Samoan Women Work for Handicraft Display

Apia, with a serious fly problem originating at its town rubbish dump at times, should be interested to hear that Suva seems to have solved a similar problem with a “fly predator” named Pachylister Chinensis, the larvae and adults of which devour the larvae and adults of the common housefly. The predator develops into a beetle which breeds in waste matter, cattle

droppings, etc. The Government Entomologist in Suva has supplies available for those who require them.

The Bank of New South Wales has converted its Nadi agency, Fiji, to a full branch and has opened an agency on a weekly basis at Sigatoka. The Bank of New Zea land’s Ba Agency has been raised to the status of a full branch.

On March 17-18, women from all parts of Western Samoa were in Apia to pre sent a display of handicrafts in the LMS Hall The display was organised by the Women’s Central Committee, and, with the co-operation of all branches, proved a great success, some very fine work being displayed and later sold to provide funds for the committee’s health work.

The judges were Mesdames Noue Tupua Tamasese, Salauiasiua Malietoa, and Vaoita Alesaua and, with the high standard of work, they had a difficult task in selecting winners. Manono District won the most prizes and, in consequence, received Mrs. Powles’ special prize—a beautifully framed photograph of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.

Articles entered were mainly large floor mats, sleeping mats, travelling and school baskets, tapas, parses and necklaces.

The photograph shows the Women’s Committee group, and includes members of the Central Committee.