ALEXANDRA.

Dunstan Times, Issue 1280, 10 September 1886, Page 3

ALEXANDRA.

[Communicated.] Messrs Ballentyne and kinnaird have just completed their tunnel (the Prima Donna Rook Tunnel Company), about 300tt in length, in solid hard rook, which has taken them over 14 months constant blast* ing both with powder and dynamite. Men who undertake such gigantic works must have hearts like a lion, and are worthy of notification, and a few more with like courage would make the district look pros ■ perous. , They have also purchased a 5-ton crane, formerly belonging to the Bridge Company, which is equal to about 10 men, in clearing the stone from the paddock. They have opened the large face at the end of the tunnel, and erected the crane, and the usual form went through on the lifting of the first stone from the paddock. Mr J. Simmonds, who had tte contract for placing the crane, assisted by Mr P. Campbell, after getting everything in readiness and a stone of coi.siderable size on the sheans, the former gentleman, who takes a considerable interest in these matters, was called upon to do the ceremonial part. The claim was then christened the Prima Donna, the health of Messrs Ballentyne and Kinnaird was drank freely by the several gentlemen present, who wished them every prosperity in their undertaking, and also gave them very great credit for their perse vering and energetic power in carrying through the work that is to be seen at-the claim. Mr James Simmonds tried several prospects in various parts from the top of the wash to the reef with splendid results. It is to ha hoped these two gentlemen— Messrs Ballentyne and Kinnaird—will he handsomely remunerated for their plucky undertaking, and there is not the slightest doubt that they will be.