features of last night's items was the interesting and instructive demonstration on X-rays by Mr A. Harold Masters, assisted by Mr Rowell, one of the Technical school science students. There was no charge for admission, and the visitors were astonished at the effect produced by this great discovery. Wooden boxes were held to the light, and the contents were clearly discernible. Ladies also tested the machine by holding their hands to the light, and, although gloved, the rings on the fingers and the bones and sinews of the hands were also distinctly visible. Many other proofs were given, and the whole display was voted one of the most practicable and profitable yet shown at this exhibition.

1908 12

Masters takes his electricity class at the Launceston Technical School to the local Power Station

VISIT OF INSTRUCTION. On Tuesday evening last the students attending the electricity classes at the Launceston Technical School adjourned at 8 o'clock for the purpose of making a visit to the municipal council's electrical substation in Cameron-street, at the invitation of the city electrical engineer (Mr. R. J. Strike). They were accompanied by the lecturer (Mr. A. Harold Masters), who took the opportunity of explaining several standard instruments and other appliances not included in the Technical School laboratories. The students were conducted over the station by the engineer in charge (Mr. McElwee), who explained the systems of distribution and the appliances used for this purpose. Considerable interest was taken in what was referred to as the "nerve centre of the system," and on which the slightest pressure of the little finger would be sufficient to throw the whole city into darkness. These were the automatic cut-out switches, which open the transmission circuits in the event of a fault or "short circuit" in any of the main distributing feeders, and so prevent possible damage to the machinery at the Power House, the cables, or property on which the fault occurred, due to an abnormal rush of current. It was explained that on several occasions these switches have been brought into operation by birds bridging the lightning conductors attached to the high-tension wires and causing a temporary short circuit through the birds' bodies, followed by the usual high tension arc. The birds are invariably electrocuted, and in some cases only sufficient remains are found for purpose of identification. Several special experiments were conducted in the standard room with the potentiometer, oscillograph, photometer, etc. At the conclusion of the visit Mr. Masters thanked the city electrical engineer for the opportunity of giving such practical demonstrations as will be of considerable interest and help to the students under his charge, and made arrangement for a similar visit to the Power Station during the school's summer vacation.

Masters appointed as electrical engineer consultant for Longford instructed to develop a plan for electric lighting for the town

COUNTRY NEWS. LONGFORD. At a meeting of the electric light committee there were present — Mr. A. Youl, Warden (in the chair), and Messrs. Hudson, McMahon, and Solomon. Mr. Harold Masters, who has been appointed electrical engineer for Longford, was also present. The details of the scheme were thoroughly discussed, and Mr. Masters was instructed to prepare plans and specifications and estimates for presentation to the Council at its next meeting, viz., January 8.

1910s

1910

1910 12

Marriage notice for Masters' brother William Edward Masters

MARRIAGES. MASTERS — SPONG.— On December 29, at Bellerive, by the Rev. E. Handel Jones, William Edward, eldest son of Joseph Masters, Bellerive, to Rowena Ella, youngest daughter of the late Augustus Nash Spong, of Hobart. At home January 31, to February 3.

1912

1912 06

Masters identified as a teacher of Alfred and Cyril Monk newly appointed to the Naval Wireless Service

ABOUT PEOPLE. . . . Considerable satisfaction was expressed yesterday among students (past and present) of the Launceston Scotch College upon reading in our columns of the recent successes of Masters Alfred and Cyril Monk in the naval wireless service of the Commonwealth. The two young men were students of the college, and also received a training from Mr. A. H. Masters at the Launceston Technical School. The gratification of their former comrades and of the present pupils was heightened by the recently-announced successes of another old Scotch Collegian, Mr. C. H. Bushby, who headed the list at the recent law examinations for this state. . . .

1920s

1921

1921 10

Masters presents a lecture on wireless telegraphy to the Launceston Christ Church club

Church Meetings. . . . A meeting of the Christ Church club was held on Tuesday evening. Rev. W. J. Ashford presided. The evening was occupied with an illustrated lecture on "Wireless Telegraphy" by Mr. A. H. Masters. It was enjoyed by a good attendance of members and friends. After the lecture a number of questions were asked and answered. A hearty vote of thanks to the speaker concluded an interesting evening.

1923

1923 08

Masters lectures on magnetism

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Christ Church Club: The Christ Church Club held its weekly meeting on Tuesday, when the chair was taken by the Rev. W. J. Ashford. The speaker for the evening was Mr H. Masters, F.R.V.I.A., who gave an interesting lecture entitled, "Magnetism." With the aid of a projection and many ingenious devices, the lecturer enlightened the large and attentive audience on many interesting aspects of magnetism. He explained, giving a number of examples, that magnetism is really more important than electricity, and that without it electricity would be practically useless. The lecturer went on to explain, with practical illustrations, that we live in a world of magnetism. At the conclusion of the lecture the chairman proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Masters. This was carried heartily. During the evening a solo was rendered by Miss M. Barclay.

Masters not referenced at initial meeting of Launceston Wireless Club

THE WIRELESS CLUB. The initial meeting for the formation of a Wireless Club proved beyond all doubt that the idea had caught on among wireless enthusiasts, and the only trouble now seems to be to get the details finalised quick enough, but as a committee meeting was held on Wednesday for the purpose of considering matters relating to rules and subscription, etc., it is anticipated that the recommendations of the committee will be made to a further general meeting, which will be held within a fortnight's time. It was originally suggested that this meeting should be held on Thursday next, but in order to have everything in ship-shape order for presentation to the meeting, that has been postponed, and will probably take place during the following week, and the exact date advertised. The president (Mr W. B. McCabe) has announced his intention of being present at this meeting, and it is expected that Mr W. L. Scanlon, secretary of the Tasmanian Division the Wireless Institute of Australia, will come from Hobart and address the meeting. The members of the Wireless Institute in Hobart have evinced great interest in the formation of a branch of the Institute in Launceston, and have written to the effect that it will have all the support they can give it. The Hobart branch have been doing excellent work for some considerable time, and an account of their activities was recently published, together with a detailed description of the club room. If the enthusiasm now being displayed in this city is maintained there seems no reason why a very strong and efficient branch should not be the result. The local committee are fully alive, to the necessity of securing a good clubroom in a central position, and several suggestions have already been considered.

1923 09

Again, Masters not referenced at further meeting of Launceston Wireless Club

THE WIRELESS CLUB. The next general meeting of the Wireless Club promises to be a most successful function, judging from the number of enquiries regarding same which have been received. Mr Scanlon, of the Hobart branch, has notified the secretary that he hopes to arrive in Launceston either on Tuesday or Wednesday next, so that it is practically certain that the meeting will be held on one of those days, but this information will be advertised in Monday's papers. The committee have received a suggestion from an institution in the town regarding a room for the use of the club, and this is being carefully gone into, and it is hoped that some finality will be reached within a few days. A copy of the club rules of the Western Australian Division of the Institute has also been received, and they are being considered.

Again, Masters not referenced at further meeting of Launceston Wireless Club

NOTES ON WIRELESS. BY "ELECTRON" . . . THE WIRELESS CLUB. It was anticipated that a general meeting would have been arranged for this week, in order to finalise the the matters regarding subscription, etc., which have been considered by the committee. It was also expected that Mr Scanlon, secretary of the Hobart branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia, would be present to address members. Unfortunately this could not be arranged, and it has now been decided to hold a general meeting at 8 p.m. on Thursday next, in the King's Hall lodge-room. It is hoped that as many members, or rather intending members, will be present as possible, as matters of vital importance to the club are to be brought forward. Although Mr Scanlon was unable to address a general meeting, be nevertheless visited Launceston on Wednesday, and was met during the day by members of the committee. Informal discussion took place on many matters connected with wireless work in Tasmania, and much valuable information was gleaned, which should prove of the greatest assistance. Matters regarding the affiliation of the Launceston Club with the Tasmanian Division of the Wireless Institute of Australia were gone into, and the proposals regarding some will be submitted for the approval of members on Thursday night. It was also mentioned that a Government inspector will shortly visit Tasmania, and amateurs are urgently advised to see that their licenses are in order before proceeding with experimental work. Examinations of experimenters to qualify in receiving Morse at 12 words per minute will also come to pass shortly, and those who intend to keep their experimental licenses will have to prove their efficiency.

Following preliminary formation of Launceston Wireless Club, affiliation with WIA requires changes in structure, Masters is elected a vice-president

NOTES ON WIRELESS. BY "ELECTRON" Owing to the pressure on space the "Notes on Wireless" will not be published during show week. THE WIRELESS CLUB. A meeting of the Wireless Club was held last Thursday night in the King's Hall, when a number of matters including the annual subscription were finalised. The subscription for a full member will be £1 per annum which may be paid quarterly, junior members under 18 years of age will be required to pay 5s per annum, while school boys who are interested in wireless and who already may have a school club may affiliate upon payment of 2s 6d which entitles them to attend lectures and discussions which will prove one of the principal objects of the club. The club have affiliated with the Wireless Institute of Australia, and will in future be known as the Launceston Branch of the Tasmanian Division of that Institute. The subscription for full members was made fairly high on account of the preliminary expenses which the club will have to face. A suitable club room has been secured in St. John-street adjoining the Commonwealth Bank and situated above the premises occupied by Mr Padman. The room is extremely commodious, and being also very central it should prove admirably suited for the purpose. Several vice-presidents were elected at the meeting on Thursday, including Senator J. D. Fillen, Messrs. Syd. Jackson, M.H.R., C. W. Clarke, J. V. Sullivan, F. Gunn, and H. A. Masters. It was found necessary in order to fall into line with the rules of the Institute to elect a vice-president of council, and Mr D. V. Allan, principal of the Launceston Technical School, was elected to that position. Mr G. McElwee, who was elected chairman of committee at the previous meeting, will now be designated president of council, which is the same thing under a different name. Mr E. Fawkner was also elected as hon. assistant secretary. It is expected that the Institute will take over the clubroom during the week following the Show, and those who are interested in the study of wireless, and wish to become members, are requested to forward their names to the hon. secretary, c/o "The Daily Telegraph." Country members may join the Launceston branch of the Institute if there is no wireless club in their district.

1924

1924 01

Masters, as a vice-president, gives an illustrated lecture on progress in wireless to the WIA Launceston

LOCAL AND GENERAL. . . . Lecture on Wireless: At the club room of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia last night Mr A. H. Masters, a vice-president of the institute, delivered an interesting illustrated lecture on the advance of radio science from the time of Marconi's earliest experiments. Mr Masters demonstrated his subject by slides, drawings, and by the aid of some excellent models, etc. At the conclusion of the address an impromptu discussion among the members took place upon phases of the subject which the lecturer had introduced. The chair was occupied by Mr L. Crooks, who moved a hearty vote of thanks to Mr Masters for his instructive discourse, which was carried by acclamation. A series of these lectures have been promised to the club by this gentleman, and should prove particularly interesting and instructive to all who wish to improve their knowledge of this modern and absorbing science.

1924 04

Masters gives a lecture on "Magnetic Induction as applied to Wireless" to the WIA Launceston

LAUNCESTON WIRELESS INSTITUTE. Last Tuesday at the invitation of the principals of the Launceston Technical School a number of the members of the institute visited the school for the purpose of seeing the students in the electrical division at work. The evening was enjoyed by all present. Last Thursday evening at the club rooms Mr A. H. Masters gave a very instructive address on "Magnetic Induction as applied to Wireless," to a full muster of club members. The lecture was thoroughly enjoyed by all present, and was interspersed with experiments. The president of the institute (Mr W. McCabe, of Clarence Point) left last Thursday for a three months holiday in Melbourne. He is an ardent experimenter and I think he has tried out every known circuit even to the "Neutrodyne Circuit." Mr McCabe dearly loves a good joke and his parting one to me before he left by the boat was "Why was the British Imperial Fleet while it was in Hobart like a Ford car." Being a new one to me I had to give it up. His answer was "Because the 'Hood' was the best part of it."

1924 09

In WIA Launceston annual report, Masters acknowledged for his earlier lecture, and thanked for donation

Progress of Wireless. LAUNCESTON BRANCH. REPORT OF YEAR'S OPERATIONS. The following is the report to be presented to members at the annual meeting of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia, to be held at the club rooms, St. John-street, on Thursday, at 8 p.m.:— Your committee have the honor to submit the first annual report of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia, for the year ending August 31, 1924. The following are the office-bearers for the year just closed:— Patron, his Worship the Mayor; president, Mr W. B. MacCabe; vice-presidents, Messrs A. W. Monds, R. L. Parker, Syd. Jackson, Capt. Barber, D. V. Allen, Senator J. D. Millen, J. V. Sullivan, C. W. Clarke, F. Gunn and A. H. Masters; chairman of council, Mr G. McElwee; hon. secretary. Mr C. Scott; hon. treasurer, Mr R. Hodges; council, Messrs Ferrall, Fitze, Allen, Crooks, Hodges, McElwee, Fysh, and the secretary; advisory committee, Messrs N. Symmons, N. Cave, Robinson, Smith, King and Findlay; official demonstrator, Mr M. Richardson; assistant, Mr A. C. Smith. Since the first general meeting held in connection with the formation of the branch on August 23, 1923, wireless has made rapid strides in this city, although the club has not advanced in comparison, owing to laxity of attendance of a number of members on club nights. During the year eleven committee meetings were held and the attendance of the members of the committee was good. Your club had the honor of being one of the first, if not the first club, in Australia to control a regatta by wireless. The Henley on the Tamar regatta held this year was one of the most successful events held in Launceston, and the whole of the races and positions of crews were controlled and announced by wireless. This part of the demonstration was in charge of Messrs H. and S. Company, Charles-street. Your club also held a demonstration on the grounds, when music transmitted by Messrs Wills and Company, Quadrant, was received on a powerful receiver and per medium of a large Magnavox loud speaker, with a special amplifier, was distributed over the whole of the grounds. The committee of the regatta have written your committee, thanking them for the very successful demonstration given by the club, and wishing the club success. Six demonstrations were held at the club rooms during the past twelve months, and were fairly well attended by the general public, and your committee have to thank Messrs H. and S. Company and Wills and Company for transmitting musical items for same. A buzzer practice class was started in the early part of this year, in charge of Mr Cave, but was discontinued owing to members not taking interest in the class and not turning up regularly to practice. There is outstanding the sum of £5 5s. due by members for subscriptions. The club are very thankful to the following gentlemen for donations to the club, viz.: Messrs R. L. Parker, H. C. L. Barber, C. N. Chittleborough, A. H. Masters, and Henley Regatta. At the present time there are 44 members on the roll of the club. The club is also very much indebted to the following gentlemen who kindly gave lectures and interesting demonstrations in electricity and wireless to members, viz.: Messrs A. H. Masters, A. Smith, and M. Richardson. In view of the new regulations making it exceedingly hard to obtain an experimental licence, your committee suggest that you should discuss at this meeting the advisability of continuing this branch of the Institute or otherwise.

Masters attends first annual meeting of WIA Launceston, all concerned at impact of new regulations, appointed chairman of council

Launceston Wireless Institute. FIRST ANNUAL MEETING. REORGANISATION PROPOSED. The question of carrying on or disbanding the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia was discussed last night at the first annual meeting, of that organisation, and it was finally decided after a long discussion to reorganise the club. The general apathy on the part of members was the principal argument raised in favor of disbanding, but it was considered on the other hand that if more publicity were given to the institution and the membership made more attractive, it would be as successful as other branches established throughout Australia. The president (Mr W. B. McCabe, M.I.C.E.) presided, and there was a fair attendance. Apologies were received from Mr Syd. Jackson, M.H.R., and Mr E. Ferrall. In moving the adoption of the annual report, which has already appeared in "The Daily Telegraph," the chairman said that there was a hint that the club was not in good health, and he would like to see it rejuvenated. Experimental licences would, he knew, be hard to obtain, but he considered that broadcasting reception enthusiasts would welcome assistance, and he considered for that reason the club should be kept going. Mr Cave seconded the motion, and said that in the latter part of the year there had been very small attendances of members. The work had been carried on by only two or three, and if that was the feeling it might as well be disbanded. Personally he would be sorry to see the club fall through. Mr Leeson supported the motion and said probably they had not gone on the proper lines, and possibly demonstrations were useless when members could have better demonstrations at home. He considered that the mainland plan of delivering lectures should be more attended to, as these would be most acceptable. During the last three or four months he had never been called to a meeting, and he was sure there were enough wireless enthusiasts to make the club successful. He thought there was something lacking somewhere. In all other parts the clubs were proving successful, and he did not see why Launceston should not follow suit. The report was then adopted. Mr Leeson moved: That the club continue in existence, but on different lines, and that a committee be appointed to carry on in the future. Seconded by Mr McCabe. Mr Scott moved as an amendment: That the club be disbanded and that meetings in future be held at different wireless men's rooms. Mr Leeson opposed this, and considered that the members and general public had not been informed of lectures, etc., or they would have attended. Mr Scott: That's rot: the meetings were advertised. This view was taken by other members. Mr Scott said that the idea which he had in mind was in practice in Hobart and proving most successful. ELECTION OF OFFICERS. The following officers were elected for the ensuing twelve months: President, Mr W. B. McCabe; vice-presidents, Senator J. D. Millen, Aldermen A. W. Monds and H. C. L. Barber, Messrs W. D. James, R. L. Parker, and S. Jackson, M.H.R.; chairman of council, Mr A. H. Masters; vice-chairman, Mr D. V. Allen; council, Messrs E. C. Sheldrick, G. J. McElwee, G. H. Farrow, P. O. Fysh, L. Bell; hon. secretary, Mr E. A. Leeson; hon. treasurer, Mr F. L. Von Stieglitz; hon. auditor, Mr L. Crooks; official demonstrator, Mr E. C. Sheldrick; trade advisory committee, Messrs N. Cave, A. C. Smith, N. Simmons, C. Scanlon, G. King. Considerable discussion then took place in regard to the future running of the club and the prospects of eliminating the "roar." The chairman gave a resume of the work of the deputation, which was received by the Mayor earlier in the day, and general satisfaction was expressed that the City Council were interested in the work of tracing the cause of the disturbance.

Masters, as chairman of Launceston WIA, meets with city electrical engineer to try to locate and eliminate the roar

THE WIRELESS ROAR. The newly appointed chairman of the council of the Launceston branch of the Australasian Wireless Institute (Mr A. Harold Masters) has not lost much time in using his combined knowledge of wireless and of electrical engineering to track down the cause of the "roar," for which Launceston has recently acquired an unenviable notoriety. Mr Masters not only believes he can locate the cause, but also show a remedy, and yesterday he discussed the matter with city electrical engineer (Mr R. J. Strike) and the secretary of the Wireless Club (Mr E. Leeson), with a view of having the idea tried out by co-operation between the local wireless experimenters and the city electrical engineering department. The secretary immediately decided to call a meeting of the members of the Wireless Club for Thursday evening next to hear Mr Masters' report, and to fully discuss the matter.

Masters publishes a detailed hypothesis on what is causing the Launceston roar, but practical investigations needed to support

ELIMINATING THE WIRELESS "ROAR." How can it be Accomplished? Suggested Solution of Problem. (By Mr A. H. Masters, chairman Wireless Club.) I have always held to the opinion that this trouble is undoubtedly due to high frequency oscillations set up by some condenser action in either the telephone, telegraph, or electric light or power distribution circuits in the city. The telegraph or telephone systems have not so far received much attention, although it is noteworthy that the trouble was first brought prominently before the public when the Commonwealth Postal Department set up an experimental plant at the Launceston Post Office, with a view to establishing wireless telephonic communication with the mainland, and which experiments had to be abandoned owing to what was then thought to be interference by local induction. It is as well also to note that these experiments were made before the introduction of the Government hydroelectric power into Launceston. I do not think the trouble will be found in the telegraph or telephone reticulation systems, although the matter is worthy of investigation as to the use of any special generating or other apparatus which has a strong condenser action or is likely to set up oscillation energy. The telegraph currents are set in motion by the Morse key, and interference from that quarter would be due to simple induction, and appear in Morse code. The use of the common battery system at the Launceston telephone exchange means that the flow and return circuits to each subscriber would neutralise any induction effect, but in any case direct current is used. A large number of condensers and an alternating current are used for the calling system, which collectively might produce some effect. In order to appreciate the difficulties with which the investigators of this "roar" are confronted, it must first be understood that sound is simply a vibration of the air, that the pitch or note increases with the rapidity of the vibration, and that the limit of human hearing is between the extremities of 16 and 30,000 vibrations to the second — or, as a wireless man will say, "audio-frequency." The periodicity of the alternating current used in Launceston is 50 to the second, and the characteristic hum heard near a transformer at work corresponds with the musical note (G sharp) caused by the air vibrating 50 times to the second. This, however, does not give much trouble to wireless operators, and can usually be tuned out. The "roar" is reported to vary from 200 up to 1000 meter wave lengths, or 1,500,000 down to 300,000 ether vibrations per second. How, then, does this result from a current alternating only 50 times a second? I am quite convinced that the trouble is caused by the underground cables, which run out star fashion from the distributing station in the centre of this city, each finishing with its sectional overhead reticulation in the city proper. The suburbs are supplied by direct overhead high tension (6600 volts) mains, with local transformers and secondary reticulation at 110-190 or 240-415 volts. I have never attached much importance to these overhead lines, nor to the method of earthing the neutral point of any of the transformers, but the undergrounding of the heavy secondary feeder cables in the centre of the city is a most likely cause of the trouble, as here we have all the conditions necessary for a condenser action and, therefore, oscillatory high frequency currents. The outer sheathing will act as one earth connected "coat" or plate of the condenser, the cables as the other coat and the insulation as the dielectric. Now when the load in the three-phase wires is balanced the resultant magnetic or static effort would be constant, and there would be no condenser action, and, therefore, no "roar," but if the current in any one of the phase circuits is out of balance with the others then the difference can be regarded for the time being as a single-phase 50-cycle alternating current, which would, in my opinion, set up condenser action varying in intensity with the amount of such out-of-balanced current. If so, then the overhead circuits connected to, or being a continuation of the underground cables, would act as transmitting aerials for true wireless energy. From this it will be evident that at any one time all these underground circuits may be perfectly balanced, and hence no "roar," or anyone or all may be carrying an unbalanced load, and as each circuit differs in length, and, therefore, in static or condenser capacity, each will be emitting its own roar note. This explanation, in my opinion, satisfactorily accounts for the very intermittent nature and varying tone of the "roar," also that it is most pronounced in the centre of the city, and that it lessens or disappears in rainy weather, when the moisture on the insulators of the overhead reticulation, while not seriously affecting the comparatively low tension and low frequency power currents, would cause a considerable leak or "corona" discharge to the high-frequency oscillating current. With the co-operation of the City Electrical Engineer, which has already been promised, and, I am sure, will be as readily given, the above theory could easily be proved by shutting off the whole town for only a few minutes, after due notice has been given to the electricity users of the city, then first bringing in the suburban and other overhead circuits — from which I would expect little or no effect — and afterwards the underground circuits in some prearranged order, the listeners-in being located in each suburb as well as the several sections covered by the city circuits. From the fact that the static capacity of these underground cables is very large as compared with the condensers used in wireless apparatus, I would expect to find the greater effect from the shorter cables, and little or none from the longer cables. If this is found to be so then we have the reason why in some cities, having only long underground cables, there is little or no trouble. This would also suggest the obvious remedy by adding condensers to our shorter cables, and so increase their electrostatic capacity so as to place the wave length of the transmitted energy outside the range of local wireless use, or at least to load them up to equal capacities so that all will produce a common note at such wave lengths as to be easily avoided or tuned out.

City Electrical Engineers explains difficulty in switch off all Launceston electrical power, Masters calls a further meeting

"LOCATING THE ROAR." Mr. Masters' Theory. CITY WILL GIVE ALL HELP. DIFFICULTY OF SHUTTING POWER OFF. The rapid advance made in Launceston in the use of electricity was instanced yesterday by the City Electrical Engineer (Mr. R. J. Strike, who said that it would only be with difficulty that the electric power for the city could be cut off, even for a short period, without causing considerable inconvenience. When it is found to be possible, however, Mr. Strike intends to abide by his promise to the Wireless Club, and shut off all current in order to test out Mr. A. H. Masters' theory that the "roar" will be discovered in the underground circuits during the process of "bringing in" the city again. Mr. Strike was not prepared to express an opinion on Mr. Masters' theory, as he had not studied it. He was keen, however, he said, to get to the bottom of the trouble wireless enthusiasts were experiencing, and would assist them in every way possible. He could not say just when it would be convenient to cut off power. Extensive enquiries would have to be made to ensure that few if any users would be placed in difficulties by the experiment. A few years ago the power was shut off almost every Sunday morning to give the engineers an opportunity to attend to any cleaning up or readjustments necessary, but with the increasing use of electricity it was a matter of extreme difficulty now to cut off at all. A special meeting of all interested in wireless in Launceston has been convened by the chairman of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia, to be held in the club rooms, St. John-street, this evening. Mr. A. H. Masters will preside.

WIA Launceston discuss means of identifying the source of the roar

Tracking the Wireless "Roar." Wireless Institute Make First Move Initial Test on Sunday Night. With the object of coming to some definite working arrangement in connection with the endeavor to locate the origin of the wireless "roar" a special meeting of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia was held at the club room, St. John-street, last night. Mr. A. H. Masters presided over a fair attendance which included the city electrical engineer, Mr. R. J. Strike. Apologies for non-attendance were received from Messrs. A. Graham, C. Scott, N. Cave and A. Smith and Hayward. Dr. McClinton and Messrs. Flounders and J. Flounders were elected new members of the club. The chairman outlined his own personal theory regarding the roar as published in "The Daily Telegraph" on Tuesday last. He said that he was led to the belief that the "roar" was worst in the centre of the city and he thought that by close co-operation between members of the Institute and the Council authorities that the solution would be arrived at. Systematic data was absolutely necessary for work. The data already collected was of a very contradictory nature as some experimenters were positive that the disturbance was worst in the centre of the city while others considered that this was so on the outskirts. As it had been heard for a considerable distance down the river he thought that it might be that the "roar" eminated from the centre of the city and the river valley, acting as a rejector, projected the disturbance as a beam down the river. He had read Mr. G. McElwee's theory as published in the "Daily Telegraph" on Saturday last and possibly, as that gentleman had suggested, the disturbance might cease with the changing over of the electric supply on to the higher voltage, and the alteration of the transformer windings from "Star" to "Delta" formation. His theory and Mr. McElwee's differed in some respects, mainly in the earthing of the neutral point of the "Star" wound transformers, but he did not wish it to be thought that there was any attempt on either his or Mr. McElwee's part to set up opposite theories. They were both keenly interested in the subject and would do their utmost to solve the problem. He was glad to see Mr. Strike present at the meeting as that gentleman had promised to co-operate in every way possible to eliminate the trouble. Mr. Strike had agreed to shut down the whole system at a stated time if reputable experimenters would undertake to log the results. He (the speaker) suggested that if the plant were shut down at a certain hour and the circuits switched on again separately at 10 seconds intervals that the particular circuit at fault might then be determined. There was, however, considerable work to be first carried out before the Council could be approached as to shutting down. A long discussion then took place as regards the first test to be carried out and it was finally decided that on Sunday night next experimenters living in different quarters of the town would listen in for five minutes at 7, 8 and 9 o'clock on 200, 350 and 1100 metres wave length respectively. The Institute would arrange for Mr. Arthur Smith of High-street to broadcast the zero hour on 200 metres in order that the test might be uniform. The several experimenters would log the results and lodge the data with the secretary and a meeting would then be called to consider the logs. It was decided that in future the club room would be open from 12 noon to 2 p.m. every day for the use of members and wireless literature would be placed at their disposal.

1924 10

Launceston Radio Experimenters' Club formed in response to beaurocracy in WIA Launceston

NEW WIRELESS CLUB FOR LAUNCESTON. A well attended meeting of radio experimenters was held on Thursday evening to discuss the matter of forming an Experimenter's Club for conducting series of experiments in wireless and also making a combined effort to trace the "roar." There was a good attendance of experimenters, those present being: Messrs. P. O. Fysh, C. Scott, L. Crooks, Reynolds, E. Ferrall, R. Ferrall, N. Cave, H. Graham, E. Sheldrick, N. Simmons and W. Turner. It was proposed by Mr H. Graham, and seconded by Mr Reynolds that an Experimenter's Radio Club be formed to be called "The Launceston Radio Experimenter's Club," which was carried unanimously. The following officers were elected: President and chairman, Mr P. Oakley Fysh; secretary, Mr Cecil Scott; treasurer, Mr Len Crooks; Morse instructor, Mr W. Turner. It was decided to hold meeting's every Thursday night at each member's room, one hour to be devoted to Morse code and two hours experimenting and discussion. The following members were elected as foundation members: Messrs. P. O. Fysh, C. Scott, L. Crooks, E. Ferrall, R. Ferrall, N. Cave, H. Graham, E. Sheldrick, N. Simmons, A. Smith, Scanlon, G. King and Flounders. Intending new members must make application and satisfy the club that he is a genuine experimenter and not a "listener-in." The first meeting will be held at Mr Graham's residence in Garfield-street at 8 p.m. on Thursday the 30th inst. The first business to be discussed will be the construction of a special receiving apparatus for tests in connection with an endeavor to trace the "roar." Mr L. Crooks read an interesting article on an interference radio experimenters encountered in the town of Augusta in America, which seems to fit in exactly with the annoying conditions now existing in Launceston. The article is published elsewhere, and experiments' are being conducted here on similar lines to those undertaken in Augusta. All the above gentlemen are members of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia, but are still remaining members of that institution, and will help it along as much as possible. When a club night of the institute falls on the same night as that of the new club, the whole of the members will attend the institute and instruct those members present in anything in which they are in doubt. The members of the Radio Experimenter's Club, will also be available to assist novices at wireless and teach them how to tune and control their receiving sets as not to cause interference to other listeners-in in Launceston.

1924 11

Masters chairs the monthly meeting of the WIA Launceston & is instructed to see the City Electrical Engineer

Wireless Institute. LAUNCESTON BRANCH. The usual monthly meeting of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia was held in the club rooms, St. John-street, on Tuesday evening. There were present Messrs. A. H. Masters (in the chair), P. O. Fysh, C. Scott, Smith, N. Findlay, Flounders, N. Simmonds, Barber, Graham, Leeson, Jebb, Allen, Sheldrick, and Crooks. Apologies wen received from Messrs. Cave and Ferrall. Correspondence from the Wireless Institute was received, also rules and regulations. Letters were received from the secretary of the newly formed Launceston Experimenters' Club expressing a friendly feeling to the institute and assuring the meeting that the experimenters would arrange to come to the club every third Thursday, and would postpone their own meeting on such nights as the institute held meetings. The resignation of Mr. von Stieglitz as treasurer was received with regret, and Mr. D. V. Allen was appointed in his place. Subscriptions to the amount of £3 were received and accounts amounting to £8 19s 9d were passed for payment. , Mr. P. O. Fysh moved, and it was carried: "That the executive be instructed to draw up rules and regulations on similar lines to the Victorian and New South Wales Division for presentation to next meeting. It was agreed that the secretary be instructed to write to the City Electrical Engineer and ask that the power be cut off early on Sunday morning so that a definite test can be made for a few minutes with the power off. The chairman (Mr. Masters) was instructed to see Mr. Strike regarding the matter, and bring under his notice the fact that when the power failed through the storm recently Messrs. Fysh (Mary-street), Flounders (Patterson-street), and Graham (Garfield-street) were listening in, and had experienced the "roar" all the evening. Immediately the light failed they went back to their sets and listened in, and there was no "roar." The Experimenters' Club are now engaged in extensive experiments, and in the course of a week or so will have something to report. The matter of the Tasmanian Council was left in abeyance pending a reply from Colonel Olden. The meeting closed at 10 p.m. Since the above meeting the chairman and secretary waited on the engineer (Mr. Strike), and he asks that all experimenters should "listen in" next Sunday, the 30th inst., between 6.30 a.m. and 7.30 a.m., and report in writing to the secretary, and in all probability the official test with the power cut off will take place on the following Sunday.

1924 12

Masters finally succeeds in arranging a Launceston power cut to help locate the roar

News of the Hour. A CHANCE FOR WIRELESS EXPERIMENTERS. Mr A. H. Masters, president of the Wireless Institute of Australia (Launceston branch), and the secretary (Mr E. Leeson) recently waited upon the City Electrical Engineer (Mr R. J. Strike) with reference to having the supply of electricity cut off in the city for part of Sunday. The secretary yesterday received advice that between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. tomorrow the electricity supply from the Government Hydro-Electric Department will be cut off and the supply taken from the Corporation Power Department. During the time stated there will be no supply to the following parts of the city and suburbs: Trevallyn, South Launceston, King's Meadows, Lindsay-street to railway, Inveresk from King's Wharf. Wireless experimenters are requested to listen in for the "roar" and report to the secretary the result.

Masters involved in the inter-club squabbles

WIRELESS INSTITUTE. A meeting of the executive committee of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia was held in the club room on Thursday night, the president (Mr A. H. Masters) presiding. A large amount of routine business was dealt with, and correspondence was received relative to the formation of a Tasmanian Wireless Council, and setting out the proposed personnel of the administrative committee. It was decided to interview the president of the Hobart branch of the institute (Col. Oldham) when in Launceston next week.

1925

1925 02

Masters writes an article for the Launceston Examiner on hydro-electric power promoting its use in northern Tasmania

HYDRO-ELECTRIC POWER. DEVELOPMENT IN THE NORTH. (By A. Harold Master.) Tasmania is the most fortunate of the states of the Commonwealth in the possession of a large centrally situated hydro-electric scheme. From it power can be supplied in any direction to all parts of the island within an average radius of only about 60 miles. The scheme belongs to the people. Its ultimate success depends on the extent to which the otherwise waste energy transformed into electric power is used by the people. Complaints are sometimes heard that Hobart and the South are reaping the principal benefits. This is undoubtedly true. It is also true that the southerners schemed, worked, and pushed for it. In all fairness it must be admitted that they deserve what benefits and prosperity they now enjoy from this source. What are we doing in the North? We must also candidly admit that no power has yet been taken in the North in the spirit of enterprise or business push, but rather as a matter at urgent necessity for more power. Launceston is following up an ever increasing natural demand for power, and certainly not leading it. Otherwise the first block of power would long since have been filled, and the next block, at a lower rate, contracted for. Admittedly Launceston is at present handicapped with the change over to the higher voltage, and when this is completed a good opportunity will present itself to put on a special salesman (possibly by the promotion of a present employee who should first be sent round the world to study the latest methods in other countries), who, I am sure, could more than justify his appointment in the increase of power consumption, especially by cooking and other domestic appliances. The North-West Coast towns are now falling into line, and will soon reap the benefits of so doing, in spite of having to capitalise debts on former local undertakings. For some time past attempts have been made to line up the municipalities of Evandale, Longford, Westbury, and Deloraine, but owing to the peculiarly short-sighted attitude of a section of the Longford Council the change over is being persistently delayed. From my own personal knowledge a very large majority of the people are in favour of the big scheme. This is proved by a former poll having been carried decisively in favour. PROGRESS OR STAGNATION? Another poll of local ratepayers is to be taken tomorrow. The main point at issue is not so much a question of which scheme will suit immediate requirements, but which gives the better prospects of development and success in the future. In fact, I regard the poll of Thursday as deciding between future progress on one side and stagnation on the other. The local ratepayers would do well to carefully consider the following facts before going to the poll. With the large national scheme of hydro-electric supply there will be absolutely no running machinery, and therefore only nominal attention, and much smaller depreciation for all time. This holds good even for any desired increase in power in the future. On the other side they are asked to spend more money in again patching up old turbines, which have proved themselves to be quite unsuitable for the purpose. A considerable sum has already been spent in patching them up, and as the 60 horsepower dynamo has to be kept belting away at full speed for the 24 hours of each day (or 8760 hours a year), whether it is wanted, or not (and for more than half this time it is hardly doing any work at all), it follows that wear and tear, depreciation, and attendance will have to go on for all time (to say nothing of the liability to flood and complete stoppage of supply, cost of upkeep of water race, dam, etc.). A second alternative is then offered which makes things still worse. This is, in addition to the turbine or turbines above mentioned to place a 50 horsepower oil engine and another dynamo in the old power house on the town — which of course still further increases wear and tear, depreciation, cost of fuel, oil, and attendance, to say nothing of the eventual replacement by the Government Hydro-Electric scheme in the near future. The power to be obtained from the big scheme is only limited by the size of the mains and the capacity of the transformer, and if the first transformer has to be replaced by a larger one later on it can still be used by the department or the power board for some other town, without any loss beyond the cost of making the exchange. On the other hand the supply of power would be limited to the full power of the proposed oil engine (which during times of flood or repairs to the turbine would be only 50 horsepower), and at other times the additional variable and uncertain power to be derived from the turbine set. I am absolutely certain that with proper business push a peak load of well over the 50 horsepower can be obtained from the town of Longford itself within three months from the establishment of a proper service. During flood time what then? It would either mean a poor light or still another engine and another dynamo. Expansion into the surrounding districts is only limited, in the big scheme, by the boundaries of the municipality. All along lines requiring high tension would of course be dealt with by the power board. And the sooner this power board is appointed the better it will be for Longford, as well as the neighbouring municipalities. The little scheme will be direct current and therefore not suitable for transmitting to any distance. In fact, it could not supply Perth, even if the power was there to do it. There is another serious disadvantage in the retention of the present scheme even if increased in power, and that is the lack of standardisation. All direct current motor or meters will have to be scrapped if the hydro current is required in the future. Then why not fall in line at once with the standard being adopted all over Tasmania before any more motors, etc., are purchased?

Masters absent from WIA Launceston meeting, but elected to special inter-club committee to investigate the roar

CURRENT TOPICS. . . . WIRELESS INSTITUTE. The monthly meeting of the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia was held last night at the institute rooms. Those present were Messrs. Allen, Crooks, Scott, Graham, Flounders, Findlay, and Jebb. In the absence of Mr. A. H. Masters, Mr. Allen was elected to take the chair. The chairman introduced Colonel Olden, the chairman of the Tasmanian division of the Wireless Institute of Australia, who addressed the meeting at length, explaining the position with regard to the Tasmanian Wireless Institute, and suggested that a council be formed with representatives from the Hobart and Launceston branches of the Wireless Institute, with the addition of representatives from the radio clubs. After his address it was moved by Mr. Crooks, seconded by Mr. Flounders, and carried — "That the Tasmanian Wireless executive council consist of 11 members, the Hobart institute to provide four members, Hobart Radio Club two members, Launceston institute three members, and the Launceston Experimenters' Club two members, with the addition that in the event of other clubs being formed in any part of the island they were allowed to send one representative for every 20 members. Messrs. A. H. Masters, E. Leeson, and N. Findlay were elected members of the council to represent the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute, and Messrs. P. O. Fysh and H. Graham to represent the Launceston experimenters. A letter was received from Mr. A. H. Masters suggesting that a special investigation committee be formed to go thoroughly into the matter of the "roar." The special committee to comprise two members of the Wireless Institute, two members of the Experimenters' Club, the electrical instructor of the Launceston Technical College, and Mr. G. McElwee, the assistant electrical engineer. This suggestion was adopted, and Messrs. P. O. Fysh, A. Smith, A. Masters and F. Flounders were elected to form this committee, with Mr. P. O. Fysh as convener. The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to Colonel Olden for coming from Hobart to address the meeting, and to Mr. Allen for acting as chairman.

1925 08

Masters attempts to resuscitate WIA Launceston

THE WIRELESS INSTITUTE. A determined attempt is to be made to resuscitate the Launceston branch of the Wireless Institute, and a meeting has been called for Friday, September 4, at 8 p.m. at Mr. A. H. Master's office in Cameron-street, when it is hoped that the institute will be put on sound business lines.

1925 09

Death Notice for Masters' father Joseph Masters

DEATHS. . . . MASTERS.— On September 1, 1925, at his late residence, Upper Hawthorn, Melbourne, Rev. Joseph Masters, M.A., aged 80 years.

Obituary for Masters' father Joseph Masters, Masters attends funeral

PERSONAL. . . . Rev. Joseph Masters, M.A., who died in Melbourne this week, was formerly Director of Education in Tasmania. He was born at Islington, London, in 1845, and came out to Melbourne with his parents in 1849. He received his early education in the Victorian capital, and in 1863 was appointed second master in a public school at Sandhurst. Two years later he proceeded to the Congregational College, Melbourne, and to the Melbourne University, where he subsequently took the degree of M.A. After talking his degree he was ordained a minister of the Congregational Church at Stawell, and had charge of the church there for two years. The late Mr. Masters was then invited to Tasmania as Congregational minister at Formby (now West Devonport), the Don, the Forth, Ulverstone, and Gawler. At the end of two years he was appointed principal of the Camden College School, Sydney. In 1876 he accepted an offer of the pastorate of the Congregational Church at Albury, N.S.W. While there Mr. Masters was instrumental in establishing the Albury High School. His health falling under heavy strain, in May, 1887, he applied for and received the position of Inspector of Schools in Northern Tasmania. He was subsequently appointed Director of Education, and occupied this position until the arrival of Mr. Neale from South Australia. He then became Secretary for Education, and remained in this office for several years until he reached the retiring age of 73 years. Shortly after his retirement he returned to Victoria, and took up church work on behalf of the Congregational Church. Mr. A. Harold Masters, architect, of Launceston, and Mr. W. E. Masters, solicitor, of Messrs. Tinning, Propsting, and Masters, of Hobart, are sons. Mr. A. H. Masters left for Melbourne on Tuesday to attend the funeral.

As previous, some minor differences

MEN AND WOMEN. . . . The Rev. Joseph Masters, M.A., who died in Melbourne during the week, was formerly Director of Education in Tasmania. He was born at Islington, London, in 1845, and came to Australia in 1849. He received his early education in the Victorian capital and in 1863 was appointed second master in a public school at Sandhurst. Two years later he proceeded to the Congregational College, Melbourne, and to the Melbourne University, where he subsequently took the degree of M.A. After taking his degree he was ordained a minister of the Congregational Church at Stawell, and had charge of the church there for two years. The late Mr. Masters was then invited to Tasmania as Congregational minister at Formby (now West Devonport), the Don, the Forth, Ulverstone, and Gawler. At the end of two years he was appointed Principal of the Camden College School, Sydney. In 1876 he accepted an offer of the pastorate of the Congregational Church at Albury, N.S.W. While there Mr. Masters was instrumental in establishing the Albury High School. His health failing under heavy strain in May, 1887, he applied for and received the position of Inspector of Schools in Northern Tasmania. He was subsequently appointed Director of Education, and occupied this position until the arrival of Mr. Neale from South Australia. He then became Secretary for Education, and remained in this office for several years until he reached the retiring age of 73 years. Shortly after his retirement he returned to Victoria, and took up church work on behalf of the Congregational Church. Mr. A. Harold Masters, architect, of Launceston, and Mr. W. E. Masters, solicitor, of Messrs. Tinning, Propsting, and Masters, of Hobart, are sons. Mr. A. H. Masters left for Melbourne on Tuesday to attend the funeral.

Meeting of WIA Tas Div held at Masters office, reorganised along national lines, Masters elected president

THE WIRELESS INSTITUTE OF AUSTRALIA. TASMANIAN DIVISION. A meeting of the Wireless Institute of Australia, Tasmanian Division, was held at the office of Mr. A. H. Masters, 66 Cameron-street, for the purpose of considering the formation of an incorporated division that would fall into line with the decisions of the conference recently held at Perth, W.A. It was unanimously decided to reorganise the division and adopt the memorandum and articles of association as recommended by the conference, with slight modifications to suit the local conditions. The election of officers was then proceeded with, and resulted in the election of Mr. W. B. McCabe, M. Inst. C.E., as patron; Mr. Harold Masters, president; Mr. P. O. Fysh, secretary; Mr. H. Graham, treasurer and Messrs. C. Scott and L. J. Crooks members of the council. It was decided to leave two seats vacant on the council in order to provide for the representation of Hobart. Under the new scheme the membership is divided into three grades as follows: (1) Members, bona-fide experimenters, or those interested in the scientific study of wireless communication, either professionally or otherwise, who shall have attained standard equivalent to that necessary for an amateur operator's certificate. The council shall have power to investigate intending members' qualifications (also on being raised from one grade to another), and its decision shall be final. (2) Associate Members. Those interested in the scientific study of wireless communication not eligible for full membership and not under 15 years of age. Associate members shall have power to vote at meetings, but shall not be eligible to hold office in the institute. (3) Student Members: Those interested in the scientific study of wireless communication not eligible for full membership or associate membership, there to be no age restriction. Student members shall have no power to vote at any meetings nor shall they be eligible to hold office in the institute. The membership fees were fixed as follows: Members, £1 1s per annum; associate members, 10s 6d per annum; student members, 5s per annum. The question of incorporating the division under the Companies Act was discussed, and it was decided to apply for registration under that Act so as to put the division on the same footing as the other divisions in the other States. Mr. Fysh, the Tasmanian delegate to the recent Perth Conference, spoke regarding the outlook for the division here, and hoped that the wireless people of Launceston would realise the honor of being institute members. They would deem it an honor to belong to the American Radio Relay League. Well, why not the Wireless Institute of Australia which in the future would be on the same footing and enjoy the same privileges as the American body. He appealed to all experimenters to stand solidly behind the institute which was the mouthpiece of the amateur throughout Australia. When the A.R.R.L. was being formed in America, some difficulty was experienced in getting experimenters to see the use of an amateur organisation, and Hiram P. Maxim, their president, said to them: "Look here gang, if you don't hang together we'll hang separately." That applies equally well to the Wireless Institute of Australia. If we are to have any rights or privileges we must go for them as a united body, not as a lot of separate individuals. We must speak with one voice, one voice for the whole of the amateur movement in Australia, which is embodied in the Wireless Institute. So I appeal to every amateur in Tasmania to join up with the Tasmanian Division and show the Federal Executive that we are on the map as far as radio is concerned. The minutes or the Perth conference were then dealt with, and Mr. Fysh gave a brief resume of the decisions which were unanimously approved. It was decided to leave the matter of the next meeting until the secretary had had time to get the incorporation finalised. Intending members are advised to get into touch with the secretary at 181 Charles-street, Launceston, and enquiries will be promptly dealt with.

Further obituary for Masters' father Joseph Masters, focus on his educational career in Tasmania

MEN AND WOMEN. Personal "Pars" and Points. . . . Referring to the death of Rev. Joseph Masters, the "Education Record" for September says:—"To the younger members of the service the announcement will scarcely occasion more than a passing thought. In the case of the older teachers it will bring to remembrance a very kindly and courteous gentleman, who at one time was intimately associated with them in their professional labors, and whose passing will awaken a feeling of deep regret. Mr. Masters first joined the Education Department in 1887, previously to which he had filled the pulpit of the Congregational Church at the Don. A few months later his position as inspector of .schools was temporarily abolished, and he was appointed to the school at Deloraine, where he remained until 1889. He was then reappointed inspector of the northern district, to become Director in 1901. As one result of the changes in the administration of the Education Department in 1904, he became secretary in 1905, and in this capacity he remained at the Education Office until his retirement in 1918. A student, rather than a man of affairs, but always presenting an example of his high-mindedness and conscientiousness of purpose, the late Mr. Masters, by his kindly and gentle disposition, endeared himself to a host of friends, and there will be a widespread regret that, although he had passed the allotted span he should have joined the great majority.

1925 10

Launceston Radio Experimenters' Club seen to be the driving force behind the WIA Tas reorganisation, Masters attends annual meeting and responds to toast

The RADIO WORLD. WEEKLY WIRELESS JOTTINGS. CONDUCTED BY "GRID LEAK." . . . LAUNCESTON RADIO EXPERIMENTERS' CLUB. The first annual meeting and dinner of the above club was held last Thursday evening at the Launceston Hotel, those present being Messrs. P. O. Fysh, C. Scott, L. J. Crooks, H. Graham, E. Sheldrick, W. Turner, A. Flounders, N. Cave, A. H. Masters, W. B. McCabe, W. Gellie, G. McElwee and A. C. Smith. The following is the report that was submitted to the meeting. FORMATION. A meeting was held on October 23, 1924, for the purpose of considering the formation of a wireless experimenters' club in Launceston, as distinct from the Wireless Institute, which was then practically dead. It was proposed at that meeting by Mr. H. Graham and seconded by Mr. R. Reynolds that a club be formed and to be known as the Launceston Radio Experimenters' Club. This was carried unanimously. OFFICE BEARERS. The following office-bearers were then elected for the twelve months just ended: Patron, W. B. McCabe, M. Inst. C.E.; president and chairman, P. O. Fysh; hon. secretary, C. S. Scott; treasurer, L. J. Crooks; hon. instructor, Mr. W. Turner. MEMBERS. The following gentlemen were elected foundation members of the club: Messrs. P. O. Fysh, R. Reynolds, E. Ferrall, R. Ferrall, N. Cave, H. Graham, L. J. Crooks, E. Sheldrick, C. Scott, N. Symmons, A. Smith, W. Scanlon, G. King, K. Jebb, and A. Flounders. RESIGNATIONS. During the year the following members resigned from the club for various reason: Messrs. Reynolds, Ferrall, Ferrall, Symmons, Smith, Scanlon, King and Jebb. THE ROAR. During the year several tests were made with an endeavor to locate and eradicate the roar but were not of much avail. MEETINGS. During the past year 39 weekly meetings were held the attendance of members being as follows: C. Scott, 36; L. J. Crooks, 34; P. O. Fysh, 32: W. Turner, 29; A. Flounders, 29; H. Graham, 24; E. Sheldrick, 23; and N. Cave, 18. EXPERIMENTS. Since the inauguration of the club it has shown its usefulness by mutual benefit gained by the members from the weekly discussions which take place every Thursday evening in the different members shacks. Although practical experiments have been rather limited in the club it is hoped in future to carry out more experimental work at the meetings. WIRELESS INSTITUTE. The club has taken upon its shoulders to reorganise the Tasmanian division of the Wireless Institute of Australia which is now an accomplished fact and Tasmania has now its own division representing the experimental wireless interest throughout the State. The headquarters of the division are in Launceston, and it is hoped that as many experimenters as are able will join up with the Institute and place the Tasmanian division in a conspicuous position on the radio map of Australia. FINANCIAL POSITION. The finances of the club are in a very sound position which is very gratifying. HENLEY REGATTA. The Henley regatta held during the year at Royal Park was a great success, the races and various other matters were controlled by wireless. The demonstration by the members of the club was most successful and Launceston has had the honor of being one of the very few towns in Australia to have their regatta controlled by wireless. MORSE INSTRUCTION. Under the able tuition of the club's hon. instructor, Mr. W. Turner, five members of the club were successful in obtaining their amateur operator's certificate. The club owes him a deep debt of gratitude for his patience and excellent instruction in transmission and reception of the Morse code, and the members wish to acknowledge their indebtedness to him for the hours of work he put in. The annual report was proposed by Mr. P. O. Fysh and supported by Mr. A. Flounders and was carried unanimously. Mr. W. B. McCabe proposed the health of the visitors in a happy little speech characteristic of him and was responded to by Mr. G. McElwee who in the course of his remarks stated that the council would do all that they could to help the experimenters in any way whatever they may suggest in connection with the roar. The following office bearers for the ensuing year were then elected: Patron, Mr. W. B. McCabe, M. Inst. C.E.; president and chairman, Mr. L. J. Crooks; hon. secretary, Mr. A. Flounders; hon. treasurer, Mr. N. Cave; hon. instructor, Mr. W. Turner (re-elected). Mr. P. O. Fysh proposed the toast of the Wireless Institute of Australia and outlined the work that had been done in Tasmania in connection with the reorganisation of same. Mr. Masters, chairman of the Tasmanian division of the Wireless Institute, responded. The toast of the wireless trade was proposed by Mr. A. Flounders who was ably supported by Messrs. N. Cave and H. Graham. During the evening Mr. Fysh gave a very interesting and full description of his recent trip to Perth, W.A., connection with the annual wireless conference held there last month which was much enjoyed and appreciated by those present. Later Mr. Fysh in a neat speech said that he had a very pleasing little function to perform. The members of the club felt that they must show their appreciation in some way for the trouble that the club's instructor, Mr. Turner, had taken with them and had much pleasure in presenting him with a full and complete set of parts necessary for building a wireless set. Mr. Turner who was agreeably surprised, suitably responded.

1925 11

Masters hosts a general meeting of WIA Tas at his office

The RADIO WORLD. WEEKLY WIRELESS JOTTINGS. Conducted BY "GRID LEAK." . . . THE WIRELESS INSTITUTE. An ordinary general meeting, of the Tasmanian division of the Wire-less Institute of Australia was held at the office of Mr. Harold Masters last Thursday evening when a full muster of members attended. A good deal of business was gone through. It is rumored that a firm in Hobart is in the near future going to publish a wireless magazine for Tasmania concerning Tasmanian notes and other things of interest to the experimenter and others generally in Tasmania. The idea is a good one and I hope that it is gone on with. Why should not Tasmania have its own wireless magazine as well as the other States?

1926

1926 03

Masters to give a lecture on ether waves to the Tasmanian branch of the Australian Listeners' League

LISTENERS' LEAGUE. The Tasmanian branch of the Australian Listeners' League which has its headquarters at the Y.M.C.A., Brisbane-street, holds its meetings regularly on alternate Wednesdays when demonstrations or lectures are given with the object of helping those who are more or less uninitiated into the deeper mysteries of radio science. The League consists chiefly of those who want to listen to the various stations broadcasting in the Commonwealth, and naturally they are anxious to do all that is possible to prevent interruptions which spoil reception of the programmes. Mr. A. H. Masters, president of the Wireless Institute, is giving a lecture at the meeting this week on ether waves which should be of interest to all who listen in.

1926 06

Masters to give a lecture on electricity to the WIA Tas

THE RADIO WORLD. WEEKLY WIRELESS JOTTINGS. CONDUCTED BY "WAVE-TRAP." . . . Owing to the trans-Pacific tests being in operation during the week local clubs and associations have not held their usual meeting the members being otherwise engaged. The Wireless Institute will however meet on Thursday night next when it is hoped that the president (Mr. A. H. Masters) will demonstrate the fundamental principles of electricity.

Masters chairman of committee for Launceston wireless exhibition

WIRELESS EXHIBITION. Yesterday morning a deputation from the committee of control of the Wireless and Electrical Exhibition, which is to be held on July 28, 29, and 30th next, was received by his Worship the Mayor (Alderman A. A. Evans). The deputation placed before his Worship the objects of the exhibition, and asked that the City Council should support it to the fullest possible extent. It was pointed out that the exhibition was being held with a view to popularising the use of electric lighting and power for domestic purposes, and that the City Council, being the sellers of this commodity were very directly interested in any attempt to increase its use. It was suggested that they should try to meet the committee of control in every possible way by supplying lighting and power current free to the exhibition, and by endeavoring to make as large a reduction in the rental of the hall as possible. His Worship's attention was drawn to the fact that the exhibitors were not interested in the exhibition from a profit making point of view, and would be under considerable expense in erecting their stalls and arranging their exhibits. It was stated also, that while the exhibitors might possibly benefit from increased business, this in turn, would mean increased income for the electric power department of the City Council. In reply his Worship said that he was fully in accord with the objects of the exhibition, and would do his utmost to get the Council to accede to the requests of the deputation. Those forming the deputation were Messrs. A. H. Masters (chairman of the committee), R. Medhurst (Medhurst and Son), A. McAulay (United Distributors Ltd.), and P. O. Fysh, secretary.

1926 07

Masters speaks at a farewell to 7BC Cave

WIRELESS INSTITUTE. The members of the Wireless Institute assembled at the Virginia on Friday evening to farewell one of the members, Mr. Cave, of 7BC fame, who is leaving for England during the week. Messrs. A. H. Masters and P. O. Fysh spoke, saying how sorry the wireless community of Launceston was to lose such a popular member. Mr. Cave expressed his regret at leaving the other "hams," but hoped to get QSO with them when he got settled in England as a full blown "G." Mr. Masters, on behalf of the institute, presented Mr. Cave with a model of a valve in its socket to be used as a paper weight, as a reminder of his "ham" days in Launceston. The monthly meeting of the institute will be held at the electrical engineering department of the Technical College on Thursday, July 1, at 8 p.m. A lecture will be given by Mr. Jebb on the measurement of resistance. It is hoped that a full attendance will be obtained.

Masters efforts as committee chair lead to a fine Electrical Exhibition

DAZZLING SHOW Modern Home Comforts WHAT THERE IS TO SEE. Blessings on Science! When the earth seemed old, When Faith grew doting and the reason cold, 'Twas she discovered that the world was young, And taught a language to its lisping tongue; 'Twas she disclosed a future to its view, And made old knowledge pale before the new. — Charles McKay Thousands of pounds' worth of wireless and electrical appliances, shining richly under a brilliant blaze of light, 17 elaborately arranged stalls, wonderful instruments that despatch through or take from the ether messages that travel great distances in a flash, a grand array of labour-saving and pleasure-giving electrical equipment for the home that amazes — that is a first impression of Launceston's great exhibition. The thoroughness that has characterised the preparations for the show and has made heavy demand upon the time of both the organising committee and the exhibitors is reflected in the result a scene that is impressive in the extreme. What tremendous strides wireless and electricity have made! FINE WIRELESS DISPLAY. The wireless enthusiast is transported into his Elysian fields the instant he enters the doors of the hall. Every type of broadcast receiver is there, from the simple crystal set to the "Rolls Royce of Radio," the superheterodyne, with its great advantage of selectivity as its chief feature. Where broadcasting stations in close proximity are operating the owner of a superheterodyne is able to exercise a choice and select whichever programme he prefers without interruption from other stations. Then there are loud speakers of every style and description, and component parts enough to gladden the heart of every enthusiastic home constructor. The portable set is on show, and seems destined to win widespread popularity. Elegant small cabinets in beautifully polished timber contain elaborate mechanism of wireless sets, set in operation by some very simple device. These sets impress women particularly because of their possibilities as articles of furniture. The whole array is fascinating. There was evidence last night of the need for the more rigid observance of the timetable, so as to minimise interference by other sections of the exhibition with the wireless demonstrations. . . . AMATEUR WORK AND PRIZES. A feature of the exhibition is the amateur show, arranged by the Wireless Institute to demonstrate the high standard attained by amateurs in their constructional work. All manner of sets are on view, both receiving and transmitting, from broadcast receivers to specially constructed shortwave telepathy sets, and both high and low power transmitters. In connection with this exhibit competitions were conducted, and the prize winners were as follow:— Best shortwave low-power transmitter — Mr. C. Scott. Best shortwave low-loss receiver — Mr. L. J. Crooks. Best two valve broadcast receiver costing not more than £5 — Mr. H. Cooper. The judges (Messrs. A. Smith and P. Fysh) took into consideration workmanship, design, and working conditions. Mr. Crooks' winning set was particularly interesting as it was constructed on plate glass. An interesting collection of war-time transmitters and receivers of the kind used in the trenches and in aeroplanes during the war is earning considerable attention. TECHNICAL COLLEGE CORNER. The Technical College stand is the Mecea of all budding young engineers, because, although it has not been possible to bring big machinery from the college, there is on the stall a most interesting collection of electrical engineers' tools and other technical electrical mechanisms and appliances, including the Giessler tubes (from which X-rays come), Weinshurst frictional machines for generating electricity, machines which enable you to stand and watch electricity grow, small induction coils (if you want to get an electric shock), and the Spenser delineascope, worked by 1000-watt special filament lamp, for lantern lectures, which not only throws slides on to the screen, but also projects objects or even illustrations direct from a book, and makes its own pictures as it goes along. . . . MEN WHO MADE THE SHOW. The exhibition as a whole is a great credit to the organising committee and the exhibitors. The committeemen are as follows:— Wireless Institute, Messrs. A. H. Masters and L. J. Crooks; electrical traders, Messrs. M. F. Medhurst and J. L. Taylor; wireless traders, Messrs. J. D. McAulay and W. Gellie; secretary, Mr. Philip Fysh. The exhibitors are:— Messrs. Noyes Bros. Pty. Ltd., Oliver and Oliver, Medhurst's, Maples, United Distributors Ltd., H. A. Graham, Gloria Light Co., W. J. Peirce and Co., Howe and Simmons, Vickers and Humm, Electrolux, the Technical College, and the Wireless Institute.

1926 08

Masters represents Tasmania at the annual meeting of the Federal Council of the Australian Institute of Architects in Canberra

INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS. THE FEDERAL COUNCIL. CONFERENCE AT CANBERRA. The Federal Council of the Australian Institute of Architects held its annual meeting at Canberra during the last week in July. Delegates present were:— New South Wales — Sir Charles Rosenthal, Mr. J. Aubrey Kerr. Victoria — Mr. P. A. Oakley, Mr. W. A. M. Blackett. South Australia — Mr. P. R. Claridge, Mr. H. H. Cowell. Queensland — Mr. J. V. D. Coutts. Western Australia — Mr. W. A. Nelson. Tasmania — Mr. A. Harold Masters, Mr. Roy S. Smith. Prior to the commencement of business of the annual meeting, the members of the council paid an official call on the chairman of the Federal Capital Commission. . . .

1929

1929 03

Obituary for Masters' brother Arthur Masters

PERSONAL. . . . A London cablegram announces the death in hospital of Dr. Arthur Masters, at the age of 49. Dr. Masters was a native of Albury, N.S.W., but came to Tasmania with his parents when a youth, and spent the greater part of his young days in Launceston. He attended the old Launceston High School, under the late. Mr. E. A. Nathan and was afterwards on the staff of the National Bank of Tasmania in this city (now the Commercial Bank of Australia). He later gave up commercial life for the study of medicine, and after matriculating at the Tasmanian University, went to Edinburgh, where he qualified for the degrees of M.D., M.S. He stayed in England, and specialised in diseases of the chest. A recurrence of a tropical disease contracted while on medical war service in India, was the cause of his death. Dr. Masters was the youngest surviving son of the late Mr. Joseph Masters, M.A., of the Tasmanian Education Department, and a brother of Mr. Harold Masters, the Launceston architect, and Mr. W. E. Masters, solicitor, of Hobart. A widow (nee Sister Mary Grant, of Leith, Scotland) survives him.

1929 07

Masters writes an article for the Launceston Examiner on dangers of overhead power lines

1930s

1930

1930 04

Masters appointed to the council of the Launceston Technical College

PERSONAL. . . . The Director of Technical Education (Mr. W. Gibson) has notified Mr. A. Harold Masters, of Launceston, that he has been appointed to the council of the Launceston Technical College.

1932

1932 07

Masters gives lecture on X-rays and describes his role as early experimenter

THE FIRST X-RAYS. During a lecture given to the Christ Church Club at Milton Hall recently Mr. A. Harold Masters became reminiscent as to the large amount of public as well as scientific interest created by Prof. Rontgen's discovery in 1895, and of the attempts made to repeat these experiments locally. Mr. Masters was at that time lecturer to the electricity classes at the Launceston Technical College, and was, therefore, specially interested, but owing to the absence of the facilities to manufacture the special vacuum tubes required only partial success could be obtained with the apparatus available locally, and there was nothing to be done than await the arrival of some from abroad. From the first consignment of Crooks' focus tubes to arrive in Australia from England, Mr. F. Styant Browne, of Launceston, obtained his first, and to him belongs the honour of having produced the first perfect X-ray photograph in Tasmania. Mr. Masters followed next day, and a few days later gave the first public lecture and demonstration of the rays in this state, and which was held in the former lecture room of the Technical College in St. John-street. Lantern slides of these early photographs, as well as a number of more recent and modern photos and diagrams were thrown on the screen, and after a description of the method of production, the nature, and general use of these rays, practical experiments with high tension electric discharges in air and in several forms of vacuum tube — as well as the actual X-rays — were shown. One item of special interest at the present time, referred to by the lecturer, was the curative property of these rays in the treatment of inward cancer and other diseases. When this effect was first discovered the incautious and excessive use of the rays produced what became to be known as "X-ray burn" (or dermatitis), and other undesirable reactions. Several of the early experimenters lost their lives from this cause, which resulted in such treatment for some time being almost abandoned as hopeless. With increased knowledge, however, and under expert control, the X-rays are again being used for cancer, with increasingly satisfactory results.

1933

1933 06

Masters not present at council meeting of Launceston Technical College where introduction of radio technology course first considered

TECHNICAL COLLEGE. ADDITIONAL CLASSROOMS. The monthly meeting of the council of the Launceston Technical College was held last evening. Those present were Dr. A. E. Panting (vice-chairman), Messrs. G. J. McElwee, J. L. Madden, A. E. Pollard, T. L. Cassidy, and D. V. Allen (Principal). Apologies were received from Messrs. W. E. Potts, L. D. Overstall, F. Russell, A. H. Masters, and Q. McKenzie. The Principal reported that the college had resumed the previous week after the first terminal vacation. Several new students had enrolled. Three days of the recess has been devoted to the holding of a Technical Schools' Conference arranged by the department, and many important matters were dis-cussed at it. The recommendations made would no doubt be put into effect in due course. Of the more important items dealt with was that of the part which should be taken by technical schools in regard to the development of the primary industries of the state. The question of the introduction of full courses in radio technology was also considered. Members expressed satisfaction at the Government's acceptance of a tender for the erection of four additional class-rooms. It was expected that an early start would be made upon the foundations of the building. One room in the Museum had already been vacated, that occupied by the carving modelling class, and the equipment had been transferred to a room on the ground floor of the old building. Thanks were due to the Launceston Rotary Club for having arranged for junior school pupils to visit factories and works during Rotary Week. A tribute was paid to the memory of the late Mr. Geo. Shields, who had occupied a seat in the council for a number of years, and had always identified himself with all things in the best interests of the college. Accounts amounting to £421 3s 3d were passed for payment.

1933 09

Masters, as council member, notes progress in providing a course in radio engineering and radio mechanics at the Launceston Technical College.

TECHNICAL COLLEGE. MEETING OF COUNCIL. At the monthly meeting of the Council of the Launceston Technical College last evening, there were present: Messrs. F. Russell (chairman), R. V. W. Green, A. H. Masters, G. J. McElwee, H. B. Bennett, A. E. Pollard, and D. V. Allen (principal). The principal reported that the college had resumed after the terminal vacation. Opportunity had been taken to effect repairs to school furniture. A large bookcase had been completed for the library, which comprised a fine collection of the latest reference books on all subjects taught. In the machine shop, good progress was being made with preparatory work, in regard to the extension which will be possible in view of the increased accommodation which the new wing will provide. SYLLABUSES COMPLETE. The syllabuses have been completed for the course in radio engineering and radio mechanics, which will be inaugurated next year. The former will be a three years certificate course, and is based on the course for wireless experts, in vogue at the Melbourne Technical College. The syllabus for the latter, which is a trade subject, has been drawn up mostly with the idea of having a radio subject as an alternative to the existing Grade 3 electrical wiring and fitting course, and so provide a very important class for electrical apprentices. Essential equipment has yet to be obtained. It was decided that the department be requested to consider the abolition of fees in the Junior Technical School. Members expressed satisfaction at the decision of the Government to proceed with the upper story of the new wing, and of which the girders and joists had already been provided. The hot water heating system would be adopted.

1935

1935 02

Masters present at monthly council meeting of Launceston Technical College, no doubt involved in new course for Amateur Operators Proficiency Certificate

TECHNICAL COLLEGE. COUNCIL'S MONTHLY MEETING. The monthly meeting of the council of the Launceston Technical College was held last evening. Those present were:— Messrs. F. Russell, H. B. Bennett, A. H. Masters, G. L. McElwee, L. D. Overstall, C. F. Monds, A. E. Pollard, F. W. Hall, Dr. A. F. Panting, and Mr. D. V. Allen (principal). The election of officers for the ensuing year resulted:— Chairman, Dr. A. E. Panting; vice-chairman, Mr. H. B. Bennett; member of the finance committee, Mr. Q. McKenzie. The newly-elected chairman eulogised the splendid services rendered by his predecessor (Mr. F. Russell), who had acted as chairman continuously for the past nine years. He thanked members for the honour accorded him, and assured them of his best efforts in the welfare of the college. The principal stated that the college had just resumed. In connection with the radio mechanics' trade course, it had been decided to commence a one-year course for the amateur operator's certificate of proficiency, which will include Morse code operation and will conform to the requirements of the Postmaster-General's Department. New appointments in the senior school included Mr. A. D. Mackay, B.Sc., M.M.E., head of the chemistry department, and Mr. J. A. Begent, B.Sc., instructor in mathematics. It was decided to recommend the appointment of Mr. E. J. Pitchford as instructor in bookkeeping. Accounts amounting to £454 6s 10d were passed for payment.

1935 03

As previous

TECHNICAL COLLEGE. MEETING OF COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of the council of the Launceston Technical College was held last evening. Those present were — Dr. A. E. Panting (chairman), Messrs. N. Russell, H. B. Bennett, C. F. Monds, F. W. Hall, A. H. Masters, W. E. Potts, L. D. Overstall, Q. McKenzie, J. L. Madden, W. Gibson (superintendent), and D. V. Allen (principal). Apologies were received from Messrs. G. J. McElwee and A. E. Pollard. The principal reported that the classes generally were filling up rapidly, some having already reached their complement. Altogether the prospects for the coming year were distinctly encouraging. A strong and representative advisory committee had been appointed in connection with the radio classes, including the new Amateur Wireless Class for the proficiency certificate. Application to the University for exemption from lectures had been renewed in respect of Chemistry I. and Physics I. The department had decided that the time of holding the diploma courses in applied science would be changed from day to evening sessions. These courses would now become an extension of the applied science certificate courses, and would require one additional year for completion. New appointments were recommended as follow:— S. H. Ellington, B.Sc., instructor in radio engineering, and W. J. Turner, instructor in Morse code operation. Accounts amounting to £550 5s 5d were passed for payment. It was decided to hold an open night on March 12, and to arrange for the annual speech night, to take place on March 27.

1939

1939 04

Launceston Technical College makes its facility available to the RAAF for testing of wireless operators

USE OF COLLEGE IN CITY. For Testing Air Force Candidates. The council of the Launceston Technical College has decided to grant the Royal Australian Air Force Selection Board facilities for examining candidates as fitters and wireless operators, commencing on May 15. At the monthly meeting last night the principal (Mr. D. V. Allen) reported that the attendances for the month were 448 in the senior school and 240 in the junior. In connection with the health inspector's certificate a class in food inspection had been resumed, and those in meat inspection and sanitation would also be resumed this month. The Public Works Department had replaced a line of old water pipes which had become badly corroded, the water supply being now adequate for all purposes. A report was submitted on a number of old Monarch machines used by the typewriting class. Owing to their bad state of repair and the difficulty of obtaining spare replacement parts it was decided to recommend their replacement by Remington machines. Those present were:— Messrs. G. J. McElwee (chairman), C. F. Monds, A. J. Higgins, W. Hart, R. V. W. Green, A. E. Pollard, and D. V. Allen (principal). Apologies were received from Messrs. F. W. Hall, H. B. Bennett, F. Russell, A. H. Masters, Q. McKenzie, W. E. Potts, and W. Gibson (superintendent).

1950s

1951

1951 04

Brief obituary in the Hobart Mercury for Masters

MR. A. H. MASTERS DIES AT LAUNCESTON. MR. ALFRED HAROLD MASTERS, who died at Launceston yesterday at the age of 76, was a leading architect in the North for many years. One of his most outstanding projects was the grandstand at Mowbray racecourse. Mr. Masters also designed the Toosey Memorial Hospital, Longford, and some big buildings in Launceston. He was the second son of the late Rev. J. Masters, who was at one time Director of Education in Tasmania. Mr. Masters' early education was in Albury, and at an early age he was apprenticed to an architect in Launceston, where he worked all his life. He was a member of the Federal Council of Architects, which brought about the formation of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, and later represented the Tasmanian Chapter on the Royal Institute. He was for many years a member of the Launceston Technical College Council, and was a member and chorister at Christ Church, Launceston. A pioneer in wireless telegraphy, Mr. Masters conducted the first experiments in this field in Launceston, and also pioneered X-ray research in the North.

A more detailed obituary in the Launceston Examiner for Masters

Architect's Death. MR. ALFRED Harold Masters, one of the pioneers of radiotelegraphy and X-ray photography and a brilliant engineer and architect died in Launceston yesterday. HE was aged 77. Mr. Masters, who lived at 18 Forest Rd., was born at Albury. His father, Mr. Joseph Masters, was successively inspector, director and secretary of education in Tasmania. Mr. Masters was one of the first students at the Technical College when it was housed in the Quadrant. Mr. Masters began his career in J. and T. Gunn's architectural department. He later went into business as an architect and consulting electrician. For a time he was in partnership with Mr. Eric North. In 1907 Mr. Masters was appointed secretary and director of the Launceston Technical School, where he also conducted classes in architecture and electricity. He resigned from that position in 1915 and became a member of the Technical College Council. Mr. Masters again conducted classes at the college about two years ago. While teaching at the college he built a wireless set which sent the first Morse Code message over a distance in Northern Tasmania. He contacted a naval vessel down the Tamar. He was beaten by only a few hours in taking the first X-ray photographs in Tasmania. He had a very keen interest in photography and was a member of the Camera Club. Mr. Masters was best known for his architectural work. He designed many of the main Launceston buildings, but later confined himself to residential architecture. He took a prominent part in the formation of the Tasmanian Institute of Architects prior to the formation of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. He was a keen worker for Christ Church (Congregational), Frederick St., being a deacon for many years. He leaves a wife, three daughters — Joyce (Mrs. Edney Forward) and Misses Muriel and Thelma Masters — and a son, Mr. Alan Masters, Hobart.

A further obituary in the Sydney Construction magazine for Masters

The Late Alfred Harold Masters, F.R.A.I.A. Mr. A. H. Masters, who died at Launceston, Tasmania, at the age of 77, on April 28, was one of the senior members of the architectural profession in that State and a pioneer of radio telegraphy and x-ray photography. Mr. Masters began his architectural career as one of the first students of the Launceston Technical College. He later commenced his own practice and was for a time in partnership with the late Mr. Eric North. In 1907 Mr. Masters was appointed Secretary and Director of the Launceston Technical School where he also conducted classes in architecture and electricity. He resigned from that position in 1915 and became a Member of the School Council, though about two years ago he again conducted classes in architectural subjects. He designed many of the main Launceston buildings and also carried out work in Melbourne and Adelaide. He was a prominent worker in the foundation of the Tasmanian Institute of Architects prior to the formation of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. For a time prior to his death he was associated with the office of Tranter, Kemsley and Associates of Melbourne and Launceston and his practice is now being carried on by that firm.

1952

1952 09

Death notice for Masters' brother William Edward Masters

DEATHS. . . . MASTERS.— On September 22, 1952, at Royal Hobart Hospital, William Edward, beloved husband of Rowena Ella, of Esplanade, Bellerive, and loving father of Frank and Win. Private cremation. No flowers or cards by request.

Biography for Masters' brother William Edward Masters

DEATH OF HOBART HISTORIAN. Mr. William Edward Masters, of Esplanade, Bellerive, a well known authority on local history, and former barrister, died in Hobart on Monday. He was 79. When Mr. Masters retired about four years ago, the legal firm of Tinning, Propsting, and Masters, went out of existence. An authority on early settlement in Hobart, Mr. Masters was well known as a lecturer. He owned a large collection of historical records which included photographs of 50 years of yachting on the Derwent. Mr. Masters was an active yachtsman and boatbuilder. He built 22 yachts and several, which are now about 40 years old, are still in use. During the war, Mr. Masters ran his own puppet show for charity. In recognition of his service to the community, his name was placed on the honour roll of the Rotary Club of Hobart in 1946. Mr. Masters was a son of the late Joseph Masters, a former Director of Education in Hobart. He is survived by his wife, son Frank, and daughter Win (Mrs. P. Wood), Sydney.

1954

1954 02

Death notice of Masters' unmarried sister Rosa Masters

DEATHS. . . . MASTERS — On February 24, 1954 (suddenly), at 18 Forest Rd., Trevallyn, Rosa, daugh-ter of the late Rev. Joseph Masters. Aged 76 years. Private cremation.— C. T. Finney & Sons, A.F.D.A., 16 Brisbane St.