LATEST AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Kumara Times, Issue 2673, 15 April 1885, Page 2

LATEST AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

[REUTERS TELEGRAMS.] By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. •.«.*. THE AFGHAN FRONTIER SETTLEMENT PROSPECTS. WORKS AND PROCEEDINGS FOR COLONIAL DEFENCE. (Received April 15, 1.55 a.m.) Melbourne, April 14. Sailed, the Manapouri for the Bluff, this afternoon. The Government to-day received a telegram from Mr Murray Smith, Victorian Agent-General, in which he states that the prospects of a peaceful settlement of the Afghan frontier question are very gloomy. (Received April 15, 1 p.m.) April 15. In consequence of the uneasiness felt in regard to the foreign .situation, the greatest activity is being manifested by all Australian Colonies in matters of lb is yery probable that a.

permanent military camp will be formed in Victoria, to which the various corps will be drafted for instructions and drilled. The age for admitting recruits to the militia has also been reduced. The work on the forts for the protection of the entrance to the Bay is progressing rapidly. A project is on foot to form a militia corps of German residents in Melbourne. Sydney, April 15. The Government Gazette contains a proclamation to the effect that on and after Thursday next, 21st inst., the western channel of Port Jackson will be closed to all vessels, in order that measures may be taken for the better protection of Sydney harbour. Adelaide, April 15. The Government of South Australia intend to establish a patrol service in the Gulf of St. Vincent, in order to give warning of the approach of hostile vessels; and measures are being taken for the protection of Port Glenelg.