Santo News

By Vernon Wheatley

THE official death roll of the Christmas hurricane that hit parts of the New Hebrides Group is estimated at 114 includ ing Europeans, Tonkinese and natives. This figure covers those lost at sea.

I understand that the cemetery at Vila is a fairly well-kept place but one cannot say the same for Santo’s cemetery.

Enclosed by a barbed-wire fence which was once in fair order before fence posts fell down, this plot of what should be hallowed ground is now a rendezvous for wandering cattle which eat any flowers put on the graves and uproot shrubs planted there by those who wish to beautify the place. It is a disgrace to Santo.

Mr. Bill Dean, late of the staff of BP s, is now in charge of the road making in Santo. The weather has been against this project, but we look forward to wider and better roads in the future.

Mr. and Mrs. J. Maxwell are due back in Vila soon and it is reported that Mr. Maxwell will take over from Mr. P. Colley as Commissioner of Police. Mr. Maxwell is return ing from leave; he was formerly British District Agent for Santo.

The Koro paid a visit to Santo recently, it will be recalled that this ship was successfully raised after sinking and has been com pletely reconditioned. She is “as good as new,“ but is no longer

ketch-rigged.

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Barr, formerly of Wewak, NG, have settled in Brisbane, Q’ld.