Dare-Devil Decker!

AT first, freighting between Wau and Edie Creek, in New Guinea, where one climbs 3,000 feet in a few miles, was done by native carriers. Then came pack-mules. Then, between 1933 and 1935, Fred Deckert.maintained a service with a queer, narrow-gauge car, which he re built himself, so that it would fit the precipice climbing mule-tracks. A ride on Deckert’s car was an unforgettable experience. Nowadays, motor-lorries run between Wau and Edie Ci'eek. on a graded motor-road. |T was a hard and weary drag I When first we climbed that track.

Although our tucker, tent and swag On some old mule we’d pack.

The road seemed always rough and far.

To shorten it we’d strive — Then came Fred Deckert with his car And showed us how to drive.

Around those dizzy heights we’d sneak, A few short years ago; We’d see the falls of Edie Creek And hear them roar below.

We’d crawl along at slowest pace.

And think the journey far.

And now around them he will race On his old Bitzer car.

As gaily round the mountain side The Bitzer rolls along, Its owner, bubbling o’er with pride.

Trolls out some cheery song.

The natives know it near and far And each for safety dives— It scares them stiff, that Bitzer car When Devil Deckert drives.

If looking for a thrill you are Some day just take a ride On that old bounding Bitzer car Past Edie Creek land-slide.

His passengers will all sit tight.

And hang on for their lives— I wonder they don’t die of fright When Devil Deckert drives.

But you can have it “on your own:”

I want a few years more.

Not yet tired of life I’ve grown— I may yet reach three score.

I have had a turn at flying.

And I’ve travelled fast and far There are better ways of dying Than on Deckert’s Bitzer car.

But good luck to this pioneer Who blazed the motor track.

For him we’ll raise a hearty cheer And hope to see him back.

Though many passing years have fled.

No matter where we are.

We still will think of Daring Fred And his old Bitzer car.

Frank Pryke.

Brisbane, 1934.