AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXII, Issue 63, 9 March 1912, Page 6

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Sydney, March 7. Another daring burglary films occurred, ’this time at the residence of Russell, the well-known jockey. Kensington, Russell’s brother-in-law, was awakened early in the morning by a tap on the forehead, and saw three armed, masked men grouped round the bed, and a fourth standing outside the window. ■ They demanded money, and ransacked the room, securing about £.30 in money and jewellery. They then went to Russell’s room, covering him with revolvers, and made a similar demand. Russell handed over £lO (winnings at the races). The intruders carried electric lights, and thoroughly overhauled the house, regaling themselves with food and drink, and reassuring the Victims’ wives that they had nothing to fear, and offered them fruit and water. On leaving the house they warned the occupants not to move to seek assistance, or they knew what to expect. They escaped in a waiting sulky. The police are investigating. Mr. J.. H. WRheford, of Calliope Dock fame, arrived by the Moldavia, en route to New Zealand, after seven years’ absence in England. He returns as representative of one of the leading financial groups in London, who have arranged to provide nearly £1,000,000 capital in a New Zealand project, upon his being able to advise that satisfactory arrangements have been made in accordance with instructions. During his stay in England Mr. AVitheford had interviews and communications with the Admiralty, resulting in his receiving thanks for a certain action lie initiated in connection with British-Pacific interests. lie sails for New Zealand on Monday. The Irish envoys held a large and enthusiastic meeting in the Town Hall, and a large sum was collected. (Received 8, 8.40 a.m.) Sydney, March 8. John Macpherson was remanded on two charges of stealing moneys of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, also conspiring with another to defraud Singers of £12,745. Bail of £IOOO was allowed. (Received 8, 1.15 p.m.) Melbourne, March 8. The Federal Parliament is to appoint a commission on the fruit industry. Evidence regarding the export trade will be taken throughout Australia and on the condition of European markets. The Federal Government has been informed that the cruisers Melbourne and Sydney will be received from the builders in August, and the battlesnip Australia in September. All will arrive in Australia early next year. Mr. O’Malley informed a deputation that lie would start to employ men in connection with the transcontinental railway in May. (Received 8, 10.35 a.m.) Sydney, March 8. The Irish envoys held an overflow meeting attended by over a thousand. The collection amounted to £1350. (Received 8, 9.40 a.m.) Brisbane, March 8. One of the most disastrous fires in the history of the city occurred late last night. The Fitzroy Chambers, a six-story building, in Adelaide Street, ■ U the heart of the city, was gutted. The fire spread to a tailor’s establishment adjoining. It was still burning early this morning, but was under control.