History of wireless telegraphy and broadcasting in Australia/Topical/Biographies/James Joseph Malone/Notes

James Joseph Malone - Transcriptions and notes

1900s

1904

1904 06

4BN reclassified after full review of all previous State public service position for Commonwealth classifications

CLASSIFICATION OF THE COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. C.6977. TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Page#

• Explanation of the principles governing the Classification ... ... ... — iii — xiv
• Postmaster-General's Department ... ... ... .. ... ... ... v
• Department of Trade and Customs ... ... ... ... ... ... ix
• All Departments ... ... ... ... . ... ... ... ... x
• Schedule I., showing rates of Annual Salary to Clerical Division Office's ... ... ... xv
• Schedule II., showing rates of Annual Salary to Professional Division Officers ... ... ... xv
• Schedule III., showing rates of Annual Salary to General Division Officers ... ... .. xv
• Schedule IV., showing the Classification of Post Offices in each State —
  • New South Wales ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... xviii
  • Victoria ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... xx
  • Queensland ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... xxi
  • South Australia .... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... xxii
  • Western Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... xxiii
  • Tasmania ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... xxiv
• Schedule V., showing Scales of District Allowances ... ... ... ... ... xxv
• Schedule VI., Diagram showing Lines of Promotion in the General Division (Postmaster-General's Department) ... ... ... ... ... ... ... follows page xxvi
• Schedule VII., Classification of Officers —
• Principal List.
• Department of External Affairs ... ... ... ... ... ... 1
• " Attorney-General ... ... ... ... ... 2
• " Home Affairs ... ... ... ... ... 3
  • (Public Service Commissioner) ... ... ... ... 4
• " Treasury ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5
• " Trade and Customs —
  • Central Staff ... ... ... ... ... ... 7
  • New South Wales ... ... ... ... ... ... 10
  • Victoria ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18
  • Queensland ... ... ... ... ... ... 24
  • South Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 29
  • Western Australia ... ... ... ... ... 32
  • Tasmania ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 35
• Department of Defence —
  • Central Staff ... ... ... ... ... ... 8
  • New South Wales ... ... ... ... ... ... 37
  • Victoria ... ... ... ... ... ... 38
  • Queensland ... ... ... ... ... ... 39
  • South Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 40
  • Western Australia .. ... ... ... ... ... 41
  • Tasmania ... ... ... ... ... . . ... 42
• Department of Postmaster-General —
  • Central Staff ... ... ... ... ... ... 9
  • New South Wales ... ... ... ... ... ... 43
  • Victoria ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 122
  • Queensland... ... ... ... ... ... ... 166
  • South Australia ... .. ... ... ... ... 190
  • Western Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 214
  • Tasmania ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 242
• Supplementary List. Department cf Trade and Customs —
  • Western Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 249
• Department of Defence —
  • Queensland... ... ... ... ... ... ... 249
• Department of Postmaster-General —
  • New South Wales ... ... ... ... ... ... 250
  • Victoria ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 251
  • Queensland... ... ... ... ... ... ... 254
  • South Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 256
  • Western Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 257
  • Tasmania ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 259
• Index to Names of Officers —
  • Central Staffs ... ... ... ... ... ... 261
  • New South Wales ... ... ... ... ... ... 262
  • Victoria ... ... ... ... ... ... 271
  • Queensland ... ... ... ... ... ... 278
  • South Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 281
  • Western Australia ... ... ... ... ... ... 284
  • Tasmania ... ... ... ... ... ... 288
• #The paging referred to is that printed at the foot of each page.

To His Excellency The Right Honorable Henry Stafford, Baron Northcote, Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Knight Commander of the Most Eminent Order of the Indian Empire, Companion of the Most Honorable Order of the Bath, Governor-General and Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth of Australia, &c., &c., &c.: May it Please Your Excellency : In conformity with the provisions of the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1902, I beg to submit, for Your Excellency's consideration, the Classification of the permanent officers of the Commonwealth Public Service, showing the disposition of offices and officers, and their arrangement in Classes and Sub-divisions of Classes, in the case of the Professional and the Clerical Divisions, and in Grades or Positions, in the case of the General Division, as on the 31st March, 1904. The Service has been divided into the four Divisions provided for by Section 15 of the Act, viz.:— The Administrative Division, the Professional Division, the Clerical Division, and the General Division.

• The Administrative Division includes all Permanent Heads and Chief Officers of Departments.
• The Professional Division includes all officers whose duties require in the persons performing them some special skill or technical knowledge usually acquired only in some profession or occupation different from the ordinary routine of the Public Service.
• The Clerical Division includes all officers whose duties are wholly of clerical nature.
• The General Division includes all persons not included in the other Divisions of the Service.
• In the Administrative Division the salaries received by officers are those approved by Parliament each year, and provided in the Appropriation Act. The Third Schedule of the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1902 (a copy of which appears as Schedule I. hereto), fixes the rate of annual salary of officers of the Clerical Division, and the officers have been placed in the Classes and Subdivisions of Classes shown therein.
• The arranging of the Professional Division into Classes, as provided for by Section 80(a), has been carried out, and the limits of salaries to be paid to persons in such Classes have been fixed by regulation, a copy of which appears as Schedule II.
• The arrangement of the General Division into Grades, also provided for by Section 80(a), has been completed, and the limits of salaries fixed by regulation are contained in Schedule III. hereto.

Additions to salary are only granted on the recommendation of the Commissioner after full inquiry, and report by the Permanent Head of the Department to which the officer is attached. The number of officers in each Division and Class or Grade necessary for the efficient working of each Department and Branch, has likewise been apportioned. In forwarding this recommendation, I deem it right to explain the principles by which I have been guided in making my classification and the means which have been adopted in arriving at the result. The end steadily borne in view has been the adoption of a scheme which, while being fair to the officers and allowing full value for the work performed, yet will not press unduly upon the finances of the Commonwealth. The Inspectors for the various States have inspected the Departments under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth, and, so far as possible, have examined as minutely as practicable the work performed by each officer or group of officers; they have likewise visited many of the country offices, and have thus been enabled to recommend alterations and changes in the staffs which have already resulted in reduced expenditure, and will lead in the future to still further savings. The classification of the Public Service has been an undertaking that has involved arduous and painstaking labour and the most anxious consideration. It was found that the State Classifications, the conditions of employment, the rates of pay, and the special emoluments and concessions granted, were so diversified that an immense amount of time was absorbed in ascertaining and critically analyzing the many questions which necessarily arose in the preparation of a properly related scheme of classification. The designations of officers which had been adopted in the several States prior to federation afforded, in many instances, little or no indication of the duties performed, and even where it sometimes happened that a par-ticular designation was common to two or more States, it was found that the duties sought to be described were entirely dissimilar. No less than 470 different designations existed in the permanent staffs of the transferred Departments:— Posts, Telegraphs, and Telephones, 302; Customs and Excise, 122; Naval and Military Defence, 46. Before any sound basis could be laid down for a Commonwealth classification, the whole of these titles demanded critical examination, with a view to introducing some measure of uniformity of designation of the positions in those Departments. To have classified the Service on the assumption that an officer's existing designation could be accepted as an indication of the nature of his duties and responsibilities would have created serious anomalies and injustice, and have made confusion worse confounded. Before the actual work of classification could be entered upon, a large amount of information bearing upon the diverse conditions existent in the States had to be collated, and some semblance of order evolved out of what was practically a chaotic condition of affairs. In formulating the scheme of classification, an endeavour has been made to provide that every officer in the employ of the Commonwealth who gives efficient and willing service shall have a fair chance of advancement, and, at the same time, the organization of the Service has been effected on such clearly defined lines as will, it is believed, materially assist in the economical and sound business administration of the Departments. To arrive at a proper estimate of the value of the services performed by officers, information had to be obtained as to the volume of business at every Post Office and Customs House throughout Australia. In assessing the value of the work at, say, a Post Office, I have had before me for comparison with other offices, the number of letters posted and received; mails despatched and received; telegrams despatched, received, and repeated; money orders issued and paid; Savings Bank deposits and withdrawals; Old-age Pensions paid; Telephone Bureau calls; Treasury transactions; Trunk Line calls; &c. It has also been nccessary to take into consideration the strength of staffs, the amount of telephone business, and the extent of night work. Similarly, in dealing with the Customs offices, consideration has been given to the number of entries passed and checked on goods for home consumption, and in connexion with excise, warehouse entries, entries passed for transhipments, drawback work, entries at fixed and ad valorem rates, pilotage, harbour and tonnage dues, inter-State debit and credit certificates, foreign, inter-State, and coastwise shipping, &c. In determining the value of the work performed by an officer, I have acted on the assumption that in cases where the rates fixed are lower than the amounts now paid, the reduced rates shall only apply to officers appointed, promoted, or transferred after such reduced rates have come into force. POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. Classification of Post and Telegraph Offices. As far as it has been practicable these offices have been valued, as regards the salary of the officer in charge, on a uniform basis. As previously mentioned, returns for a definite period were obtained from all States, giving statistics of the more important classes of work performed at Post and Telegraph Offices, and the information thus obtained has largely formed the basis of the valuation. In addition, local features peculiar to any office, which appeared to increase or decrease its importance, received full consideration. The Post and Telegraph officers of South Australia will no longer receive allowances for conducting Savings Bank business; nor be paid a rebate on the sale of stamps, the Savings Bank work having been taken into consideration in assessing the classification of each office, and the provisions of the Post Office Act of that State as to rebates on the sale of stamps having been repealed by the Commonwealth Post and Telegraph Act 1901. In addition to the regular Post Offices, there are, in Queensland, a large number of stations which, though fulfilling the local requirements of a Post and Telegraph Office, are mainly established for line-repairing purposes. The value of these positions could not be determined by an analysis of the volume of work passing through the offices in question, as such, in almost all cases, is small, as compared with the officers' emoluments. The line-repairing work, therefore, has, in such cases, been the principal consideration, and the offices have been classified in the senior grades of Line Repairer, with allowances ranging from £12 to £36 per annum (commensurate with the value of the work) for the performance of the postal and telegraphic duties. These allowances, however, will not be made to any of the present occupants of the offices who are found to be overpaid. The existing allowances paid by the Department to the officers' wives for carrying on the office work during their husbands' absences from their stations on line work have not been disturbed. The Post Offices have been classified in accordance with the following table:— . . .

• Name, Page No., No. on Page.
• Cooling, E. R., 185, 42

1906

1906 10

Malone second in the state in examination for appointment as a cadet in PMGD Electrician's Branch

BREVITIES. . . . The following New South Wales candidates have passed the examination for appointments as cadets in the electricians' branch of the Post Office:— John Curtin, senior assistant at Bulahdelah, 2075 marks; James Malone, assistant at Lismore, 1957; A. A. Rogers, assistant at Mullumbimby, 1830; and A. B. Collins, telephone attendant at Orange, 1614 marks.

As previous, further detail (18 candidates in exam)

THE COMMONWEALTH. MISCELLANEOUS. MELBOURNE, Sunday. Out of 18 candidates for appointment as cadets in the electricians' branch of the Postmaster-General's Department, New South Wales, the following were successful:— John Curtin, senior assistant at Bulahdelah, 2075 marks; James Malone, assistant at Lismore, 1957; A. A. Rogers, assistant at Mullumbimby, 1830; and A. B. Collins, telephone attendant at Orange, 1614 marks. A minimum of 1320 marks was provided.

Malone, following examination success, appointed as cadet in the Electrician's Branch

Postmaster-General's Department, 12th October, 1906. Ex. Mins. 393 to 396, 402, 403, 404, 406, 410, 412. HIS Excellency the Governor-General, by and with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, has approved that the following staff changes, &c., be made in the Postmaster-General's Department, namely:— . . . NEW SOUTH WALES. . . . James Malone, Assistant, Lismore, an officer of the General Division, who has qualified for transfer to the Professional Division, to be Cadet, Professional Division, Class F., Electrician's Branch, Sydney; as from 1st November, 1906.

1906 11

Lismore's Northern Star reports on Malone's promotion and transfer to Sydney Electrician's Branch

PROMOTION. The friends of Mr. James Malone, of the Lismore Telegraph Office, will be pleased to hear that he has won promotion. He recently sat in Sydney for an electrical examination in the professional division and secured one of the two positions open. There were only four candidates passed, and, strange to say, the four were from the country, not one of the large number of city candidates getting through. Mr. Malone leaves for Sydney today and goes into the Electrician's branch. He well deserves his success, as although he only joined the service a district lad as messenger about six years ago he has been thoroughly painstaking and proved a most efficient operator, winning the esteem and confidence of all with whom he came in contact. We are confident he will rise to the top of the service, and he has the best wishes of all who know him.

Malone receives a presentation upon his farewell at Lismore

LISMORE DISTRICT. . . . Mr. James Malone, operator in the Lismore Telegraph Office, has received an appointment in the Electricians' branch of the Department. Before leaving he was presented with a gentleman's companion.

1906 12

Malone's former position in PMGD as Assistant (Relieving) at Lismore is taken by F. W. Brett

Postmaster-General's Department, 29th November, 1906. THE following staff changes, &c., in the Postmaster-General's Department have been approved in accordance with the provisions of the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1902 and Regulations thereunder, namely:— NEW SOUTH WALES. F. W. Brett, Assistant, Letter Carrier (relieving), North Sydney, to be Assistant (relieving), Lismore, vice Malone, transferred.

1907

1907 01

Malone included in the List of Federal Public Servants for New South Wales as at 1 January 1907 (Index)

Malone, James ... Page 67, Line 35

Malone included in the List of Federal Public Servants for New South Wales as at 1 January 1907 (Full Details)

Commonwealth Public Service.

• POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT, NEW SOUTH WALES — continued.
• Postmaster-General's Department, Electrical Engineer's Branch.
• Page No.: 67
• Line on Page: 35
• Name: Malone, J.
• Date of Birth: 24.8.83
• Particulars of Service, &c.
  • Under State
    • Office: Telegraph Messenger
    • Date of First Appointment: 12.9.98
    • Division: N/A
    • Salary on Transfer to Commonwealth: £52 0s 0d
  • Under Commonwealth.
    • Date of Appointment or of Transfer: 1.3.01
    • Work
      • Office: Cadet
      • Division: P.
      • Class or Grade: F.
    • Officer
      • Class or Grade: F.
      • Subdivision: 3.
      • Salary (including Rent): £110 0s 0d
      • Deduction for Rent: N/A
      • Allowances (District): N/A
      • Allowances (Miscellaneous): N/A

1908

1908 02

Malone included in the List of Federal Public Servants for New South Wales as at 1 January 1908 (Index)

Malone, James ... Page 70, Line 15

Malone included in the List of Federal Public Servants for New South Wales as at 1 January 1908 (Full Details)

Commonwealth Public Service.

• POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT, NEW SOUTH WALES — continued.
• Postmaster-General's Department, Electrical Engineer's Branch.
• Page No.: 70
• Line on Page: 15
• Name: Malone, J.
• Date of Birth: 24.8.83
• Particulars of Service, &c.
  • Under State
    • Office: Telegraph Messenger
    • Date of First Appointment: 12.9.98
    • Division: G.
    • Salary on Transfer to Commonwealth: £52 0s 0d
  • Under Commonwealth.
    • Date of Appointment or of Transfer: 1.3.01
    • Work
      • Office: Junior Assistant Engineer
      • Division: P. (Professional)
      • Class or Grade: F.
    • Officer
      • Class or Grade: F.
      • Subdivision: 3.
      • Salary (including Rent): £110 0s 0d
      • Deduction for Rent: N/A
      • Allowances (District): N/A
      • Allowances (Miscellaneous): N/A
      • Present Salary received from -: 1.9.04

1909

1909 02

Malone included in the List of Federal Public Servants for New South Wales as at 1 January 1909 (Index)

Malone, James ... Page 78, Line 28

Malone included in the List of Federal Public Servants for New South Wales as at 1 January 1909 (Full Details)

Commonwealth Public Service.

• POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT, NEW SOUTH WALES — continued.
• Postmaster-General's Department, Electrical Engineer's Branch.
• Page No.: 78
• Line on Page: 28
• Name: Malone, J.
• Date of Birth: 24.8.83
• Particulars of Service, &c.
  • Under State
    • Office: Telegraph Messenger
    • Date of First Appointment: 12.9.98
    • Division: G.
    • Salary on Transfer to Commonwealth: £52 0s 0d
  • Under Commonwealth.
    • Date of Appointment or of Transfer: 1.3.01
    • Work
      • Office: Junior Assistant Engineer
      • Division: P. (Professional)
      • Class or Grade: F.
    • Officer
      • Class or Grade: F.
      • Subdivision: 5.
      • Salary (including Rent): £140 0s 0d
      • Deduction for Rent: N/A
      • Allowances (District): N/A
      • Allowances (Miscellaneous): N/A
      • Present Salary received from -: 1.1.09

1909 08

Malone at Lismore visiting family

PERSONAL. . . . Mr. James Malone, late of Lismore Tele-graph staff, and now in the Electrical Department of the G.P.O., is at present revisiting Lismore.

1909 09

Obituary for Malone's mother

DEATH OF MRS. P. MALONE. The death occurred in Nurse Tyrrell's private hospital last evening, after a brief illness, of Mrs. Malone, wife of Mr. Peter Malone, of the Gundurimba Road, South Lismore. The deceased lady, who was 57 years of age, was a native of County Tipperary, Ireland, and had been a resident of this district about 27 years. She leaves a family of five sons and three daughters, of whom James and William are in Sydney, the former in the Electric Telegraph Department, the latter engineering. Pat in Tasmania, and John and Peter at home. Mrs. H. Timbs, of Lismore, is a daughter, and two are unmarried. Her death is the first broken link of a very large family connection. Besides relatives there are a large number of friends in this and the adjoining district. Deep sympathy will be felt for Mr. Malone in the death of his life's partner, and for the family in the loss of a devoted mother. In order to permit of the attendance of James and William, who left Sydney last evening, the funeral will take place on Wednesday, leaving the Cathedral at 2 o'clock.

Funeral Notice for Malone's mother

FUNERAL NOTICE. The funeral of the late MRS. ELIZABETH MALONE, wife of Peter Malone, will move from the Roman Catholic Cathedral at 2 p.m. on WEDNESDAY for the Roman Catholic Cemetery. B. KLEIN, Undertaker.

1909 10

Another, more detailed obituary for Malone's mother

MRS. ELIZABETH MALONE. LISMORE. On Monday evening, September 27th, there passed away in a private hospital Mrs. Elizabeth Malone, wife of Peter Malone, of Gundarimba-road, Lismore (writes our Lismore correspondent). The cause of death was paralysis of the brain. Mrs Malone, who was born in Tipperary some fifty-seven years ago, came to Australia with her husband and four children (one of whom was born on the voyage) twenty-nine years ago, and has lived here ever since. She leaves a family of eight, five sons and three daughters, all of whom, with their husband, survive her. One son, Mr. James Malone, is in the Electrical Department of the G.P.O. Sydney, and he, with Mr. W. Malone (of the Clyde Engineering Works) journeyed from Sydney, reaching, here in time for their mother's funeral, which took place from St. Carthage's Cathedral on Wednesday after-noon. Dean Quinn officiated at the grave-side.— R.I.P.

1910s

1911

1911 04

Malone's brother now an engineer on the Federal Houlder liner Essex

PERSONAL PARS. Friends of Mr. William Malone will be interested to learn that he has secured a position as one of the engineers on the Federal Houlder liner Essex, and is now on his maiden trip to the Old Country. Mr. Malone, who is the fourth son of Mr. Peter Malone, Gundurimba-road, served his time with Mr. J. F. O'Flynn here, and for the last few years has been working with the Clyde Engineering Co., Sydney.

1913

1913 05

Malone receives a major promotion from Assistant Engineer Class E to Class D, almost 50% salary increase, still within NSW Electrical Engineer's Branch

COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. Melbourne, 2nd May, 1913. THE following notification respecting Staff Changes, &c., is made in accordance with the Commonwealth Public Service Act and Regulations:— . . . POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. Ex. Mins. 102, 159, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 170, 171, 173, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 190, T.172. . . . New South Wales. Promotions and Transfers. . . . James Malone, Assistant Engineer, Class E., Electrical Engineer's Branch, salary £210, to be Assistant Engineer, Class D, Electrical Engineer's Branch, with salary of £336, from 14th March, 1913.

1916

1916 12

Malone's hometown "Northern Star" reports on a brief visit by Malone prior to his departure for Mesopotamia

PERSONAL. . . . Sergeant James Malone, of the Wireless Telegraphic branch of the A.I.F., spent Sunday and part of Monday in Lismore on a brief visit to his father, Mr. J.(sic) Malone, late of Gundurimba. Sergeant Malone was educated in Lismore and served as an operator in the local telegraph office. During the last ten years he has been in the mechanical branch of the head office, and in recent years was in charge at Goulburn and in Queensland. For the past six months he has been instructor of the Wireless School at Moore Park, and now has been specially chosen to take charge of wireless reinforcements that go to Mesopotamia. These will be under the Indian Government, and will proceed via Bombay. We join with his many friends in wishing Sergeant Malone more honours, a pleasant sojourn, and a safe return.

As previous, a similar report in Sydney's Catholic Press

The Lismore Diocese. . . . His many friends on the Richmond will be glad to hear that Mr. James Malone, son of Mr. Peter Malone, of Lismore, has been given charge of a company of wireless operators who sail for the front this week. Jim was for many years employed in the Tele-graph Department, where his intelligence and integrity had secured for him a good position. Most of his company are drawn from the same service. He is an old pupil of St. Carthage's School at Lismore, and his loyalty and devotion to his teachers led him to renew old acquaintances last week, when he was home on final leave. He is a fine type of the Irish-Australian, and he is sure to uphold the best traditions of his family.

1917

1917 01

As previous, further detail

PERSONAL NOTES. . . . Sergeant James Malone, of the wireless telegraphic branch of the A.I.F., spent a recent Sunday and part of Monday in Lismore, on a brief visit to his father, Mr. J. (sic) Malone, late of Gundarimba. Sergeant Malone was educated at St. Carthage's Convent School, Lismore, and served for a time as an operator in the Lismore Telegraph Office. During the last ten years he has been in the mechanical branch of the head office, and in recent years was in charge at Goulburn and in Queensland. For the past six months he has been instructor in the Wireless School at Moore Park, and now has been specially chosen to take charge of wireless reinforcements that go to Mesopotamia.

Photograph of the Wireless Section, Australian Flying Corps, including Malone

(Start Photo Caption) Wireless Section of an Australian Flying Squadron. BACK ROW (Reading Left to Right): F. Cherry (Qld.), H. Jolly (Vic.), G. H. Roberts (N.S.W. ), F. F. O'Brien (Qld.), J. Shore (Qld.), P. L. Filan (N.S.W.), P. F. Turner (N.S.W.), N. Teague (Vic.), J. Hakett (Vic.). Second Row: F. Dickson (N.S.W.), V. Burchell (N.S.W.), R. R. French (Vic.), J. Edgecombe (Vic.), G. J. Jones (N.S.W.), B. M. Troy (N.S.W.), J. Wilkinson (N.S.W.), W. J. McGregor (Vic.), P. Summers (Qld.), L. A. Storch (South Australia). Third Row: T. R. A. Roberts (N.S.W.), C. Rossiter (N.S.W.), V. Giddey (N.S.W.), Sergt. J. Malone (N.S.W.), Lieut. Houston (N.S.W.), Corp. A. E. Robertson (Vic.), S. H. R. Black (N.S.W.), A. Lonsdale (N.S.W.), P. Masterson (N.S.W.). Front Row: G. L. Reid (Vic.), E. H. Graham (N.S.W.), H. F. Gamble (N.S.W.), H. R. Griffiths? (N.S.W.), F. M. Lock (South Australia), L. G. Croft (Vic.). The flag in the background was presented to the section by S. H. R. Black (third row). (End Photo Caption)

1917 09

Obituary for Malone's father

PERSONAL. . . . Many old residents will regret to hear of the death at an early hour yesterday of Mr. Peter Malone, formerly of Gundurimba. The late Mr. Malone, who had reached the age of 81, was a native of Tipperary, Ireland, and came to the district about 37 years ago. He first took up farming ' pursuits at South Gundurimba, some years after removing to a farm on the Gundurimba road. About two years ago he decided to retire from farming pursuits and came into Lismore, residing in Orion-street. His general health right up to the last was good, and he was about as usual last week. A heart affection occasionally gave some trouble, and this necessitated medical attention the past few days, but notwithstanding everything that could be done heart failure supervened. Of an upright honorable stature and kindly benevolent disposition, he was widely respected, and held in high esteem by all who had the privilege of his acquaintance. His wife predeceased him exactly nine years ago. He leaves a family of five sons and three daughters — John (Melbourne); Patrick (Sydney); Will (Lithgow Small Arms Factory); Peter (Lismore); and Jim (on active service); Mrs. H. Timbs (Kyogle); Mrs. Freeman (Rockhampton) and Miss Maggie, unmarried. A brother, John, in Lismore survives him. The funeral leaves the Cathedral this morning at 11 o'clock.

Funeral Notice for Malone's father

FUNERAL NOTICES. The FUNERAL of the late PETER MALONE will move from the Cathedral TODAY (WEDNESDAY), SEPTEMBER 26th, at 11 a m., for the Roman Catholic Cemetery. B. KLEIN, Undertaker.

1917 10

Probate Notice for Malone's father

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF NEW SOUTH WALES.—Probate Jurisdiction.—In the Will of PETER MALONE, late of Lismore, in the State of New South Wales, Retired Farmer, deceased.— Application will be made after fourteen days from the publication hereof that Probate of the last Will of the abovenamed deceased may be granted to WILLIAM DONNAN and HENRY TIMBS, of Lismore and Kyogle, respectively, in the State aforesaid, Farmers, the Executors named in the said Will, and all notices may be served at, and all claims should be sent to, the office of the undersigned, G. B. SOMERVILLE and FURLONGER, Proctors for the Applicants, Lismore. By their Agents, SLY and RUSSELL, Sydney.

Malone in photograph of AFC Wireless Section, Aldershot, England

WIRELESS SECTION OF THE AUSTRALIAN FLYING CORPS AT ALDERSHOT, ENGLAND. Back Row (Left to Right): R. Lanchland, D. V. Morrison, R. Brown, M. Bowley, E. A. D. Hamilton, H. W. Bate, A. P. Lonsdale, P. W. Masterson, R. K. Law. Fourth Row: A. C. Dalton, B. N. Thompson, W. J. McGregor, R. M. Troy, G. J. Jones, P. L. Hughes, E. E. Ogier, R. T. Murray, I. R. Jackson, A. C. Crichton. Third Row: A. J. Walker, J. Shore, R. Monkhouse, A. E. Hayles, J. L. Edgecumbe, J. C. Outhred, F. Downing, W. C. Gray, L. C. Hensler, W. C. H. Tyers, F. A. Golder, H. R. McKimm. Second Row: J. R. Hackett, N. Teague, H. E. Gamble, P. J. Curtin, G. Backhouse, J. Wilkinson, F. A. Topping, G. L. Reid, R. T. Robson, W. J. Bleakley, H. A. W. Griffiths. Front: V. Walker, R. Perry, Corp. H. Billings, Corp. S. Black, Sergt. J. Malone, Flight-sergt. H. Nicol (with "Sam," the mascot), Sergt. H. Harding, Corp. J. Deverall, F. Chant?, ???, ???

As previous, but more detail

(Start Photo Caption) WIRELESS SECTION, AUSTRALIAN FLYING CORPS, ALDERSHOT, JULY, 1917.

R. Lauchland, D. V. Morrison, R. Brown, M. Bowley, E. A. D. Hamilton, H. W. Bate, A. P. Lonsdale, P. W. Masterson, R. K. Law.

A. G. Dalton, B. N. Thompson, W. J. McGregor, R. M. Troy, G. J. Jones, P. L. Hughes, E. E. Ogier, R. T. Murray, I. R. Jackson, A. C. Crichton.

A. J. Walker, J. Shore, R. Monkhouse, A. E. Hayles, J. L. Edgcumbe, J. C. Outbred, F. Downing, W. C. Gray, L. C. Hensler, W. C. H. Tyers, F. A. Golder, H. R. McKimm.

J. R. Hackett, N. Teague, H. E. Gamble, P. J. Curtin, G. Backhouse, J. Wilkinson, F. A. Topping, G. L. Reid, R. T. Robson, W. J. Bleakley, H. A. W. Griffiths.

V. J. Walker, R. T. Perry, Cpl. H. D. Billings, Cpl. S. Black, Sergt. J. J. Malone, Flight-Sergt. H. Nicol, Sergt. H. A. Harding, Cpl. J. Deverall, F. J. Cherry, P. Summers, A. J. Egan, B. Graham.

Mascot — "Sam."

John M. Chew photo, 30 Grosvenor-rd., Aldershot.

(Registered.) (End Photo Caption)

1918

1918 04

Malone's father's two properties to be sold by auction under instructions of the executors

Tuesday, April 16th, 1918. At 12 o'clock sharp. AT CARLTON AND CARLTON'S OFFICE. ESTATE LATE PETER MALONE. LOT. 1.— RIVER BANK FÀRM of 110 ACRES, Freehold, adjoining city of Lismore, being land contained in portions 23 and 30, parish Lismore, county Rous. At present under lease for 2 years to Mr. M. O'Connor as a dairy farm at a rental of 33s per acre per annum. This choice property is considered one of the best on the North Coast, consisting of rich alluvial river flats running back to gentle sloping basaltic ridges. It is situated just past 2 mile peg on Gundurimba road. The soil will grow all classes of vegetation to perfection. It is conveniently subdivided into six paddocks. The buildings comprise 4 roomed Cottage, yards, bails, etc. One of the Most Convenient Farms Offering. LOT. 2.— TOWN RESIDENCE, comprising 5 roomed Chamfer-board House situated on allotment of land having an area of 1 rood 2½ perches, being part of allotment 8, section 32, town of Lismore, and having 44 feet frontage to Orion-street. This Property is Most Centrally Situated. The above Properties are being sold to wind up the estate, and should appeal to speculators and investors. NOTE DATE: TUESDAY, APRIL 16th, 1918. Time: 12 o'clock Noon. Place: Carlton and Carlton's office, Lismore. Inspection Invited. Torrens Title. CARLTON and CARLTON have been favored with instructions from the Executors in Estate of late Peter Malone to sell by Public Auction the above properties.

1920s

1920

1920 04

Biography of Malone in Lismore's "Northern Star"

A SUCCESSFUL LISMORITE. Lieutenant J. Malone, M.C., late of the Australian Flying Corps, paid a hurried visit to his relatives in the Lismore district during last week. Lieutenant Malone is a native of Gundurimba, and a son of the late Mr. P. Malone, well and favorably known in Lismore. On leaving school he entered the service of the Postmaster-General as a telegraph messenger in the Lismore Post Office, and subsequently became a telegraphist. Later he entered the State engineer's branch of the same department as an engineer, being employed in Sydney and Brisbane. He enlisted while he was employed at the latter place, and was attached to the Australian Flying Corps as a private. In France he was mainly engaged on wireless and signal work in the Flying Corps as a radio-engineer, and at the conclusion of hostilities he held the rank of lieutenant. His duties at the front enabled him to gain valuable experience in wireless and signal work, and at the conclusion of hostilities he continued his investigations into the great advances made in wireless and allied technical work. He was also engaged in connection with the education scheme of the A.I.F. under which the soldiers awaiting embarkation were given an opportunity to acquire knowledge. In England, France and Germany he made a close study of the latest practices in connection with telegraph and telephone problems, and later on obtained his discharge from the A.I.F. in England in order to visit the U.S.A. and New Zealand to investigate these subjects there on behalf of the Postmaster-General. Lieutenant Malone states that great advances have recently been made in these matters, and he is now going to the central administration of the P.M.G. Department to furnish his report. Subsequently he will proceed to his new appointment at Perth as deputy State engineer for Western Australia. Lieutenant Malone received the Military Cross for his services during the war, being one of the only two soldiers who have brought the coveted cross distinction to Gundurimba. Owing to the expiration of his leave, and the necessity of taking up his duties in Melbourne at the earliest possible date, he was only enabled to spend two days in Lismore, and as a consequence he was not able to visit many of his friends. Before leaving he expressed his keen disappointment at having to return so hurriedly, but made known his intention of endeavoring to arrange for further leave in the near future in order that he may spend a longer period in his native town, and visit all his friends and acquaintances amongst whom he is exceedingly popular, especially with those who have worked under him.

1920 09

Malone again transferred, from Deputy State Engineer (WA) to Wireless Branch Melbourne

Soldiers and Sailors CURRENT TOPICS OF GENERAL INTEREST. . . . The returned soldiers in the Postal Department have lost a good friend through the transfer to the wireless branch in Melbourne of Mr. W. J. Malone, who not so long ago came over from Brisbane to the position of Deputy State Engineer in the P.M.G.'s Department.

1920 12

Malone attends a banquet by WIA being their first social gathering post WW1

WIRELESS MEN AT BANQUET. 200 READY FOR WAR SERVICE. Members of the Wireless Institute of Australia held their first social gathering since the war at the rooms of the Institute, Centreway, Chapel street, Prahran. The function took the form of a banquet, and there was a large attendance of members. Among the visitors were several of the leading men of the wireless world. Including Mr J. Malone, Deputy-Director of Radio for the Commonwealth, Commander Cresswell, Mr L. Hooke, Superintendent of Amalgamated Wireless; Mr Weston, Assistant Deputy-Director of Radio, and Mr R. Lawson, of the Postal Department. Mr J. Kilpatrick, the vice-president, occupied the chair. The toast of "The Wireless Institute of Australia" was proposed by Mr F. Court, secretary of the institute, who told the story of the rise and progress of the Institute from a small membership of eight or nine before the war till now. If war broke out again they would have more than 200 trained men immediately available. They had 160 members in Victoria, 70 in West Australia, 70 in South Australia, 100 in New South Wales, 20 in Queensland, and branches at Hobart and Broken Hill. Mr Malone said that he would keep in close touch with the Institute and its activities, realising its value to the Commonwealth. Commander Creswell, in responding to the toast of "The Army and Navy," emphasised the importance of wireless telegraphy in war. A battle ship with out it was like a blind duck. He regarded the Institute as a valuable asset in forming a reserve which would be readily available in any emergency which might arise. The speeches were interspersed with musical selections, the contributors being members of the Institute, with the exception of the two ladies of the Cox trio.

1921

1921 02

Malone to be advised of the formation of the Tasmanian Radio Club

TASMANIAN RADIO CLUB. A largely attended meeting was held last night of electrical and wireless experimenters, the object being to form an amateur radio club. It was decided to hold a general meeting to form a committee and to arrange to hold lectures, field days, etc. It was decided that the name of the club be The Tasmanian Radio Club. It was also decided to forward a letter to the Director of Radio Services informing him of the proposal to form a club. A temporary committee was formed of the following:— Messrs. W. Higgins, Marshall, T. Watkins, and Hooker, and Mr. Geo. Collis was appointed acting secretary.

1921 03

Malone attends a farewell to two colleagues to tour America & Europe, PMG Wise outlines developments including greater use of wireless

Postmaster-General on Economy. Deaf to the Country's Demand. In order to acquaint themselves with the most modern developments in electrical engineering in connection with telegraph, telephone and wireless services, two officers of the Postmaster-General's department will shortly leave on a tour of America and Europe. Mr. F. Golding, chief electrical engineer, and Mr. S. H. Witt, assistant engineer, who have been selected to perform the mission, were the guests of the central staff of the department, headed by the professional division, at dinner at the New Treasury Hotel last night, Mr. C. E. Bright, acting secretary to the department, presided. In proposing the toast of the guests of the evening, the Postmaster-General said there had been very rapid development in electrical appliances in the last few years, and it was essential that Australia should keep pace with the progress achieved in other parts of the world. With our limited financial resource it was impossible to create and establish laboratories to conduct the necessary research, and for that reason we had to rely on the achievements of kindred institutions in the more populous countries of Europe and America. Periodical visits by competent officers were therefore considered essential. To eliminate these would be false economy. It was eight years since Mr. Hesketh had gone on a similar mission on behalf of the department, but they would be arranged with greater frequency in future. Fault was found with the department because it was behind the times in some respects, but when an endeavor was made to remedy these defects — entailing, necessarily, the expenditure of money — the cry for economy was raised, and they were told to "pull in." The call for economy was not, however, noticed by him in the administration of his department, for there were constant claims for the improvement of the service, particularly in the country. Judging by his experience, the economy cry was pretty bad in the country districts. In his own town there was little life in the movement. The country people were realising the truth of what he had told them long ago, and were suspicious of economy "stunts." They always reacted on the country districts, because those in the country could not make a noise at all. There was practically no curtailment in the cities; the metropolitan papers would see that no economy was exercised there. The cry of the department was that it could not get enough money to spend, and, when the money could be secured, there was great difficulty in obtaining the supplies ordered. He was hoping, however, that before long materials would arrive in sufficient quantities to enable the department to catch up with arrears. The development of electricity for communication purposes would have a very materiel effect on the country districts of Australia. The toast was supported by Mr. R. W. Partington, deputy chief electrical engineer; Mr. J. Malone, deputy director of radio services; Mr. R. Lawson, Victorian State engineer; Mr. T. Howard, Victorian manager of telegraphs; and Mr. G. H. Morgan, Victorian manager of telephones. Mr. Golding, in response, said that one of the most important questions he had been commissioned to investigate was the practicability of manufacturing telephones in Australia. At present the department had orders for materials amounting to about £1,000,000, and he hoped to be able to speed up the contractors. The fact that there were 11,000 applicants awaiting a telephone service in Australia was due to the inability of the department to obtain long-ordered supplies. Close attention would be devoted to wireless telephony with a view to ascertaining whether the system could be established between Tasmania and the mainland. Mr. Witt also responded. Responding to the toast of the Federal Parliament, Mr. Wise maintained that the Commonwealth must achieve complete federation by developing those areas which could not be developed by State authorities. It was useless to talk of the north-south railway proving a losing proposition; it was a burden which the people would have to bear. Australia's need today was more railways which would not pay. The payment would be derived in the development of the country which it served. Critics of the Government who complained of excessive taxation appeared to maintain that we should pay off our war debt out of revenue, and that while it was being paid the development of Australia should be kept at a standstill. That was a mean, contemptible idea. The Postal department should be maintained as a self-supporting institution, but he would never advocate the piling up of a surplus.

1921 05

Malone is married to Kate Dawson

Personal. . . . Mr. J. J. Malone, Deputy-Comptroller of Radio for the Commonwealth, was married in Melbourne on Saturday week to Miss Kate (Nurse) Dawson, daughter of Mrs. Dawson and the late Mr. A. Dawson, of Invermay, Tasmania. The bridegroom is a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Peter Malone, of Gundurimba, where he was born. Since Mr. Malone's return from the war his promotion has been very rapid. Alstonville "Record" says part of the honeymoon will be spent on the Richmond.

1921 06

Malone responds to a reporters question about possible Willis Island Coastal Station

CYCLONE WARNINGS. Willis Island Wireless Scheme. CAIRNS, June 3. Questioned at Cairns yesterday, regarding the feasibility of the erection of a wireless station at Willis Island, Mr. J. Malone, deputy director of the Commonwealth radio service, said the idea of a station in such a locality was to get warnings of the approach of cyclones, and yet the purpose for which the station should be erected might serve its destruction, for the islets, being so low and having certain other disadvantages, there was a possibility of the station being swept away. Consequently it was a matter requiring serious consideration. Mr. Malone said that Mr. A. S. McDonald, radio engineer on the central staff at Melbourne, was at present travelling between Darwin and Camooweal, with regard to the proposal to link up the Interior by wireless. Mr. McDonald would visit Willis Island.

Malone returns from Papua New Guinea after gathering data for his rejuvenation plan for Australian coastal wireless

Commonwealth Wireless Stations. Mr. James Malone, Deputy Director Commonwealth Radio Service, returned to Cairns by the Morinda after visiting Samarai, Port Moresby and Rabaul in connection with the Department's wireless stations.

PMG Wise foreshadows several developments in wireless, apparently being driven by Malone, but refer following article

RADIO DEVELOPMENTS. POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S PLANS USE OF DIRECTIONAL WIRELESS. Steady progress is being made by the Postmaster-General's Department in the development of the radio-services of the Commonwealth. It is the desire of Mr Wise, the Postmaster-General, that wireless telegraphy and telephony shall become as important a branch of the public utilities as are the post and telegraph today. Difficulties are being experienced, not the least of these being the delay which invariably occurs in obtaining material ordered overseas. There is also the fact that wireless apparatus is subject to so many patent laws that it is almost impossible to design apparatus locally, which will be suitable to local conditions, without infringing somebody or other's patent rights. These difficulties of supply and legal procedure have been responsible for the holding up of experiments in a very important branch of the service, namely, directional wireless. To a very great extent the efforts of experts on the other side of the world to perfect this wonderful development of radio science have met with success, and Mr Wise is anxious to apply the result of their researches to Australia, being animated by the knowledge that directional wireless would be a particularly useful adjunct to the department's plans for the extension of radio-services to places in the interior. It is also felt that wireless direction finders would be of the utmost value in connection with the development of aerial mail services. In the early experimental stages these services will be carried out in regions which, obviously, are not well served at present, either by the post or telegraph. The Geraldton-Derby route in West Australia, which has just been selected for experimental air services, is typical of much of the country over which aerial mails will be carried in Australia. There are several long flying stages over territory which is rough and unpopulated, and the risk of accident is by no means remote. Mr Wise feels that this risk can be minimised, however, if it is possible, by the use of directional wireless to keep in touch with the aeroplanes at every stage of their flight. Linking Up Territories The Department is rapidly perfecting the organisation of its wireless services in Papua and the mandated territories. There are large stations at Rabaul, Port Moresby, Samarai, and Misima, and the traffic through them with the mainland is rapidly increasing. Rabaul distributes to six or eight smaller stations, and arrangements are now being made for the extension of the power of this plant. This, with the alterations which are being carried out at the Townsville station, is designed to carry traffic between Melbourne, Sydney and Rabaul, which, it is anticipated, will attain great volume in the near future. Mr Malone, superintendent of the radio branch of the Postmaster-General's Department, is at present in the Islands inspecting the various installations and making preparations for alterations and expenses. An additional departmental officer, Mr McDonald, who recently concluded a tour of portion of Northern Queensland and the Northern Territory, in connection with the proposed establishment of wireless distributing stations at Camooweal and Powell's Creek, is now with the expedition which is visiting Willis Island, off the coast of Queensland, with the object of investigating the suitability of the spot for the establishment of a wireless station to be used for meteorological purposes, and the issue of storm warnings. On the return of these officers important developments may be looked for.

Malone responds to earlier article, clearly against the proposed AWA monopoly

WIRELESS DEVELOPMENT. (For the "Post" and "Herald.") In connection with the article on wireless development in our issue of 23rd inst., the following comments have been contributed by Mr. James Malone, M.I.R.E., A.M.I.E.E., Deputy Director of the Commonwealth Radio Service, who is at present in Cairns. The "Age" article, in its reference to the Commonwealth radio service not developing radio matters fuller, is somewhat misleading. It may be gathered from that article, that no progressive policy is being followed, and no use is being made of the new methods of wireless that have been developed in the first five years. Such an impression would be quite incorrect. Although the Commonwealth system was not extended commercially during recent years, which is due to the fact that the navy had control and concentrated more on the strategic value of the art. Since last November, when the post office assumed control, the commercial extension of radio facilities has received close attention. Firstly, it was necessary to modernise the equipment at the existing stations, and this is being done so that in a year or so all stations will be fitted with valve transmitters, and will thus be more efficiently equipped than any similar stations at present functioning. Here it may be opportune to remark that the purpose of these stations is to provide continuous communication with the mainland for ships at sea. It was never intended that they should be able to communicate over long distances. For instance, it is frequently asked why our stations do not work with stations in Europe and America? The answer lies in the economical aspect of the matter. While it is an easy matter to receive messages from Washington, Carnarvon or Paris on a receiving station costing about £50, it is a vastly different matter to transmit messages from Australia to such places. A similar powered station would be required, and its cost would be about £200,000. And no one can justify the Commonwealth spending that sum at present, when other more pressing needs are neglected for want of funds. The Commonwealth Government, however, realises that such a station will be necessary in the near future for strategic purposes, as well as for commercial uses, and has agreed to the Imperial Cabinet's scheme of a chain of Imperial stations at Oxford, Cairo, Poona (India), Singapore and Perth. The stations at Oxford and Cairo are practically complete, and the Commonwealth radio service authorities, are awaiting the designs, of the stations, so as to prepare for the station at Perth. Thus it will be seen that the Commonwealth is doing all that is possible and necessary at present in Imperial wireless communication, and certainly any private concern could not do more in this connection without disregarding the advice of the Imperial Wireless Committee. The phase of wireless dealing with inland communication is one that is engaging much attention, and is a matter that the radio service has not neglected. In pursuance of the Postmaster-General's policy of assisting settlers in remote localities to obtain communication with settled areas, the previous regulations were amended so as to permit of any interested person erecting his own wireless station where he could not obtain communication by wire. All that it is necessary for such persons to do is to apply for a license to erect and operate such a station, which leave is granted by the Postmaster-General on certain technical requirements being complied with, and on undertaking to operate the station by a competent operator. The cost of such a station varies with the range to be covered. As an indication it may be estimated that a station to provide communication over 100 miles will cost about £500. If local electrical power is available, the cost will be greatly reduced. A competent operator is necessary, which entails a heavy annual charge, but this expense can be offset if the employer of the operator (who will not be a Government official) utilises his services for other purposes as well as wireless, which will only occupy him for about two hours per day. Thus a station can be erected and operated for little more than it costs to obtain and run a motor car. The Commonwealth Radio Service is erecting stations at Camooweal and Powell's Creek (N.T.), to act as collecting stations for messages sent from such private stations, and in or-der to advertise the policy of the Department in this regard, an engineer recently interviewed possible licensees at cattle stations in the N.T., and explained the advantages and requirements. The Department is doing its part in erecting the collecting stations; it cannot be expected to erect the private stations free of charge no more than it can provide telephone connections free. And as it has been repeatedly stated the Department is retarding the progress of wireless, and preventing its use in the backblocks, it will be interesting to see how many cattle station owners or others, now without communications with the land line telegraph system of the Commonwealth, will avail themselves of the opportunity provided therein. It might be mentioned in passing, that a telegraph line to connect Camooweal and Powell's Creek, via the cattle stations, would cost £60,000. With regard to Radio Telephony, the Commonwealth Radio Service is watching the development of the art closely, and carrying out experiments on its own account. It is known by all radio people that radio telephony is not yet sufficiently developed to be suitable for commercial service. A rapid, reliable and continuous radio telephone service as readily adaptable to public use as is the wired telephone, is not possible at present; as soon as it is, it will be provided where economically justifiable. At present it cannot, on grounds of economy and efficiency, be used where a telephone line is practicable. The majority of people who com-plain that the Government is not making freer use of wireless, have little or no idea of the cost of the installations; and the high cost is due mainly owing to the fact that the principal items of the necessary equipment are owned by interested "private enterprise," which seeks to monopoly. As to which is more desirable (a) monopoly by the Government in the public interest, or (b) monopoly by private enterprise in the interests of shareholders, needs no comment. Especially as wireless is not a paying proposition. If private enterprise can turn a loss of £30,000 a year into a profit, then the rates must be very much increased and existing facilities curtailed.

1921 11

Malone comments on the reception of President Harding's message in Australia

WONDERS OF WIRELESS. MESSAGE FROM AMERICA. REPLY WOULD COST £500,000. Melbourne, Monday. Travelling with the speed of light, or at the race of 186,000 miles a second, the wireless message sent out from the new radio station at New York on Saturday afternoon was received by countries all over the world. President Harding's was picked up by all the Government stations in Australia, and was also "tapped" by numerous amateurs in Melbourne, whose aerials consist perhaps of a wire on the chimney or in the back yard. For many months, of course, messages from all parts of the world have been received at the Government receiving stations and those of the Amalgamated Wireless Ltd. The stations at Honolulu, San Francisco, Japan, Bordeaux, Lyons, Berlin, Rome, Madrid, Carnarvon, and other places are heard regularly in Melbourne and elsewhere in Australia. The remarkable feature of the President’s message is that it was heard on sets which might have cost their enthusiastic owners anything up to £10. And yet, according to Mr J. Malone, officer in charge of the Commonwealth Wireless Service this message could not be acknowledged by wireless under an expenditure of something like £500,000. That represents the cost of erecting a sending station sufficiently powerful to communicate with high-powered stations in other parts of the world. Stations established by the Government in Australia are used to keep in touch with ships around the coast, and under favorable conditions they have a radius of 3000 miles. Australia's largest stations to date are limited to 35 kilowatts, while at Bordeaux, now the second largest in the world, there is a 1000 kilowatt station. The new radio at New York, which was opened on Saturday, is far more powerful than that at Bordeaux. Australia will not be able to despatch messages to far distant lands until the Commonwealth Government adopts one or other of the schemes at present under consideration. The Amalgamated Wireless is offering to establish a station which would be capable of communicating direct with any part of the world. DIFFERENT WAVE LENGTHS. Mr Malone explained this morning that every big station in the world had a different wave length, which means that messages cannot become "tangled" in mid-air. These wave lengths could be likened to the notes on a piano. If there were two pianos in a room, and a certain note was struck on one of them, the corresponding note on the other instrument would sound in sympathy. Receiving instruments were therefore adjusted to receive a massage of a certain wave length, and as every station's wave length is known, the rest is easy, that is, if atmospheric conditions permit. The message from New York was sent out at 6 p.m. on Saturday, corresponding to 6 a.m. yesterday in Melbourne, and at 6.20 a.m. it was on the land lines between the different Australian States! Further information was sought from Mr J. H. Williams, of the Amalgamated Wireless Ltd., who received the message at his office in Little Collins street yesterday morning. After having travelled from New York it was captured by a wire stretched above the building, and in the early hours of the morning it was transferred to a sheet of paper in the office below. Mr Williams invited the information-seeker to listen for himself, and there in a little room filled with a weird assortment of wireless equipment, the visitor heard messages being sent out in Morse code, first from Honolulu, and then from the new station at New York. A weird sensation this, to hear instantaneously messages being tapped out 7000 miles away. Wireless had been likened to the waves caused by dropping a pebble in a still pond. One wag already predicts trouble for the experts when these messages, having reached the ends of the universe, begin to find their way back again. The New York Radio is the biggest thing attempted so far in wireless, and Mr E. J. Nally, president of the Radio Corporation of America, refers to it thus:— "With the speed, accuracy and lower cost of wireless the new station will give the world something novel, useful and epoch-making in the field of international communication."

1922

1922 07

Malone leads a conference of amateur and commercial interests as to future control of listening-in

AMATEURS AND WIRELESS. Control of "Listening In." To consider a scheme for the control of amateur wireless stations in Australia a conference was held at Collins House on Monday afternoon. The Postmaster-General's department was represented by Mr J. Malone. Mr L. Hooke attended on behalf of Amalgamated Wireless (Australasia) Limited, and Messrs Court, Maddick, and Conry were the representatives of the amateurs. It was suggested that in future licenses to use transmitting apparatus be granted to bona fide experimenters who had attained the age of 18 years, but only after applicants had passed an examination to show that they were capable of using the apparatus without causing interference to other traffic. The amateurs' delegates also sought to have the annual licence fee, which is now £2, reduced. Mr. Hooke agreed to the proposals to grant transmitting licences to qualified amateurs and did not oppose the proposal to reduce the license fee. However, he emphasised that in the view of the company the casual operator of a receiving station was as great a menace to commercial wireless telegraphy as would be an irresponsible individual in charge of a powerful transmitter. The receiving station was a potential source of leakage, he said, and if the company was to handle commercial traffic, it would be necessary for it to be able to assure those who entrusted it with messages that the contents of those messages would not fall into irresponsible hands. He therefore advocated a careful control of the receiving sets capable of "listening in" on commercial traffic. Mr. Malone remarked that the parties were apparently in agreement on the main points. It had not yet been decided what the license fee should be, and there were many other minor points which have not yet been settled. These matters will, however, be cleared up by further discussion. Gratification was expressed when the result of the conference was made known to members of the Wireless Institute at its meeting last night.

1922 08

Malone advises Mount Morgan Technical College on procedures for obtaining an experimental licence to assist teaching wireless

MOUNT MORGAN TECHNICAL COLLEGE. The monthly meeting of the Board of Management of the Mount Morgan Technical College was held on Wednesday last. There were present:— Messrs. B. G. Patterson (in the chair), W. H. Mortimore, J. D. Aitkin, F. H. McCarthy, M. J. Johns, H. Tomkys, and G. T. Brisbin. Apologies for the absence of Messrs. P. F. Somerset, C. Christie, A. Power, and E. N. Goode were received. Mr. Patterson, in opening the meeting, extended a welcome back to Mr. Tomkys, who had been away on leave.— Mr. Tomkys suitably replied. It was resolved, on the motion of Mr. Patterson, that the Principal, Mr. W. Aplin, should be instructed to bring the syllabus of examinations of the Queensland Shorthand and Bookkeeping Association before the notice of the teachers concerned. In reference to a letter from the Prime Minister's Department, Melbourne, as to wireless licenses to teach. Mr Tomkys said that he felt that it could not be the intention of the Commonwealth Government to discourage the teaching of wireless telegraphy and telephony, since that branch of applied science was going to play a very big part in commerce and any future war. He thought that it was quite right that the Commonwealth authorities should keep a record of all wireless experimentalists and operators in order that traitors might be traced and efficient operators called up for service in time of war. That this had been done in the past war in regard to experimentalists around Sydney and Melbourne he had been informed by a friend. He was of opinion that instruction on the scientific principles could be given without recourse to the receiving and transmission of messages, and, when he suggested the purchase of a set of special apparatus for teaching purposes, he only had in mind the idea of teaching the underlying principles of the subject, and not the art of wireless telegraphy and telephony. This, he felt sure, could be done in a most interesting and fascinating way. A class of from twenty to thirty should be easily got and held for a period of two years, the time which it would take to cover the course in the underlying scientific principles. For that purpose the College had most of the apparatus, which however, should be added to by the purchase of the special apparatus which he had inspected in Sydney and which had been designed for teaching the subject and would cost from £30 to £40. He felt that the function of the College was to teach the underlying principles and to leave the practice of the art to the students — Messrs. Patterson and McCarthy were of the opinion that the students would expect the College to teach the art of wireless as well as the underlying principles and that, unless provision was made for doing so the students would not be satisfied and that the course would lose its charm and attractiveness. — After some further discussion it was resolved on the motion of Mr. McCarthy, seconded by Mr. Brisbin, that the President Mr. J. D. Murray, Mr. Patterson, and Mr. Tomkys should be appointed to interview the head of the wireless station, at Rockhampton and obtain all the enlightenment possible in reference to the matter of the letter from the Controller of Wireless which read as follows:— "With reference to your communication to the Deputy Postmaster-General, Brisbane, I desire to inform you that it will be necessary to make application for a license on the attached forms. Your attention is drawn to the following extract from the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905-19 — "Except as authorised by or under the Act no person shall (a) establish, erect, maintain or use any station or appliances for the purpose of transmitting and receiving messages by wireless telegraphy; or (b) transmit or receive messages by wireless telephony. Penalty: £500 or imprisonment, with or without hard labour for a term not exceeding five years. Attention is also invited to regulation 3 (clause 3) of the wireless telegraphy regulations of 1920 reading as follows — "An experimental and instructions license may be granted to technical schools and similar institutions and to persons for instructional purposes or the scientific investigation of wireless telegraphy or wireless telephony phenomena, subject to the applicant producing satisfactory proof that he is a natural-born British subject resident in Australia and that he is competent to conduct experiments scientifically. All applications for licenses to transmit or for reception by valve must be accompanied by a certificate of competency to read Morse signals at a speed of not less than twelve words per minute, and also as to their technical qualifications to conduct such experiments. Licenses for those purposes can only be granted when the above conditions are complied with and the conduct of official and public wireless telegraph business is not likely to be interfered with. Certificates of ability for the reception of the Morse code will be accepted from the secretary of a wireless institute, officer-in-charge of a radio station, postmaster, or an instructor in a telegraphy school. Evidence of nationality and age may be given in the form of a certified copy of a birth certificate or a statutory declaration made before a justice of the peace. A licence to transmit cannot be granted except in special cases, and then only for a specific experiment in scientific research, and where the public and official services are not thereby subjected to interference. In the case of radio clubs, institutes, &c., licences can only be issued in the name of an official, and application should be made accordingly. The sum of £2 is the license fee for one year from the date of issue. This amount is not to be forwarded until you are notified that your application has been approved."

1922 09

Malone authorises 200m calibration transmissions by Love to assist with preparations for the Trans-Pacific Tests

PROGRESS IN WIRELESS. . . . Trans-Pacific Tests. Rapid progress is being made in the construction of receivers for use in the tests to see whether or not American amateur stations can he heard in Australia. Replies have been received by Mr. H. Love from branches of the Wireless Institute in other States enthusiastically agreeing to co-operate in the tests for the benefit of amateurs desiring to construct apparatus for the test, a comprehensive lecture was given at the meeting of the Victorian branch of the Wireless Institute on Tuesday night by Messrs. Hull, Hiam, and Newman. Signals were received on apparatus built for the test, and remarkable results were achieved. As several sets are now nearing completion, arrangements are being made for the erection of a 200 metre transmitter for calibration purposes. A transmitting permit has been issued to Mr. Love by the controller of wireless communication (Mr. J. Malone), and Mr. Malone has offered to assist amateurs in conducting the tests in every possible way. It is hoped to begin the tests early in December, and all amateurs who have the apparatus are urged to erect a station in order to facilitate the checking of signals obtained during the test, and the supplying of particulars of the times of working, all participants, whether members of the institute or not, are requested to communicate with Mr. H. Love, "Lindum," Ferncroft avenue, East Malvern, without delay.

1922 10

Malone gives a speech at the annual dinner of the WIA Vic

AMATEURS AND WIRELESS. The annual dinner of the Victorian branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia was held in Sargent's Cafe, Elizabeth street, last night. The guests of the evening were Mr. J. Malone, controller of wireless telegraphy for the Commonwealth; Colonel Williams, representing the army signalling corps; Commander Creswell, representing the navy; Mr. L. Hooke, of Amalgamated Wireless (Aust.) Ltd. and Radio-Inspector Martin. Referring to the control of amateur stations, Mr. Malone said that new regulations had been prepared, but as they had not yet been approved, their contents could not be made public. In the preparation of these regulations close attention had been given to the conditions obtaining in other countries. The vexed question of license fees was receiving attention, and it had been stated in Parliament that a reduction in the present fee (£2 a year) would be made. The institute could do a great deal to help the Government to police the ether. He suggested that the amateur should appoint one of their number to act as an honorary radio inspector. Colonel Williams said that he looked to the institute to provide operators in any future wars in which the Empire might be involved. Wireless would be the most important method of signalling in the next war.

As previous, further detail of the interference being experienced at VIM

PROGRESS IN WIRELESS. . . . "Policing the Ether." At the annual dinner of the Victorian branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia, held on Tuesday night, Mr Malone, the controller of wireless telegraphy for the Commonwealth, suggested that amateurs could do a great deal to help the Government in "policing the ether" and detecting unlicensed wireless stations, and stations which do not observe the terms of their licenses. Mr. Malone said that lately an unlicensed amateur, who had been doing a great deal of transmitting, had caused the department considerable annoyance. On one occasion a message ad-dressed to a resident in Melbourne, and purporting to have come from one of the Australian coastal steamers, was received at the wireless station in the domain. The message was taken, and was about to be delivered, when the operator who received it suspected that it was not genuine. It was then ascertained that the message was a hoax, and that it had been sent by an amateur. On another occasion an amateur called up the domain station, and sent filthy and insulting messages to the operators. Every genuine amateur will deplore that there is one person in Victoria who is selfish enough to bring discredit on the amateurs as a body in this manner, and it is to be hoped that the Institute will make a strenuous endeavour to detect this person. Another source of interference which is threatening to become serious is the radiating receiver. At almost any time of the day or night that one cares to listen in with a suitable receiver, he can hear the flute like note of a receiving valve, sometimes sufficiently strong to be heard all over a room. A word of warning may be unnecessary to those who desire to hear this for themselves. As the receivers which really interfere are tuned to 600 metres, the use of a self-heterodyned receiver to hear them on this wave will probably be as great a nuisance as any of the other radiating receivers, and a separate oscillator should therefore be used to produce the "beats" in the receiver.

Malone still pursuing honorary radio inspectors, also a new system of allotting callsigns

PROGRESS IN WIRELESS. Unlicensed Amateur Stations. For some time considerable annoyance has been caused to the Commonwealth authorities by the existence of a number of unlicensed amateur wireless stations, and it is thought that some of these stations have been transmitting messages and interfering with commercial communications. Two houses, one in St. Kilda and one in Malvern, were visited by a Commonwealth radio inspector several weeks ago, and unlicensed apparatus was found in each. The operators of these stations called on the controller of wireless for the Commonwealth (Mr. J. Malone), and informed him that they had been assured by officials of the Wireless Institute of Australia that pending the publication of new regulations for the control of amateurs, by which the license fee would be reduced to 10/, they could operate stations without licenses. The two owners were summoned to attend a meeting of the institute on Tuesday night. All amateurs present declared that they had been advised, if they did not have licenses, to dismantle their stations and wait for the new regulations. One of the transgressors who attended was reprimanded, and reminded that it was the policy of the institute to uphold the radio laws in every possible way. Consideration of the second case was adjourned to the next meeting. Radio-inspector Martin, on behalf of Mr. Malone, suggested that amateurs should appoint several of their number as honorary radio inspectors to keep a check on the operating of licensed stations and to locate unlicensed stations. It was agreed to adopt the suggestion and the inspectors will be elected by the institute of the annual election of office bearers, which will be held in about a month. Amateur Calls. Mr. J. Malone, the controller of wireless communication for the Commonwealth, has announced that the department is contemplating a change in the method of allotting calls to amateur stations. At present the system adopted is to number each amateur station, and allot as its call its number prefixed by the letter "V." It will be realised that as there are at present more than 700 licensed stations in Australia, and as this number is rapidly increasing, and will increase still more rapidly when the inevitable wireless boom occurs here, an amateur call, consisting of a letter of four signals, and three or four figures, each of five signals will be quite a long affair, and if transmission is permitted here in the near future, the calling up of a station will probably occupy more time than the transmission of the actual message. It is proposed to adopt a system similar to that used in the United States for the allotting of amateur calls. The Commonwealth will be divided up into districts (probably each of the States will constitute a district), and each district will be numbered. The calls will then consist of the number of the district that a station is in, followed by two or more letters. It will thus be possible to allot nearly 700 stations in each State a call, consisting of a number and two letters, before it will be necessary to bring in a third letter, with the correspondingly lengthened call.

1922 11

Malone observes that the new regulations are expected to lead to a dramatic increase in the number of amateur licences

AMATEUR WIRELESS. Many Stations in Australia. The new wireless regulations, which have been issued by the Federal Government, will affect every amateur enthusiast in the Commonwealth. Of these there are a surprisingly large number; for the wireless habit has fascinated many experimenters. Questioned today on the position, Mr Malone, the Commonwealth Controller of Wireless, stated that the number of licenced amateur stations in the Commonwealth was now about 800. The huge majority of these stations are, of course, receiving stations — indeed, only about 20 are equipped for transmitting as well as receiving. Transmitting has been to some extent restricted by the authorities because of the danger of interference with other stations, and the general hindrance of wireless traffic. It must be borne in mind, too, that whereas an amateur set which will receive messages from the other side of the world even can be erected for a few pounds, a set that will transmit messages for long distance costs scores and even hundreds of thousands of pounds. Wireless amateur sets hitherto have been licenced on payment of £2 a year, this applying to all the 800 stations referred to above. The charge will now be reduced to 10/ in the case of single receiving sets, which should lead to more widespread indulgence in the pastime. Jewellery and clothing valued at £100 were stolen yesterday from the house of Eric Redwood in Alston grove, East St. Kilda.

The Wireless Regulations 1922 approved, to come into force 1 December 1922, all Malone's handiwork, Melbourne Argus report

CONTROL OF WIRELESS. NEW REGULATIONS ADOPTED. MORE FREEDOM FOR AMATEURS. New regulations for the control of wireless communication in the Commonwealth have been approved by the Governor-General, and will come into force on December 1. These regulations are very comprehensive, and provide for the control of the many new branches of the science. Important alterations in the laws governing amateur stations are contained in the regulations, and, as a result of these alterations, amateur operators will enjoy a great deal more freedom than they have had since the war. The most important clause relating to amateur stations is one removing the ban on amateur transmission. Under the new regulations, amateurs will be permitted to use transmitting apparatus, subject to certain conditions that will be imposed by the controller of wireless (Mr. J. Malone), for the prevention of interference with commercial stations. Mr. Malone proposes that amateur transmitters shall be restricted to two bands of wave lengths. One from 150 to 250 metres shall be used for all classes of transmitting stations, and the other band, 410 to 440, will be reserved for wireless telephone transmitters and continuous wave transmitters. The following restrictions as to type of transmitter and power will be imposed:— All stations within a radius of five miles from any defence or commercial station will be limited to a power of 10 watts, and only continuous wave transmitters, modulated continuous wave transmitters for Morse signalling, or wireless telephone transmitters will be permitted within this radius. The use of "spark" transmitters will be prohibited. Outside the five-mile radius and within a radius of 50 miles from a Government or commercial station all types of transmitters, except those of the "plain aerial" type, will be permitted, but the power of the transmitters will be limited to 20 watts. Outside the 50-mile radius any type of transmitter, of which the power does not exceed 250 watts, will be licensed. The regulations provide that before any transmitting license is granted the applicant will be required to show that he is a bona-fide experimenter, and he will be required to furnish particulars of the experiments he proposes to carry out. Applicants must also show that they have sufficient technical knowledge and operating ability to work their transmitters without causing interference with other stations, and if required to do so by the controller of wireless must sit for an examination to demonstrate their knowledge. A fee of 5/ will be charged for this examination. Fees and Licenses. Another matter of importance to experimenters is the annual license fee. Under the new regulations this fee will be reduced from £2 a year to 10/ a year for a receiving license and £1 a year for a license for both transmitting and receiving. No age limit is placed on applicants for licenses, but in cases where the applicant is under the age of 21 years, a responsible person will have to give a guarantee that the station will be operated in accordance with the terms of the license. Applicants for permission to use valve-receivers will be required to submit a certificate from a responsible officer of a wireless club or a postmaster showing that they are capable of receiving messages in the Morse code at the rate of 12 words a minute. To check the erection of unlicensed stations, all dealers in wireless apparatus will be required to keep a record of their sales, and will only be permitted to sell apparatus to holders of licenses or those who are about to apply for licenses. Dealers will be required to produce their records of sales for examination by properly authorised radio inspectors. One of the conditions upon which all licenses will be issued will be that the experimental station will at all reasonable times be open for inspection by a Government radio inspector, and to check the surreptitious use of wireless apparatus all suspected stations will be regularly visited by inspectors. Under the new regulations ship stations will be licensed at a fee of £1 a year, coast stations at £1 a year, aircraft stations (for the benefit of commercial aviation companies) at £1 a year, and portable stations at £1 a year. The portable stations have been licensed for the convenience of troops of Boy Scouts and similar parties, who require, while travelling from one place to another, to keep in communication with headquarters. Time might evolve this class of license into a convenience for commercial travellers. The regulations will also remove an anomaly at present existing in regard to the installation of experimental apparatus on yachts and similar vessels. Under existing regulations, these vessels are regarded as ship stations, and are compelled to carry an operator holding a commercial operating certificate, even though the apparatus may have been installed by an amateur for experimental purposes. Under the new regulations the operator of a yacht station will not be required to hold a commercial operator's certificate. A license is provided for land stations erected in outlying districts and along air routes. In localities unprovided with ordinary telephonic communication, this type of station will be of great benefit to settlers, as it will enable them to make urgent calls for medical and other assistance. Broadcasting Concerts. Provision is made in the regulations for the control of "broadcasting" stations for the supplying of wireless concerts. Receiving stations for receiving the broadcasting only will also be licensed as a type of station. Broadcasting is an entirely new branch of wireless, and no reliable information of the experience in other countries was available when the regulations were drawn up. Thus the broadcasting regulations are in a very embryonic form, and it will be impossible to prepare satisfactory regulations for the control of broadcasting until it is known what is being done in other countries, and what plans the broadcasting companies are prepared to adopt in Australia. It has, however, been definitely decided to exclude rigorously from broadcasting programmes all classes of advertisements. In the preparation of the regulations the first consideration, of course, was to protect commercial and Government traffic from interference from less important stations, but by the confining of amateurs transmitters to certain bands of wavelengths and the restriction of the power of the transmitter, it is hoped to give the genuine experimenter full scope for his investigations without jeopardising other interests. For amateurs whose interest in wireless communication is stimulated by mere curiosity, the broadcasting licenses will suffice, and these same licenses will make it possible for the man on the land, hundreds of miles from large centres, to have concerts, weather forecasts, market reports, and perhaps press news brought into his home through the medium of the wireless telephone.

1922 12

Maddick and Whitelaw elected as honorary radio inspectors, as requested by Malone

ITEMS OF INTEREST. . . . Wireless Institute. The half-yearly election of officers of the Victorian division of the Wireless Institute of Australia was held on Tuesday, with the following result:— President, Mr. W. H. Conry; vice presidents, Messrs. R. Hull and C. Hiam; hon. secretary, Mr. H. W. Maddich (sic, Maddick); treasurer, Mr. K. Trood. A committee of 15 members exclusive of the office-bearers was appointed to conduct the affairs of the institute for the coming half-year. Messrs. Maddich and Whitelaw were elected as honorary radio inspectors under the plan suggested by the controller of wireless (Mr. J. Malone).

1923

1923 01

Malone promoted to Chief Telegraphic Manager in the Central Administration of the PMGD, Melbourne Herald publishes a very detailed biography

NEW TELEGRAPH CHIEF. WAS ONCE MESSENGER. Mr. J. Malone, Commonwealth Controller of Wireless, has been appointed Chief Telegraphic Manager in the Central Administration of the Postmaster-General's department. Mr. Malone is only 38 years of age, and this has given further proof that bright young men can pick a plum in the Commonwealth Public Service. He was once a telegraph messenger. Mr. Malone's appointment is a new one, created for the purpose of having a senior telegraph officer in the central office, who will advise the secretary to the department on all telegraph matters. The position is thus distinct from, and is higher in status than, that of telegraph manager for any State. This officer will be required to investigate thoroughly all telegraph activities throughout the Commonwealth, with the object of improving the service generally. The work will include the recommendation of such new or improved facilities as may be needed. The additional expenditure will form portion of the £9,000,000 loan approved by Parliament last year for all departmental services. Mr Malone who is a member of the Institute of Radio Engineers and the Institution of Electrical Engineers, gave distinguished service as a wireless officer during the war period in France where he was awarded the M.C. After the armistice he organised the wireless telephone and telegraph sections of the A.I.F. Education Service in London. Having completed this work, he applied his own time to the study and investigation of telegraph, telephone and wireless methods and developments in Europe, the United States and New Zealand. During his 20 years in the Commonwealth Public Service, he has occupied various important posts, and has been Cable Engineer, Sydney; District Engineer, Goulburn (N.S.W.); Engineer for Lines (Queensland); Deputy State Engineer, Western Australia, and Deputy Director of the Commonwealth Radio Service. During the investigations of the Parliamentary Wireless Committee last year, he acted as technical adviser.

Melbourne Argus explains that Malone's new position largely as a result of loss of responsibilities with AWA assuming control of the coastal radio stations

PERSONAL. . . . Mr. J. Malone, Commonwealth controller of wireless, who has been appointed chief telegraphic manager of the Postal department, will be paid a salary of £650 per annum, increasing to £700 per annum. Mr. Malone, it was officially explained yesterday, will continue his work as controller of wireless in addition to his new duties, although most of the matters which he formerly administered will be taken over by Amalgamated Wireless (Australasia) Limited, under the recent agreement with the Commonwealth.

As previous, with local Lismore touch

Personal. . . . Mr. J. Malone, Commonwealth controller of wireless, has been appointed chief telegraph manager of the central administration of the Postmaster-General's Department. Mr. Malone is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Peter Malone, late of Gundurimba. Two brothers, Peter and Jim? Malone, reside at Kyogle, and also a sister, Mrs. Timms.

As previous, with local Kyogle touch

Personal. . . . Mr. J. Malone, Commonwealth controller of wireless, who has been appointed chief telegraph manager of the central administration of the Postmaster-General's Department, is the son of a well-known family in the Richmond district, his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Malone, late of Gundurimba both being now dead. It is understood that there are three brothers, Peter and Jim Malone, Kyogle; and William Malone, Sydney; also two sisters, Mrs. Timms, now of Kyogle; and Mrs. Freeman, late of South Lismore and now residing in Sydney. Mr. Malone commenced on the instruments in the telegraph department at the Lismore post office some 16 years ago, and shortly afterwards passed the University examination in Sydney. He served in the recent war throughout almost the whole time of the hostilities, being employed chiefly as an inspector of telegraph, wireless, and telephone communications, which occupation usually took him to the firing line. After the armistice he was sent by the Commonwealth Government to Canada and the United States for the purpose of learning the latest method telegraphic and telephonic construction in those countries. He later spent some time in Western Australia. It is understood that when in Lismore Mr. Malone studied for some time under Mother Stanislaus. Friends of Mr. and Mrs. Malone will be interested to hear that a daughter was born to them in Sydney.

As previous, with a Catholic touch

All About People. . . . Mr. J. Malone, Commonwealth controller of wireless, has been appointed chief telegraph manager of the central administration of the Postmaster-General's Department. Mr. Malone is the son of a well-known family in the Lismore district, his father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Malone, late of Gundurimba, both being amongst the earliest Irish pioneers of the Richmond. There are three brothers — Peter and Jim Malone (Kyogle), and William Malone (Sydney); also two sisters (Mrs. Timms, now of Kyogle), and Mrs. Freeman (late of South Lismore, and now residing in Sydney). Mr. Malone commenced on the instruments in the Telegraph Department at the Lismore post office some 16 years ago, and shortly afterwards passed the University examination in Sydney. He served in the recent war throughout almost the whole time of the hostilities, being employed chiefly as an inspector of telegraph, wireless and telephone communications, which occupation usually took him to the firing line. After the armistice he was sent by the Commonwealth Government to Canada and the United States for the purpose of learning the latest methods of telegraphic and telephonic construction in those countries. He later spent some time in Western Australia. He received his earliest education from the Presentation Nuns at Lismore, and his splendid success in life is only one more proof of the efficiency of our Catholic schools.

Malone subtly puts AWA in its place when they attempt to exert authority in respect of wireless demonstrations

THE MAGIC SPARK. Radio Notes and News. PUBLIC DEMONSTRATIONS. For some time the position regarding the operation and procedure of public demonstrations of radio telephony has been more or less obscure, but a definite ruling has been given, which should set all doubts at rest. Through the courtesy of Mr. A. E. H. Atkinson, hon. sec. of the Radio Assoc. of Aust. (N.S.W. branch), the following is made public:— Mr. J. Malone, Controller of Wireless, Melbourne. Radio Association of Aust., N.S.W. Branch, 21/12/'23. Dear Sir.— I have been directed by the council of the association to ask if you would advise us as to the position of wireless societies in giving public demonstrations of wireless. A few weeks ago the Illawarra Radio Club, having received your permission, advertised that they were going to give an exhibition of wireless telephony, and thought they had done all that was necessary. To their great surprise they received a message from the Amalgamated Wireless Company, asking why their permission had not been obtained. After some consideration they said they would give their permission on condition that it was announced at the show, which was done. We should like to know for guidance in future what authority the Amalgamated Wireless has to control any activities in amateur wireless matters. We thought that, having secured your permission we had done all that was necessary, and do not understand why the Amalgamated Wireless Co. should raise any objection. All we desire is to know the exact rules and regulations, so that we can instruct the clubs accordingly and prevent any friction or conflict with any of the authorities. (Signed), Arthur E. H. ATKINSON Hon. Sec. In reply to this the Controller of Wireless stated on December 28:— In reply to your memorandum 21.12.1922, relative to permits for public demonstrations in wireless, I desire to inform you that, in accordance with the wireless telegraphy regulations, which are administered by this department, the permission of the Controller of Wireless is necessary, vide regulation 4 (8), before any demonstration or procedure not covered by the license is carried out. This is the only authorisation required by the regulations, and can only be given by this department. (Signed), J. MALONE, Controller of Wireless.

1923 02

Malone, still with Prime Minister's Department, has his controller of Wireless duties rated as worth only £100 per annum

COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. Melbourne, 8th February, 1923. THE undermentioned notifications of Staff changes, &c., are made in accordance with the Commonwealth Public Service Act and Regulations:— PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT AND DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS. . . . Allowance for Performance of Duties of Controller of Wireless.— J. Malone, Chief Manager of Telegraphs, 1st Class, Clerical Division, £100, as from 9th November, 1922, for the performance of the duties of Controller of Wireless.

1923 03

In a rare swipe at Malone (if unnamed), he is criticised for delays in issuing new licences under the new wireless regulations

WIRELESS. COMPLAINTS BY AMATEURS. DELAY IN GRANTING LICENSES. Although the new wireless regulations which were issued towards the end of last year gave experimenters a good deal more freedom, lowered the cost of licenses, and generally placed amateurs on a much better footing, a good deal of criticism has lately been levelled at the authorities owing to the manner in which the regulations are being administered. The office of the Controller of Wireless is situated in Melbourne, and applications for licenses in all parts of Australia must be posted to him. These applications are considered, and as in some cases inquiries are necessary some little time elapses before the Controller decides whether the license will be granted or not. On an application being approved of the Controller communicates by letter with the applicant, requests him to forward the necessary fee, and encloses a form regarding secrecy, which must be filled in and returned to Melbourne. When this is received an unsigned license is issued in duplicate and forwarded to the experimenter, who must sign both copies, and again post them back to Melbourne. The Controller then signs both, files one for reference, and posts the other to the applicant, thus completing the matter. The amateur movement is rapidly gaining ground in Australia, and applications are becoming numerous. Consequently this system of centralisation has resulted in much delay being occasioned. Amateurs who applied for even the simplest type of licenses during December last only two or three weeks ago received a reply to their applications. They returned the fee and the forms to the Controller immediately, but have not yet heard from him. Thus three months have elapsed from the time of their making the application, and yet not one-half of the procedure has been gone through. In the case of applications for the use of thermionic valves amateurs recognise that special inquiries must be made, because it is only by restricting the use of thermionic valves to those who are competent to handle them that chaos in the ether can be avoided. In connection with crystal licenses, however, there should be no delay, the granting of such permits being in most cases merely a formal matter. In England those licenses can be purchased at any post-office if the applicant is prepared to make the declaration regarding secrecy in the presence of the postmaster. In Australia there are radio inspectors in various States. These officers are responsible for the administering of the regulations, and it is generally felt that they should be empowered to deal with licenses in their districts. If this were done it would relieve the congestion at present existing in Melbourne, and would also prevent the unnecessary delay and expense which result from the posting backwards and forwards of communications from Melbourne. Genuine experimenters are willing to assist the department to their utmost, realising that the amateur movement will progress smoothly if the regulations are adhered to. They claim, however, that a weary wait of three or four months for licenses as a direct incentive to the erection of unauthorised stations. The new regulations will only be adhered to, they state, if they are carried out in a businesslike manner by the authorities themselves.

Perhaps the real reason for the above delays, is resolved

Notification appears in the "Commonwealth Government Gazette" that the Governor-General-in-Council has approved of the transfer of the control of wireless from the Prime Minister's Department to the Postmaster-General's Department, as from March 1, 1923.

1923 04

The ink is barely dry on the Wireless Regulations 1922 when Malone commences with a preparatory conference for the Regulations 1923 which will introduce the Sealed Set broadcasting licences

WIRELESS BROADCASTING. AUSTRALIAN REGULATIONS. Many Problems to be Solved. Numerous applications have been made to the chief manager of Telegraphs and Wireless (Mr. J. Malone) for permission to erect wireless telephone transmitting stations for the purpose of establishing wireless broadcasting services, similar to those at present being conducted in England and elsewhere. The conditions of broadcasting are such that unless the regulations under which a service is carried out are reasonably in accord with the proposals of prospective broadcasters, a state of complete chaos will result from one broadcasting station interfering with another. To prevent such a state of affairs from occurring here, and creating the trouble it caused both in England and America, it has been decided by the Postmaster General (Mr. Gibson), in whose department is vested the control of wireless matters, to hold a conference of all parties interested in broadcasting, and to make the conclusions of this conference the basis of the broadcasting regulations for Australia. The conference was first arranged for April 9, but it was found impracticable to hold it then, and it has been postponed to a date to be fixed, and will probably be held at the end of May. When the conference does meet there will be plenty to claim its attention. Conditions in Australia are radically different from those existing in any other country where broadcasting on a large scale has yet been attempted. It is probable that the most difficult problem which will face the broadcaster will be the matter of finance. Each broadcasting station which is erected, if our stations are to provide a service similar to that available in England, will cost about £20,000 a year to maintain, and this money must be obtained from those of the five and a half million people in the Commonwealth who install broadcasting receivers. And whereas each of the several stations in the United Kingdom provides a broadcasting service for at least as many people as there are at present in the whole of Australia, one station in each of our capital cities will not be capable of supplying all our population with the wireless concert, and other matter promised by prospective broadcasters. A thickly populated area of relatively small radius is essential for economical broadcasting, and though this requirement is fulfilled by our large cities, the greater part of the inland districts will not for some time yet be accessible by the broadcasting station, except in such isolated cases where a settler has the technical skill to operate a complicated receivers and what is more important has access to a supply of electric current. The difficulty of obtaining a steady supply of current to operate his receiver will be the greatest obstacle in the way of the country settler who wishes to avail himself of the benefits of the broadcasting stations. As in England and elsewhere, the principal source from which maintenance expenses will be derived by broadcasting companies, will be the sale of receiving sets, and for this source to be remunerative to the broadcasting companies, it will be necessary that steps be taken to see that only such sets as are sold by those supplying the concerts are used by the people receiving the "broadcasts." This has been insured in England by allowing only that apparatus which bears the seal of the British Broadcasting Company, the amalgamation of the several British wireless manufacturing firms which supplies the broadcasts in England, to be used for receiving the wireless concerts. Inspectors appointed by the Government are authorised to inspect all premises in which broadcast receivers are installed, and in every case in which the apparatus used does not bear the Broadcasting Company's seal, the disuse of the apparatus is insisted upon. Undoubtedly a similar regulation will reintroduced here. It has also been suggested that part of the annual license fee charged by the Commonwealth be allotted to the companies supplying the concerts. As to broadcasting wavelengths, conditions in other countries will give an indication of what may be expected here. The wavelengths chosen for broadcasting stations must be such that the broadcasting stations will not interfere with ships and other commercial stations, defence stations, aircraft stations, and experimental stations, or vice versa. The wavelength allotted here will probably be between 300 and 400 metres. It will be necessary to see that all receiving stations used for broadcast reception will be of a non-radiating type. Unless particular attention is given to this matter, the interference caused by radiating receivers will be sufficient to severely hamper the reception of concerts over a very wide radius. Even though existing experimental regulations deal particularly stringently with radiating receivers, many experiments being conducted in Melbourne at present are badly interfered with by radiating receivers, and though it is possible almost every night to "pick up" telephony from Sydney amateurs, the speech is often rendered unintelligible by interference, from carelessly handled receiving stations. To insure the secrecy of public correspondence, it is also necessary that receivers used for broadcast reception will be capable of receiving the broadcasts only, and not of "tapping" commercial and other messages. It must be understood, however, that a broadcasting license will be quite distinct of an experimental license will not be required to conform to regulations which from the experimental licenses now held by amateurs in Australia, and the holder apply only to broadcast receivers.

Another peak body attacking Malone for the overly bureaucratic processes for obtaining an experimental licence

RADIO BUREAU. (By RADIOPHONE.) It is the intention of this bureau to educate the public into understanding exactly what all this "wireless" and '"radio" means. In the first place, the meaning of these terms might be explained so as to avoid confusion. Before the war the term "wireless" was used generally throughout the world, but of late years it has been universally con-ceded that the term "radio" was more applicable to this branch of science. This was because, when signals were sent out by a radio transmitting station, the signals were radiated into space in every direction and to every point of the compass, hence the decision to coin the term "radio", and use it throughout the world. Some people are under the wrong impression that "wireless", indicates communication by Morse code only, and "radio" communication by speech, etc. The fact is that "radio-telephony" means radiation of telephony into space, and radio-telegraphy wireless transmission by the Morse code. The situation existing in Australia for the control of all radio matters is set out in detail for the guidance of those interested. The chief manager, Telegraphs and Wireless, P.M.G.'s Department, is the head of the wireless branch of the P.M.G.'s Department, and is located at Flinders Lane, Melbourne. This gentleman is in charge of all wireless matters in the Commonwealth. He administers the Wireless Telegraph Act, and the regulations issued in December last. The regulations provide for several forms of licenses, but the only license available to the average person is that of an experimental (receiving, and/or transmitting) nature. This experimental license is obtained in the following red-tape manner:— A form is obtained either from the Radio-Inspector, Macdonell House, Pitt Street, Sydney, or at any radio shop. All particulars have to be filled in, and the form posted to the Chief Manager, Telegraphs and Wireless, P.M.G.'s Department Melbourne, where it receives attention in the course of a month or two, if one is lucky. In due course the letter is acknowledged, and, if you are fortunate, a statutory declaration form is enclosed for the applicant to fill in and sign. The applicant is required to send £1 as annual transmitting and receiving fee, or 10/ for annual receiving fee only. After the forms have been sent to Melbourne nothing further is heard for some weeks, but when the reply does come to hand the letter contains two license forms, which must be signed and witnessed. It is necessary to return these license forms to Melbourne. Then, in "due course" again, the applicant receives final permission. Officially, the applicant is not supposed to do any work with his apparatus, pending the finalisation of his application. Amateurs would be well advised to obtain a copy of the wireless regulations from the Inquiry Officer, Commonwealth Bank Buildings, Sydney. The cost is 1/3 per copy. When filling in the application form referred to, particular attention must be paid to the question, in which the applicant is asked, "What experiments are you desirous of carrying out?" No license will be granted, if it is stated that the applicant desires to listen to music, etc. The applicant must state his intention to study the art, and endeavour to master the intricacies of wireless. The reason for this is that, under the regulations, there are several kinds of licenses: (1) Coast station license, (2) ship station license, (3) land station license, (4) broadcasting station license, (5) experimental (transmitting and receiving) license, (6) experimental (receiving only) license, (7) portable station license, (8) aircraft station license. Except with special consent, a license will not be granted to any person who is not a natural-born British subject, or whose father was not a natural-born British subject at the date of the applicant's birth, or whose mother was at any time a subject of a State with which his Majesty was at war during the period 1914-1919. The only licenses that concern the average person, at present desiring a license are numbers 5, 6, and 7, and of these No. 7 is the most general. At present, no licenses are issued to persons who merely want to listen-in. The issue of such licenses, however, will come with the introduction of official broadcasting. The "experimental receiving license" will be issued to any person who can comply with the regulations. If a crystal set is used, not much experience is necessary, but if a valve is used the applicant must possess some knowledge of the. manipulation and action of the apparatus. Persons who are interested will gain a fair knowledge of the elementary principles of wireless, by purchasing some good books on the subject. Indeed, they would be well advised to join a radio club in their locality, if one should exist. Country enthusiasts would be well advised to join clubs.

Malone investigates a wireless demonstration at St Kilda where final approval not obtained

PROGRESS IN WIRELESS. By METRE. Unauthorised Demonstration. One of the regulations controlling wireless communication requires that all public demonstrations of wireless telegraphy or telephony shall be authorised by the controller of wireless (Mr. J. Malone). Referring to a demonstration of wireless telephony given by several Melbourne amateurs in connection with a carnival at St. Kilda during Easter week, Mr. Malone said recently that he was greatly surprised when he learned that the demonstration had been held, as no permit for it had been given by his department. Mr. Malone said that he had been asked for a permit for a "wireless exhibition," but, not knowing what was meant by that very vague term, he asked for further details of the proposal. The next thing he knew was that the demonstration had been held. "They took French leave," declared Mr. Malone. "Our department has always been sympathetically inclined towards amateurs, and I would have granted a permit for a demonstration for a reasonable time had proper application been made. If, as I have been informed, the demonstration was held for three and a half hours a night for two nights running, I would certainly not have sanctioned this, as so long a demonstration would seriously interfere with other amateurs experiments. The demonstration would not have been permitted for more than about half an hour a night." Mr. Malone added that the principle involved was an important one and that the circumstances of the breath of regulations was being thoroughly investigated by radio inspectors and that he was awaiting a report. Until this incident matters between the department and the amateurs have proceeded most harmoniously, and no serious breach of the regulations has occurred. The regulations now in force have placed the amateurs in the excellent position he now holds. They impose no hardship, they give the experimenter every privilege he can reasonably expect, and they are absolutely essential to prevent interference be-tween the amateurs themselves. Any violation of the regulations must bring dis-credit on the amateurs as a whole, and if repeated will inevitably bring restrictive legislation upon everybody. It should be remembered that the license under which the amateur works is for experimental purposes only and there are large numbers of amateurs who desire to use their own particular wavelength bands for experiments unhampered by music transmitted for the purpose of giving a "radio concert." Fortunately Mr. Malone has realised the gravity of the situation and is making inquiries into the matter.

Malone heads conference of telegraph managers in Melbourne

(Start Photo Caption) CONFERENCE OF TELEGRAPH MANAGERS. It is hoped that improved services will directly result from the conference held yesterday of State managers of the telegraph branches of the Postmaster-General's department. From left to right are:— Back row, Messrs. E. Broad (Adelaide), F. P. Bowden (Hobart), M. Ryan (Perth), J. Lawrence (telegraph traffic officer, central administration); front row, M. Laird (Sydney), J. Malone (chief manager, telegraphs and wireless, central administration), T. Howard, and J. R. Kelly (Brisbane). (End Photo Caption)

Gibson gives a speech to the conference of telegraph managers in Melbourne headed by Malone

FASTER TELEGRAMS. Postmaster-General's Aim. IMPROVEMENTS IN TELEGRAPH SYSTEM. At the invitation of the Telegraph Managers' Association the Postmaster-General, Mr. Gibson, delivered an address at the Inter-State Conference of Telegraph Managers which opened yesterday at the Postal Institute. It is eleven years since the last conference of the kind was held. The Postmaster-General said he would like to see the conferences held annually, and he thought that State conferences, besides inter-State, should be held, so that departmental questions could be settled on the spot instead of having to be dealt with in reports. The collective judgment of the State managers would probably evolve a better system than the one which now obtained, for it must be confessed that the telegraph system was not perfect. Two things were necessary for an efficient service. These were promptness and accuracy. He believed that a lot of the delay in the telegraph delivery system was in the delivery itself. If the department could give promptness and accuracy it would complete its efficiency. As a matter of fact it had not the promptness which it should have. Recently when he was travelling to Melbourne by the Adelaide express he sent a telegram from Bacchus Marsh to say that he was on his way to the city, but he arrived before the telegram. He did not know whether the telegram had travelled by train or wire. If the department could eliminate delays of that kind it would do a lot of good. The progress of the Postal department, and the means of keeping it up to date, rested with the men in the service. They should not wait to be forced by criticism from outside before they tried to improve the service. They should do that from inside. He noticed in the agenda paper a proposal to eliminate the human element in telegraphy, and he knew the human element was a weak link. In regard to press messages, he had received many complaints, but inquiries had been made into the matter, and he hoped that a better service for press telegrams would be given in future. He hoped that any proposals arising out of the conference would be submitted to him. He wanted to get rid of all reports and get into personal touch with the responsible men in the service, so that he could know exactly what they wanted him to do. He did not object to criticism. The telegraph service was a very large one, and criticism must be expected, because it could not always sell the people exactly what they asked for. He welcomed the conference, because he believed that the only means of gaining a point was by individuals meeting, and not by writing reports. Amongst the principal items to be discussed at the conference are general administration and organisation, procedure, introduction of machine systems, improvement in delivery systems and press traffic. The following managers are taking part in the conference:— Messrs. J. Malone (wireless, Central administration), M. Laird (Sydney), T. Howard (Melbourne), E. Broad (Adelaide), J. R. Kelly (Brisbane), M. Ryan (Perth), F. P. Bowden (Hobart), J. Lawrence (Central administration).

1923 05

Malone appoints honorary radio inspectors for Sydney assisting Crawford

WIRELESS NEWS. (By "RADIOPHONE.") HONORARY RADIO INSPECTORS. The hon. secretary of the Radio Association of New South Wales has been advised by Mr. J. Malone, chief manager, telegraphs and wireless, Melbourne, that Messrs. Charles D. Maclurcan, H. A. Stowe, E. B. Crocker, and J. W. Robinson have been appointed honorary radio inspectors to assist the radio inspector, Mr. Crawford, in the control of amateur experimenters.

As previous, a more detailed report in the Sydney Morning Herald

WIRELESS. HONORARY INSPECTORS APPOINTED. When the amended wireless regulations were issued by the Commonwealth authorities some little time ago, it was decided, owing to the rapid growth of the amateur movement, to appoint honorary radio inspectors in each State. Those inspectors were to be selected from the ranks of the experimenters, and were to assist the radio inspector in each State to administer the regulations as applied to amateur stations. The appointments for New South Wales have been made by the chief manager of the telegraphs and wireless branch (Mr. Malone), who has selected the following:— Messrs. D. Maclurcan, H. E. Stowe, E. B. Crocker, and J. W. Robinson. Those honorary inspectors will assist Mr. Crawford, State radio inspector, and will visit amateur stations in various districts. Control of wireless is now in the hands of the Postmaster-General's Department, and steps have been taken to employ the postal organisation for the detection of unlicensed stations. With this end in view, letter carriers have been asked to report to the department all stations observed on their rounds. By this means it is hoped to check the erection and maintenance of unauthorised apparatus.

The 30 May 1923 issue of Radio in Australia and New Zealand has a lovely biography of Malone:

Commonwealth Controller of Wireless. Mr. Malone's Distinguished Career. It may be confidently asserted that there is not one out of the thousands of experimenters in Australia to-day who is not familiar with the name of the Controller of Wireless (Mr. J. Malone). To many of them he is known personally, and all who can claim his acquaintance are unanimous in the opinion that no better man could have been chosen for the important and responsible position which he now fills. Mr. Malone possesses an accurate and sympathetic understanding of the many problems with which at times he is faced. Those who know the volume of work he is called upon to perform are able to appreciate the difficulties he is frequently up against. It is only reasonable to expect that the administration of an Act dealing with such a new and technical subject as wireless should present many difficulties at the outset. That these difficulties have not been greater is a tribute to Mr. Malone's ability as an administrator, and the sterling service rendered by his assistants and deputies in the various States. A brief sketch of Mr. Malone's career appears herewith, and it affords convincing proof that by temperament, ability and experience, he is well fitted to occupy the position of Controller of Wireless. Mr. Malone joined the Post & Telegraph Department at Lismore, New South Wales, as Telegraph Messenger in 1898. Two years later he was appointed as a Relieving Officer. In 1906, as the result of a competitive examination, he joined the Engineering Branch of the Postal Department in Sydney. Between that time and 1915 he occupied various engineering positions in Sydney, and also acted as District Engineer at Goulburn. Later on he was Engineer for Lines in Queensland. Shortly after the outbreak of war he enlisted, and was immediately appointed Instructor in Wireless at the Wireless School at Moore Park, Sydney. During his period of active service he was in charge of all A.F.C. Wireless activities in France, and was awarded the M.C. After the Armistice was signed he undertook the study of wireless and other kindred engineering subjects for 12 months in Europe. During that time he mis at the R.A.F. Wireless Experimental Establishment at Biggin Hill, and also at the Signals Experimental Establishment at Woolwich. He returned to Australia, via the United States of America and New Zealand. Shortly after his return he was appointed Deputy State Engineer at Perth; and, later, when the Postmaster-General's Department took over the Radio Service from the Navy Department he was brought from Perth to take charge of it. He continued in that position until May, 1922, when by reason of the agreement entered into between the Government and Amalgamated Wireless (A'sia) Limited, the commercial activities were handed over to the control of the Company. During the time Mr. Malone was in charge of the Radio Service he prepared and obtained approval for a reorganisation scheme to be applied to all Coastal Radio Stations. This was not proceeded with, however, owing to the transfer already mentioned. Mr. Malone's next appointment was as Controller of Wireless in the Postmaster-General's Department, and when a short time ago the administration of the Wireless Act was handed over to the P.M.G.'s Department he was elevated to the position of Chief Manager of Telegraphs and Wireless for the Commonwealth. In that capacity he acted as adviser to the Commonwealth Government on all wireless matters, and is the officer responsible for the Wireless Act and Regulations. During the negotiations leading up to the agreement between the Government and Amalgamated Wireless Limited, Mr. Malone acted as technical adviser to the Parliamentary Committee which investigated the proposals prior to the agreement being signed. The present Wireless Telegraph Regulations were prepared by Mr. Malone, subsequent to his appointment as Controller of Wireless. He is a member of the Institute of Radio Engineers, the Institution of Electrical Engineers, and the American Institute of Electrical Engineers. (Start Photo Caption) AUSTRALIA'S CONTROLLER OF WIRELESS — Mr. J . Malone, M.I.R.E., M.I.E.E., M.A.I.E.E. (End Photo Caption)

1923 06

Malone announces pause on issue of further amateur licences pending Wireless Regulations 1923

NO MORE LICENCES. Restrictions for Wireless Amateurs. "We have decided not to issue any further licences to amateur wireless operators until the regulations governing broadcasting have been drawn up, as by issuing them indiscriminately now we would only be making trouble for ourselves and the recipients later on," said Mr. J. Malone, Commonwealth Controller of Wireless, today. "Wireless telegraphy and telephony have made a strong appeal to the public, and applications for licences are coming in in hundreds. With the development of broadcasting, of course, there will be a greater demand than ever, and we think it advisable to refrain, for the present, from granting more licences. I should be glad if you would give publicity to this statement and ask your readers to wait until the regulations are drawn up before submitting any more applications."

Malone authorises a public demonstration of wireless telephony in North Adelaide

WIRELESS TELEPHONY. A PUBLIC DEMONSTRATION. During the past few years rapid strides have been made in other parts of the world, notably England and America, in the advancement of wireless telephony, and in some instances concerts have been heard thousands of miles away by "listeners-in." South Australia is now following in the wake of those countries, and on Thursday next a social evening will be held at the Royal Institute for the Blind, North Adelaide, and the music for the dancing portion of the programme will be provided by wireless telephony. The gathering is being held under the auspices of the Wireless Institute of Australia (South Australian section), and the arrangements will be carried out by its members. The music will be distributed broadcast from the residence of Mr. H. Austin, of the Parade, Norwood, and the waves picked up by means of temporary plant erected by permission of the Controller of Wireless, above the hall at North Adelaide, and thence magnified to the desired volume by the magnavox and amplifiers. Mr. J. W. Hambly Clark, who is president of the South Australian section, states that although the Institute has been experimenting with wireless telephony for some time, Thursday's demonstration will be the first given before a public gathering in this State. He added that it is the intention of the Institute to conduct a similar demonstration, but on a larger scale, in the Town Hall, in the near future.

1923 07

Malone authorises the first public demonstration of telephony in South Australia

EVENTS OF THE WEEK. AN HISTORICAL DANCE. An event of surpassing historical interest and one which places Adelaide on an up-to-the-minute plane with larger cities, took place in the Blind Institute on Thursday evening, when the very first South Australian Radio dance was held. Little wonder that folk were so keyed up with expectancy after the speech on the wireless, by Mr. J. W. Hambly Clark (President of the S. A. Wireless Institute) that, when the music came from the skies, heralded by a grating noise, they mostly forgot all about dancing, and stood listening in wonder until the dance was half way through. Permission to broadcast the music had been obtained from the Controller of Telegraphs and Wireless and the music was transmitted by radio from the premises of Mr. H. Austin, Norwood. The receiving set in the ball, was in charge of Mr. L. Jones, who, nearly all the evening, had an interested little group of spectators around him. Up on the platform too, was the very first wireless used. To the uninitiated it was a queer little instrument of absorbing interest, with two flat, wing-like pieces of steel jutting from the sides. This instrument — the first in South Australia — was used by Sir Charles Todd, in 1900, and was originally owned by Marconi. In his speech, Mr. Hambly Clark said South Australia had seen many historic events, the first of which was pointed to with interest as a milestone of progress. Public wireless broadcasting, however, eclipsed in wonder, the scientific importance of many things, as it came here almost simultaneously with its appearance in the rest of the world, showing that South Australia had a place in the vanguard of progress. The world certainly knows nothing more wonderful at the present time than wireless telephony, and we who were fortunate enough to be present at this first public official demonstration in South Australia, can feel we have taken part in an historical event, the wonder of which is only beginning to be understood by man's feeble brain. The music on Thursday night, was not, of course, perfect — that was hardly to be expected. It came through from a Master's Voice gramola, and it was, rather a pity an orchestra, or violinist was not stationed at Norwood, to see what the effect would be. There was something almost awe-inspiring though, in the thought of that music coming through the air and flooding the crowded room — for crowded it was, people being naturally so interested in the first radio music, that more went than the room could comfortably hold for dancing. There was also an orchestra to sup ply good music under the leadership of Mr. Stanley Lawrie, and so the hours tripped merrily. Supper was served downstairs, and the tables were decorated with Iceland poppies and jonquils. Amongst those present were:— Mrs. Hambly Clark, white souple satin edged with pearls, sleeves and side panels of radium lace; Miss Wallman, shrimp pink georgette, banded with silver; Miss M. Keane, black charmeuse and lace; Mrs. Atkins, apple green satin; Mrs. Lloyd Johnson, tabac brown; Miss A. Warhurst, pink mouselinne; Miss M. Brosman, saxe marocain; Miss N. Harvey, silver tissue and lace; Miss F. Gaghen, pale blue crepe de chine; Miss H. Grant, navy taffetas; Miss M. Gilmore, black crepe de chine; Miss M. Parfit, apricot shot taffetas; Mrs. Birdseye, black charmeuse; Miss J. O'Kimber, pale ciel silk; Miss P. Bowman, lavender taffetas; Miss T. Milne, salmon satin souple, jet trimmings; Mrs. H. Butler, nigger crepe de chine; Miss Gladys Birdseye, rose pink georgette; Miss H. Anderson, fuchsia georgette; Miss G. Anderson, ivory satin; Miss M. Anderson, shrimp pink charmeuse; Miss G. Harrington, blue shot taffetas; Miss T. Colebatch, cream charmeuse; Miss A. Nicholls, peach pink taffetas; Miss Eileen Mullens, spot vieux-rose and silver satin beaute; Miss C. Bruce, geranium taffetas; Miss E. Green, apricot silk, georgette panels; Miss A. Hardy, jade green souple satin; Miss R. Cook, blue shot taffetas; Miss W. Last, jade green silk; Miss K. Cook, ciel blue satin; Miss J. Thomson, electric blue silk; Miss L. Edwards, blue crepe de chine; Miss I. Caldwell rose pink crepe de chine; Mrs. Kauper, cream pearl trimmed satin; Miss G. Bannann, vieux-rose crepe de chine; Miss O. Coin, pale blue georgette; Miss N. Martin, rose du barri georgette; Miss E. Burdon, reseda green satin; Mrs. H. W. Tayloy, black ninon, overdress of radium lace; Mrs. A. E. Wallman, grey silk, black lace overdress, Miss D. Mitten, salmon pink charmeuse, lace overdress; Mrs. C. Berry, black satin; Miss R. Thistleton, lemon satin; Miss J. Wright, black velvet; Mrs. B. C. Knight, buttercup brocade; Miss N. O'Connor, pink satin; Miss M. O'Connor, jade charmeuse; Miss J. Tate, flame taffetas; Mrs. Morris, black charmeuse; Mrs. Honnor, grey; and Messrs. B. C. Knight, Birdseye, Professor and Mrs. Kerr Grant, Dr. H. McAree, Messrs. Morris, W. J. Bland, R. Duncan, G. A. Miller Randle, H. A. Kauper, Richard Duncan, E. Ames, M. B. Anderson, R. Berry, G. Weaver, L. Thistleton, F. Wolton, A. E. Wright, P. West, L. Sperrier, E. Bowes, R. Hamant, W. Nancarrow, H. A. Spencer, R. Law, Mrs. Williams, Miss Bennett, Miss Perdrix, Messrs. J. M. Honnor, A. Wright, C. and G. Anderson, R. Cameron, R. Savage, L. Jones, L. Humble, L. G. Draygon, S. A. Bland, J. C. Robinson, D. Campbell, C. McKenzie, A. Coles, D. Smith, R. T. Edgar, K. H. Milne, R. D. Dunstone, F. O'Grady, G. Forrest, W. C. G. Marriott, W, L. Burches, H. King, E. W. Stearns, H. Rolland, J. Lane, R. Cardwell, P. M. Letherby.

Letter to the editor protests the impact of the proposed Wireless Regulations on child experimenters

WIRELESS AMATEURS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE HERALD. Sir,—All interested in wireless will have read with interest the remarks of your contributor, 2 R.N., on the proposed new regulations for broadcasting. Exception, however, must be taken to the remarks attributed to Mr. Fisk on the small boy who has a penchant for wireless. The statement, if Mr. Fisk is really responsible for it, will hardly bear analysis. Admitting that the small boy can no longer play football in George-street, he can play it to far greater advantage elsewhere, and provision has been wisely made that he should. That he is to be so summarily treated as this alleged statement of Mr. Fisk suggests, with regard to wireless and the ether, is unbelievable. Do those who propose to control wireless intend to close it to the many lads who have taken it up as a hobby, to find it a most fascinating study? Perhaps it would be as well to recall that it was a boy — a youth of 19 — who invented wireless. The story has often been told of how Marconi, reading of Hertz's failure, was inspired to start out on the great task, with what result the world knows today. To say that the boys are to be shut out from the wireless operations of the future is incredible. At a time when social reformers are endeavouring to turn the youth of the country to the more serious things of life, it is most unfortunate that no provision is to be made for the boys, and the girls, too. The value of wireless in the home has not yet been fully realised. It is not only a means by which the whole family, mother, father, sisters, and brothers can be vitally interested, but the friends of the family can join the charmed circle. It points the way to stop home decadence, which so many people deprecate. Even in Sydney there are instances of boys, whose waywardness has been checked by acquiring an interest in wireless. It is to be hoped, therefore, that all those interested in the welfare of youth will protest in no uncertain way as to the proposal that the boy has no right to the ether. That no longer, like the great scientists and inventors of the present and past, such as Watt, Stevenson, and the great Marconi, will they be permitted to use their brains in the direction of not only benefiting themselves, but humanity, because a monopoly is by legislative enactment being allowed to dictate in such a minatory fashion. I am, etc., PARENT. July 3.

Melbourne dealers up in arms over the proposed Wireless Regulations 1923

BROADCASTING REGULATIONS. Further Protest Meeting. A further meeting to protest against the proposed regulations for the control of wireless broadcasting will be held at the Employers' Federation rooms, Collins street, tonight. It is expected that the meeting will be attended by representatives of nearly 50 Melbourne firms which are likely to be adversely affected by the proposed regulations. A report of the deputation which protested to the Postmaster General (Mr. Gibson) against the proposals will be made. It is then proposed to arrange for dealers in wireless apparatus to form themselves into a section of the electrical federation of Australia to oppose regulations likely to kill public interest in wireless broadcasting. Particular exception is taken to the proposal in the regulations that receivers used for receiving con-certs should be sealed, and capable of receiving from one broadcasting station only. Other proposals to be put before the meeting will be the calling of a large public meeting for the purpose of explaining to the public the difference in the scheme upon which the proposed regulations have been built and a scheme suggested by Melbourne dealers. The Melbourne dealers' plan provides for the erection of only one broad-casting station to which a fee may be paid in each State, and a number of smaller stations erected by dealers and manufacturers which will supply free services. The necessity for sealing the receivers will then be obviated. A petition of protest, open for signature by members of the public, will also be urged as a means of securing an alteration of the proposed regulations.

Reproduction of photograph taken from "Radio in ANZ"

AUSTRALIA'S CONTROLLER OF WIRELESS. (Start Photo Caption) Mr. James Malone, M.I.R.E., M.I.E.E., M.A.I.E.E., M.C., the Common-wealth Controller of Wireless, son of the late Mr. Malone, of Gundurimba and Lismore. (By kind permission of "Radio.") (End Photo Caption)

Malone accurately predicts a big future for broadcasting, though not through the Wireless Regulations 1923

WIRELESS VOICES. BROADCASTING WILL BE THE RAGE. PREDICTION BY CONTROLLER. "Wireless in all its forms is becoming more and more popular with the general public and we anticipate that, with the publication of the regulations governing broadcasting, and the subsequent unrestricted issue of licenses, there will be a wonderful boom in its popularity," said Mr. P. (sic, J.) Malone, Commonwealth Controller of Wireless, recently. "It is a among school boys that the interest seems greatest," he proceeded. "Fascinated at first by the 'mystery' of wireless, and later filled with a sense of their own importance as they sit at improvised desks and juggle with valves and wave lengths, they gradually become more and more absorbed. By the time they are sufficiently acquainted with the morse code to send messages into space, and get answers to them, they are so keen on the subject that they can hardly spare time for their ordinary studies. "Reports from several of the depots which supply instruments to the general public, indicate clearly that the demand is greatly on the increase. With broadcasting still in its infancy here, and with the considerable expense entailed in setting up a wireless set — particularly the transmitting portion — this growing demand must prove most encouraging to those responsible for its development in Australia." Asked whether he considered this public interest would last, Mr. Malone said: "I do not believe for a moment that it is merely a passing craze. I am quite sure that interest will grow rather than diminish with the introduction of broadcasting on a large scale. The keenness of the younger members of the public proves this. They get interested, and through them the interest is transferred to their parents, brothers and friends. I look forward with great confidence to the time when every home in the Commonwealth will contain some form of receiving set, by means of which the inhabitants can keep in touch with the latest music, lectures and news of the world. Farmers, too, will be able to hear reports on the state of the market, as well as weather forecasts, and there can be no doubt that the general content and happiness of the population will be considerably improved. "The thing has its moral aspects also. Apart from the fact that sermons and prayers can be broadcasted, there will be sufficient entertainment in the home to keep young people from wandering abroad in search of excitement."

Malone in Sydney, returning to Melbourne

PERSONAL. . . . Mr. J. Malone, chief manager for telegraphs and wireless in Australia, is at present in Sydney on official business. He intends to return to Melbourne to-night.

Malone speaks at a club function of Box Hill Radio Club following Howden's success in the Trans-Pacific Tests

BOX HILL RADIO CLUB. TRANS-PACIFIC TESTS. SUCCESS OF MR. MAXWELL HOWDEN. A most enjoyable evening was spent in connection with the Radio Club, when members and visitors assembled to congratulate Mr. Maxwell Howden respecting his recent success in the Trans-Pacific tests. The record shows that quite a unique distinction was gained, and it is creditable to find that Box Hill is taking such a prominent part in this absorbing and interesting direction. Mr. H. K. Love, president of the Wireless Institute, and organiser of the test, said that the log submitted by Mr. Howden was far more complete than any other log, and that the results Mr. Howden had obtained were a credit to him as an experimenter. Mr. J. Malone, Commonwealth Controller of Wireless, in speaking of the work done by the experimenters, said that the new regulations dealing with broadcasting were in course of preparation, and would be made public shortly. The position to arise from these regulations had been causing many people, and particularly the experimenter, considerable anxiety, and this had often brought them into contact. However, in the preparation of the regulations every endeavour had been made to safeguard the interest of all parties, including the experimenter. The experimenters should not, and would not, be hampered. They should be encouraged in every legitimate way. Mr. Howden's accomplishment had considerable commercial interest, and his set was without a doubt the most efficient receiver in the world. In presenting Mr. Howden with a salad bowl on behalf of the club, Mr. Malone said that he had always wished to meet the members of the B.H.R.C., and it gave him great pleasure to do so on this particular evening. He then congratulated Mr. Howden on his success. Messrs. Boyd and O. J. Nielsen also spoke. The president of Nunawading Shire (Cr. Young) referred to the honour Mr. Howden had brought to Box Hill, and predicted that this centre in the near future would receive its fair share of honours. Mr. E. W. Greenwood, M.L.A., said he intended to give every one in his constituency a receiving set, so as to be in touch with them right to the booth. Musical items were then given by Mrs. Beattie and friends, also wireless music from Mr. Beattie, and from Mr. Court, of East Melbourne. It is worthy of note that of 23 stations, Mr. Howden logged 22, missing one only.

Malone promoted to Chief Manager, Telegraphs and Wireless, Central from Chief Manager of Telegraphs, 1st Class, Chief Electrical Engineer's Branch

COMMONWEALTH PUBLIC SERVICE. Melbourne, 19th July, 1923. THE undermentioned notifications of Staff changes, &c., are made in accordance with the Commonwealth Public Service Act and Regulations:— . . . POSTMASTER-GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT. (Ex. Mins. 295, 298, 299, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309.) Central Staff. Promotion.— James Malone, Chief Manager of Telegraphs, 1st Class, Chief Electrical Engineer's Branch, to be Chief Manager, Telegraphs and Wireless, with salary of £700, from 1st May, 1923. . . . Allowance discontinued.— The allowance of £100 per annum paid to J. Malone for the performance of the duties of Controller of Wireless to be discontinued as from 1st May, 1923. Offices Created.— Telegraphs and Wireless Branch — Chief Manager, Telegraphs and Wireless, 1st Class, Clerical Division, with range of salary of £700 per annum minimum and £750 per annum maximum; . . . Office Abolished.— Chief Manager of Telegraphs, 1st Class, Chief Electrical Engineer's Branch.

Malone to talk at the WIA Vic meeting about the effect of the new Wireless Regulations

ITEMS OF INTEREST. . . . Wireless Regulations. Upon the wireless experimenter practically the only effect of the regulations recently approved for the control of wireless broadcasting will be to deprive him of the general transmitting wavelength band of from 410 to 440 metres. However, the existing lower band of 150 to 250 metres will be increased by 100 to 250 metres, and, in addition, higher wavelengths will be allotted in special circumstances. That is, provided there is no interference with the working of broadcasting stations. As the department may now allot wavelengths above 600 metres for experimental purposes, experimenters may have actually greater freedom than they now enjoy. The controller of wireless (Mr. J. Malone) has consented to explain to the Wireless Institute at its meeting tonight, exactly how the experimenter will be affected by the broadcasting regulations. The engagement will be at 527 Collins street, Melbourne, and will be open to the public. Mr. Maxwell Howden, who recently established world's records in the reception of messages from long distances on very low power and short wavelengths, will lecture on the construction of short wave receivers.

1923 08

Malone talks at general meeting of WIA Vic to explain the 1923 Wireless Regulations

NEW REGULATIONS EXPLAINED. The keen interest taken in wireless telegraphy was indicated by the large attendance at the general meeting of the Wireless Institute, held at the Rialto on Tuesday evening. Mr. H. K. Love presided. The chairman said the institute embraced the greater number of the clubs formed throughout Victoria. It had been said that the institute did not safeguard the interests of experimenters at the wire-less conference, but he denied that such was the case. The experimenters were exactly in the same position as they were before the conference, and that was all they required. Mr. J. Malone, controller of wireless, explained the regulations. He said that no wireless station or business could be carried on legally unless it was in accordance with the regulations. What they would be mainly interested in was the section dealing with experimental licences, which was set out in the form of application, containing instructions and specimen forms. The Postmaster-General was anxious to protect the interests of experimenters, as he realised that they had done a lot to-wards the success of wireless. It was also the intention of the Government to do everything possible to encourage and protect the experimenters, and the conditions which now obtained would not be altered. Until those practising regular broadcasting could show that amateur broadcasting was interfering with them the authorities did not propose to stop it. (Applause.) When the new regulations came into force properly as soon as they found any cases of illegal use of wireless stations they would not hesitate to put the law into force. As a general rule the licensees must be British subjects, and licences issued to aliens would be subject to approval by the defence authorities. The wave-lengths to be used by experimenters were of 100 and 250 metres. There was nothing to prevent a longer wave-length being granted in special cases. The limit was now 410 metres, but they would be able to give longer wave lengths when applicants could show there was reason for it. (Applause.) Mr. Selby, of Malvern, who was said to have experimented with wireless in 1895 was made an honorary member of the institute. Mr. Selby, in recounting his experiences, said events had shown that he was not quite such a lunatic as he was thought to be at the time. Mr. M. Howden, of Box Hill, who recently established world's records in the reception of messages from long distances on very low power and short wavelengths, gave a lecture on the construction of shortwave receivers. One of the messages was from America on a wavelength of 200 metres. It was announced that the prizes given by Amalgamated Wireless and other firms had been allotted between Mr. Howden and Station 3JU.

Malone speaks to a large group of amateurs representing 21 Sydney clubs to explain the 1923 Wireless Regulations

AMATEUR WIRELESS. TRANSMISSION TO CONTINUE. NEW VALVE REGULATIONS. A large and representative body of officials of the various Wireless Leagues and Clubs was held at the Royal Society's Rooms, Elizabeth-street, last night, and was presided over by Mr. Phil. Renshaw (hon. secretary of the Wireless Institute). The meeting was summoned by wireless telephony on Sunday night from the stations of Messrs. Maclurcan, Marsden, Marks, and Colville, and was held for the purpose of hearing Mr. J. Malone, chief manager for Wireless and Telegraphs, address experimenters regarding the new wireless regulations. Mr. Malone, in outlining the new rules, stated that they had not been drafted with the idea of restricting amateurs. Wireless was under the control of an international body, which framed rules, and each nation had to administer wireless laws drafted by its own Parliament, which, however, did not contravene the international rules. The new rules which had been drawn up, and had been published, were very similar to the old ones so far as experimenters were concerned, and would allow the amateur a good deal of freedom. Broadcasting was to be carried out under broadcasting regulations in a commercial manner, but this would not interfere with amateurs. The Postmaster-General, under whose control wireless came, had authorised him to tell the amateurs that the transmission of speech and music by amateurs on amateur wave lengths would not be prevented when the broadcasting companies were operating. (Applause.) The old regulations had demanded that all persons who used valves must possess an operating speed of 12 words of morse per minute. Under the new regulations this was only necessary where a circuit which would oscillate the aerial was used. The owner of a receiver employing a non-regenerative circuit would not be asked for these qualifications. Mr. Malone dealt with the broadcasting regulations, and described how they would operate. Competitive broadcasting would be established and receivers of fixed wave lengths would be sold. He stressed the fact that a receiver need not be bought at a store, but could be homemade. Such a receiver would, however, have to be passed by a Government inspector, and would have to comply with the regulations. It would have to be capable of being sealed, and would not have to re-employ regeneration in the operation of reception. Mr. Malone was accorded a hearty vote of thanks by the meeting, which included the representatives of 21 radio clubs and societies.

Analysis of Malone's talk to radio clubs explaining effect of new Wireless Regulations and consequences for amateurs

PROGRESS IN WIRELESS. Experimenters and Broadcasting. By METRE. The explanation of the effect of the new wireless regulations, which include provision for broadcasting, given by the controller of wireless (Mr J. Malone) at the last general meeting of the Wireless Institute, must have effectually dispelled the uneasiness caused to many experimenters by the broadcasting rules and conditions arising from them. Since he took charge of wireless affairs after the administration was removed from the Naval department to the Post Office, Mr. Malone has shown himself to be a friend of the experimenter and the sympathetic consideration given by him to all applications from genuine experimenters has earned him general goodwill. Many world's records have been broken by Australian experimenters, and valuable experimental work has been done. Now the Postmaster-General's department has given further evidence of thoughtfulness for the experimenter. Though under the new regulation the 410-440 metre wavelength band for transmitters may be abolished, the lower band has been in-creased by 50 metres. In addition, amateurs have been assured that all wave-lengths not required for broadcasting or other purposes will be available for allotment to experimenters, who may now obtain permission to use even higher waves than were allowed under the regulations which came into force in December. What is, perhaps, more important, experimenters have been informed that in special cases permits to use much higher power than that now permitted will be granted. This concession will be very welcome, for since the Trans-Pacific tests proved so successful amateurs have been discussing the possibility of erecting a transmitting station in Melbourne capable of replying to American amateurs, and establishing two-way amateur communication between Australia and America. There is little doubt that a permit for the erection of such a station could be obtained, and there is no reason why two-way radiophone communication between amateurs in Australia and America should not be established in the near future.

Malone's talk to amateurs regarding effects of new regulations evokes a different response from prospective broadcasters' interests

BROADCASTING. Rights of Amateurs. RADIO COMPANIES' PROTEST. A definite difference of opinion has arisen concerning the transmission of regular programmes of speech, and music by means of wireless telephony. In view of the recently issued regulations governing broadcasting. The Association for the Development of Wireless in Australia has communicated with the Postmaster-General, protesting against amateurs being allowed to transmit regular programmes, and associations representing amateur interests have communicated with him, protesting against any move to curtail their operations. In the past, all licenses to receive wireless have been termed "experimental licenses," and holders of them have been classed as experimenters. Under the new regulations, only those who are genuinely interested in wireless as a science are to be granted these licenses, and those who desire to "listen-in" to speech and music will be granted broadcasting licenses, and must pay the necessary broadcasting fees. No broadcasting has been carried on yet in Australia, but numbers of amateurs holding transmitting licenses have, at certain fixed hours, transmitted speech and music for reception by other amateurs. Speaking in Sydney a few nights ago, Mr. J. Malone (chief manager, Telegraphs and Wireless) told experimenters that the Postmaster-General had authorised him to state that when broadcasting was put into operation this transmission by amateurs would be allowed to continue. It is to this decision that some representatives of radio companies have taken exception. They hold the view that while the experimenter should be granted full freedom to experiment, and that while he should also be allowed to transmit speech and music as tests, he should not arrange regular programmes of transmissions and carry them out. Broadcasting regulations, they point out, have been issued, but it will take some little time before operations are actually commenced. If amateurs continue with the transmission of speech and music, they are infringing the rights of the broadcasters. Many people who are not experimenters will be led to purchase sets, and those who have arranged broadcasting will be placed at a disadvantage. Some of the radio companies state that at all times in the past they have respected the rights of amateurs, and have not endeavoured to encroach upon them. Even now they do not wish to restrict amateur activities. It is only fair, however, they point out, that amateurs should accord them the same spirit of fairplay, and that they in turn should not persist in acting in a manner likely to prejudice broadcasting interests. The experimenters view the matter in another light. For some time past they have been awaiting some announcement regarding their standing, and they expressed themselves as being satisfied with the Postmaster-General's decision. They hold the view that if any person who owns a transmitting station feels disposed to dispense speech and music by wireless, in his own time and at his own expense, for the benefit of those who may desire to listen to him, he should not be prevented. They point out that no law prevents any person providing a free entertainment simply because a professional amusement company protests. Telegrams protesting against any reconsideration of the Postmaster-General's decision to allow amateurs to transmit have been forwarded to Melbourne on behalf of the New South Wales division of the Wireless Institute (a body of technical experimenters) and the Australian Radio Relay League (another body of amateurs).

Malone arranges for Maclurcan to measure wavelengths of operating amateurs

WIRELESS. AMATEUR TRANSMITTERS. MEASUREMENT OF WAVE LENGTHS. In spite of strict regulations, a certain amount of interference and confusion have been caused lately between experimental wireless stations. Holders of transmitting licences are granted certain wave lengths on which to work their stations, but in some cases inaccurate measurements have been made, with the result that when two or more stations have been working at the same time "jamming" has occurred. Arrangements have now been completed whereby all amateur stations are to be calibrated with one standard wavemeter so that there may be less chance of individual transmitters interfering with each other. The checking of wave lengths is a matter for the radio inspector, but as a departmental test station is not yet available in Sydney, the Chief Manager Telegraphs and Wireless (Mr. J. Malone) has arranged for the work to be done by Mr. Chas. Maclurcan, of Strathfield, until such time as the radio inspector's station is ready. Mr. Maclurcan will use a heterodyne wavemeter, which has been calibrated from a standard instrument. All wave lengths will be measured at Mr. Maclurcan's station (2CM), and any transmitter requiring a measurement need only call up Mr. Maclurcan by wireless telephone or by land line and make the arrangements. If two or more stations are found to be on the same wave lengths the authorities are prepared to arrange for slight alterations to be made in order to rectify the trouble. If amateur transmitters avail themselves of this opportunity to have their wave lengths calibrated it should do much towards eliminating any interference between amateur stations.

John William Robinson (2RN) provides a thorough analysis of the effect of the new Wireless Regulations

WIRELESS. BROADCASTING REGULATIONS. HOW THE AMATEUR STANDS. (BY 2 R. N.) The regulations governing broadcasting in Australia which were drafted at a conference held in Melbourne some little time ago have now been approved of by the Government, and have become law. Those who are interested in wireless telegraphy and telephony, and also many who know but little of the science, are now asking when a start will be made with the actual broadcasting of speech and music, and just what the procedure and charges will be. In order to fully understand the position, the whole question of broadcasting must be grasped. As most people are aware, broad-casting originated in America, where commercial radio companies found that it paid them to provide entertainments by wireless, the public interest in the science which resulted from this transmission benefiting them in the shape of an increased sale of instruments. In England one company was formed, consisting of all radio dealers, and was financed partly by royalties on the sale of receivers, and partly by fees paid by license holders. From the point of view of a variety of entertainment, the American system was doubtless the best, but in this fact lay its main drawback. So great was the variety that within a very short space of time chaos ruled supreme in the ether, and it has taken months and months of work on the part of those in charge to do away with some of this discord. The English system also has its drawbacks, the revenue which was produced being found to be very much lower than was needed. Australia's position, both geographically and in regard to population, has prevented either the American or English system of broad-casting being employed. The number of persons likely to be interested in wireless reception in Australia is so small that it has been considered highly improbable that it would pay any company to transmit and look to increased sales and the profits which would result from bigger business to cover the cost of the station. Australia's area is so great that a large company would not be able to raise the revenue to maintain stations which would allow everybody within the Common-wealth to hear the concerts. The difficulty in regard to broadcasting pre-vented any definite action being taken in Australia for some time, but during May last a conference of those interested was called by the Postmaster-General and discussed the matter. The suggestions which were put for-ward by this conference were adopted with a few modifications, and have now become law. Details regarding them have been made public, and it will be remembered that they provide for the competitive broadcasting of entertainments. Certain wave lengths will be allotted to persons who wish to broadcast in a commercial manner, and all transmission will take place on these wave lengths. The person who wishes to receive a broadcast entertainment will determine which service he will patronise, and will then buy a receiver so constructed as to receive on the wave length used by that company only. If he desires to construct his own receiver he may do so, but he must satisfy the authorities that it will receive on one wave length only, and will not cover a wide field of wave lengths. The charge by the Government will be 10/ per annum for a license, and the charge by the company will be a matter to be decided by the company itself. Thus broadcasting will become a service rendered by a company, which may be subscribed to by any person who may desire to receive it. If various entertainments are being transmitted nightly any citizen who wishes to entertain his family will, by making inquiries, find just which sort of entertainment will suit him best, and will then negotiate with the company, paying them for their service and paying the nominal fee to the Government. It will not be compulsory for any charge to be made by the companies. For instance, if radio dealers decide that they can form a company to broadcast, and that they will derive sufficient financial benefit from transmission by the sale of sets, there is nothing in the regulations to prevent them making the service a free one. If such were done, however, only those who bought receivers suitable for that service would be able to listen in. While broadcasting on an established and commercial basis has been noticeably absent from everyday life in Australia the transmission of speech and music has not been neglected, but has been carried on by amateurs. Many experimenters in various parts of the Commonwealth own transmitting stations and for months past have been treating their fellow-experimenters to wireless entertainments. While the broadcasting regulations were being discussed it was thought by many experimenters that this transmission would be stopped by the authorities. Such a course, it was claimed, would not have been a fair one to adopt, and the authorities have viewed the matter from the generally accepted amateur standpoint as far as this aspect is concerned. Experimenters who were addressed by Mr. Malone, chief manager for wireless and telegraphs, some time ago, were more than delighted to hear him announce that the Government would not interfere with this transmission, and that when broadcasting was in full swing amateurs holding transmitting licenses would be free to entertain their fellow amateurs with speech and music. Such transmission cannot harm the broadcasting companies because the wave lengths allotted to amateurs will not be the same as those allotted to broadcasting and consequently the broadcast license and receiver owners will not be able to listen-in to the amateur music. The amateurs generally are more than pleased with the manner in which the Federal authorities have safeguarded their interests. In the past any person who applied for a license was granted an experimental license. Now, however, no experimental license will be granted until the applicant can prove that he is a genuine experimenter and can indicate the lines along which he desires to conduct his experiments. The genuine experimenter's interests are not confined to speech and music, but he wishes to touch every branch of the science. The view is held that this class of wireless enthusiast is so valuable an asset to the country that it would be wrong to curtail his activities, providing, of course, that he does not interfere with the operations of any of the already established wireless conveniences of the Commonwealth. It will be readily seen that it is necessary that a strict control be placed on the issue of experimental licenses in the future because the amateur's license will give him freedom to work on all wave lengths. If these licenses were issued indiscriminately many persons who are not interested in wireless from a scientific point of view, but who merely wish to hear music, would secure licenses under the guise of experimenters, and would use them simply to listen to the broadcast services without the payments of the necessary broadcast fees. The possession of an experimental license will, in the future, be a matter for pride. Such a license will not be issued without full inquiries, and the holder of one will have the full right to "listen-in" on any wave length. Of course amateurs will be able to listen to the broadcast services, but this can hardly be avoided. It may be safely said, however, that the great majority of amateurs have no desire whatever to poach on broadcast services. The holder of an experimental license will be a man regarding whom careful inquiries have been made, and his interest in the science will be so great as to prevent there being any possibility of his merely desiring to listen to a service without paying for it. The harmonious relations which have lately existed between the amateurs and the authorities have done much to make the gazetting of new regulations possible. Those controlling wireless have taken the amateurs into their confidence, and have made experimenters feel that the Government wishes to look after their interests. Mr. Malone's reception at a recent meeting of experimenters proved that such was the case. In New South Wales the State radio inspector (Mr. Crawford) and the assistant inspector (Mr. Armstrong) have at all times assisted the experimenters, and in return have been granted their assistance. During the past few months there has been much anxiety in the ranks of the amateurs regarding their probable position with the advent of broadcasting, but Mr. Malone's remarks when defining the regulations have set at ease any misgivings which were previously held. It is safe to state that the amateurs of New South Wales are fully satisfied with the manner in which the Government has treated them.

Further detail on transmitter calibration by Maclurcan pending availability of a wavemeter for Crawford

THE MAGIC SPARK. RADIO NOTES & NEWS. Checking Wavelengths. BV DOT DASH. A certain amount of confusion and interference between experimental transmitting stations has occurred recently, mainly due to the fact that many station owners either make a guess at their wavelength or measure it inaccurately. It is very desirable that all wavelengths should be checked and the checking done on wavemeter only, so that, even if this meter has an error, all stations would be in the same relation to each other and there would be much less chance of one station heterodyning another station. This checking of wavelengths is, of course, a job for the radio inspector, but as the departmental station is not yet available, Mr. Malone has arranged for Mr. Maclurcan to undertake this work till Mr. Crawford's station is ready. Mr. Maclurcan's Heterodyne wavemeter has been calibrated from Mr. Crawford's standard instrument and can be taken as accurate within one per cent. All wavelengths will be measured at the receiving station 2CM, and any licensee requiring his transmitted wavelength to be measured need only call up 2CM by radio or land 'phone and make arrangements with Mr Maclurcan for the checking. Should it be found that two or more stations on the same wavelength are close enough to interfere or heterodyne each other, Mr. Maclurcan will explain the matter to the radio inspector, who will arrange for slight alterations to be made within a metre or two so as to rectify the trouble. If any experimenter is interfered with in this way he is requested to notify Mr. Maclurcan. Mr. Malone is anxious to see all licensees avail themselves of this opportunity, and trusts cordial co-operation will be given.

1923 09

Malone gives a speech on 3DP for the Melbourne Conservatorium

UNIVERSITY WIRELESS CONCERT. In connection with the University Conservatorium appeal, it is proposed to give a concert in the Melba Hall during October, at which Madame Evelyn Scotney has consented to sing. Arrangements are being made to transmit a portion of the concert by wireless. For the purpose, a wireless plant is being erected at the University Conservatorium, and Mr. N. Culliver has undertaken to carry out tests and to operate during the concert. The University Conservatorium hopes to receive the support and assistance of all wireless enthusiasts in this connection, and in order to appeal to these, Sir John Monash, the Vice Chancellor of the University, will address them by the medium of wireless from the studio of Mr. N. Culliver, in Simpson street, East Melbourne on Friday evening, September 21. A short programme of musical items will be opened at half-past 8 o'clock and Sir John Monash and the controller of wireless (Mr. J. Malone) will address the "listeners in."

Malone prepares to relocate amateurs in the 410-440 metres sub-band to 100-250 metres "Restack 1923"

WIRELESS BROADCASTING. Rearrangement of Wavelengths. Arrangements are being made by the Wireless branch of the Postmaster-General's department to prepare wavelengths for allotment to broadcasting stations. Experimenters who were, by the regulations passed last December, permitted to operate on wavelengths between 410 and 440 metres, have been notified by the department that this wavelength band will in future be required for broadcasting purposes. The experimenters have been requested to apply for new wavelengths on the band from 100 to 250 metres. The controller of wireless (Mr Malone) said yesterday that the higher experimental waves would not be wanted immediately for broadcasting, and that transmissions on them would be permitted until they were required for broadcasting. However, it was the desire of the department to allow experimenters ample time to alter their apparatus to operate on the lower band. In special cases authority would be given to experimenters to use higher waves than those on the 200-metre band. Discussing the matter yesterday, experimenters said that though the change from the high to the low band would entail considerable inconvenience and expense they realised that in the interests of the public and broadcasting companies it was desirable. The hope was expressed, however, that broadcasting companies would co-operate with experimenters by making no attempts to restrict their operations on the experimental waves. In England and America, large numbers of badly designed receivers had been sold to those desirous of "listening in" to broadcasting programmes, and owing to defects in the receivers, complaints had been made of interference with broadcasting programmes from experimental transmitters. In spite of the fact that it was shown beyond dispute that no interference whatever was caused to broadcasting if properly designed and selective receivers were used by the broadcast listener, regulations were passed prohibiting experimenters working during broadcasting hours. It was feared that unless proper receivers were made available for broadcasting purposes in Australia, similar trouble might occur here. Experimenters are desirous that the regulations requiring broadcasting transmitters to be designed to prevent the emission of harmonics should be strictly enforced, otherwise many harmonics from broadcasting stations will be heard in the band used by experimenters and will severely interfere with the reception of weak signals. There are about 2,700 licensed experimental stations in the Commonwealth.

1923 10

Further details of 3DP transmitting system, utilised for Malone's speech

MR CULLIVER'S SET. Geelong amateurs have enjoyed the music and speech tests sent out from East Melbourne by Mr N. Culliver during the past eighteen months. His set is working better than ever and he has gone to great trouble in draping his room for experiments in the transmission of vocal and instrumental music. An Autotone Player piano is also being used. Experiments have been conducted with marked success in the transmission of the music of Carlyon's Jazz Band, Kallara Jazz Band, Rockets Coy. artists. He has a number of orchestras waiting for a suitable opportunity to test their music on the Radio-phone. Up to date he has successfully transmitted the music of every kind of voice and instrument except the harp and the mouth organ. His next big stunts are the broadcasting of the great concert to be held in October 31st at the University Conservatorium of Music in connection with the University Appeal for £15,000. On the 1st of November he will also transmit the full programme of a choir of 31 voices from the Conservatorium. These two great nights will be greatly enjoyed by amateurs all over Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania. Seats for the 31st October are selling for £100 each. Mr Culliver uses a five watt tube for his transmission with 1,500 volts on the plate, and on this small power has been heard in daylight 950 miles away. This speaks very highly for his knowledge and capability of handling radio phone transmission. For reception he has six stages of Radio Frequency amplification and also uses a set of two R.F. amplifiers, a detector, and four stages of Audio Frequency amplification. His "B" battery is a locally made 100-volt accumulator, and Car batteries are used for lighting the filaments. The latter are charged from the A.C. mains by using a Tungar rectifier. The "B" battery is recharged through a Nodon valve. An electric indicator is used to direct the artists, so that it will not be necessary to speak during the rendering of any item. Mr. Culliver is always pleased to receive reports from amateurs who have heard his transmission. The University appeal was launched by wireless by Sir John Monash on 21st September from Mr Culliver's experimental station. Mr. Malone, controller of wireless, also spoke. It is a great honor that will be appreciated by all amateurs, that an amateur has been selected by the Melbourne University to broadcast its appeal. The big achievements in wireless in Australia have so far come from the amateurs.

Malone states at meeting of North Sydney clubs that the success of broadcasting will depend upon the activities of amateurs

THE MAGIC SPARK. AMATEUR RADIO NEWS. Amateurs and Broadcasting. BY DOT DASH. That the success of broadcasting will depend to a large extent on the activities of the amateurs is the opinion of Mr. J. Malone, chief manager of telegraphs and wireless. He states this in the following message to a recent combined meeting of the North Sydney and Neutral Bay Radio Clubs:— "The successful development of wireless broadcasting will depend to a great extent on the activities of the amateurs. Friends of the amateur will seek advice, and will be impressed by the results obtained from the experimental receivers. A factor likely to militate most seriously against successful broadcasting will be interference, some of which can be controlled, if not eliminated, by careful attention to the design and manipulation of receivers. "Regenerative receivers will invariably be the cause of interference and annoyance, and it behoves all who have the interests of harmonious working at heart to endeavour, by advice and example, to guard against this evil. I am confident that the members of the North Shore clubs will realise this and will take whatever action is in their power to help us to establish the early conditions of broadcasting security, by setting themselves against the howling valve nuisance." 2CM PROTESTS. Mr. C. Maclurcan (2CM), the leading experimenter of this State, is annoyed, and rightly so. The cause of his annoyance is the "howling" valve trouble and he makes himself plain in the following statement:— "I wish to appeal to the sporting instincts of some of our most skilful exponents of the genus valvus howlus — if they have any. "On Saturday night, between 10 p.m. and midnight, I was endeavouring to carry on traffic with 4AA, New Zealand. One half-hour's transmission was drawn out for two hours owing to interference from about four howling valves which, owing to their strength, must have been in the Burwood-Strathfield vicinity. These fellows were undoubtedly only listening-in on my transmission, for there was no music at that late hour. I appealed to them twice, both in code and 'phone, to go to bed and give me a chance to finish but my appeal fell on deaf ears or dud aerials. "Doesn't it occur to some of these unsportsmanlike chaps, that many experimenters send out excellent music and give a considerable amount of their time to entertain such as they, and it is only reasonable to expect, that, when one has some long-distance morse to put over and stays out of bed to do it, so as not to encroach on the music time, they should at least, play the game. "Jack Cureton, 2AY, was at this same time trying to work with a South Australian amateur. Although he is situated less than a mile from 2CM, neither transmitter interfered with the other, yet both of us were held up by the "whistlers." "If it is mere curiosity that keeps those birds out of bed, I would gladly send them an extract of all I intend to say when working with an interstate experimenter, together with their replies later on. "Give us a chance, chaps."

Malone writes to WIA asking that all amateurs should unite under one federal body

Wireless Notes for Amateurs. . . . TRANS-PACIFIC TEST Owing to severe "atmospherics," reception of American stations has been greatly hindered. Considerable interference is also being experienced from New South Wales and New Zealand experimental stations, and from carelessly-used receivers. Notwithstanding these handicaps, a few American stations have been logged, most of which are old friends, including the perennial 6CGW. It is to be hoped that when the present "low" disturbance has passed the "X's" will subside a little. All experimenters are urged to comply with the terms of their licences in not allowing their receivers to radiate. The Act distinctly provides that no circuit capable of energising the aerial shall be permitted in a receiver except in certain circumstances. This test is one of extreme importance and experimenters are asked to do all in their power to help the listeners-in for the American signals. In connection with this all transmitters whose wavelengths approximate 400 metres, and of course 200 metres, are requested to refrain from transmitting between the hours of 5.45 p.m. and 8.45 p.m., those being the nightly testing hours. Mr H. K. Love, the Divisional President, sounded a warning note at the annual dinner of the Wireless Institute. He stressed the necessity of maintaining the status of the experimenter, in view of the greatly increased vogue of wireless, due to broadcasting. The chief manager of Wireless had written, pointing out that experimenters should organise themselves into one Federal body. He appealed to all experimenters to join the local branches of the Institute and to take a live interest in club doings, otherwise the existence of the genuine experimenter would be menaced by the operations of commercial concerns.

Malone again approves a 3DP broadcast for the Conservatorium appeal

CONSERVATORIUM APPEAL. A meeting was held yesterday of the executive committee appointed to make arrangements in connection with the concert to be given in the Melba Hall on Wednesday of next week, in aid of the University Conservatorium appeal. Madame Evelyn Scotney has consented to sing. The secretary reported that good progress was being made in the sale of tickets, and that everything pointed to success. The first of the several concerts which are being broadcasted from the University Conservatorium in connection with the conservatorium appeal was held on Monday night. The broadcasting apparatus has been installed by special permission from the controller of wireless (Mr. J. Malone), and is being operated by Mr. N. Culliver, a Melbourne wireless amateur. Reports received show that the concert was satisfactorily heard by a large number of experimenters in and around Melbourne, though at present many experimenters are engaged in "listening in" for signals from American amateurs on a different wave length from that used for broadcasting the concerts. Further concerts will be held tomorrow night and on October 29 and October 31.

Announcement of demonstration of wireless broadcasting as a "first" despite Watty's provision of same for over a year, Malone approves

WIRELESS BROADCASTING. The first demonstration of wireless broadcasting in Tasmania will take place at the Pavilion de Danse, City-hall, on Saturday next, November 3, when a programme of dance music, songs, and speeches will be transmitted to the building through the air and received on an aerial erected in the hall. The Tasmanian branch of the Wireless Institute of Australia has received permission from the Director of Wireless Services to carry out this unique illustration of the most marvellous invention of this wonderful scientific age, and the whole of the receiving apparatus will be in full view of the audience. The entertainment is under Vice Regal patronage, and the proceeds will be devoted to further radio experiments by the Wireless Institute. An interesting and enjoyable evening is assured.

Full transcript of Malone's speech over 3DP for the Conservatorium appeal

Radio for the Layman. EXPERIMENTAL BROADCAST. Message From Official. The following message was recently broadcasted to wireless operators by Mr. J. Malone (Chief Manager Telegraphs and Wireless) from 3 D.P. Station, Melbourne:— "I am very glad to be associated with Sir John Monash in advising you of the competition which is to take place shortly. The prize is something that will be valued greatly by wireless amateurs, and I am sure the competition will be entered into with energy and enthusiasm. In addition to recommending the appeal to you I desire to avail myself of this unique opportunity of saying something about the wireless regulations. These regulations, which, unfortunately, are misconstrued by some people as unnecessary restrictions on their activities, have been prepared with the object of giving satisfaction and pleasure to all concerned in wireless. Today we have not advanced very far from the stage of groping in the dark of wireless phenomena, and there is no telling to what extent wireless will be used in five or 10 years' time. It is very wise and necessary, therefore, to take early precautions to avoid the chaotic state of interference which must result unless we all obey the laws of the ether. By means of these laws we are endeavoring to regulate all wireless telegraphy activities. Some of the energetic enthusiasts are apt to forget that if the ether is not policed at all events there are the laws for the conduct of traffic in the ether. Thus it is necessary under Act of Parliament in this country, as in all countries, for every wireless set to be licensed by the Government under appropriate conditions. Any person who is listening to me now and who has no licence is therefore breaking the law, and I am afraid there are more than a few. But I think it is mainly a matter of not knowing the law and the reasons for regulations, and I appeal to all who may thus be committing a breach of the law to apply for a licence and learn the reasons for and conditions of licensing. We are quite busy enough at present without having to take legal action against the offenders, but it is our duty to see that all stations are licensed. "There is another matter connected with traffic in the ether to which I wish to invite your attention; that is, the interference, often unintentional, I believe, caused by persons operating oscillating valves. This "howling" valve nuisance is well known to most of you, and while I know and appreciate that many genuine enthusiasts are endeavoring to minimise the evil by instructing their offending confreres, still the evil is great, and with the advent of broadcasting in the near future will be serious if not checked in time. In fact, there is a danger of the offending few being responsible for undesired restrictions being placed on the work and enjoyment of the great majority of amateurs if the nuisance is not reduced. Some of you possess regenerative circuits which are now prohibited in thickly settled areas, the object, of course, being to cut out the interference caused by these circuits which are in effect small-powered transmitters. Therefore I appeal to all amateurs who are operating regenerative circuits to remember the golden rule and stop that "howling" valve which you so strongly object to in the other fellow's set. "One of the best methods of becoming acquainted with the safe and reasonable means of operating is to join the Wireless Institute or one of its associated clubs, and I strongly recommend that course, as there is very useful propaganda and instruction conducted by every well-managed club. Finally, I trust that all will enter into the competition with the enthusiasm and energy characteristic of the wireless amateur, and that you will not forget what I have said about getting a licence and remembering the other fellow."

1923 11

Melbourne Argus reporter echoes Malone's comments that the amateurs must "get his house in order"

WIRELESS EXPERIMENTERS. The advent of broadcasting in both England and America has brought with it a serious infringement on the liberties of the experimenter, and though broadcasting has not even been commenced here it has not been without its effect on the amateur, as he has under the recent broadcasting regulations lost the wave length band of from 410 to 440 metres. Though it has caused no small inconvenience to the mans whose apparatus was designed for 400 metre work, recent tests both across the Pacific and to Sydney, Adelaide, and New Zealand have shown that for long-distance working the shorter experimental waves are far superior to those in the 400 metre band, and the encroachment has therefore not been resented. That a much more serious infringement of the privileges of the experimenter may follow is shown by the warning of the controller of wireless (Mr. J. Malone) to the experimenter "to get his house in order," conveyed in the letter read at the annual dinner of the institute last Thursday. Both in England and America complaints of interference by experimental stations with broadcast programmes have led to legislation limiting the operation of experimental stations during broadcasting hours, and there is grave reason to fear that similar legislation may accompany broadcasting in Australia. It has been shown beyond doubt that interference is caused not by the experimental transmitter, but by the receiver of the broadcast listener, and if properly designed and handled a broadcasting receiver will be incapable of interference from an experimental station. It is only right that complaints of interference from the users of inefficient receivers are disregarded, and to assure that this will be done experimenters in all parts of the Commonwealth should support the institute in the negotiations with the Government which must undoubtedly come.

Malone authorises another demonstration of broadcasting at Adelaide

KELLEMS RICHARDS MISSION. EXHIBITION, TO-NIGHT, 7.45. Great Radio Service Broadcasted. The Bald Motor and Electric Co., Pulteney street. By kind permission of Mr. Malone, Federal Controller of Wireless, Melbourne. Services each night, but Saturday, 7.45.

As previous, some insight into Kellems Richards Mission

MEN AND RELIGION. KELLEMS RICHARDS MISSION. A party of the Kellems-Richards Mission workers visited the men at the Islington Railway works on Wednesday, when Mr. Richards sang, and Dr. Kellems spoke on the question of Pilate, "What shall I do then with Jesus?" This was a most impressive service, the men giving Dr. Kellems a courteous hearing as he pointed out to them the need tor Jesus Christ in the life of every man. At the close of the address Dr. Kellems was invited to return next week. In the evening at the Exhibition Mr. Richards sang as a solo, "His Eye is on the Sparrow." Dr. Kellems subject was "The New Testament Church", his text being: Matthew 16: 16. He said the Church represented God's government on earth, and the Bible was the book containing the plan of that Church. That being so, it is possible to rebuild the church of the New Testament and to this seemingly audacious plan the Churches of Christ are committed. The Church of Christ was established at Pentecost A.D. 29. It could not have been earlier, for it was necessary for Christ first to die, in order to prove His divinity. The Church consisted of every believer in Christ as the son of God, who had first repented of their sin, and afterwards buried with Christ in baptism. The same act that brings a man to the remission of sins, at the same time makes him a member of Christ's Church, for the Church is Christ's mystic body in the world, and we are brought into that body through baptism. There is no such thing mentioned in the New Testament as an infant Church member. There are many creeds in the world today, but they are unscriptural, for the creed of the Church is Christ. No set of men have a right to come together, and make rules to determine the government of Christ's Church. Human creeds divide the Church, for they are interpretations of scripture only, and we who are all priests unto God, have the right to interpret the scriptures for ourselves. In the organisation and government of the New Testament Church, there were bishops or elders, two terms for the same office, and deacons. The New Testament knows nothing of an ecclesiastical form of Government, this being something of later date and originating in Rome. The ordinances in the Church are not ordinances of the Church, but of Jesus Christ, hence it is impossible to do with baptism, and the Lord's Supper as one chooses. Where ever men have refused to teach these great ordinances, the Church has gone down in defeat, for they keep before men the fundamental things of the Gospel. The various names of the Church, today would cause considerable consternation to the Apostles if they were to come to earth again. The Church is divine, and ought to wear the name of the divine. In the New Testament it is known as the Church of God, and the Church of Christ. It honours Jesus to wear his name, for it is His Church founded on the rock of his divinity. Tonight the service will be broadcasted throughout the Commonwealth, arrangements having been made with the Bald Motor and Electric Company of Pulteney street, who have the permission of Mr Malone Commonwealth Controller of Wireless. This will be the first occasion when such a service has been broadcasted in Adelaide. On Saturday the party motor to Balaklava for two services, returning to Adelaide the same night.

Malone oversights a public demonstration of sealed set receiver testing

WIRELESS INTERESTS. . . . Preparations for Broadcasting. Now that several wireless telephone stations have been licensed to commence broadcasting, various patterns of receivers for use in "picking up" broadcast matter have been designed. The broadcasting regulations provide that each receiver must be sealed and capable of receiving from one, and only one, broadcasting station, and that it must be incapable of adjustment to "poach" from other stations. Each pattern of receiver must be tested by officers of the Postmaster-General's department to see that it complies with the requirements. About 30 dealers and others interested in wireless broadcasting assembled at the offices of the controller of wireless (Mr. Malone) yesterday to see the testing of the first batch of receivers. It has been realised that some difficulty might be encountered in making a satisfactory receiver, as a very strong transmitting station might force response in a receiver not tuned to receive from it. After delicate tests had been applied to the instruments submitted, representatives from the various parties interested were satisfied that every receiver tested would reasonably comply with the regulations. Each, henceforth, will be a standard pattern, and all other receivers of this type must be made in exactly the same manner. The tests were carried out on a specially designed aerial which — as nearly as possible — represents the average aerial used by the broadcast listener. A number of other receivers will be tested during the week. Five licenses to conduct broadcasting services have been granted; two for Melbourne, two for Sydney, and one for Adelaide. One of the Sydney stations is now complete, and test transmissions have been conducted several times lately. Speech and music from this station have been heard very well in Melbourne. It is understood that one of the Melbourne stations will be in operation early in the New Year.

Brief biography of Malone in Sydney's Evening News just prior to commencement of broadcasting

THE MAGIC SPARK. RADIO NOTES & NEWS. Coming Boom. BY DOT DASH. The tremendous interest in broadcasting throughout the State aroused by the announcements of the services is reflected in the numerous inquiries now being received by wireless dealers. A large proportion or the inquiries come from the country, where the people are beginning to realise how broadcasting will provide them with the entertainment they now lack. There is still a doubt in the minds of many as to whether any technical knowledge is necessary to operate a set purchased for a broadcasting service. No great knowledge of wireless is necessary; in fact, a child of average intelligence could operate such a set. But anybody who secures a broadcasting set will soon want to know "how it is done," and the study of the theoretical side of the game will be found absorbing. One Sydney firm recently received a letter from a man in the country, in which he said he had heard of the broadcasting, and wanted to be in it. Then followed instructions to the firm to issue him with a license, save him one of the best sets, and send a man to install it. MR. MALONE The photograph herewith is that of Mr. J. Malone, M.I.R.E., M.I.C.E., M.A.I.E.E., chief manager of Wireless and Telegraphs, whose name is known in every part of the Commonwealth where there is a wireless set. Mr. Malone is known to many amateurs personally, and all agree that no better man could be found for the responsible job he fills. He began his career as a telegraph messenger at Lismore in 1898, and two years later was appointed a relieving officer. Later he joined the engineering branch, where he was at the outbreak of war. Mr. Malone enlisted, and was appointed wireless instructor at the Moore Park Wireless School. He served later in France and was awarded the M.C. On his return to Australia he was appointed Deputy State Engineer at Perth, and when the Postmaster-General's Department took over the radio service from the Navy Department, Mr. Malone was given charge of it. When the agreement was signed between the Government and Amalgamated Wireless Ltd., he was made Controller of Wireless, and later Chief Manager of Wireless and Telegraphs.

Malone still participates in the Sealed Set debacle, testing receivers

WIRELESS. "LISTENERS-IN." REGISTERING APPARATUS. There is now no handicap to the quickening of public interest in wireless broadcasting. At the conclusion of the tests of the instrument just made by the wireless section of the Postmaster-General's Department, to the listeners-in prior to sealing the apparatus, the representatives of manufacturers, broadcasters and dealers present at the Melbourne Radio Department expressed their satisfaction at the success achieved, and on the proposal of the chairman of the Broadcasting Conference (Mr. G. A. Taylor), they passed a vote of thanks to the Postmaster-General (Mr. Gibson) for the freedom allowed wireless representatives in framing their own conditions and to the Controller of Wireless (Mr. Malone), for the initiation of a new system in the development of wireless, which, he trusted, would give the widest pleasure to Australians. Several "listening-in" sets have been submitted, tested, and sealed, and general broadcasting may now be widely spread. In order to give every aid to manufacturers of receiving sets, a duplicate of the testing apparatus is to be sent to Sydney, where, on Thursday next, at Macdonell House, a demonstration of its efficiency will be given, and any receiving sets submitted will be tested and sealed.

Crawford in Sydney replicates the public testing of sealed sets in Melbourne by Malone

WIRELESS. The Broadcasting Position. SEALING OF RECEIVERS. The statement made by the Federal authorities to the effect that a method had been found of sealing receivers suitable for use in connection with broadcasting arrangements, should now leave the way clear for definite movement towards the inauguration of broadcast services in Australia. It will be remembered that when the question of broadcasting was first considered, a conference of those interested was called by the Postmaster-General, under whose control wireless in Australia is placed. This conference was attended by representatives of interests concerned, was presided over by Mr. George A. Taylor, and after considerable discussion, adopted a set of rules which it was considered would enable broadcasting to be established in the Commonwealth. Briefly these rules provided for the allotment of certain wave lengths to companies wishing to broadcast, and the sale of receivers sealed so as to respond only to the wave length of the service for which they were designed. Thus, if a company or firm decided to broadcast, it would, after being approved of by the Government, and furnishing a guarantee of continuity of service for a period of five years, be allotted a wave length on which to transmit its programmes. It is generally known, even by those with very little or no technical knowledge that all wire-less transmission is effected on electromagnetic waves. The length of these waves can be varied by adjusting certain portions of the transmitter, and a message will be audible in a receiver only if that receiver is adjusted so that its electrical properties coincide with the electrical properties of the apparatus at the sending station. Any company which decides to transmit broadcast programmes does so on the wave length allotted by the Government and sells receivers which are "tuned" or adjusted to respond to that wave length, and then sealed so that no other programme may be "tuned-in." The company may then charge fees for its programmes. Broadcasting under these regulations be-comes therefore a matter for the providing of a service in a commercial manner. Several applications have already been made, and in some cases stations are working. Some companies have decided to charge no fees, looking to the profits on the sale of apparatus to furnish them with revenue; others have notified that they will make a charge. In order to gain revenue to maintain their programmes. Some difficulty has been experienced in regard to the sealing of the receivers. To the uninitiated there seems to be no difficulty in achieving such an object, but to the experienced wireless man it is difficult to effect such a feat. For many months past no finality has been reached, but at last week's demonstration in Melbourne, the chief manager of wireless and telegraphs, Mr. J. Malone, was able to test and seal receivers in accordance with the regulations. Prior to this decision being made manufacturers' operations were greatly hampered and radio dealers were not in a position to meet any demands on the part of the public. The announcement has, however, cleared away a grave obstacle, and those commercially interested are now free to go ahead with their schemes. A demonstration of the method adopted in sealing sets will be given in Sydney on Thursday at the office of the radio inspector (Mr. Crawford), Macdonell House. The aerial of the big Sydney broadcasting station, which is being constructed at Northbridge, was erected yesterday, and should be complete by the end of the week. The towers supporting the wires are 200 feet high, and the power of the plant will be 5 kilowatts. Mr. E. T. Fisk (managing director of Amalgamated Wireless) stated yesterday that it will be the largest broadcast station in the world, the British stations being 1½ kilowatt only. Its normal range, he added, will be 500 miles, covering the whole of New South Wales and part of Victoria, although actually the speech and music transmitted from it will be received over longer distances, and may possibly be heard across the Pacific. The whole of the material employed has been made at the Amalgamated Wireless factories. Two other stations are now being erected in Sydney, and one each in Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane.

Malone further ramps up the pressure on the WIA to federate, stating will only deal with one body

Wireless Notes for Amateurs. . . . Mr J. Malone, the chief manager of wireless, has notified wireless clubs throughout the Commonwealth that federation has become necessary and in future the department will treat only with a federal body. The Victorian Division has undertaken the necessary organisation, and already encouraging replies have been received from other divisions, New South Wales Division is anticipating a little trouble as it is a registered company, but leading members of that division when in Melbourne recently stated that they were very much in favour of federation.

1924

1924 03

Report of Malone visit to Qld to encourage the establishment of Qld broadcasting draws parallel with 6WF

Wireless Matters. Arrangements in Queensland. Chief Manager's Visit. Wireless matters affecting Queensland are to receive a stimulus through the visit of Mr. J. J. Malone, chief manager of telegraphs and wireless for the Commonwealth, now in Brisbane. WHAT IS DOING? Asked the reason of his visit, Mr. Malone said it was of an investigatory character. "I want to see what is doing in wireless here," the chief manager proceeded, and to discover how we can assist in clearing away any doubts which may exist as to the Government's attitude towards wireless, and in regard to the administration of its regulations. PRIVATE ENTERPRISE. "As you know, the Commonwealth Government takes no part in wireless services, apart from the duties of regulating and inspecting them. The broadcasting business is mainly of an entertainment character. We are anxious to see some regular broadcasting business established here and in the provincial cities of Queensland. In Sydney there are two stations operating and there is one at Melbourne. There shortly will be three stations in the latter city. There also will be two at Adelaide in the very near future, and there will be one at Perth. FARMERS BROADCASTS. "The Perth station is the only one in Australia set up by farmers for their special benefit. The object is not so much of entertainment as of disseminating market quotations and weather forecasts. No doubt Queensland will not be long in following the western State's example in this respect. Already we have find inquiries from people here who are considering the matter. The expense is considerable, however, and this no doubt accounts for the delay in establishing such a service here. WHY NOT BRISBANE? At present the people of Brisbane are dependent on the Sydney stations, and they are not too successful for interstate work yet. There is no reason why Brisbane should not have its own station, and I am sure it will not be long before she has come into line with the southern metropolises in this way. The two services at Sydney have been operating regularly for three months now, but they have not yet got into their proper stride. No doubt many people are wondering why the Sydney transmissions cannot be picked up satisfactorily here. The principal reason is that there has not been a sufficiency of experimenting yet, and even the big station there is only operating with a 500 watts power, whereas they are entitled to operate to the extent of 5,000 watts. As the power is increased naturally the range is greater, and so it will become easier for listeners to hear the programme. EXPERIMENTERS AND BROADCASTERS. "About 300 licenses have been issued to amateurs in Queensland. The total number in the Commonwealth is about 6,000. None of these Queensland amateurs are paying the broadcasters any subscription for the obvious reason that there are no broadcasters to pay. When broadcasting is established here a different form of license will be issued. The broadcasters will receive a license which will involve payment of a subscription for services rendered, and experimental licenses will be issued only to those who have some definite object of experiment in view. All those amateurs who have been carrying on here and in other places for years, have done so purely for the scientific love of the work. The only kind of license held in Queensland is that of an experimenter. The broadcasting license is for purely commercial purposes, and the broadcaster is obliged to give a regular and otherwise satisfactory service, whereas the experimenter gives demonstrations on a purely voluntary and gratuitous basis. The Government is anxious to encourage the experimenter, but at the same time it must see that the broadcaster's business is not unduly interfered with; otherwise he will not be able to carry out his services satisfactorily. In order to protect the public in obtaining the right class of wireless equipment no person has a right to sell wireless apparatus unless he holds a wireless dealer's license, and displays outside his premises a sign reading, "Licensed radio dealer." "I am looking forward to meeting the commercial and experimental wireless people here," concluded Mr. Malone. "No doubt I shall be able to help them in some way. In addition to this, as chief manager of telegraphs, I am looking into telegraphic conditions here with Mr. McConachie, Deputy Postmaster-General, with a view to the extension of facilities of these services." Mr. Malone will leave here for the south on Wednesday morning.

Malone visits Toowoomba, meets with local amateurs and promises support for a local wireless club

TOOWOOMBA RADIO CLUB. At a meeting held in the Drill Hall on Thursday, March 12, it was decided to form a radio club for Toowoomba and district. A committee, comprising Messrs. E. Norris, C. Fortescue and E. Gold was elected to draw up rules and regulations for submission to the next meeting. Mr. E. Norris was elected hon. secretary, pro tem. A meeting is advertised for Monday evening next at 8 p.m., for the election of officers and to consider the rules of the club. Nominations for officers may be placed with the hon. secretary up to the night of the meeting. On the occasion of the visit of Mr. J. F. Malone, chief manager of Wireless and Telegraphs, to the city, a number of experimenters were granted an interview at the Western Hotel on Wednesday evening. Matters of general and experimental interest were discussed. Mr. Malone expressed his approval of the formation of an experimental club, and it is believed that the experimenters will always have his sympathy and advice. All intending club members are invited to the meeting on Monday next.

Malone leave clarity in the market following his visit to Brisbane

MR. MALONE'S' VISIT. Admirable Effects. There is no doubt in the minds of all persons interested in wireless, either commercially or as amateurs, that the visit of the chief manager of telegraphs and wireless (Mr. J. Malone) to Brisbane is just what was required to make the position clear to the minds of all concerned. So far as the amateur is concerned, it was made clear by Mr. Malone that he must be a genuine experimenter, and must not use his experimental license in any way for entertainment, but purely to carry out experiments along the lines as stated in his application. The dealers also had the position cleared, so far as they were concerned. To Mr. Malone's visit can be credited the fact that co-operation and unity among the radio organisations or clubs will be established, so that, if necessary, a united representation can be made. This in itself, has made the visit well worthwhile, and it is hoped that the lead will not be lost sight of until that object is attained. Certainly nothing would give greater pleasure to Mr. Malone, as the wireless representative of the Postmaster-General, than to know that his visit has done so much to consolidate Brisbane's interests and objects.

Malone on his visit to Armidale meets with local amateurs and enthusiasts and promotes broadcasting

The Future of Wireless. COMMONWEALTH MANAGER'S VIEWS. Mr. J. Malone, chief telegraph and wireless manager for the Commonwealth, who was in Armidale on Friday, is very enthusiastic regarding the future of wireless telegraphy and telephony. Notwithstanding that he was rather tired after having visited Brisbane, Lismore, Grafton, and other centres, Mr. Malone, who, after inspecting Tamworth and other important stations, was to go on to Melbourne, spent several hours with Mr. Barlow, the Commonwealth wireless officer here, on Thursday night. During the "listen in" Mr. Barlow notified the Queensland authorities of Mr. Malone's safe arrival, and apprised Tamworth of his intended visit to that centre on Saturday. The introducing of Mr. Marshall to Mr. Malone was also performed per wireless. On Friday Mr. Barlow's and Mr. Marshall's installations were visited, and later Mr. Malone had a heart to heart chat on general wireless topics with a dozen local enthusiasts. When interviewed by an "Express" man Mr. Malone explained that the object of his tour was, in addition to inspecting the telegraph equipment, etc., at the leading northern centres, to supply any information desired by those interested in wireless. The increasing popularity of wireless telegraphy and telephony was stressed by Mr. Malone. "Why," he said, "we've issued 500 radio dealers' licenses, and there are now two broadcasting stations in Sydney — there will soon be three — and similar stations in Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, etc. Whereas a few years ago wireless was confined to a few enthusiastic amateurs, it is now becoming a regular industry." Mr. Malone, who left for Tamworth on Friday night, agreed with our representative that once wireless concerts were given in Armidale and other centres, public interest in the science would be increased a hundredfold.

1926

1926 07

Malone's 6yo son passes

MR. J. J. MALONE'S SON DEAD. After a brief illness, the infant son of Mr J. J. Malone, chief manager of Wireless and Telegraphs, and Mrs Malone, died today. He was their only son. Much sympathy with Mr Malone was expressed at the Commonwealth offices today.

1926 09

Malone gives a lecture to the Postal Institute in Melbourne, taking a swipe at AWA for not adopting his plan to modernise the coastal stations.

WIRELESS IN AUSTRALIA. Address by Mr. J. Malone. A comprehensive lecture on wireless was delivered last night at the Postal Institute by Mr. J. Malone, chief manager of telegraphs and wireless. Though it was only about twenty-four years since Marconi sent his famous messages across the Atlantic, Mr. Malone said that as far back as 1905 the Commonwealth had established experimental communication between the mainland and Tasmania. He then dealt at great detail with theories underlying transmission, with particular reference to broadcasting and its attendant difficulties. The post office in Australia had, with the exception of the war period, controlled wireless here, and had taken the principal steps in connection with its development. In 1909 stations were established round the coast, and in 1912 the important stations at Sydney and Perth were established. In 1912 wireless in Australia was as efficient as anywhere in the world, but in 1920 considerable modernisation became necessary. Plans were discussed for Imperial communication with England, but the determination of Imperial policy caused a halt. If the Commonwealth Government had not changed its policy in 1921 Australia would have been the most up to date country in the world as far as ship stations were concerned, but a change would doubtless be made before long. Beam services next year would mark an epoch in the history of wireless. No one could foretell the future of wireless, and it was possible that telepathy would be explained as a wireless phenomenon. Future developments were in the lap of the gods.

1927

1927 01

A classic Bradish, waxing poetic about Malone with equally classic caricature by Reynolds in Melbourne's Table Talk

Prominent Personalities. J. J. MALONE. MANAGER OF WIRELESS. Illustrated by L. F. REYNOLDS. Written by C. R. Bradish. The listener-in who sits agape before a loud speaker, his face wearing an aspect of lovely contentment not indistinguishable from that on the countenance of a cannibal who has dined off a particularly succulent missionary, has only vaguely heard of James J. Malone. Among the horde of experts and interested amateurs who talk the argot of wireless with no inconsiderable degree of atmospherics, he is one of the least advertised. The trade and official journals know him of course, as a lecturer on and diagnostician of the leading vice of the world. He can explain in terms so far forward and racy that Webster has the greatest difficulty in keeping up, why there is more than a 5 per cent convulsion in the aerostatic devolution of the triconcentric valve, and should you find your aerial sagging through the perihellonic radiation due to the clash of sunspots with the prevailing trade wind in Madras, he will no doubt have an antidote ready. Officially, James J. Malone is the Chief Manager, of Telegraphs and Wireless in the central administration of the Commonwealth Post Office, of which the permanent head is the able Englishman, H. P. Brown. Malone's job is the control of the innumerable wireless activities of Australia, and from him have issued those periodical threats to the pirates who callously imply that to listen-in to Mary Gumleaf or to the fellow who sings "O Sole Mio" much worse than Caruso is not worth the licence fee. The "sealer" is an admitted trouble, and there are obvious difficulties in locating him, but Mr Malone thinks that under the ennobling influence of radio the great majority of its users part up the modest annual charge without a qualm. It is also the duty of Malone to listen in on behalf of the public. He is responsible to the Government, and so to the public, that the quality of transmission from the main broadcasting stations is up to the standard deemed necessary, and that the conditions under which broadcasting licenses are granted are fulfilled. He is, in fact, Protector-in-Chief of the listener-in, the only man in an official capacity whose concern it is primarily to ensure that the man who pays his licence fee gets his money's worth. He is himself a wireless enthusiast. The fancy caught him early, and it is now the passion of his maturer years. It is his immorata, his Cleopatra, and he speaks of it as other men speak of racehorses, or of that blonde and ravishing reminiscence of Helen of Troy, fourth from the end in the front line of the chorus. Pleasure to him is to cart home half-a-ton of technical journals from all over the earth, and plough through them for new developments in the science for the betterment of the service in the Commonwealth. Sometimes a wistful look comes into his eyes. There are occasions when the beloved temporarily loses her charm — and he would like to be flirting with Literature in more arresting forms. But for his eyes, which he has to guard against strain, he would be reading the moderns, and toning up the sometimes dry official soul with a dip into Wilde, Harris, Shaw, Mencken and others. Like a number of other Irish-Australians, Malone is keenly interested in books and writers. The activity of the man is, of course, enormous. To play the part of a watchful departmentalist requires patience and acumen, but his mind is always flying ahead, dallying with new projects for the benefit of the listener-in. Departmental business will frequently take him to other capitals, and the crowd of problems awaiting decision may have all the excitements of a busy battlefront without the physical dangers and distresses, yet it is not improbable that after he has finished the day he will be found lecturing on some abstruse aspect of wireless made impregnable to you and me by its massive terminology. His intense study of the subject suggests a professorial trend, but there are a million other proofs to show that he is sane, also a perfectly good husband and taxpayer, walking only in terror of disregarding his telegraphic slogan — S N A P —Service, Neatness, Accuracy, Promptitude, which he incidentally followed in imparting these particulars. Wireless, be considers, has a breathtaking future. The experiments now being made in television promise a dazzling wonder world to the next generation, and the amount of work already accomplished in the matter of transmitting pictures across vast distances is receiving a vote of ingratitude from the international crook. Once known to the C.I.D. of any nation, he cannot lift a tiara with the old immunity from detection, because as soon as he is suspected, his fingerprints and photograph are wirelessed to the country he has chosen for a little rest and quiet, and life then becomes one damn policeman after another. It is hoped that wireless will ultimately drive the high-class criminal to the Upper Amazon or some other remote region where the ether cannot disclose his identity. James J. Malone was born in the Lismore (N.S.W.) district, where his father, a native of Ireland, was a husbandman of some consequence. The youngster, on leaving school, found a billet as telegraph messenger in the Lismore P.O., and in the course of his then uneventful history duly became a telegraphist. After absorbing the mechanics of transmission, he graduated as a telegraphic engineer, and served in this capacity, making each move, with substantial promotions, in three or four capitals. Came the war, which induced him to throw up his post, as engineer at Brisbane and join the Flying Corps. His knowledge of telegraphy and signalling in all its forms, including wireless, was a rapid passport through the stripes into commissioned rank, and when the war was over, he was a lieutenant rewarded for his services with the Military Cross. When the Powers were discussing the peace at Versailles, Malone seized the opportunity of picking up all he could on the subject nearest to his ear and heart. Investigations in England, France and Germany were followed on his discharge in England by a visit to the United States, and when he came back to Australia to serve as deputy State engineer at Perth, his conspicuously high competence had destined him for better things. So he rose ultimately to his present altitude, feeling something more than a sandhill among the Mont Blancs of the administration — a feat of rare merit when one considers that he has only just entered the "forties," at which stage men of more than average ability are still struggling to emerge from the "also rans." Malone's success is the reward of progressive youth. To see him, alert, but unaffected, in a chair that Tradition would fill with a haughty signior from one of the Best Families, must be a stimulating spectacle to the lads lower down. (Start Graphic) Caricature of Malone (End Graphic)

1927 08

Malone makes predictions of the future of wireless

LOOKING AHEAD IN WIRELESS. Mr Malone Sees Visions. By E. M. WEBB. I expected to find Mr. J. Malone, the newly-appointed Chief Inspector of Wireless in the Postmaster-General's Department, surrounded by neutrodynes, beams and oscillators, with a wave length or two thrown in for decorative purposes, but there wasn't a wireless gadget on the premises. The only thing to suggest that his mission in life was radio, was his easily noticeable likeness to Marconi. "What does the future hold for wireless?" he said, echoing a question. "Well, think up anything you like, and I won't say it's impossible. I can't exactly see people riding on wireless waves as they do in motorcars, and so far I don't think anybody has proposed placing an umbrella under the sun to eliminate daylight interference with signals; but you never know. Still, we've got television in its first stages. Transmission of still photographs can be carried out fairly easily already, and experiments have resulted in two people being able to converse with and see each other over a land line. That was done between New York and Washington in April of this year. I don't think that kind of television will become general for many years, because the cost of the present apparatus is very great. International Broadcasting "One thing I can see great possibilities in is international broadcasting. There are difficulties to be overcome, of course. One is the fact that night reception here means daylight transmission elsewhere. And then for some things you'll need a universal language. A big night at Covent Garden opera house would be possible without a common language, but it would arrive at an inconvenient time." "Perhaps it could be bottled up and let loose later," I suggested. "I'm not going to say that is impossible," said Mr. Malone. "There are any number of big events which take place that are of interest to the whole world, and descriptions would be eagerly sought by listeners in. A coronation, for example, a test match, or a world's championship boxing contest. And there is the more serious side of international broadcasting — the friendliness and understanding between nations that it would promote. Better Country Services "In Australia the future ought to see better broadcasting services to the country. The rural dweller outside a certain radius cannot use a crystal set. I would not be surprised to see in the future stations erected in the country for rebroadcasting, so that reception could be secured anywhere on the simplest and cheapest crystal set. The programme would go over land lines to the distributing station." "Couldn't you send international events over the cable?" "No," said Mr Malone. "You cannot telephone any distance over the cable. "Fading is one of the big problems that has to be overcome, and it will be eliminated eventually. I suppose every wireless country in the world is at work on it. Possibly we won't be able to solve it until we know what wireless waves really are. Then there is telephony over the beam. That is something which will be made possible eventually. At present the unsteadiness of high frequencies militates against it, but it will come. Catering for Highbrows "Dual broadcasting by one station is technically possible. Two programmes on different wave lengths would mean two different sets of broadcasting apparatus, but they would not cost as much as the erection of another station. It has been suggested that the one studio should send out one programme for highbrows and another for — lowbrows is, I suppose, the antithesis. That would give listeners a wider choice. "Then I think the future will see the elimination of some of the duplication which goes on at present. Listeners tune out one station because it is broadcasting, say, a description of a race, only to find that the other station is doing exactly the same thing. One description of that kind by one station ought to be enough." "All the long-distance experimenting is going on over short wave lengths, and eventually, of course, the most suitable length to the circumstances will be adopted. By the way, the expression "wave length" is going out of fashion. We are all going to talk in kilocycles eventually." "What is a kilocycle?" I asked. Mr Malone explained, and I said I understood. I can tell you this much, that it is not a species of motor cycle which attacks ordinary motor cycles after the manner of whales. But I have a dim sort of conviction that it means measure in oscillations instead of taking the distance from one wave crest to another. "Anything else?" I queried. "Lots," he said; "but I've got to go and see Mr Brown now."

1928

1928 01

Lovely caricature of Malone and tongue-in-cheek poem

Uncle Malone of the Morse Code.

In the world of the wire and the 'phone, These features are lovingly known;

They fail to disguise the gimlet eyes Of Mr. J. J. Malone.

Where the duplex and multiplex crash, You'll find him surveying the clash,

Exploring, like Dampier, the volt and the ampere, The buzzer, the dot, and the dash.

The microphone cowers to his sway, The pirate turns pale with dismay,

The wave-length bows down at his terrible frown, And the radio uncles obey.

In the midst of our postal content, One thing he has yet to invent —

'Tis a simple desire, just a genuine wire, That arrives the same day that it's sent. — S.

(Start Caricature Caption) Ruler of the Wireless Waves — Federal Director of Telegraphs, etc., J. J. Malone (End Caricature Caption)

1940s

1944

1944 12

Nice biography of Malone on his taking up the Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs for NSW position

SYDNEY'S NEW "HEAD POSTMAN" JAMES JOSEPH MALONE MC, FIRE (Aust), MIEE (Eng), MIRE (USA). At last James Joseph Malone is up against a job which has him worried. This might seem remarkable. He has had many jobs in his time — difficult jobs most of them — and has taken them in his stride. He is certainly not the type to be worried by a job. Many people throughout Australia know James Joseph Malone personally, many more know him by repute, especially those interested in radio. He was, indeed, a pioneer of radio, and is still a wireless authority, though he does not look the part. In fact, he looks extremely wiry. James Joseph Malone was born in 1884 at Gundurimba, Lismore district, NSW, and attended Presentation Convent School, Lismore, where he was known as a bright pupil and where he passed the University Junior Examination. At fourteen he entered the Post and Telegraph Department as telegraph messenger, soon qualified as a telegraphist, and in 1900 was acting relieving officer stationed for some time at Newcastle. In 1906, by competitive examination, he was promoted to Telegraph Engineering Branch, Sydney. Since then he has travelled far, inside the Department, inside the continent, and outside the continent. He moved successively from the Engineering Branch to Construction Branch, then to Goulburn as District Engineer, and next to Brisbane as Engineer for Lines. But none of these jobs had him worried. From Brisbane, on the outbreak of World War I, he enlisted as private and was attached to the Australian Flying Corps, went to France, where he was engaged mainly on wireless and signal work as a radio engineer. At conclusion of hostilities he was lieutenant in the Flying Corps, had won the Military Cross, and was by way of becoming an expert in the rapidly-developing science of radio. Next followed a period in London with AIF Education Service, an opportunity to study telegraph and telephone developments of England, France, and Germany, and, having obtained his discharge, a visit to United States and New Zealand on behalf of the Postmaster-General's Department for further study of departmental problems and developments. On return to Australia James Joseph Malone resumed duties with the department as Deputy State Engineer for Western Australia, and when his Department took over the Radio Service from Navy Department he was transferred to Melbourne to become Deputy Director of Radio Services, a highly responsible job. But still he was not worried by it. In May, 1921, he married a nurse, Katie Dawson, from Invermay, Tasmania. Their family consists of a son, Jimmy, now sixteen, and a daughter, Mary, twenty-one. James Joseph Malone then successively occupied the positions of Controller of Wireless, Chief Manager of Telegraphs and wireless, and Chief Inspector of Wireless, for all of which he was stationed at Melbourne. In 1938, accompanied by his wife, he visited Cairo as Australian official delegate to the International Telecommunications Conference, and took the opportunity to visit Palestine, Italy, France, Britain, returning home via Canada and USA. Next step up the departmental grade was in 1939 when he found himself once more in Brisbane, this time as Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs for Queensland. But even this big job left him unworried. Meanwhile he had been busy as a member of learned professional bodies such as Institute of Electrical Engineers (Eng.), Institute of Radio Engineers (USA), Institution of Radio Engineers (Aust.), of which he is a Fellow, and past President. He has delivered papers to certain of these Institutions, has contributed articles to various papers, chiefly technical. Obviously he has been a busy man. But he has still found, time to play golf and live a sociable life. Because of that sociability, and because he has moved round so much, he has had almost a record number of farewell dinners and parties tendered to him. James Joseph Malone has once more come to public notice by attaining to the senior job in the senior city of the Commonwealth so far as his Department is concerned. He has just been appointed Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs for NSW, with headquarters in Sydney. He likes to tell people he meets in Sydney, with a twinkle in his eye: "I'm your new Head Postman." But even that important job does not worry him. What does worry him is the resultant job of finding somewhere to live in Sydney. It would worry anybody.

1946

1946 08

Malone appointed first Chairman of the OTC

First Chairman Of O.T.C. Once Messenger. Mr. James Joseph Malone, who has been appointed chairman of the new Overseas Tele-Communications Commission, has had more than 25 years' experience in wireless and telegraphy. Mr. Malone is at present Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs, New South Wales. He said yesterday he did not know when he would start his new duties with the O.T.C. Beginning life as a messenger and then as postal assistant and telegraphist at Lismore and Newcastle, Mr. Malone advanced to engineer for lines, Queensland, before serving in the 1914-18 war, during which be was awarded the Military Cross. After the war, he spent 12 months in Britain and America and returned to fill important posts. Mr. Malone was appointed Deputy Director of Posts and Telegraphs, N.S.W., in 1934. Other members of the Overseas Tele-Communications Commission will be: The Director-General of Posts and Telegraphs, Mr. L. B. Fanning; the Secretary to the Treasury, Mr. S. G. McFarlane; the Assistant Director-General of Posts and Telegraphs, Mr. G. T. Chippindall; and Mr. J. V. Barry, K.C., of Melbourne.