Solomons?
p. 22 · Read in the full issue
Phosphate in the Solomons?
The arrival in Honiara, BSIP on April 20 of the 300 ton Burns Philp motor-vessel “Kokoda” has renewed interest in the Protectorate’s phosphate poten tial.
Under charter to the Aus tralian Bureau of Mineral Re sources Department, the “Kokoda”, captained by C. R.
Bignell, is virtually a floating laboratory with modem and up-to-date geological equip ment.
Purpose of the visit unit be to test the deposits known to exist on Bellona Island, an outer island to the south of the main Solomon Group. Its natives are of Polynesian de scent.
There are four geologists on board “Kokoda” and testing will be carried out on the spot.
If results of the survey should show that the phosphate is of sufficient quality and quantity to be commercially exploited it would give a decided boost to the Protectorate’s economy.