Oil Exploration In Papua

Future Programme Defined

THE general manager of the Austral asian Petroleum Company Pty., Ltd. (Mr. Pym) has recently returned from London and New York where he has been discussing the company’s drill ing programme with Vacuum Oil Co. and Anglo-Iranian Oil Co., Ltd.

As a result of the visit, drilling in Papua has now been adjusted to acceler ate the search for oil. Operations have been suspended at Malalaua and efforts concentrated on more favourable sites in fV\p 'Hplfp orpa At Hohoro difficult rock conditions have been a handicap to drilling. The bore reached 4,721 feet but when it was de cided to put casing in the open section of the hole, cave-ins prevented it. Re peated attempts have been made to clear the hole in the last two months. If it becomes necessary to abandon this hole a second location will be drilled where it is unlikely that the rock formation previously encountered will be met.

Boring at Upoia has been satisfactory and the casing has been cemented at 5,194 feet.

Tahiti Sports Club Gives Ball

r ON April 29 the Sport Club of Tahiti held their annual ball at the City Hall of Papeete. The function was attended by His Excellency Governor Anziani accompanied by numerous government officials.

Many parties of local celebrities assembled at the beautifully decorated special tables reserved for their entertainment.

m Mr i o ßob £ rt Warre f Br ® wn > son °f Mr.

Charles Brown, of Uturoa, Raiatea, French Oceania, has announced his en gagement to Miss Polly Simone Barn bridge, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tommj Bambridge, of Papeete.

Mr . w F Hayward, OBE, Postmaster- General in Fiji, left Suva this month for England, on long leave prior to retire ment. Pending the arrival of Mr. J. A.

Marais to take up the position, Mr. L.

C. P. M. Grant, OBE, is acting as PMG.