UNCONSCIOUS HUMOUR
NEWCASTLE’S ANNIVERSARY FLAG SIGNALS Rec. 8 p.m. SYDNEY, Sept. 4. Newcastle’s sesqui-centenary celebrations have been unconsciously brightened by the display of international code flags which convey messages which ■ obviously were not intended. The main thoroughfares are decorated for miles with flags of all descriptions, many of which are code flags lent by the navy. Unfortunate combinations of signals occur frequently, and those “in the know ” are wondering whether the decorators have perpetrated a practical joke on the city. For instance, near one branch of a private trading bank a signal reads: “We are in distress,” and over another establishment flies the signal, “I am out of control.” Another firm which has spent a considerable sum in advertising to catch the eye of visitors flies a signal, “Do not approach,” while another displays port flags meaning “Do not enter.” Sailors enjoyed the joke more fully than laymen, for in many cases the city is making extremely rude announcements in the language of the sea.
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Otago Daily Times, Issue 26558, 5 September 1947, Page 5
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165UNCONSCIOUS HUMOUR Otago Daily Times, Issue 26558, 5 September 1947, Page 5
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