DETAILS OF THE DISASTER.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 29, Issue 34, 4 May 1917, Page 8

DETAILS OF THE DISASTER.

SPEED REDUCED BY BAD COAL. LONDON, April 29. Details of the sinking of the Ballarat show that the troops on board wore practically all Victorian reinforcemeats. Owing to the use of bad coal tho speed was reduced, and the coal also caused a large beacon flame above the funnel. Tho men ascribe the torpedoing of the vessel to these factors. They wore mustering on deck for Anzac Day celebrations when the torpedo was seen approaching. The vessel was swung round, but tho attempt to evade tho torpedo was too late, and the ship quietly settled by tho stern. Tho bugle called tho men to stations, and inside four minutes everything was ready to abandon the ship. The parade was marked by absolute calmness and cheerinoss, the men singing as they took their places, all wearing lifebelts. The day was fine and the sea calm. To the calls of the officers to keep steady the men replied, “It's all right, sir. Wo arc all right. ’ ’ Nine boats were lowered, _ the men carrying their kits and singing in unison, “Australia will be there.” Then tho engineer reported that the ship would bo able to proceed with the remaining propeller, and the boats wore recalled. Volunteers were asked for for the stokehold, and hundreds volunteered. Eorty were selected, but they wore not allowed to go below, as tho water was steadily gaining, and tho ship appeared to bo settling. Tho men returned to their stations, and wore ordered to board two trawlers which had arrived. The transhipment of the troops and some of the crow was quickly completed. The majority were without kits, and some were only partially dressed, the officers not allowing them to break the ranks to secure their belongings. The only casualty in connection with the torpedoing was a private’s shoulder broken by flying splinters. Everybody had a great reception on landing. A number of vessels quickly responded to tho Ballarat’s wireless call and took hor in tow, but she sank before she could be beached.

BRITISH POOD PROBLEM,

LONDON, April 29. The greatest efforts are being made throughout tho country to awaken the public to tho urgency of making a reduction in food consumption. The Glasgow Corporation is utilising special tramcars, from which orators declaim throughout tho city and suburbs.