ARIA.

King Country Chronicle, Volume I, Issue 24, 5 April 1907, Page 3

ARIA.

Matters are progressing quietly in the district, and most of the settlers are preparing for winter. In a short time, it will be impossible for waggons to travel on the roads, and the siege of winter will have to be undergone as cheerfully as possible. However, it is I decidedly encouraging to note that each year sees an improvement in this respect, and, though there are complaints to be made, and an occasional growl arises, we must confess that much has been done in the district, within the past two years. There is still more to be accomplished, of course, but one thing must follow another, and, with steady progress all round us, it is possible to take a cheerful view of things, and look forward to increased prosperity. During the next twelve months, there are many matters which can be done for the material benefit of the whole district. The bridge over, the Mokau river should be put in hand, and the completion of this work should be a great assistance to the settlers. Freights will be greatly cheapened thereby, and it will be possible to cart in timber for building purposes. The projected dairy factory should also become an established fact. It would perhaps be unwise to start this season before everybody is quite ready. Also, there is the financial aspect to consider, but in another twelve months there will be a large increase in cows and grass, and the dairy factory should be a profitable institution from its inception. The brick-making industry should also be well established shortly, and the various businesses necessary for the convenience of all, will be on a good footing, with a prospect of increasing in proportion to the progress of the district. It is gratifying to note that Mr Hattaway has opened his store with a good stock, and this will be a boon to settlers during the winter. We are expecting the Minister for Lands to pay us a visit this month.. and preparations are on foot to receive him, and the member for the district (Mr Jennings). The visit of the Minister, should do a considerable amount of good, as the district is practically all Crown land,- held on Li.p. tenure, and, therefore, directfy under the notice of the Minister. We feet that a closer acquaintance, on the part of the head of the Lands Department, with the district, and a personal knowledge of the requirements of the settlers, is- advantageous, and desirable. Let us hope the result will be correspondingly beneficial in all respects.