AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 4161, 22 August 1881, Page 3

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

[By Tbzbgbaph.]

(Per s.s. Botorua, via the Bluff.)

VICTORIA,

Mbibottenb, August 17.

Both Messrs Burrowes and Madden, the new Minister!, are confidently expected to be re-elected without opposition ; both members are very popular with their conttituenta.

The f mneral of Mr Justice Stephen yesterday was numerously attended by the legal profession. The service was read by Dr Bromby, the Bevs Low and Gregory assisting.

A conference of the representatives of the various Associations intereßtedin shipping was held for the purpose of deciding upon the principles of a Bill for the establishment of a Marine Board for Victoria. The conference resolved to wait upon the Commissioner of Customs -to urge the introduction of such a Bill.

At a meeting of the seat-holders of the Scotch Church on August 15, the Bev Charles Strong announced hia intention of abiding by his determination to resign his charge. A resolution was unanimously passed regretting same, and instructing the Board of Management to endeavour to secure a successor with views similar to Mr Strong's.

A grand Liberal demonstration is on the tmpis for September 12, when a conference of Liberal delegates will be held. Mr .Berry has promised to moke a speech worthy of the occasion.

The prospectus has b«en issued of the Australian Lloyd's Marine Fire Insurance Company, with a capital of a quarter of a million, in £• shares, to take over and extend the present business of the Australian Lloyd's Underwriters.

The Customs department, through Mr Graves, has offered £8000 for the steamer Ferret, to replace the Victoria, now considered too large for tho requirements of the port.

NEW SOUTH WALES,

Stdkbi.

The resignation of Mr Baker, Minister of Mines, han been accepted by the Governor. An opinion prevails, however, that Mr Baker will be reinstated at the conclusion of the Milburn Creek Mine enquiry. Sir Patrick Jennings has received a letter from the Prince of Wales, acknowledging the resolution of thanks for tho Prince's presidency of the Exhibition Commission, and expressing the gratification of His Highness at the success of the undertaking. The latest advices from Willcannia warn intending diggers from coming. The want of water is severely felt, and many are leaving for the Granite rush at Milpariuka.