Fiji News.

Tornado’s Sudden Strike.

From Our Own Correspondent.

BA, Feb. 14.

WE had a heavy thunderstorm on Janu ary 31, and the unique experience of witnessing the makings of a tor nado. Luckily the tail did not descend as far as the ground and no damage was done. A number of people witnessed the spectacle and were thrilled to see it gradually growing larger and looking like a huge black serpent. Evenutally it broke in the middle and disappeared into the clouds. We hope that they do not be come common occurrences, as hurricanes are bad enough for us.

During the storm an Indian was struck by lightning whilst riding a horse at Tavua. Both he and his mount were killed instantly. He was well known in the Indian community, which was shocked at his sudden end. When they touched him his clothing fell to pieces— showing how powerful a stroke the poor fellow must have had.

Aviator’S Skill.

On January 28, Captain Fenton came to Lautoka in his Spartan seaplane and on the following day took up passengers for joy rides. Next day he set out for Suva with Mr. Archibald as passenger, and when they had not arrived at their destination on the following evening some anxiety was felt for their safety.

Word was received that they were forced down through engine trouble near Serua, a native village on the Navua coast, none the worse for their experience.

Fiji Airways.

We hear very little of Fiji Airways, Ltd. around this side of the Island, and are beginning to wonder if we will be included in the itinerary when it begins its service. Once the fares become suit able to the average man’s pocket, a large number of passengers will be available here to experience a “first flight.” It will be a great boon to the Colony in gen eral, as the present passenger service by the coastal boats is not reliable, and before one can proceed to any part of the Group he has to go to Suva, then catch the first outward vessel.

Marksmen Prepare.

On Sunday, January 29, a large gath ering of shooting enthusiasts attended a shoot and the annual inspection of rifles.

An inspector came from Suva and was pleased to see the way in which things had been carried on during the past year. Some very good averages were recorded, and interest is already being taken in the annual “Bisley” to be held in Suva at Easter, when it is hoped we will be able to send a representative team of riflemen to compete against other crack shots of the Group.