BSI Palmer Family Has
p. 47 · Read in the full issue
A Floating Home
From Our Own Correspondent
Honiara, June 4.
FAMILIAR sight round Protectorate waters these days is the graceful little schooner, “Matoma,” in charge of Mr. Ernie Palmer, back again on his pre-war job of recruiting labour. Capable Mrs. Palmer, the five Palmer children and one dog are enthusiastically living on board and enjoying “Matoma” as a home.
Formerly the “Loyaute,” of Noumea, “Matoma” was built in New Caledonia and has expertly planned accommodation.
At one time she was a BP vessel; during the war she was in service for the Navy, then she was bought by Levers’ Pacific Plantations Pty., Ltd., and reached the Protectorate under Mr. Palmer’s command about three months ago. She carries sail and is powered with a 120 HP Fairbanks Morse engine.