OPENING OF THE SYDNEY EXHIBITION.

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume 4, Issue 331, 19 September 1879, Page 2

OPENING OF THE SYDNEY EXHIBITION.

; ' SyDNar, Sept. 17.; Fine weather prevailed to-day, and a general public holiday was observed on the occasion of the public opening of the Garden Palace, which took place at nine o'clock; this morning. A procession of public bodies and mounted police, followed by Lord Loftus* Governor of New South Wales ; Lord Normanby, Governor of Victoria; Sir Wm. Jervois, Governor of South Australia, Mr Weld, of Tasmania, and their respective staffs, together with the Ministers and the Mayor of Sydney, marched through the principal streets, which were gaily decorated and lined with crowds of people. The Vice-regal party reached the building afc noon. Lord Loftus then unveiled the statute of the Qiieen under the dome. He next proceeded to the dais/ where he was received by the Executive ' CommissionerSj f ;fche representa-

lives of foreign countries, British colonies and possessions, ; and , distinguished* citizens Surrounding the dais, the whole making a brilliant sceriS. ', The choir then performed an inaugural cantata, after which. Mr Jennings, Executive Commissioner, presented an address to Lord Loftus, praying him to declare the International Exhibition open. Lord Loftus replied, congratulating the colony upon the success of its efforts to, gather the representatives of the arts, achievements, and industrial forces of the globe together. He said the event was an era in Australian progress. He welcomed the representatives of foreign countries, British colonies and posses* sions, and concluded by declaring the Exhibition opened. Salutes were then fired, and the choir performed further music, including the v National Anthem." After the ceremony Lord Loftus, with his guests and their suites, proceeded on a tour through the building, and visited the various courts, where they were introduced to the several Commissioners. An immense crowd of people attended the ceremony, which concluded at two o'clock and passed off with great brilliancyand eclat. The Garden Palace is now completed, and was splendidly decorated, the dome especially. Many courts are finished, but in others the Commissioners are still engaged in unpacking. The exhibits are of a highly interesting character. Lord Loftus during the week will give a series of entertainments to ■ the distinguished visitors and leading citizens.