AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1829, 2 January 1880, Page 3

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

[Bv Tbx.egraph.l [Wia Hokitika.] VICTORIA. The Chief Secretary consulted the AttorneyGeneral as to whether Government had power to withdraw from the Banks the loan fund, amounting at present to over one million sterling, or to vary the contract for the loan held under special agreement. As to departmental accounts, he thinks it indifferent whether they continue them or not, as it is alleged that a great deal of trouble and expense is incurred without any adequate compensation. The Melbourne Juvenile Exhibition was opened by the Marquis of Normanby on December 23rd, when Lady Normanby made her first public appearance in Melbourne. Upwards of 20,000 exhibits were received. The collection is of a comprehensive character, and calculated to display the juvenile induatry of the colonists. Mr Clark, member for Sandhurst, addressed bis constituents in explanation of his opposition to the Reform Bill. The minority of the meeting, who opposed him, created a riotous disturbance. Numbers of men were hurled from the platform, including the “Age” reSorters. Candidates are declaring themselves aily. A large proportion of constitutionalists of both parties intend to contest every seat. There is every indication that the country as a whole is in favor of moderation. It is apparent that Mr Berry is received by both the metropolis and provinces with much less cordiality than hitherto. The Minister of Instruction states that since 1851 over five and a half millions have been spent on State schools. The new steamer Te Anau, sister ship to the Hotomahana, left Glasgow on December 18th. The Melbourne pantomimes are “ Robinson Crusoe ” at the Opera House, “ Babes in the Wood ” at the Theatre Royal, and “Oinderella” at the Academy of Music. Mr Darrell’s new play, "The Forlon Hope,” is running at the People’s Theatre. NEW SOUTH WALES. There were over 400 competitors at the Sydney Wool Show, which is the finest show over held. The Victorian and Tasmanian exhibits have the advantage. The French Government have granted Sydney any one of the works of art in the Exhibition Art Gallery as a souvenir, the choice to rest with the local authorities. The Exhibition judges are appointed. The Exhibition continues paying current expenses, H.M. schooner Conflict, while on a voyage to Tasmania, sprung her mast, and returned to Sydney. Pastor Ohiniquy states that during his tour in the colonies he has made £BOOO, with which he intends to build a refuge for priests in Canada. SOUTH AUSTRALIA, The Treasurer intends to abandon the collection of duties on the Victorian border for the present, and collect statistics to facilitate future settlement by payment of a lump sum.