RIVERTON.

Otago Witness, Issue 1793, 3 April 1886, Page 13

RIVERTON.

-March 29. — Since the fine weather broke up we have had very heavy and continuous rains ; so much so that the farmers on the banks of the river have suffered very much, in some instances large quantities of grain being carried down the river. Nearly all the grain has been cut, but a comparatively small quantity has been stacked, While a good deal has sprouted in consequence of the intermittent warm fine days. Should thii weather continue, the loss will be very serious to a large number of the farmers. The root crops, however, have improved very much, and thus' a fair amount of winter feed will be secured.

Tub Mutton-birders. — I am glad to say the Natives have obtained the use of the Owake Bellei belonging to t Mr Frintz, and have made a start for the islands. The party in all from Biverton and Colac number about 70, so that tho Owake Belle will be comfortably full on the return voyage, when she briugs back the kelp bags filled with the toothsome dainties.

Accidents. — The chairman of the Wallace County Council met with a nasty accident the other day, which I fear may prevent him getting about for some time. He was standing on a railway-truck when he overbalanced himself, and in falling came in contact with the couplingirons. The fall and the concussion gave him a, very severe shaking, but fortunately no bones were broken. — Another accident happened to ont- of our football forwards the other day. He was riding a somewhat restive horse when he got thrown, and his foot being caught in the stirrup, unfortunately, his leg was broken before he was able to set himself free. He will be greatly missed this season, as we want all our good players, and more too.

NAOTrcAL. — The s.s. Kakanui made her first trip here on Monday, aiid must have had" a very lively trip in the straits, as on- Sunday night a very severe gale blew in this neighbourhood. Theißteamer is advertised to make mouthly or fortnightly trips, if sufficient inducement offers ; but judging from the complaints about the dull times, I should thiuk it very doubtful if sufficient inducement will offer, especially as we have a regular trader locally owned. I only hope we may soon see a change in business, as what with depression, bad weather, &c,, times are far from brisk.