NEW GUINEA GOLD FEVER

Taranaki Daily News, 10 December 1926, Page 9

NEW GUINEA GOLD FEVER

CLAIMJUMPING RIFE JSRRIBLE CONDITIONS ON FIELD. WARNING TO PROSPECTORS. By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received Dec, 9, 5.5 p.m. Sydney, Dec. 9. After a delay of several weeks caused by the breakdown of the wireless plant at Morobe, the Daily Guardian publishes a radio message from the Bttlolo goldfields, New Guinea, stating that, as a result of an official proclamation that they will not be allowed to seek gold on leases held by a syndicate known as "The Big Four,” about 70 miners, or 90 per cent, of those left on the field, invaded the leases and washed for gold. At their request the police watched the proceedings and took the men’s names. The gold was afterwards lodged at the warden’s office and the miners have requested Mr. Bruce to hold an official inquiry regarding the leases they invaded. The message also states that great privation exists on the field, and there is much sickness among both whites and natives. Two whites died en route and others on the field. Jumping ot claims is rife, while the owners are absent in search of food and labour. Native labour is scarce and exorbitant figures are paid to secure the natives required for transport work. The miners also radioed a message to intending gold-seekers that the chances of those leaving the coast for the field are now almost hopeless, adding that they will hang on till their “grub stakes” are exhausted. Then they must go or be carried out, broken financially and in health.