The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. SATURDAY. JANUARY 22. 1927 TAKE HEART OF GRACE.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 January 1927, Page 2

The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. SATURDAY. JANUARY 22. 1927 TAKE HEART OF GRACE.

A taut from the general remarks in an optimistic strain which fell from so many speakers in varying walks of life at the County celebration dinner this week, in regard to the iutnre prospects of Westland, the reference) published on the same subject from the “Lyttelton Times” was also very encouraging as indicative of the outside interest in the future welfare of the Coast. Westland is a very large slice of the Coast, and contains much latent wealth. There are large areas of good land, great wealth in forest- growth, the promise of vast mineral treasure to lie recovered, and scenic glories unsurpassed in the world. "Westland is a land of treasure, which lacks the magic wand of capital to see it fully exploited. We have seen how the timber industry lias been developed by capital, and realise its potentialities once the trade is put on a fair footing. We have scon how capital with well directed effort is reaping a golden harvest- on Tlimu Flat with modern dredging methods. On the land, those with the resources are able to get the results, hut we know that production from the laud in Westland, both in stock and produce is far below the ■ capabilities of the soil. The land is not being worked to the full advantage, because account is not kept of what- is being taken out of it- year by year, and there is no concerted attempt to put back something which will enable the land to produce the fodder and the crops to maintain successful dairying or grazing. But it is all possible with more capital. And Westland must crime into its own in this respect as the settlers realise the obligation which is upon them. Also with regard to the glorious scenic attractions of West- ■ land, more money must he spent in advertising the district- up and down the Dominion. There was a small effort. in this direction this season through Canterbury channels and the results which have been achieved seem to suggest that the money was well spent. Many motoring parties and numerous tourists have come west this season and enjoyed the trip, and have gone away delighted with their experiences. They will he potential advertisers themselves for the future. The value, therefore in attracting more people is of two fold effect. There is more reason now to induce people to visit AA estland and the southern district in particular. The roads are extending. and bridges are improving the roads. Great strides are being made in this direction, ami more of this should he voiced abroad so as to acquaint those disposed to indulge in motoring trips to come this way. The future of the place can'lie helped very materially by the people themselves cooperating in such a- matter as advertising. and keeping the attractions of the district, not spasmodical I v as at present, but permanently before the people. The firm which is always telling the public at large through the press what its particular pills will do for humanity is a ease in point of the sterling value of regular advertising, . and so successful an example should he followed. The people of Westland can certainly be of good heart- as to the future of the district, and should do all in their power on every occasion to advance its interests to the fullest.