LOSS OF THE R.M.S. MANUKA.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 December 1929, Page 10

LOSS OF THE R.M.S. MANUKA.

The loss of a vessel so comparatively modern as the s.s. Manuka, commanded by an officer of proven ability and following a well-known route, seems one of those almost inexplicable catastrophes that apply to maritime services. Fortunately there was no loss of life, and when the accident occurred the best traditions of British seamanship appear to have been observed. The economic loss is undoubtedly serious, and there are always ’other ill effects attendant upon such a disaster. It is some years since a well-known intercolonial passenger steamer came to grief on the coast of New Zealand, though there have been several British vessels wrecked during the last decade. The cause of the disaster to the Manuka will no doubt be sought by the authorities, and if any additional precautions can be taken to prevent a similar catastrophe the Marine Court will have ho hesitancy about recommending them. It is an unfortunate introduction to the revived service between the South Island and Australia, for which the taxpayer is being asked to find a subsidy of £30,000 per year. Accidents of this nature create lack of confidence, and confidence is a very necessary aid to the cultivation of sea-borne traffic. No doubt the Union Steam Ship Company will find it possible to continue the service with a suitable vessel, but even a temporajy dislocation of the service, especially in the holiday season, is bound to have a serious effect upon its earnings. There will be general symwuth the company in the loss of a fine steamer, and with the passengers and crew who lost their personal belongings, and whose lives were so gravely imperilled.