THE KUMARA RUSH.

Western Star, Issue 161, 7 October 1876, Page 6

THE KUMARA RUSH.

The West Coast Times’ special gives the following as tho latest intelligence from the rush,, which may be considered as the most important which has occurred on the Coast for many years t; “ There need be no hesitation now in saying that this is a largo goldfield, and that hundreds, if not thousands of men will be remuneratively employed for years to come. There, are no pile* claims to bo dropped on here. It is a good poorman’s diggings, and nothing more. But a poorman, in the fullest meaning of the word—that is-, a man without any means at all—will hare a very, poor show. He might do a little- by- cradling,, but to work a claim here requires cash, muscle,, and perseverance. Cash to last him for a month or two at least, during which time he would; be earning nothing ; muscle to endure hard work: against the monstrous boulders to. be contended against; perseverance to assist him in completing his shaft, tunnel, and races. There will he nt>> ‘ Champagne Charlies’ making five-pound note sandwiches fot the barmaids of Kumara, but there will be what is perhaps better—a couple of thousand men making an average of £3. to £6> per week per man. And there is no saying yet how many more. During the last ten days thepopulation has increased considerably, and although it is impossible to say to a hundred crtwo how many there are on the field, I am of opinion that there cannot be less than- 2DOO people* here. For half a mile beyond the- break everye.laim has got good payable wash,, and ample of it to satisfy all parties. Some will make as high as£7 to £9 per- man per week,, while others- expect, to-average only £5 and £6. About a mile furtheron the gold appears again, and indeed in alii directions round fair- prospects have- been obtained. There are very few croakers here now„ Everyone on the rush has some prospect of making wages.” ' V y -mi;.: