SHIPPING SIGNALS.

Manawatu Herald, 27 September 1878, Page 2

SHIPPING SIGNALS.

TO TnE EDITOR OF THE MANAWATU Sir, — Would you kindly insert a few suggestions relative to the want of direct communication between the Pilot Station and Foxton. In Ports all over New Zealand, where there is some distance from Heads to Port, they have all the means required, of communicating, either by signal station or otherwise, in a direct and simple way. The distance from wharf to signal station, is, I understand, about three miles, and the cost of signals would be nominal, besides giving such facilities to the masters of vessels, which I think should be given; especially whore there is a bar harbour. My own case I shall briefly point out. My vessel was loaded on Monday, ready for sea. I wanted a Pilot, and I had either to scud down a message, or go without. Eecently I engaged the steamer Tui to tow me down, yesterday, if possible over the bar, not knowing the state of the woather or the bar at the Heads. Weather threatening, I r.-solvod not to tow, which turned out to be correct on my part. I could not have crossed the bar yesterday. Perhaps at an-*, other time, it may be the reverse, (bar safe). Then comes tho grievance, you want to know how the bar is before engaging a steamer. That you have no means of knowing, without the means I have suggested. I hope my few remarks will be appreciated, and something done for the future guidance of masteis of steamers, and sailing vessels trading to the Port of Foxton. I am, &c, John Russell, Master of schooner Cora. Foxton, 25th September.