“Bill” Candler

He Sold Flour In The Islands For 45 Years

FEW men know the islands of the Cen tral and Western Pacific better than Mr. “Bill” Candler. For more than 45 years, barring plagues and wars, he sold Gillespie’s Australian flour in every Territory and Group, from Samoa to Nor folk Island, and from Papua up through the Philippines to Hongkong.

He retired last August—and, when we indignantly asked why, he modestly con fessed to 74 years. “But you look more like 54,” we protested. “Oho, that’s the result of a systematic drinking of kava, for medicinal purposes,” he replied.

Part of the old-time economy of the South Pacific —before it was more or less destroyed by wars—was a brigade of com mercial travellers; and outstanding men were picked by the big exporting firms for the by no means unpleasant job of touring the Islands a couple of times a year, and seeking orders. Among these, Candler had a notable place. Men who still are well remembered included d’Al puget, Cohen, Bayley, Foldi, Lawton, Tre bilco and Bill Shepherd. Most of them now are dead. Candler was literally “the last of the Old Brigade.”

Bill Candler, in reminiscent mood, can entertain old Islanders for hours—for nearly half a century he knew every notable man in the Islands. All his anec dotes are interesting. They range from hush-hush tales of “rat-bag” Governors to shocking stories of Samoan bathing

pools.

He pulled from his pocket a fat cigar ette case—a most beautiful thing of tor toiseshell and gold. “Given to me by Sir Maynard Hedstrom 40 years ago,” he said —and the affectionate inscription bore it out. “A fine bit of craftsmanship,” I remarked. “And, like you, it has gone mellow with age—and work.” He still was wearing that seraphic Candler smile as he went off to the Sydney Sports Club.

—Rwr.

Mr. E. C. Harris, who was Treasurer during a portion of the Murray Adminis tration in Papua, and who has been living in retirement in Brisbane for several years, was a visitor to Sydney in March.

Mr. Harris underwent a severe operation recently, but he has made a good re covery.