AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIV, Issue 170, 17 January 1912, Page 2

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

BRISK BUILDING IN SYDNEY. By Gable—Press Association—Copyright. Sydney, January 16. Last year 6752 new buildings were completed in Sydney and suburbs of the value of £3,825,000. The residential flat system is rapidly growing, and a number of additional large buildings containing flats have been erected. SYDNEY HARBOR CONGESTION. Sydney, January 16. The interim report of the commissioner who is enquiring into the congestion in Darling Harbor finds that adequate provision is not made for handling outward merchandise and the necessary labor for landing is not provided. SERIOUS BUSH FIRES. Sydney, January 16. As the result of heat there have been bush fires in many districts, and much damage has resulted. JAPANESE DESIGNS. Sydney, January 16. 'lt is noticeable that the visitor,s from the Japanese warships are purchasing maps of Sydney extensively. NEW COAL SEAM. Melbourne, January 16. A three and a half feet seam of coal has been discovered at Wonthaggi at a depth of a thousand feet. THE PREMIERS' CONFERENCE. Melbourne, January 16. The Premiers' Conference opens tomorrow. Important matters in relation to the States and the Commonwealth will be discussed. SPEAKER WILLIS' CHARGES. Sydney, January 16. The enquiry into Mr. Speaker Willis* charges against Mr. Robinson, chief of the Hansard staff, has been completed, and the commissioner will report to the Government. SHEARERS' TEST CASE. Melbourne, January 16. A shearer at Warrnambool was awarded £5 damages because he was paid off on refusing to shear wet sheep. The case was a test one.