OPUNAKE RAILWAY

Evening Post, Volume LXXXVII, Issue 126, 29 May 1914, Page 2

OPUNAKE RAILWAY

FIRST SOD TURNED. ' HAWERA, 28th May. To-day was a red-letter day for Opunake, when the ceremony of turning the first sod of tho railway, which is to connect with the main line at To Roti, was performed by the Hon. W. Fraser, in glorious weather, and in the presence of a large attendance of 'settlers from all parts of the province. The Minister, who turned the sod amidst enthusiasm, apologised for the unavoidable absence of the Prime Minister. He said that the line was one of the most important in the Dominion, and he recognised that it was of enormous importance to settlers of the district. He would do what he could to have the line finished within reasonable time, but the progress made would depend upon the amount voted by Parliament, The Minister was presented with a beautiful silver inkstand in commemoration of tho occasion. Subsequently Mr. Fraser was tendered a complimentary luncheon- in the Town Hall, where there was a representative gathering. Congratulatory speeches were made by Mr. C. Dudley (chairman of the Opunake Railway League), the Taranaki members of Parliament, many prominent settlers, and representatives of local bodies. The health of the Minister was enthusiastically honoured. Afterwards the Minister motored to Eltham, where he is to 1 be the guest of citizens to-night.