Copra Sack Shortage
p. 27 · Read in the full issue
NG Hibiscus Fibre May Solve Copra Sack Shortage
IT is possible that the wild hibiscus of New Guinea, from whose fibres the strong native cord is rolled by the village women, may prove a solution to recurring shortages of copra sacks in the Territory and wheat bags in Australia.
Mr. R. A. Colyer, of Colyer Watson (NG) Ltd., at present in America, has been investigating a decorcitating machine which will separate hibiscus and jute
fibres mechanically. It is understood that he is having such a machine sent to New Guinea shortly for experimental use.
The wild hibiscus common in New Guinea, is grown also in Cuba where the mnufacture of hessian, etc. from its stem and bark fibres is an established industry. Before he returns to Sydney, Mr. Colyer will visit Cuba and see the industry at work. It it believed that hibiscus is grown in Cuba under planta tion conditions.
Samples of New Guinea hibiscus and jute taken to the United States by Mr.
Colyer have been passed by experts as completely suitable for the manufacture of hessian —but the hibiscus is favoured as it gives a better yield than jute.