Matson Ships on "civilian Basis"

"civilian Basis"

Fwas announced in New Zealand in March that three Matson ships, run on a “civilian basis,” will call at Auckland during April and May. (These are in addition to three “bride” ships due in Auckland before mid-April.) The “Lurline” will call on April 30, the “Monterey” on May 17, and the “Mari posa” on May 20. It is expected that financees of American Servicemen will be able to obtain bookings on the ships as well as American citizens wishing to re turn home and New Zealand priority travellers.

Presumably the ships will call at Sydney also and will lift a similar class of passengers.

It was stated by the Auckland agents that the sailing of these ships does not necessarily mean that the Matson trans pacific service is being resumed. After the completion of these voyages, the vessels may be laid up for reconversion.

The Rev. Cecil Gribble, of the Metho dist Mission, and family, have arrived in Sydney from Ton S a - Mr Percy Osborn, who is acting general manager of Cuthbert’s Misima Gold Mines, Ltd., left Sydney for Papua on the “Ormiston” on March 27/ He will make a general survey of the mine on Misima Island.