“New” Reef-Passage
p. 47 · Read in the full issue
At Fiji
AN important development for overseas shipping loading in Fijian waters was the recent “dis covery” of a new passage through the reef near Port Ellington, north pastern Viti Levu.
I Although newspapers have used the term “discovery” there is little doubt that the passage was largely well known to local small craft; but k was not until recently that it was properly surveyed by HMNZS Lachlan, a RAN vessel which was an loan to the NZ Navy, which re turned to Wellington late July.
The survey made by Lachlan has nade it possible for sugar ships, ravelling between Suva and Port Ellington, to save four hours and 50 niles of steaming. Vessels travelling ria the former passage were unable o safely anchor. Using the new oute, if for any reason the ship is lelayed—through engine trouble, for sample—she may safely anchor in !0 fathoms.
Dr. J. Dovi, a Fijian who received as medical training in New Jealand, returned there on leave a August from the Solomon Is., there he is attached to the Ad ainistration Medical Staff.