FOOD RATIONED

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20719, 1 February 1939, Page 6

FOOD RATIONED

FISHERMEN MAROONED HAMILTON PARTY’S PLIGHT ROUGH WEATHER DELAYS RETURN V Considerable concern has been felt in Hamilton for the safety of a party of Hamilton anglers who went deep sea fishing to Mayor Island, Tauranga. for the week-end but who failed to return on Monday evening as anticipated. From inquiries made-to-day It was stated that the party would probably be sheltering from the weather on the island and this was confirmed later when word was received from members of the party who had at last arrived back at Tauranga. The party comprised, Messrs C. Kendall, G. Morpeth, J. Crosby, H. Crosby, R. Boot and G. Ralph, all of Hamilton, and they were fishing from Mr Kendall’s launch, the Royal Saxon. They went out late on Friday evening and had arranged to return to Tauranga on Monday afternoon. Exceptionally rough weather was encountered, however, on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday and the party had to take refuge at Western Bay. Only 14 Fleh Oaught Altogether there were 16 boats out and they all had to take shelter in the bay. There were no provisions on the Island and no accommodation, the party having to spend their time In their boats. Although It la usual to take out extra provisions to cater for such an emergency, but, the long wait saw most of the boats running very short of water and food which had to be rationed. The high seas moderated this morning and the majority of the boate returned to Tauranga Juet prior to mid-day. Over the whole week-end the 16 boats collected only 14 ffsh. Mr Kendall landed a 204 lb striped marlin and Mr Morpeth a 260 lb striped marlin. Mr Morpeth stated that the Amerloan expedition waa still fishing Jn the waters with very elaborate and intricate gear but bad no advantage of the cheaper equipment utilised by the New Zealanders. The fishing had not been very good but it was anticipated that the hunting would be much better for the remainder of the season. Inoonvenlenoe Oonoemed It Is also stated that included in one of the parties was an officer from one of the banks from Tauranga and that he had the keys of the strong room with him. He could not return to Tauranga for the opening of the bank again on Tuesday and the staff was handicapped throughout the day without access to the cash and some of the books. The delay caused considerable inconvenience to several members of the parties, Messrs Crosby, of Hamilton, failing to return In time to attend the weekly stock sale In Hamilton to purchase their meat supply for their butcher's shop.