PRINCE'S AUSTRALIAN VISIT.

Auckland Star, Issue LI, 24 May 1920, Page 5

PRINCE'S AUSTRALIAN VISIT.

ELABORATE DECORATIONS

SYDNEY, May 23,

Emulating New Zealand cities F Sydney is making great preparations to entertain the Prince of Wales. It is estimated that the street decorations will cost £60,000, of which the Government's share, mostly to be expended on public buildings, is expected to be £15,000. The greater part of the balance will be supplied by business houses. The long route of the procession is becoming lined with* tall .Venetian masts, between which are to' be strung greenery, bunting, and designs in coloured lamps. Buildings are alive with workmen erecting electric fittings. Besides' the decoration of public buildings, the Government is preparing on an elaborate scale a landing place at Farm Cove and Macquarie Street. The main scheme is in blue and white, the Prince's colours. The street is to be divided into sections, representing Britain and the various Dominions. Business-people have charge of the remainder of the route through the city, which is divided into blocks, and various enthusiastic block committees are yieing with each other to produce the best possible effect, with a view to a harmonious whole. One grandstand at the toD of Macquarie Street only wjH be provided for veterans and incapacitated soldiers.

There is some uneasiness regardipg the railway men, who are demanding the reinstatement of a number of men who were dismissed during the 1917 strike, and are also asking for double pay during the Prince's visit. Officials of the men's union indicate the possibility of trouble unless the demands are conceded. Meetings arc being held next week to consider the position. Melbourne's preparations are in forward condition! and are being feverishly pushed ahead. The city is being decorated on a lavish scale, business people handsomely backing the Government. — (A. and X.Z. Cable.)