New Slipway Opened

Important Event in N.G.

From Our Own Correspondent

Rabaul, Jan. 31.

THE new slipway at Karavia, opposite Rabaul, erected by Carpenter’s Slipway, Ltd., was opened by his Honour the Administrator on January 18, when the s.s. Duranbah was slipped before a repre sentative crowd of residents.

The operation was carried out without a hitch. Much credit is due to Mr. Hay, the contractor, for the work he has put into this undertaking.

Toasts were drunk and speeches made by Mr. B. B. Merriman, M.L.C., manager for Messrs. W. R. Carpenter & Co., and replies were given by His Honour the Administra tor. Regrets were expressed that Mr. Mir fleld, who had taken such a keen interest and practical part in the erection of the slip, was forced to be absent in Sydney.

It was the intention of the “Southern Cross VII.” to be the first vessel to be placed on the slip; but owing to some difficulties regarding insurance, it had to be deferred.

The overhauling of the “Duranbah” be ing completed a few days after the open ing" of the slip, the mission vessel was placed on the slip, surveyed and taken off again successfully. At present, one of the Lever Company’s boats from the British Solomons is at anchor, awaiting an op portunity to be slipped.

The erection of the slipway is without doubt a forward step in the Territory, and will prove a great boon to owners of small steamers, who can now overhaul here ves sels which otherwise would have to go to an Australian port—usually Sydney.