Pacific Timber
p. 11 · Read in the full issue
New Industries at Various Points
171 ROM various points in the Pacific, r there come reports to show that the magnificent timber resources of the various territories are receiving—really, very belatedly—the attention of timber interests.
Shipments of kauri pine, from the forests in the southern end of New Caledonia, are being brought to Sydney with in creasing frequency, and are meeting a good market.
For some years, a timber company has been regularly cutting a similar timber on the island of Vanikoro (Southern
Solomons) and shipping same to Mel bourne, It was announced recently that two important consignments of kauri • pine from Fiji (which is very similar to New Zealand kauri) have been sent by the Carpenter ships from Fiji to London, where they have been favourably re ceived. It is Stated that one of the chief uses of New Zealand kauri is the manu facture of the vats used by distillers, etc., and, if English manufacturers find the Fiji kauri suitable for this purpose, an im portant industry may develop.
Two timber enterprises have commenced operations recently on the south coast of New Britain (Mandated Territory of New Guinea) and both are confident of working up a profitable trade with Australia.
One of the most important arguments submitted in connection with the proposed construction of the road between Sala maua and the Morobe tableland is that the road will give access to very large quantities of pine and cedar, both of which will have value in the Australian market.
It is pointed out that the development of a timber industry in this district will not only have permanent value in itself, but will tend to cheapen transport, as it would provide the very necessary back loading for the vehicles whicn will be tak ing in supplies and materials to the gold fields.
There arrived in Sydney by the liner “Aorangi”, from Fiji, on August 27, 30 magnificent kauri logs, containing 10,000 superficial feet, being specially selected timber for veneering. The logs were brought to the order of V. B. Trapp Pty., Ltd. The “Fiji Times” says that the Fiji Kauri Timber and Land Co., of Nad arivatu, is opening up markets in Aus tralia. Britain and elsewhere, and it is hoped to ship 2i million feet annually of Fiji kauri.