H—2o

Towards the end of the year the Department replaced our radio set with a very modern seven-valve instrument. This machine has two speakers, which enables it to be listened to in the common room and in the yard simultaneously. Its range is such that it may be heard by the prisoners in their huts after lock-up has taken place. As in former years, we supplied fresh vegetables for rations from the prison garden, and frem time to time the supplies were augmented by all types of vegetables given to us by Mr. Chong Lee from his Horopito gardens. A plentiful supply of greens has been available throughout the year. Beef for rations was provided from cattle purchased locally. The beasts were killed in a slaughterhouse which was erected at the prison. It has been found that local killings has enabled us to overcome the difficulty of transporting meat from Rangipo in the hot weather. At Christmas time the prisoners organized several sports fixtures and concerts. A good deal of talent was to be found in these gatherings, and it could be said that most of the men showed a healthy appetite for this form of relaxation. This year saw most of the farm in grass—in fact, only one small paddock was utilized for turnips. The pastures look very healthy, and it is anticipated that this year's harvest will be a record. During the year we discontinued with the supply of milk to local residents, &c., and sent our cream to the Kaitieke Dairy Co., Piriaka. On the whole, the herd achieved very good results. During the year we continued our chief activity of roadwork maintenance and quarry work. Three quarries at Makatote, Whakapapaiti, and Whakapapanui operated during the year, and metal was delivered to the National Park-Taupo State Highway, the Waimarino-Ohakune State Highway, the Spiral Overhead Bridge - Oio State Highway, and the Bruce Road. Metal was also sold to many local residents, sawmillers, and contractors. The two local Councils were also provided with metal from our quarries. The motor fleet carried out a fairly heavy programme of transport during the year. All cartage for Hautu and Rangipo Prisons was undertaken by this institution. The Chateau called on us to do most of their cartage work, while our trucks did much work for local contractors and sawmillers in the district. In conclusion, I desire to thank the staff for their loyal co-operation. "Wanganui Prison (Gaoler: Mr. A. Gamble) At the commencement of the year there were 14 males in custody. During the year 69 males were received into custody, 64 males have been discharged, and 1 male inmate (aged) died in the Wanganui Public Hospital, leaving at the end of the year a total of 19 males in custody. The average daily number in custody during the year being 13-25. Generally, the health of the prisoners has been good considering the age and class of prisoners detained in this prison, many of whom on admission are suffering from disabilities of some kind. During the year 1 inmate was admitted to the Wanganui Public Hospital, where he died. He had been suffering from an inward complaint for some years prior to being admitted to this institution. The main employment of the inmates is the growing of vegetables, and a plentiful supply has been maintained for the institution throughout the year. Any surplus has been sold at the auction mart. The elderly and more feeble inmates are employed inside the prison, mending prison clothing, and cleaning. This class of work being more suitable to their physical state, also permits them to have open-air exercise in the yards. The painting and renovating of the prison is in progress, which is being done by prison labour.

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