THE MAHENO

Evening Star, Issue 21723, 18 May 1934, Page 6

THE MAHENO

VESSEL IN GOOD ORDER EMINENTLY SUITED FOR SOUTH ISLANDMELBOURNE SERVICE The town clerk of Port Chalmers has forwarded the following letter to the general manager of the Union Steam Ship Company, Wellington, under today’s date: — “ At a meeting of my council, held on May 14, L was directed to communicate to you the views of the council in the matter of the placing of the Maiieuo in the South Jsland-Melbourne service. At the outset I. would point out that the Port Chalmers Borough Council dissociates itself entirely from the expressions made and opinions voiced by various public organisations and private individuals in Dunedin durng the past few days as to the suitability of the Maheno to fulfil the requirements of the service. On the contrary, my council commends the action of your company in deciding to restore the service, and trusts that it will be the forerunner of the South Island being permanently connected with a direct steamer service to Melbourne. “ Many exaggerated remarks have been made as to the general condition of the Maheno, but a recent inspection shows that she is in very good order, well equipped, and beyond the usual painting up and overhaul it does not appear that much more is required to restore her to her usual state as a passenger ship. “ This council, like the Hon. Mr Hamilton, expresses surprise at the attitude taken tip by responsible citizens and public bodies in Dunedin, but you can be assured that the view is held by many that the Maheno is eminently suitable for the service which it is proposed to again inaugurate. We wish your company every success in the venture.”