RAILWAY TO ROSS.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 31 May 1901, Page 2

RAILWAY TO ROSS.

There was a largo attendance at the Kumar a Town Hall last night. There were present on the platform, the Mayor Mr T. Jones, and several Borough Councillors, also Messrs Grimraond and Bruce of Boss, together with Mr T. V. Byrne cx-Mayor. The Mayor, Mr T. Jones, explained objects of the meeting, and called Mr Grimmond, Mayor of Boss, to explain the objects of their visit. Mr Grimmond, spoke in the same strain as indicated by the published report in the “ Star ” of the meeting in Greymouth. He specially emphasised the value of the timber country, also auriferous, agricultural and pastoral land,

Mr J. S. Benyon moved the_ first resolution approving of the making of the proposed railway and pfenning the meeting to support it, also authorising the forwarding of the resolution to the member for the district.

He stated that as an old Southerner, he was proud of having the proposing of this resolution and from a personal knowledge he could say with certainty that the railway would pay. Hr T. V. Byrne seconded the motion in a speech strongly urged the construction of the railway. What would benefit one town on the Coast would benefit all. This proposed railway was necessary not only as previous speakers had said to develop the resources of south Westland hut also to help, to lift the country out of its isolation. The project hearty approval and he was glad to sw such a very large meeting and would like that the Press representatives would particularly note the fact. Mr Bruce spoke of the pleasure it gave him to address the largest public meeting j ever hold in Kumara. He spoke of the ! advantage that would be derived from from the construction of the proposed line as evidenced by the resources of South Westland. It would he the means of inducing a great inflow of tourists. • Even now there were many inquiries regarding present facilities- for tourist traffic. These would multiply if the railway was completed and he a great source of revenue. There was no bridge although there were 27 rivers to cross. The speaker pointed out that there was a great country south of Ross for agricultural, pastoral, mineral and timber wealth. .

Mr Jorgensen supported the resolution which was then carried with acclamation.

Mr Byrne moved that the resolution just passed he sent by wire to the Premier and Minister of Raihvays. Mr M'Glonc seconded the resolution and spoke of the difficulties of early settlers for want of roads and railways. The' , same thing applied to South Westland * residents. They were worthy of every support for their pluck in settling in ■such an out of the way place. Resolution put and carried unanimously.