THE AWATEA

Evening Star, Issue 22450, 22 September 1936, Page 9

THE AWATEA

A “ WONDER SHIP n CAPTAIN’S UNSTINTED PRAISE Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright SYDNEY, September 21. Addressing guests aboard the Awatea. Dr Earle Page said that British shipping companies were intent upon maintaining the supremacy of the British flag on both the Atlantic and Pacific. Thus the Queen Mary and the Awatea were of extraordinary importance. The Minister added that the Commonwealth Government had done everything in its power to ensure that on the Pacific the supremacy of the British flag should be maintained for as long as-possible. He learned by inquiry that the Matson Line had not taken away passengers from the Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand lines, but had induced new passengers by their extra facilities and comfort. Australia could encourage no better industry than the travel and tourist industry. Those who came first as tourists would return as traders. Discussing the Awatea, Captain Davey said: “ She is a wonder ship. On the voyage from New Zealand we used only four of the six boilers. No attempt was made on the record, but I have no doubt she will be able to take it when the occasion arises.” The Awatea’s trip took 61i hours, compared with the Mariposa’s record of 58h 7min.