WORK AT THE PORT

Taranaki Daily News, 22 November 1926, Page 8

WORK AT THE PORT

LARGE CARGOES HANDLED. BUSY WEEK FOR THE Throughout last week from daylight until well into the night were to be heard the panting of labouring engines and the rattle of laden trucks as the work of the port of New Plymouth proceeded. It was a week thought to be unparallelled in the history of the port, for during that time over 4,600 tons of inward cargo were handled by the staff at the railway goods shed, while over 2000 tons were conveyed to the breakwater for shipment. The port itself was a hive of industry. The clatter of winches and the shrieks of whistling engines filled the air. Nignt tell, and while people slept the noise and bustle still continued as tons of cargo were lifted from wharf to hold and from hold to wharf. All available labour was utilised aud employment was to bs found for more. in all three overseas, one inter-colonial and five coastal vessels, were berthed during the week. Of the total 4650 tons of cargo landed the Turakina discharged 1684 tons, the Progress 100 tons, the Kaitangata 320 tons, the Rarawa 220 tons, the Corinna 570 tons, the Poolta 475 tons and the West Nivaria 991 tons. The outward cargo consisted of 1170 tons by tho Port Hobart, 120 tons by the Progress, 150 tons by the Rarawa. 540 tons by the Corinna and 220 tons by the Poolta. The buiest day of the week was Monday, when with five vessels in port, a total of 1416 tons were handled. The next day was also very busy with the same number of vessels in port, 1400 tons being handled. Tho cargo worked was varied. The Turakina brought general cargo from Liverpool, tho West Nivaria general merchandise and case oil from the Pacific Coast and the Kaitangata general Australian cargo, while the Port Hobart loaded dairy produce for Home.