JOTTINGS FROM NEW SOUTH WALES.

Waikato Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 2729, 9 January 1890, Page 2

JOTTINGS FROM NEW SOUTH WALES.

o*v " Qui Vivk.")

Harvesting operations are iu full swing iu most parts of the colony at present, and the yield of grain is almost unprecedented. A large area was put under wheat last winter, and splendid rains have fallen at seasonable intervals; everything that could, be desired by farmers has been accomplished. There has been a great demand for agricultural machinery of late, the result being that the market has been very much draiued in that special Hue. Many farmers are going in for cultivating large areas ; a MrUoker, of Cootamandra, having 700 acres of wheat to harvest this year. The price of wheat in country parts is at present 3s, the Sydney market beiug, of course, higher ; but it is anticipated that owing to the great supply, a lower reduction may yet take place. Trade, in oeueral, has very much revived since last year, and things are assuming a much more promising aspect. A new development of export trade has occurred in the consigning of butter to London in the freezing compartments of vessels. A good market is promised and producers are turning their attention to this new opening. If this should prove successful it will have the effect of relieving our over-crowded market at times, and keep butter at a more remunerative price. _ There will probably be a great revival of the mining industry the ensuing year. Some of our old goldtields are again attracting the attention of mining syndicates, and the silver mines of the western country are still producing magnificent yields. The death of our champion sculler Satiric has caused some stir and sympathy, uwii.g to his past success and popularity. It is estimated that 170,000 persons took part iu his funeral procession iu Sydney. Much sorrow has been expressed at the untimely death of this promising young fellow. It is a matter of great surprise to consider the vast interest taken in athletics by our people. The achievements of our countrymen in the world of letters, art, or invention are scarcely noticed, while the exploits of oui boatmen and cricketers form all absorbing topic among all classes. Without disparagement to enjoyable recreation it is much to be wished that we were otherwise, and our national character requires great reformation, in order that the intellectual pursuits may not be subservient to muscular energy. A. deputation recently waited on the Minister for Public Instruction in Sydney relative to the proposed exhibitions aud bursaries in connection with the high schools maintained by the Government, and expressed n wish that th benefits might also extend to the high schcob and eolTttges conducted by private enti rprise. The Minister, in reply, stated that ag most of these establishments were of a denominational character, the Government could not recognise them, being pledged to an un-Sectarian system of education. Sectarian education is, howsvei, iu spite of the Government opposition system, making great progress and producing splendid results. The Roman Catholic body in particular have fine educational establishments in various parts of the colony, colleges as well as primary schools, and their success in passing so many candidates at the last University examinations has been regarded as a favourable omen for Sectarian education. Our present State system of education is, however, working admirably and giving general satisfaction. During the present festive season our railways are very much patronised. Excursion rates at Id per mile (return), are periodically issued, so that the cost of travelling is reduced to a minimum. Our Railway Commissioners have become settled to their work, aud are introducing many reforms iu order to reduce the expenses of working as much as possible, and to make the lines pay as good interest as can be obtained.