The Drought.

Waimate Daily Advertiser, Volume IV, Issue 247, 26 August 1902, Page 1

The Drought.

Sydney, August 23

Despite the rain, which, excepting in scattered areas is far short of requirements, the outlook is exceedingly gloomy, and worse times with a great shortage of stock ars predicted on all hands. As a sample of the hardships of stockowners, one station alone has spent £50,000 during the last three months to keep sheep alive. The importations of fodder into New South Wales, m t including vast quantities which have come direct over the border from Victoiia and South Australia since the commencement of the year, are valued at £1,000,000. Lately the rate has reached £50,000 a week.

The, Sydney water supply question is daily becoming more acute, and the authorities are adopting more stringent measures to cut down the consumption. The Federal Government having refused to suspend the fodder duties, and the other State Premiers not being favourable to their suspension, the Premier states that he is opposed to the New South Wales Government accepting the responsibility. He, however, offers bis services as head of the Government, and an experienced commercial man to the pastoralists, and will purchase for them in the best markets, and charter steamers for the carriage of all fodder required, without charging any commission. The State’s offer means that stock owners will get fodder practically at cost price. The Premier estimates that at least £IOO,OOO worth of fodder is required weekly.

The movement in favour of the suspension of the duties, or a concession to assist in the importation of fodder is agam being vigorously taken up in all parts of the State.

Perth, August 23,

The eastern farming districts are suffering from severe drought, and the late crops are ruined.