PROSPECTS IN '66.

Southland Times, Issue 17193, 12 November 1912, Page 8

PROSPECTS IN '66.

A NEW YEAR ARTICLE. (Frob tThe Soutliland Times, Jan. 1, 1 SCO.) The future of Southland has a cheerful appearance. The dark cloud which had long thrown its shadow over it has been rent, and the silver lining can be seen; but it behoves us to study the past in order to compose the future. There have been many errors made, a repetition of which would be of serious consequence; still the effect of those errors has been to arouse men to a. political activity not previously displayed—to lead them to a more deliberate and thoughtful mode of legislation. Wo have hitherto been too anxious for Gold Fields, and have paid too little attention to cultivating the benefits derivable from those at- k our own doors—we have thought too much about mining and too little about agriculture. But now a c’ aif? has been wrought, am! all centre their faith in tbo production of a speedy and cheap mode of interior communication. Railways are to be the making of Southland. Wc • bel'eve they are, and we may congratulate the Province upon the spread of that belief. The completion of the Bluff line, which will now be carried forward with energy, and its continuation to Winton, wi’l of a necessity be productive of good to Invercargill. Should this line be completed without delay, there can be but little doubt that all, or nearly all, the Lake District trade will be done in Invercargill. Then, again, it is contemplated to construct either a light railway or tramway to connect the Mataura District with the main line. This also would have a powerful influence upon the commercial position of the town. The shipments of wool direct from hero wohld be considerably increased, and all the natural results, such as giving an impetus to trade and labour, become

conspicuous. Again, immense quantities of land which now lie waste would be cultivated, if a cheap mode of carriage to the port were provided. We have faith in the future of Southland. It has resourefes which if developed must give prosperity. Let confidence be firmly re-established, enterprise—not speculation—displayed, commerce will thrive, population increase, our broad acres will be cultivated, produce multiplied, and prosperity secured. On the active and wise promotion of a railway system, efficient and economical, much will depend. By it the Lake trade will be secured, an impetus given to the development of the gold, copper and mineral workings, which are now almost at a standstill. With rapid and cheap inland communication every interest in the Province will improve, and the bright expectations of the past be realized.