Hurricane Effects
p. 119 · Read in the full issue
Reported By
The Nz Air Force
WHEN the hurricane hit Suva in January, two Catalinas were lying at the New Zealand Air Force base at Lauthala Bay. They were prepared for removal and, when the hurricane reached its height, the order to take off was given. They had to make no run at all. The force of the wind was so great that the huge machines made an almost stationary take-off—they rose straight up, like sea-gulls on a windy day.
Repairs to the base installations, estimates Sq.-Leader A. C. Anderson
(in charge of the works) will cost around £30,000. Replacement of the half mile of breakwater is the most expensive item.
To provide stone for the break water, five tons of explosives are be ing sealed in with concrete at the end of a 60 ft tunnel, in a wartime quarry. It is believed that the result ing blast—which should be something to remember—will make ample sup plies of stone available.
Captain N. M. Gordon recently took over the position of Assistant Harbour Master at Makatea phos phate island, French Oceania, re placing Captain I. K. S. Adams r who had completed his term there.
Both are Australians.