Radio 3TR program "50 and Over". Lieutenant Commander Hugh Randall Syme GC, GM and Bar talks about his experiences in mine disposal in the United Kingdom during the Second World War.

Mr Hugh Randall Syme was the general manager of the Melbourne Age newspaper in 1957. During the Second World War he joined the Royal Navy volunteering for the mine disposal unit in the United Kingdom. He carried out disposal of parachute mines. The British Army dealt with bombs, the Royal Navy with mines. One in ten mines would not explode. He describes the power of the mines: D type 1000 kg, C type 2000 kg;18 sec fuse, triggered by impact. Lieutenant Syme personally rendered safe 53 German mines. He describes methods used, things to avoid and how to diffuse a mine. He recounts some anecdotes- shipping, humorous episodes. He mentions hazards set in mines. Discusses minesweepers. Mr Syme describes how he was awarded the George Medal, and defines the difference between the George Medal and the Victoria Cross. He worked with Naval Intelligence and the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. He mentions the de-gaussing of ships. Mr Syme concludes that luck and "horse sense" are very important. END OF INTERVIEW.