COLONIAL NEWS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XVIII, Issue 6054, 13 April 1881, Page 5

COLONIAL NEWS.

GRAND NAVAL REVIEW. Sydney, April 12. The grand naval review of the Australian squadron, under the command of Commodore Wilson, took place in Port Jackson to-day. The forces engaged included ten warships, carrying 50 guns, 1500 men, including 300 men of the New South Wales Naval Brigade. The review was followed by a sham fight, in which H.M. ships Wolverene, Emerald, Miranda, and Cormorant, made a combined attack upon the point south of Farm Cove, known as " Lady Macquarrie's Chair," which was defended by a force of 400 men, with eleven pieces of artillery, and three Gatling guns, under the protection of the earthworks which had been thrown up. The defenders were also supported by H.M.'s ship Alert, and schooners Alacrity, Beagle, Conflict, Renard, and Sandfly. Large crowds witnessed the manoeuvres. The demonstration was a complete success, and passed off with the greatest eclat. VICTORIAN REFORM. Melbourne, April 12. The Conference of Committees of the Legislative Council and the Assembly broke up to-day without coming to any agreement, such being found impossible. GERMAN EMPEROR'S PRIZE. Melbourne, April 12. The Exhibition jury has recommended Messrs. Swallow and Ariell for the Emperor of Germany's prize. EXHIBITION AWARDS. Melbourne, April 12. The following further awards are announced :—Messrs. Schwartze and Co., Christchurch and Wanganui, wines,, one fourth and one fifth orders of ( merit; James Smith, Nelson, fourth j and fifth orders of merit for witfes ;' Joseph" Soler, Wanganui, fifth order of merit for wine.