WRECK OF CYRENA.

Taranaki Daily News, 22 June 1925, Page 8

WRECK OF CYRENA.

WAS THERE ENOUGH WATER? DRAUGHT OF THE STEAMER. POSITION NOT CLEAR, Br Telegraph.—Press Association. Wanganui, Last Night. The inquiry into the wreck of the Cyrena was continued on Saturday, Considei able discussion took place on the speculation whether the Cyrena was drawing more than 16ft. 6in. and whether rather than shortage of water, was responsible for the ground’ ing. After consulting the assessors the magistrate made the following statement: ‘Tf the oral evidence of Captain Patterson and his officers is to be accepted—we do not wish to appear to say that we do not accept it —it may be considered proved that the ship’s draught was approximately 16ft. Gin, We are of opinion that this evidence should be supported by documentary evidence in the ship’s logs in a form that would tend to put it beyond doubt. On this point we are of opinion that these records are not satisfactory and show some evidence of slackness.” The magistrate referred to the printed instructions in the log, a clause reading: “Scrap logs are always looked upon by judges and arbitrators in a case of litigation or arbitration as of the highest importance. The entries therein should be brief but accurate as to time and order.” Continuing, His Worship said: “The log books have not followed these Instructions and therefore do not give the help that they should. Further, the production of an accurate log and records of evidence taken after the grounding would have afforded proof that the stranding was due to shortage of water and not to excess of draught. As the ease now stands the evidence on • this -point is not satisfactory and tends to leave doubt on the point.”