25 YEARS AGO

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 203, 25 May 1938, Page 10

25 YEARS AGO

Road Instead Of Rail

(From "Tbe "Dominion," May 28, 1013.) Dr. A. K. Newman, who accompanied the Hou. W. Fraser (Minister for Publie Works), on his recent tour in the Eastern Wairarapa, was interviewed yesterday by a “Dominion” reporter, and asked to give bis opinion on some of the proposed methods of providing the back country with communication. Dr. Newman said that he felt that the opening of the city’s back country was the keynote of its future prosperity. One of the few remaining large areas in this district lacking means of communications was between Masterton and Waipukurau, east of the Puketoi Range. Dr. Newman says that if it were made easy of access, it would carry a very big population and pour out an immense amount of natural products. The opening of. this country, be said, would tend to enrich the city of Wellington greatly. “I am quite sure,” said Dr. Newman, "it is quite possible to open up this country speedily and effectively Avithout waiting for a railway. As early as next summer we should do an immense deal for it. How? By motor buses and road wagons.”

Mr. Fisher, Australian Prime Minister, has sent a cable message conveying good wishes, to Madame Melba, on the twentyfifth anniversary of her first appearance at Covent Garden.