HUNDREDS DEAD

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 133, 7 June 1937, Page 7

HUNDREDS DEAD

NEW GUINEA NATIVES. i Overwhelmed by Lavi Fumes MISSIONARY’S REPORT (By Telegraph—Tress Association— Received June 6, 6.30 p.m SYDNEY, June 6. I Tragic news comes from Rev. I Father George Bogershausen, who ' Is a Catholic mission father. He reports that 2SI natives perished ‘ In the volcanic eruptions In New Guinea. The victims were over- < whelmed by lava fumes at Tavul and Walaur in the vicinity of \ Vulcan Island. \ The natives belonged to the Gunart Tunan tribe, who consider themselves the “true people.” They number about 25,000 and live in the bush and jungle and occupy the New Guinea coastA later report expresses fear that literally hundreds of natives are dead, chiefly women and pickaninies whose decomposing bodies have been found covered with a thin layer ot pumice dust. Another White Man Mining \ Another white man is missing • wireless operator from the Ireigirtr Golden Bear. There is still no trace of the photographer, Mr. Elsworthy. The volcanoes now are quiet with! only a wisp of smoke from Matupi At least 80 per cent, ot the refugee! at Kokopo are reluctant to return I'd Rabaul and declare that a new capital should be established, preferably at Kokopo. The Administrator, so far, has reached no decision, but h« Is surprised at the smallness of th« damage at Rabaul, which merely requires cleaning up. Natives are pro. ceedmg with this work. The relief ship Malaita arrived to. day with foodstuffs, bedding and medical comforts.