Fire Destroys Port Moresby
p. 32 · Read in the full issue
Landmark
From Our Own Correspondent
Pt. Moresby, Aug. 20.
A WELL-KNOWN landmark of Pt.
Moresby disappeared when a fire completely demolished the old Brit ish New Guinea Development Co.’s build ing, on August 8. Erected nearly 30 years ago, it had been leased for some years past to the B.N.G. Trading Co. as a bulk store.
The cause of the outbreak is unknown.
Large stocks of merchandise, food stuffs, paints, oils and spirits, and rubber awaiting shipment, went up in flames.
Bands of voluntary helpers saved nearbv buildings, including the Vacuum Oil Co.’s depot. Estimated loss, including building and stocks, is said to be well over £20,000.
Unfortunately, while assisting with other" members of the Royal Papuan Constabulary, a native policeman named Habia was hit by a falling wall. He died before he could be removed to hospital.
The British New Guinea Development Co. commenced operations in Papua in 1910, and the timber and iron building was erected shortly afterwards in a pro minent position facing the harbour.
Twenty or so years ago it was a busy centre of Port Moresby, a large portion of the building being devoted to a gen eral store, with offices and other depart ments alongside.
Mr. John Robert Dods, who was well known in Fiji, died in Auckland. NZ, in August, at the age of 49. Born at Valaga, he spent his youth on his father’s coconut plantation in Vanua Levu; later, after serving in the Great War. he became interested in gold min ing in Fiji when the industry was in its infancy. Mr. Dods was employed at Loloma (Fiji) Goldmines NL until illness necessitated a visit to NZ for medical treatment.