“Rush” To Wewak

Wau Miners Find Promise in New Goldfield

From Our Own Correspondent WAU, Nov. 22.

TT has been known for over 18 months that there was gold in Wewak, in the Sepik District, North-west New Guinea, but until last month the potentialities of Wewak as a field of importance were never taken seriously. “Gold is there but not in payable quantities,” was the gen eral opinion.

In October, Wau, although still pros perous, but no longer booming, had a few unemployed miners cooling their heels, and they, in spite of indifferent reports, decided to go to Wewak to see for them selves. Contrary to official reports their advice to Wau was encouraging, and many other miners joined the “rush” or sent agents to peg ground on their behalf.

Towards the end of October it was re ported that there were 60 men on the field and the November steamer took 40 more up north. One ambitious miner chartered a ’plane for his sole use and transported his natives and mining gear by it, thus saving several days.

Latest reports are still encouraging, and it looks as if the “rush” to Wewak has only just begun.

Captain L. Austin, of the Papuan Public Service, arrived in Sydney by the Montoro at the end of November. He is stationed at Sangara.

Mr. B. W. Faithorn, A.R.M. at Kokoda, Northern Division of Papua, arrived in Sydney on sick leave in November. He is being relieved at Kokoda by Mr. S. Elliott Smith, who previously was stationed at Buna.