OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION.

Temuka Leader, Issue 177, 20 September 1879, Page 3

OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION.

- / Sydney, Sept. IV. Pina weather prevailed to-day, mu! a general public holiday Was observed on the occasion of the public opening of the Garden Palace, which took place at nine ■o’clock this morning. A procession of public bodies and mounted police, followed by Lord Loftns (Governor of New South Wales), Lord Normanby (Governor of Sir Win. Jervois (Governor of Soutl Australia), Mr Weld (of Tasmania), and their respective staffs, together with the Ministers and the Mayor of Sydney, marched through the principal streets, which was gaily decorated and lined with crowds of people. The Vice-regal party reached the building at noon. Lord Loftns then unveiled the statue of the Queen under the dome. He next proceeded to the dais, where he was received

by the Executive Commissioners, the representatives of foreign countries, British colonies and possessions, and distinguished citizens surrounding the dais, the whole making a brilliant scene. The chtir then performed an inaugural cantata, after which Mr Jennings, Executive Commissioner, presented an address to Lord Loftns, px-aying him to declare the International Exhibition open. Lord Loftns replied, congratulating the colony upon the success of its efforts to gather the represontatnes of the arts, achievements, and industrial forces o f the globe together. He said the event was an era in Australian progress. He welcomed the representatives of foreign countries, British colonies and possessions, and concluded by declaring the Exhibition opened. Salgtes were then fired, and the choir performed further music, including the National Anthem. After the ceremony Lord Loftns. with his guests and their suites, proceeded on a tour through the building, and visited the various courts, where they were introduced to the several Cammissioners. An immense crowd of people attended the ceremony, which concluded at two o’clock, and passed off with gxxat brilliancy and eclat. The Garden Palace is now completed, and was splendidly decorated, the dome especially. Many courts aie finished, but in others the Commissioners are still engaged in unpacking. The exhib’fs are of a highly interesting character. Lord Loftns during the week will series of entertainments to the distinguished visitors and leading citizens.

September 18. Queensland has the prettiest, and Victoria the most brilliant courts. New Zealand contests the palm in conjunction with Queensland, both displaying indications of great and valuable natural wealth awaiting development. Among the colonies, Victoria is foremost in its indications of advancement in manufactories. New South Wales’ display was incomplete in comparison. European courts included a copy of Italy.very artistically executed. America is strong in hardware, musical instruments, wax dies, and notions. The building was thronged. There were about 24,000 persons present at the Exhibition yesterday. The New Zealand Court in the Exhibition is fully completed. The display of grain, furniture, skins, mixxerals, and wool in it were special features, and were much admired.