The “Big Six” And

Others

MR. G. MACDONALD, an old-time trader of Salamaua, New Guinea, is on fur lough in Sydney at present and this writer has had the opportunity of an interesting chat with him about the old miners on the Morobe goldfield.

Mr. Macdonald was there at the begin ning and he was the beach agent for the “Big Six,” when they were carrying on their struggle to open the new goldfield on Edie Creek.

In the course of conversation Mr. Mac donald was asked if he knew what has become of those men who made themselves famous owing to their early association with the famous goldfield; and Mr. Mac donald dug into the depths of his memory and made the following summary.

Bill Royal—is now running a small allu vial “show” on Koranga Creek, just below the Golden Ridges mill, in the Bulolo Val ley.

Dick Glasson—reported to be prospecting for gold at the back of Aitape.

Joe Sloan —living in Australia.

Chisholm—dead.

Arthur Royal—has settled down happily as a farmer in Victoria.

Bill Money—has settled down as a planter in the Siassi Islands, and is doing well.

That accounts for the whole of the “Big Six.” Here is something about some of the other early identities.

“Sharkeye” Park —went to Vancouver.

There were various reports about him, but it is now generally believed that he is dead.

Harry Darby—died in tragic circum stances.

Herb. Wilson —one of the really old hands who used to be on Koranga; had a run of bad luck and died practically penni less.

Frank Pryke—well and prosperous, and settled down in Coogee, Sydney.