Gold In East Papua

Three Mines Operating On Misima Island

THERE are now three gold mines in operation on Misima Island, Eastern Papua—namely, Cuthbert’s Misima, which is a famous money-spinner; Gold Mines of Papua, from which great things were expected, but which has proved disappointing, since it came into produc tion a few months ago; and Quartz Mountain Ltd., a New Zealand-owned concern, which now is in the develop mental stage.

On these three mines—all apparently on the same line of reef—about 150 Europeans and 800 to 1,000 native la bourers are employed.

There appears to be a great deal of gold in Misima. One man, supported by a small syndicate, is putting a two-stam per on to a lease at Ara Creek, about three miles from the main mines; and another man is making plans to open up another reef, on Ara Creek.

There has been acute labour trouble at Misima recently. A good many native labourers died from epidemic diseases, including dysentery; and the other labour ers became frightened, and refused to work, trying to leave the island. The situ ation was critical, for a while: but Gov ernment and mine officials handled it energetically and tactfully, and it seems to be normal now. Strong measures have been taken to wipe out disease.

Shareholders in Gold Mines of Papua have been disappointed with returns to date. It is said that unexpected trouble was encountered at the mine when it was found that the ore—just as rich in gold as was expected—carried an extra ordinary percentage of copper, and this very seriously dislocated treatment plant and plans. It is hoped that a readjust ment of both, to meet the new condi tions. will bring the enterprise into the field of profit-making.

Gold is being won regularly in a couple of small mines in the Milne Bay dis trict; while, over on Sudest Island, Mr Harry Morley, with a couple of dozen la bourers. is slowly developing what may prove to be a valuable reef. Up to date he has put in two tunnels and three shafts.