WRECK OF THE RAMA.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 17 December 1924, Page 9

WRECK OF THE RAMA.

NAUTICAL RNtfUJMi. CAPTAIN’S EVIDENCE 1 . i (BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.) WELLINGTON, Dec. 17. • An official enquiry into the wreck of .the steamer Rama at the Chatham Islands on November 17 was opened before a Nautical Court, comprising Mi W. G. Riddell, S/M., and Captains Barrow and Smith, to-day. Captain Edward Cartner, master of the vessel, stated that' on leaving Kaiangavoa he felt a slight hump. About 20 minutes later the chief engineer advised him that the vessel was making water. He decided to try , and get to Owenga, where there was smooth water. Later he decided to try for Whangarba-, on the other side of the island, the only safe harbour. The captain descrilred how, on finding the ship, making water beyond control, lie beached her in I4 r feet of water. Next day the cargo- was salvaged, and the following morning a ■southerly came up and the ship was 'abandoned. He had been 40 years at sea and knew the Chathams extremely well. The only survey of ■ Chathams was made in 1840 and many points in it were raise. Rocks were shown out of place. Recently there was a heavy tidal wave there and pumice came ashore. It had been said a submarine disturbance might have altered the soundings, hut this was pure speculation. The chief officer and' chief engineer gave evidence. The fatter • said that everything possible was done. but. in spite of large numris. the water gained. A decision is to be given this afternoon. •