BLUFF.

Southern Cross, Volume 1, Issue 41, 6 January 1894, Page 12

BLUFF.

Owing to New Year s Eve falling on a Sunday, the usual demonstrations by which w r e are accustomed to welcome the New Year were not indulged in here to such an extent as the occasion would otherwise warrant. The ships in the harbour rang a welcome on their bells, and this, with a bonfire, were the only manifestations in honour of the event.

Our holidays passed off quietly, and were observed in a very temperate and orderly manner, a total absence of any riotous or unseemly behaviour being especially noticeable. The Presbyterian Church bazaar, Twhich was opened by the Hon. Mr Ward on the 2nd inst., has up to the present proved successful, even beyond the expectations of the most sanguine. The takings the first day amounted to £7O.

As a detailed account of our regatta has appeared in print before this it is not necessary to enter into particulars here. Looked upon in the light of sport, however, it must have been a disappointment to all and sundry connected with it. The pulling races were the only events in which the contestants won their prizes by merit. The sailing races were vexatious to look upon, the boats for the most part drifting aimlessly about as the currents directed, and in one event half a mile from home, the whole aspect of the race was entirely altered, the leading boat •coming in last and the last boat first. The concert given by the cricketers on New Yeax-’s night, which has been an established fixture for some time, was not given this year, but will come off a little later. The Bluff band were equal to the occasion, however, and provided amusement in the shape of a promenade concert and ■dance.

The Southland Frozen Meat Co. have started to coal down, and otherwise prepare the freezing chambers of the works for the incoming season. The first of the sheep will probably

be to hand to-day. The s.s. Edendale, under charter to the H.Z. Shipping Co., to load wool for London, arrived alongside the wharf on Wednesday, and is now busy taking in cargo. The s.s. Maori may be looked for on Sunday. The Crusader will finish in a few days, and the Wairoa is receiving every attention.