NEW GUINEA RUSH.

Grey River Argus, 10 December 1926, Page 6

NEW GUINEA RUSH.

NEWS FROM THE FIELD. A MONOPOLISTIC SYNDICATE. "“Sydney, Dec. 9. After a delay of several weeks, caused by the breakdown of wireless plant at Morobc, the “Daily Guardian” publishes a radio message from the Bui 010 goldfields, New Guinea, stating that as the result of the official proclamation, they were not allowed to seek gold on the leases held by the syndicate known as the “Big Four,’/ about seventy miners, or 90 per cent of those left on the field, invaded the leases and washed gold. At their re quest, the police watched proceedings and took the men’s names. The gold was afterwards lodged at the War den’s office, ana the miners requested Mr Bruce to hold an official inquiry regarding the leases they had invaded. The message also states that great privation exists on the field. There is much sickness among both whites and natives. Two whites died on route, and others on the field. Jumping of claims is life while tho owners arc absent in search of food and labour. Native labour is scarce, and exorbitant figures are paid to secure the natives required for transport work. Tl:*-- miners also radioed a message to intending gold seekers that the chances of those leaving the coast for the field are now almost hopeless, adding that they will hang on till grub stakes are exhausted, then they must go, or be carried out, broken financially and in health.