Rain, Dispute Hold Up Butter Loading

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30842, 30 August 1965, Page 8

Rain, Dispute Hold Up Butter Loading

(N.Z. Press Association) WHANGAREI, Aug. 27. The port of Whangarei has had bad luck, at the start of the loading of the first butter shipment for overseas from its new cold store, as a result of rain and a wharf dispute. But the port is expected to have one of the fastest turnarounds in New Zealand after its teething troubles are over. The refrigerated freighter, Northumberland, berthed at the port on Tuesday afternoon and everything was ready for a start on loading 2800 tons of butter under the Cargon system on Wednesday morning. However, rain fell all day on Wednesday. Loading began on Thursday morning but three minor accidents during the morning

were reported and waterfront workers asked for an additional man for each wharf gang. The employers’ representatives held that the accidents were of a very minor nature and the matter was referred to the Port Conciliation Committee. The men did not return to work after lunch but waited for the committee’s decision, which was that one additional man should be engaged for each gang, subject to modifications of gear. This resolution will be reviewed after the Northumberland has been worked. However, rain fell after the decision was made and no further work was done.

Work began again this morning with three gangs. It is estimated the loading will be completed in about six days.