THAMES NEWS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXII, Issue 70, 24 March 1931, Page 17

THAMES NEWS.

SEARCH FOR GOLD.

FREE MINING DESIRED

PETITION TO MINISTER

(From Our Own Correspondent.)

THAMES, Monday

In view of the financial stringency and

unemployment at Thames, a special effort is about to be launched to have 1200 acres of mining privileges situated between the Kuianui and Hape Creeks, either diligently mined by the holders or thrown open for free mining. A petitioji is being prepared asking that a special effort be made by the Government to pass legislation that will help to induce gold production and at the same time provide employment for miners.

The most prosperous period in the history of the Thames goldfield, was when small areas known as the "Four-men block," were taken up by small parties of miners and thoroughly worked. The evolution from the small areas of the early days to the larger areas of later years became necessary by the more expensive mining with shafts. This in turn produced protection by the Warden from the working conditions of the Mining Act, to assist companies whilst carrying out extensive "dead work" or during reconstruction to raise further capital to carry on operations. It is contended that the present holders of mining privileges within the above-mentioned area have no available capital for prosecuting extensive or deeplevel mining, nor have they any intention of carrying out works commensurate with the extent of ground held by them, but that they are simply holding on with the hope that a rich strike may take place in the locality and enhance the value of their holding. It is therefore the intention to ask the' Government, through tins petition to the Minister of Mines, to amend the Mining Act, so that, where in the opinion of the Warden the requirements of the Act have not been reasonably complied with, he should 'declare the area open" for free mining, reserving an area of not more than 10 acres for any company now making any genuine attempt to mine. By this means many small blocks would be taken up and worked, finding employment for hundreds of men. The petition will be circulated for signature during the coming week. Rise in Price of Wool. The rise in the price of wool at Friday's sale at Wellington is of great importance in this district, where there is a large number of "sheepfarmers. A number declined to sell their wool when the price dropped so low, and held their fleeces, loping later to receive a better price. Although they were embarrassed temporarily, it looks as if their hopes will be realised, and they will be able to dispose of their wool at a payable price. Large Easter Camp. Waiomo Reserve, the Thames Coast resort, will be the scene of much activity during the Easter holdays, for over 100 young men and boys from all parts of the Auckland Province will be under canvas on the reserve, at the annual camp of the Baptist Young Men's Bible Class Union. A full programme of social events has been arranged, one of the principal items being the athletic sports on Easter Monday. Scarcity of Mushrooms. The heavy rain during the week had a most beneficial effect upon the pastures throughout the Thames district, but curiously enough, mushrooms are very scarce this season. It is contended that tho much greater use of top-dressing prevents the mushrooms from growing.