Books about Balgowan

Balgowan The Outport;, Author Stuart Moody and Lois Greenslade (2106)

Contact Mr Moody on 08 88322398 : email balgowantheoutport@gmail.com

District Council of Yorke Peninsula - Balgowan was named by Governor Sir James Fergusson after a town in Perthshire, Scotland.

When the Government surveyed Yorke Peninsula for closer settlement in 1872 it was decided that each Hundred would have a township. Balgowan was to be the town for the Hundred of Kilkerran; but the surveyors took six years to complete the surveying of Balgowan, and in the meantime, the private township of Kilkerran sprang up*. *Governor Fergusson's Legacy. Page 225

In 1881 a jetty was erected to enable farmers to ship their grain to Port Adelaide, but it was built in the wrong place, and at low water there was only 1.6 metres (5 ½ feet) covering the dangerous reefs off the coast.

In 1907 a new jetty was built and the little port shipped away somewhere in the vicinity of 200,000 bags of wheat*. *Governor Fergusson's Legacy. Page 232

With the advent of bulk loading at Ardrossan and better roads with motor transport, little shipping ports such as Balgowan fell into disuse and remain now chiefly as holiday resorts*. *Governor Fergusson's Legacy. Page 234

KILKERRAN,

Friday 4 October 1878, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

The surveyors are busy laying out a township on the coast, which will be a convenience to the settlers in the northern portion of the Hundred, as also to some of those in Tiparra.

Sat 8 Feb 1879, South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 - 1881) Trove

A new town, called Balgowan, with Park Lands and Cemetery Reserves, is proclaimed in the Hundred of Kilkerran.

Our new township, Balgowan, was offered for sale lately, but the land was not largely speculated in, money, I suppose, being too scarce.

A TOWN WITHOUT A ROAD.

Sat 3 May 1879, South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 - 1881) Trove

Sir- Hearing of a new township called Balgowan for sale by the Government, I determined to visit it, with a view of speculating in town lots. Imagine my surprise when towards sunset I found myself at the edge of a plain with a dense scrub before me about two miles through. Road on the map, but none through this mass of timber. However, after following for about mile and a half along a surveyor's cutting, at the risk of breaking my horse's legs and my own neck over the hundreds of stumps about one foot high, at last the cutting came to a dead stop ; not even a surveyors cutting. In front a dense mass of mallee and large teatree, so thickly set together that you could not see thirty yards before you.

Giving it up in despair I returned, and enquired of one of the resident about three miles distant was informed that a clearing to the township was gazetted and regazetted,but although several were willing to do it at a fair price the Surveyor-General had withdrawn it because persons would not do it at a loss, the timber being so heavy. It seems absurd advertising a township and the road to it blocked up. — I am, &c, TRAVELLER.

JETTY AT BALGOWAN.

Sat 23 Aug 1879, Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904) Trove

A public meeting to consider what steps should be taken to get a jetty and tank constructed at Balgowan was held at the residence of Mrs. Olift on Tuesday, the 12th inst. Mr. Gregory was voted to the chair.

The Chairman said he thought it was necessary that steps be taken at once to secure their object, and if the quantity of land under crop in the vicinity was considered they ought to have a strong claim on the Government.

Mr. S. Moody said that with reference to their wants he thought the Government anticipated them by selling a township and grabbing a road to it, and it was the only place on the coast between Port Victoria and Moonta adapted for shipping. He had with some others roughly estimated the land under crop in the northern part of Kilkerran at about 20,000 acres, which, at two bags to the acre, would give say about 40,000 bushels—not a bad start. Then there was a portion of Tipara and Maitland to which this would be the nearest port and the quantity of land under crop would be yearly increasing.

Mr. Jones said the future sale of the township and other lands would be benefited by the proposed jetty, and would recoup the Government for the outlay. When the land in Tipara was sold there would be a large increase of land under crop. It was a long distance to Port Victoria, and he thought they had a just claim.

Mr. S. Moody proposed—" That a memorial be drawn up and forwarded to the House of Assembly, praying for a sum of money to be placed on the Estimates for the construction of a jetty and tank at Balgowan."

Mr. Jones seconded.

Mr. Tilly thought it would be a great hardship if they had to travel seventeen or eighteen miles to market, passing a good port in doing so. The saving in cartage to him would be equal to at least threepence per bushel.

Mr. W. H. Kelly also supported the proposition, as he considered it was a matter of great importance to the settlers in the north-portion of Kilkerran and part of Tipara, as many of them would have to travel from fifteen to twenty miles to Port Victoria. There was also quantity of land unsurveyed in Tipara, of which Balgowan was the natural outlet, there not being any suitable place for shipping between it and Moonta, about twenty miles distant.

The proposition was carried unanimously. A committee, consisting of Messrs. S. Moody, J.P., Jones,. Gregory, and Elliott, was appointed to prepare and forward the memorial to the members of the district for presentation.

After the above business was concluded, reference was made to the promise which had been reference was made to the promise which had been received of a Post Office and schoolhouse, and Mr. C. D. Lindo was requested to communicate with Mr. Todd with regard to the former, and Mr. Kelly with the Minister of Education as to the latter.

A group of men standing on Balgowan jetty 1905 - State Library of South Australia - PRG 280/1/5/92

Sat 4 Jan 1879, Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904)

The folks in the northern portion of Kilkerran are very anxious to have a school.

Kilkerran.

Tue 3 Aug 1880, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

July 21: The people of North Kilkerran will at last get a school, as it is course of erection and will be finished in a week or two. It is constructed of wood and consists of a schoolroom, to hold 30 children, a porch and two small living rooms. It is a neat little building, but rather too small for the place, and then, it is being put up the wrong way, for the chimnies are facing the roads, (the allotment is a comer one,) and, in conseqaence the lobby with the entrance is at the back, facing into Mr. Francis Meyorhoffs paddock—allowing the heavy winds from the north-east to come right into the doors. A branch of the S. A Farmers' Association has been formed here. The meetings are to be held at Mr, Solomon Moody's J.P, In consequence of the fineweather (any amount of rain &c.) the crops are very promising, especially the first sown.

BALGOWAN JETTY.

Fri 7 Jul 1882, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

A meeting of settlers in the northern portion of the Hundred of Kilkerran, and portions of Maitland and Tipara, was held on the 27th at Mr. Meyerhoff's, to consider what should be done to obtain an extension of the present useless jetty. Mr. T. McAuley (Maitland) was appointed chairman.

Mr. R. Bill commented strongly on the neglect of the Government to provide a proper jetty, as the present structure was perfectly useless, and it was too bad for the farmers in the adjacent districts to be obliged to cart their produce a long distance while they had equally as good a port at their very door.

Mr. J. Jones could not see why the Government should refuse to do what they wanted. He considered it was hard that through the stinginess of the Government they should lose the natural advantages of so good a port as Balgowan. He knew the residents of other ports were hostile to Balgowan. The Marine Board in their report stated that no wheat had been shipped from thence but did not give the reason why, which was, that the present short jetty was inaccessible, there being a reef in front of it. He would move that a memorial be sent to the Government asking for such an extension as would allow ketches to get alongside.

Mr. H. ELLIOT seconded and thought it would be best to form a committee to prepare the memorial, which was accordingly done.

The CHAIRMAN believed the Government would not refuge the required work when they were asked. He agreed with a former speaker that there were interested persons ready to disparage Balgowan.

The CHAIRMAN then mentioned the Reservoir, which he understood was to be reduced in size. He thought there would be a sufficient run to fill a larger one, and suggested that they should ask for one of the size as fixed at first, which the meeting agreed to.

THE BALGOWAN JETTY.

Sat 2 Sep 1882, Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904) Trove

A deputation, consisting of Messrs. L. L. Furner, M.P., W. H. Beaglehole, M.P., W. H. Kelly, J.P., and Henry Elliott, waited on the Commissioner of Public Works (Hon. J. S. Ramsay) on Thursday morning, August 31, and asked that a sum of money should be placed on the Estimates for the purpose of extending the Balgowan Jetty. A petition signed by sixty-five settlers in the Hundreds of Kilkerran, Maitland, and Tipara, representing 43,000 acres of land, was presented. It was stated the jetty was now only 120 feet in length, and was perfectly useless for shipping purposes, because a reef some distance beyond the end of it precluded even ketches from coming in to the jetty, and the petitioners asked that the jetty should he extended beyond the reef, where a good depth of water could be obtained. The settlers could not make use of the jetty at present, and some of those who were near Balgowan had to cart their produce eighteen or twenty miles to a place of shipment. Balgowan would be the port of shipment for 15,000 acres of land now under crop; and if the next harvest were an average one 30,000 bags of wheat would have to he sent away from this district. The Commissioner said this question had been before the Government several times, and he had had a report on the matter. The report stated that the jetty was in good order, that not a bag of wheat had been shipped over it, and that an extension of 1,000 feet would be required to carry the jetty beyond the reef. Seeing that the jetty had not been used, he did not consider the extension would be justified ; but he would carefully consider the petition, and see what could be done to grant their request.

THE JETTY AT BALGOWAN.

Thu 28 Aug 1884, South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Messrs, Beaglehole and Caldwell members for Yorke's Peninsula, waited on the Commissioner of Public Works on Wednesday morning, and presented a memorial from the residents of the hundreds of Kilkerran and Tipara, asking to have the jetty at Balgowan lengthened 200 feet. The Commissioner promised to get a report on the matter.

BALGOWAN JETTY.

Sat 29 Jun 1901, Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1899 - 1910) Trove

I stood upon the broken, rotting timbers of a jetty, fallen into unnatural and premature ruin. There was no trace of any previous stream of traffic, no deep rutted tracks, no macadamised roads, no lagging echo of laden waggons, or laboring horses, or urging drivers, no lingering impressions of a by-gone time of bustle and activity. All was silent and deserted, stunted scrub and projecting limestone on one side, on the other the sailless sea, between them the ruins of a jetty. What is its history ? That of the premature ruin of a ghastly failure, of an utterly unused thing, which from its completion has never been of the least service.

When the first settlers in the neighborhood found themselves without a railway, and too far from an outlet port, they petitioned for a jetty, and great was their rejoicing when the petition was granted, and the work commenced. The site was chosen by the authorities, the engineer projected the nature of the structure, the architects drew the plans, the contractor fulfilled his contrac , and the workmen did faithful work. The best timber from the ancient forests, the best metal from the mines, the best preservatives of wood and metal were used, and the thing was completed. As the work proceeded the settlers watched it with interest. They cultivated the soil, sowed the seed, and looked forward to the time when the jetty would be alive with bustle and activity; when their teams with heavy laden waggons would visit the jetty, and the trucks of wheat would be carried over the rails into the holds of the waiting vessels. When those vessels would come and go carrying their produce to distant parts and bringing from those ports the necessaries, comforts, and luxuries of life to brighten their somewhat grey-tinted life, and when an interchange of visits between them and their city friends would form pleasant breaks in the monotony of their lives. But all such dreams and hopes were ruthlessly dashed. No vessel has ever touched its piles or left its sides, not a bag of wheat or pound of merchandise has passed along it, no human feet have ever trod it with serious or definite purpose. Instead of a boon and delight and pride it became a curse, a snare, and a derision.

And why ? Just through one single omission, one fatal mistake. The projectors of the jetty were not careful to ascertain the shoaling of the water, and were guilty of misdirection. Instead of carrying out the jetty in the gradually deepening water they carried it out to a sunken reef, where the water was almost as shallow as at the first pile. They made no attempt to remedy the error. And so, whilst as a structure it was well designed, well built, and well equipped, in everything for which a jetty was required it was a miserable failure. And its failure was not only an injury to others, but a curse to itself. The usefulness which would have insured its preservation and permanence being absent, it became a prey itself to adverse influences. The truck has long since disappeared, the decking washed away, the piles rotting, until it has become unsafe even to sit upon its remnants to fish.

As I sat to ruminated. Was there not some "correspondence" between this material thing and things on a higher plane ? Some resemblance between this jetty's story and our own ? What of the lives about us, and amongst which our own may be numbered, which are failures, disappointments ; which are in a more or less advanced stage of decay, purposeless, useless, dangerous ; and for the same reasons, want of direction, misdirection, stopping short. By inheritance, environment, and opportunity, physically, mentally, morally, well endowed, well qualified, well equipped. Yet, like jetties built on dry land, there has been no purpose in these lives—or too low a one. Their aims have been unworthy, there has been no high, resolve. Early disappointments or mistakes have been allowed to arrest development, to unseat ambition. Their own nature's depths, the deeps of truth around them have remained unsounded, the shallows at their feet have been allowed to stop their advance, and so they have never come to realize their true meaning; never realize that linked to all humanity behind them, and to all truth and good beyond them, they were designed to be thoroughfares and vehicles for the interchange of the truest wealth. They have failed to be of use to others, and in consequence the blight has fallen upon themselves, and will continue to fall, until they drop at last out of the ken of men unwept, unhonored, and unsung. The gradual descent, their failing physical, mental, and moral activity and vigor, unrelieved by any golden reflection of the glory of a waning day. E. W.

BALGOWAN— IT'S RISE AND PROGRESS.

Fri 3 Feb 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Rapid development has been a marked feature of the rise of the important, towns which have become famous during the last decade, and the swift progress which has followed the steps of the pioneers of Balgowan has already been the subject of much comment. This beautiful bay, noted for its natural suitability for a shipping port, had a damper put on its advance through a jetty having been erected some twenty years ago just at a spot where it proved to be absolutely useless on account of it jutting out on to a dangerous reef. Consequently for some years business men stood aloof from the port, but at last the natural facilities offered induced an enterprising trader to commence business with the result that the now famous port has progressed by leaps and bounds. The vast tracts of adjoining country have gone into the hands of industrious settlers and the fertile soil, once covered with forests and underwood, infested by wallabies, wombats, dingoes, emus and Australia's emblematic marsupial, now produces whole granaries of golden grain which finds an outlet at the rising port of Balgowan, where already vast quantities are stacked ready for shipment. Residences, by no means unworthy of a town just in its infancy, have sprung up, and the very spot where the aboriginals of the past once held their weird corrobbories, their war councils, or, quarrelling over some dusky beauty, engaged in gory warfare, is fast becoming one of the great theatres of commerce. So far the grain trade has principally occupied the attention of the citizens of Balgowan but it needs no prophet to foresee that this is only one of the industries which await developement at this point of Spencer's Gulf. Men of considerable geological knowledge have no hesitation in affirming that the lofty cliffs near at hand contain huge quantities of stone eminently suitable for use as flux in smelting ores and the time may confidently be looked forward to when a considerable fleet of vessels will be engaged in conveying this valuable asset to our principal smelting works at Wallaroo and Port Pirie. Not only so, but there exists among experts an opinion, which has not yet been made public, that some splendid deposits of copper and other minerals may yet be unearthed from the lowering cliffs, while a whisper is abroad that a rich reef of phosphate rock has been discovered and that negotiations are already in progress for the formation of a powerful syndicate with a view, not only of developing the phosphate industry, but also to exploit these suriferous heights in order to get some idea of their wealth of treasure, so that at no distant future the sound of mining machinery together with that of extensive phosphate works will doubtless be heard commingling with the deep voice of old Neptune at Balgowan. Nor is this all, for probably some of the best fishing grounds in Australian waters are to be found near the port and, doubtless, it is only a matter of time when the fishing industry will not be the least important factor in the progress of this seaport, especially as valuable beds of oysters are well-known to exist in the offing, samples of which dainties have already been pronounced by connosieurs to be equal to anything of the kind selected from tbs choicest beds of the world. With the fish preserving industry it is expected that rabbit canning and freezing will certainly be connected, for lovely specimens of the rodent abound in large quantities conveniently near. At present the water supply in the town is somewhat limited and during the recent hot weather the minds of the authorities were considerably exercised on this point but it is understood that it is the intention to elect a direct local representative to Parliament at the next general elections and to him will be entrusted the duty of getting the Government to put down an artesian bore at Balgown and thus put an end to further anxieties respecting the water supply of the town. This is especially desirable seeing that already numbers of visitors are attracted by shady nooks, craggy heights, sheltered caves and all the various marine beauties which will yet undoubtedly cause Balgowan to be designated one of the most popular watering places of the whole Commonwealth. A persistent rumour is fast gaining ground to the effect that the Federal authorities being so far undecided as to the site of the Federal capital are strongly inclined to finally fix on Balgowan as the capital of all the states. Not being absolutely certain, however, as to the correctness of this report the writer is not disposed to take the idea too seriously, being particularly anxious to put nothing but the facts before the public.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 17 Feb 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

February 11. The tension of harvest operations is over and farmers with their friends are finding relaxation in visiting the favorite resort, Balgowan. On Wednesday a number of residents, together with visitors from Moonta, Port Germein and Maitland, held a picnic at this popular watering place. A detachment put off to the renowned fishing grounds. Unfortunately, a large shark had forestalled them, but after a severe encounter with the monster the fishing party succeeded in bringing him to the surface where he was dispatched by a well-aimed rifle shot and a nice haul of schnapper was subsequently taken on board. In the meantime the hampers were broached on shore and in dealing with the dainty contents of these competition was particularly keen, local capacity in this direction comparing very favorably with that of the visitors. Games and musical selections concluded a very enjoyable afternoon.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 24 Feb 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922)

February 20. Preparations are being made for shipping wheat, which work promises to be brisk during this week. Tank sinking and other improvements are also being pushed on with.

A party of sportsmen went off to Point Pierce on Saturday evening on a duck shooting expedition. Heavy volley firing was heard and a satisfactory bag is reported.

Several large sharks have been seen near the jetty lately. A few days ago four men had a very narrow escape from these monsters. One shark, measuring fully 12 feet in length, with three smaller attendants were going through a series of threatening evolutions close to the jetty and had the four men referred to made up their minds to go into the water doubtless they would have supplied a meal for each shark. Fortunately they decided to remain on the jetty and so escaped a terrible fate.

Harvest thanksgiving services were held at the Kilkerran Congregational Church yesterday, when Mr J. Verran, M.P., preached to large congregations. The church was nicely decorated, and a choir under the baton of Mr J. Tilly rendered suitable music, Mr Frede acting as organist.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 28 Apr 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

April 24. Heavy rains have again fallen and farmers are delighted with the opening of the season. Seeding is in full swing the earlier rains having started the first sow a crops which already present a beautiful green appearance. All tanks and dams are full and feed promises to be abundant. Local farmers and friends held a picnic at this port on Tuesday when upwards of a hundred were present. Several resident and visiting agents were noticed among the company, the former pointing out the various places of interest in the town. The visitors were much struck with the natural advantaged of the bay as a mercantile port. Shipping, was in full swing, three crafts lying anchored in the bay, while a fourth, just completed loadings formed a graceful picture as she stood off for Wardang Island. Not only were the splendid boulders, spotless sand, seaweed beds and shells greatly admired but the opportunity was taken to inspect the external strata of the rich phosphatic deposits and astonishment was expressed that hitherto so little had been heard of these valuable beds. Roadwork was being pushed on, improvements were being made on the esplanade and all the animation of a progressive seaport was noted when the gong sounded for lunch. The health-giving ozone of the broad gulf had whetted the appetites of the visitors in an alarming degree but, notwithstanding the severs demand on the sumptuous hampers, the liberal-supplies provided by the farseeing ladies proved ample for the fullest capacity of the merry company. A cold wind subsequently springing up off the sea the party dispersed and a most enjoyable outing was brought to a close.

An Outer Harbour scheme is now under discussion.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 5 May 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

May 1. The anniversary services in connection with the Tipara West Sunday School were conducted yesterday by the Rev T. Williams. The weather was superb, and there were large congregations, the overflow of which proved for the first time the utility of the new lecture hall which has recently been added to the church. This being substantially built and nicely finished not only form a valuable addition to the church, but is also a useful evidence of the enterprise of the members of the church. The school children, under leadership of Mr John Tilly, rendered some pleasing choruses, etc., the accompaniments being very nicely played by Miss Kuss, who acted as organist. A tea and public meeting was held on Easter Monday. The anniversary bad been fixed for Easter Sunday, when the Rev O. Lake was present to conduct the services, but the incessant rains on that day prevented a satisfactory attendance.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 30 Jun 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

June 26. CHECKING THE FOX NUISANCE. — Few men have more trouble to fear than the South Australian farmer. Inaddition to the ordinary care of his race he has to contend against drought, hot winds, blight bunt, rust, frost, dingoes, kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, mice and other vermin, to say nothing of the standard sparrow, nuisance, starlings, eagle-hawks, &c., which raid his garden and prey on the weaklings of his flocks. The unfortunate farmer now finds that another serious danger threatens him in the shape of the unspeakable fox, which is already making, depredations upon his flocks and whose elusive tactics render his capture next to impossible. Several of these uncanny visitors are reported to have been seen in the low lying sandhills north of this port and, realizing the gravity of the danger to neighbouring poultry yards as well as to farmers flocks, a party was organized on Wednesday with the full determination, if practicable, to kill or capture as many as possible of the poultry fancier's enemies. Plans for an attack on the enemy were hastily discussed, and the tactics of Marshal Oyama having been adopted, a wide sweeping movement was executed in the direction of Moonta, A flanking party occupied the western sandhills, a body of infantry formed the right wings while a scouting cavalry detachment advancing in the centre made a reconnaissance in order to ascertain the disposition of the enemy's forces. A general advance was ordered and some sharp skirmishes ensued, several of the attacking party distinguishing themselves, particularly the canine brigade. At one time a small yellowish brown animal with bushy tail was sighted moving through the bushes. Instantly a mounted force advanced and the infantry were ordered to be in readiness for a frontal attack, when the suspicious looking animal was discovered to be a small dog belonging to a well-known sport of Weetulta. Still following Oyama's strategy an extended enveloping movement was executed terminating about seven miles from this port. The enemy, out numbered and losing heavily, were beaten at all points, the casualty list numbering 84. In marksmanship Lieutenant Gregory and Adjutant Juie gained special distinction. Notwithstanding the heavy death roll among the rabbits, &c.; the proverbial cunning of Brer Fox enabled him to elude the home forces, but doubtless he received such a scare that no trouble is anticipated from him for some time to come. This is satisfactory to Generalissimo Tilly, although regret has been expressed that none wore actually captured as it was fully intended to have the skins properly prepared and sent on to King Edward as a small mark of allegiance to the throne.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 14 Jul 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

July 10. The chief topic of conversation just at present is the bad state of the roads. The machine agent, the book fiend, the piano tuner, etc, are much for peaceful settlers to cope with and severely try their moral stamina, but the roads ! With 15 inches of rain this season farmers have been counting on abundant feed and heavy crops, and indications certainly point to a realisation of their most sanguine expectations, but they had not counted on being called upon to traverse such roads. Mud, slush, deep gutters, dismal quagmires, and waterholes of uncertain depth have to be negotiated, and really a driver on these roads requires not only the skill of an accomplished Jehu, but also at least an elementary knowledge of marine navigation. It is felt that the Marine Board might take over the control of the roads, soundings might be taken, beacons erected, charts, instead of plans, might be provided, and it is even suggested that the latest type of submarine craft might be of service. On the road dividing the Weetulta and Kilkerran districts the other day a party of four ladies, in a sulky were peacefully pursuing the uneven tenor of their way. Unfortunately the lady driving did not possess a captain's certificate and in endeavoring to avoid a dangerous washaway the sulky was thrown upside down, while the inoffensive horse, lying on its back with its feet in the air, might have done good service in an up-to-date circus, and as a performing animal no doubt command a fancy price. Fortunately the occupants of the sulky escaped with only a few scratches and a severe shaking. Some idea of the condition of the roads may be gained from the fact that it is proposed to invite the District Council to provide suitable life-saving apparatus together with proper drags for the recovery of bodies drowned in these treacherous holes. Reynard has given little or no trouble since the recent hunt. Your columns lately reported that a fox had been seen near Wallaroo and there is little doubt that this fugitive was driven there from this locality by the hunt of three weeks ago, which absolutely struck terror into the hearts of the foxes.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 28 Jul 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

July 24. Some feeling of disappointment is felt in consequence of the fact that the fox trouble has been somewhat revived. Reynard has again been seen near The Springs and considerable anxiety is felt for the safety of flocks and poultry roost in the district, the more so as it was considered that the recent fox hunt had nipped the nuisance in the bud and that this trouble was a thing of the past. Residents, however, determined not to be outwitted by Brer Fox, are talking of organizing another hunt similar to the one of a few weeks ago which proved so successful. Citizens are continually on the lookout for foxes and do not intend to be caught napping. Deadly weapons are being secured, stocks of ammunition are in hand and kennels are being kept in readiness for any emergency. A respected resident of Kiikerran arose the other morning, got on his clothes, opened the door and looked towards the east. Probably he had been dreaming of foxes making sad havoc among his sheep which cost him enormous prices. He noticed a restlessness among his flock pasturing near and instinctively thought of the much dreaded fox. Yes, lo, and behold ! sure enough, through the misty vapours hanging over his field be could distinctly see the outline of a fox passing near his flock. He rubbed bis eyes and his heart sank within him. There was the long tail, the lithe form and stealthy tread of the ancient animal which did so much damage among the wheat fields in the days of Samson, He thought of his gun but he had lent that to a neighbour to shoot foxes, and his dog, he feared, was not equal to the occasion single-handed. He took his eye off the sneaking brute and with a sickly look on his face turned to call his wife so that she might see their latest enemy for herself. On their returning the sun had peeped through a rift in the clouds, the light had improved and on again sighting the dreaded animal it turned out to be not hardly a fox but a huge tom cat returning from his nocturnal visitations. That man suddenly remembered that his horses were waiting to be fed and it is worthy of note that he has never talked " foxes" since, that is, in the presence of his wife.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 18 Aug 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

August 14. A very pleasant evening was spent at Spencer Flat last Tuesday, when the twenty-seventh anniversary of Mr and Mrs Jno. Tilly's marriage was celebrated by a surprise party. The evening work at the homestead was going on as usual, the wheels of the chaffcutter flying round at a merry rate, when a whole procession of vehicles drove up to the gate much to the surprise of those whom the visitors had come to honor. In a marvellously short space of time a splendid spread was set out so temptingly as to satisfy the tastes of the most fastidious, epicure. After ample justice had been done to this by some twenty or thirty visitors Mr Jabez Tilly, on behalf of the company, facetiously congratulated Mr and Mrs Tilly on the celebration of their wedding day and in doing so, expressed the opinion that in their wedded life the highest degree of mundane felicity had been attained. In responding Mr Jno. Tilly said that he greatly appreciated the kindly expression of his friends recognition of his wedding day and assured the visitors that the gathering, which was holly unexpected, was indeed a source of gratification to Mrs Tilly and himself. Two or three recitations and several songs were given during the evening, the popular strains of " Auld Lang Syne" bringing a most enjoyable evening to a close.

AROUND THE FARMS.

Fri 18 Aug 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Driving along the Balgowan north road we reached the estate of Messrs John Gregory & Suns. Passing Floradora Cottage, on the left, noted for its neat appearance and rare flower pots, a lovely view presented itself. Away to the right fine, fertile fields were visible; to the north the distant smoke from the Moonta Mines could be seen ; while to the left, lying beneath as in wild grandeur, tossed the dark waters of Spencer's Gulf. Arriving at Woodburlie, the homestead of the Messrs Gregory, it was noticed that all stock were in excellent condition, the cattle and sheep being such as would excite the envy of any ordinary butcher. The careful housing and periodical painting of implements would supply a useful object lesson to many a South Australian farmer. Looking over the estate the effects of the splendid season was seen in a nice crop of white oats and a very forward crop of King's Early wheat now coming into ear, and which, in height, is already competing with the wire fences. A crop of Dart's Imperial showed exceptional growth and another self-sown crop being kept for hay promises good results. Teams were at work fallowing, and the undeviating furrows plainly indicated that straight ploughing is by no means a lost art. A good portion of the estate is forest lands, the timber from which is in good demand. Unfortunately, native animals abound and only recently during the progress of a wallaby hunt, a fine kangaroo, which is believed to be one of the last of the Kilkerran drove, fell a victim to the deadly gun of Mr R. L. Gregory. All possible efforts are being made to prevent the dreaded fox from getting a foothold in this forest, especially as persistent rumors continue to be circulated respecting the serious ravages caused by this animal in the locality. The heavy winter rains created a fine lake of some 70 acres extent in one of the fields. This local novelty attracted wild fowl and some fine ducks were annexed by the sportsmen of Woodburlie. Mr John Gregory, the head of the firm, is one of the pioneers of the country and his portrait appears amongst those of the old colonists who assembled at Glenelg last Commemoration Day. He hails from Hindmarsh Island, and is conversant with the manners and customs of the aboriginals of whom he tells some good stories. The younger members of the firm are enthusiastic cricketers, and have not only gained their laurels on surrounding ovals, but have also won several prizes for bowling.

Spotted fever has made its appearance in Northamptonshire (England), several cases having been reported. The yellow fever outbreak continues at New Orleans (U.S.A.), and on Saturday 105 new cases were reported. There are now 43,000 Chinese coolies employed on the Rand, South Africa.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 1 Sep 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

August 28. WEATHER continues favorable for crops, which are growing splendidly. Fallowing is being pushed on and a food area is already turned over.

A BOLT.—A hawker the other day called on Hongkong Farm, and had rather an exciting experience. While delivering supplies to the homestead one of his horses, known as the "Brentwood Bolt," and which has made a name for himself in high kicking, became restive and finally after rearing, plunging and kicking, broke clean of the van, tote down a piece of wire fence and headed for the open country. He was last seen about two miles distant from the van and still travelling in real Oakbank style. The driver intimates that he may be still going as he has not been seen since.

A CRICKET MATCH was played on the Kilkerran ground on Saturday, where the Port Victoria team inflicted a defeat on the local eleven. For the visitors the principal scorers were W. and G. Hillier, who made 76 and 13 respectively, and T Wills (17), the two former capturing nearly all the wickets. For the local men J. Windabank made 32 and F. Oakley 28.

AROUND THE FARMS.

Fri 1 Sep 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Leaving the North Kilkerran Post Office on the left, we visited the farm of Mr Chas. Heinrich, which is situated in a line tract of country. An energetic councillor, an observant man, a genius in mechanical work, and an up-to-date farmer, Mr Heinrich has succeeded in bringing the appointments of the farm to a high state of perfection, the general arrangements having been made with a view to convenience and dispatch. Fine stone sheds have been built far the protection of implements and the housing of stock and his old stables are forthwith to be superseded by a stone building capable of accommodating at least sixteen horses. An oil engine, together with a chaffcutting and crushing plant, are to be installed in new rooms now in course of erection. An oil engine, together with a chaffcutting plant, are to be installed in new rooms now in course of erection. A blacksmith's shop is provided, with tools, lathe and appliances, which would be no disgrace to any village blacksmith, and Mr Heinrich is just as much at home behind the anvil as in the field. From a large dam water is pumped by windmill power and is laid on to different points about the home stead. Mr Heinrich gives much attention to gardening and has succeeded in producing good crops of grapes, apricots, peaches, mulberries, &c. Some nice pomegranates have also been grown, while all kinds of melons and cucumbers are included in the yearly crop. A good supply of hay is on hand and, as a standby in case of bad seasons, a quantity of clean, machine-threshed straw is stacked near at hand. In wheat cultivation only fallow land is used and in this department Mr Heinrich has been most successful some of his wheat last season averaging six bags per acre: The present growing crop is even more promising. Four years ago he received a handful of the Federation variety of wheat from the Agricultural Bureau (of which Mr Heinrich is an active member) and from this 63 bags were produced in three years. Seed has been supplied to his neighbours and a crop of Federation now growing on his farm is promising at least seven bags per acre, Carmichael's Eclipse and Silver King being little, if anything inferior. In cattle, horses, sheep and poultry nothing but the best are kept and, to the observant, pleasure an well as profit must result from a visit to the farm and a chat with the genial and hospitable proprietor.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 15 Sep 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

September 9. Nice, seasonable showers have fallen, which have greatly refreshed the crops. Feed is plentiful and stock are in splendid condition. Shearing has started, and one or two sheds have already finished. The clip is quite up to the average. Encouraged by the splendid prospects of the season a great number of farmers and others intend visiting the Adelaide show next week.

The anniversary services in connection with the Tiparra West Church was held on Sunday last, when Mr W. Bayly, of Port Victoria, preached to large congregations. The capacity of the church was found inadequate, but the services were much enjoyed by those who were fortunate enough to gain admittance. A tea was held on Monday, and although the showery weather prevented many from attending there was a good muster. At the evening meeting the chair was occupied by Mr A. Ferguson, of Weetulta. Addresses were delivered by the Chairman, Mr T. B. Wicks, and the Rev T. S. Williams. Music was provided by the church choir, who were ably assisted by friends.

The Kilkerran team journeyed to Dowlingville last Saturday and tried conclusions with the seaport eleven. The match resulted in a win for the visitors the scores being Kilkerran 267, Dowlingville 41. For the Kilkerran team A. Moody made 63, J. Moody 43, A. Oakley 36 and R. L. Gregory 22. For Dowlingville E. Powell, the only one who got into double figures, made 13.

September 11. A cricket match, Kilkerran v. Urania, was played on the local ground last Saturday, when the visitors suffered another defeat at the hands of their opponents. The Urania men (who were first to bat) compiled 109 runs, J. Sanders making 26, J. Hall 24, J. Bell 21 and H. Mitchell 14. After lunch rain set in, but before suspending the game 124 runs for two wickets were credited to the home team, F. Oakley contributing 44, A. Oakley 39 (both men not out) and J. Moody 41. In. bowling R. L. Gregory secured 6 wickets for 18 runs.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 6 Oct 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 2. The picnic and show season is now in full swing and is gaining the attention of the majority of the fortunate inhabitants of this district. Ideal weather prevails and some enjoyable outings are reported. Two splendid meteors were seen last evening at about 10 o'clock. The fields and the heavens were beautifully illuminated. Our local cricket club played the Maitland eleven on the ground of the latter on Saturday. The city men were dismissed for 52 runs and on the country team taking the wickets some heavy scoring was done, J. Moody retiring with 100 runs to his credit and A. Moody contributing 161 not out. The match closed with 297 runs to the visitors for three wickets. For the latter R, L. Gregory took 3 wickets for 4 balls.

Around the Farms

Fri 6 Oct 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

On approaching The Clearings, which is the residence of Mr C. W. Wood, and which is situated near the Kilkerran post office, a very pretty view presented itself. Fine, majestic peppermint trees formed almost an avenue through which we passed while Cyprus and pines could be seen solemnly waving among a perfect plantation of sugar gums, wattles, olives, tagosaste (or tree lucerne), clustering lilacs, oleander, &c., which grow in great profusion around the homestead. Mr Wood has been the resident teacher at the Kilkerran school for just on twenty-five years so that it is almost needless to say that the majority of the younger adults as well as practically all the juveniles in the district have had the advantage of his instruction. Although directly interested in educational work it was soon apparent that Mr Woods takes a considerable interest in agricultural matters and in conjunction with his school duties finds time to give an Intelligent supervision to the affairs of his farm while the local branch of the Agricultural Bureau are indebted to him for many interesting and useful papers prepared and read by him at various meetings. His farm, comprising some valuable land, is rich in pasture and produces some fine crops. Some attention is given to bees which among the surrounding groves and gardens have indeed a happy hunting ground, returning to the owner of The Clearings a good harvest of sweets. Mr Wood is a member of the Moonta Poultry Club, and a glance around the pens is sufficient to indicate that the local teacher is not only naturally interested in the "pen" which is "mightier than the sword" but also in the less assuming poultry pen, and that in him the club has an enthusiastic member. An inspection of the poultry proved very interesting. The varieties claiming chief attention are Goden Wyandottes and Brown Leghorns. A pen of smart look ing rose-combed Brown Leghorns looked very pretty, while the rooster who presides over this domain, and which was imported from America, is a lovely bird and, like many other varieties on the farm, cost Mr Wood a fancy price. A pen of nine Indian Runner Ducks were inspected and, as an instance of what may be done through proper treatment, it may be mentioned that since the 27th of April last these have laid no fewer than 1,140 eggs. Great attention is paid to cleanliness, all coops and houses being thoroughly disinfected twice a week. All the poultry look bright and healthy. For feeding purposes wheat, oats, barley, pollard, bran, vegetables, grit, minced and cooked meat are used alternately. Meat powder, which Mr Wood explained is really dried and prepared horse flesh reduced to a powder, one pound of which, it is claimed, is in nutriment equal to five pounds of ordinary meat, has also a place in the daily menu. Showing what may be effected by careful and judicious feeding Mr Wood succeeds in getting his pullets to lay at from four and a half to five months, beating ordinary farm fowls by many weeks. An incubator is at work and a fair percentage of chicks are already out but Mr Wood mentioned that this season has not been a good one for hatching and that the infertility of the eggs is attributed by poultry raisers to the cold and unusually wet season. Portable coops were noticed and these enable the chicks to have fresh grass periodically. Mr Wood has all information regarding the poultry world at his finger ends and is brimful of useful hints respecting this remunerative industry. Those interested in poultry would feel amply repaid for a visit to The Clearings.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 13 Oct 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 9. Shearing is just about over and one or two clips have, already been disposed of in the city market at satisfactory rates. Crops are making good headway. Now hay harvesting machinery is arriving in the district and binders will be at work this week. Feed is plentiful and stock are in good condition. The "Lurline" called last Saturday and landed a consignment of cornsacks. A good quantity of wool was shipped by the same boat. A number of visitors who were present and saw the difficulties under which landing and loading were carried on expressed amazement that no proper jetty had been erected at this port, especially seeing that for a comparatively small outlay a suitable jetty could be built.

An enormus rabbit was captured the other day by Mr O. Jones. It measured a little over two feet from head to tail and was at first mistaken for a fox at these are known to exist in the district. A pecular feature about this giant of the rodent tribe was the extreme length of its tail, and regret is felt that the animal was not preserved and sent on to the zoological authorities for an expert opinion on this curious specimen of native fauna.

Last Wednesday was regarded as a gala day. The majority of residents made their way to the South Kilkerran German school picnic, which is regarded one of the most popular outings of the year. The children were addressed at the school by the Rev T. S. Williams and the teacher, (Mr Zimmerman), after which the scholastic and manual work of the classes was inspected by parents and friends who were greatly pleased with what they saw. An adjournment was then made for a splendid picnic ground on Mr Hasting's farm, where bike races, tilting and a good programme of children's sports were well carried out. A string band, consisting of Mr Zimmerman's pupils, rendered some nice musical selections during the day, the music reflecting great credit on both tutor and performers. The weather was superb and the officials are to be congratulated on the success of the function.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 10 Nov 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

November 6. The annual picnic in connection with the North Kilkerran public school was held on Wednesday when a good number parents, friends and old scholars assembled at the school. The weather was beautifully fine and the school sports were heartily entered into by the boys and girls, competitors acquitting themselves in a creditable manner. In addition to running, jumping, &c, games were entered into with great zest by old scholars and friends. Sweets were distributed amongst the youngsters and a tea was provided to which both juniors and seniors did justice. Some nice songs were rendered by the children after which cheers were given for the teacher, Mr Wood, Mrs Wood and the ladies. Regret was expressed because of Mrs Wood's absence who, unfortunately, could not be present on account of ill-health. The rendering of the National Anthem brought an enjoyable picnic to a close. A local company together with a party from Maitland organised a hunt at the Springs on Wednesday. Game was found to be plentiful and a large bag is reported.

AROUND THE FARMS.

Fri 17 Nov 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Evening found uneareds as Spencer Flat, which is the residence of Mr John Tilly. The sun nearea the horizon, casting its parting rays across the placid sea, which, after days of tossing, presented a scene of tranquility. The distant fields were dotted with pasturing sheep or stooks of early cut hay, while on those nearer at hand could be seen a rich growth of grass, or crops fast bursting into ear, which to any lover of nature is one of the most beautiful pictures with which the benevolent hand of providence adorns the field. Around the homestead and near the Tipara West church some magnificent crops were seen. One of the Marshall's variety is of luxuriant growth, splendidly headed and promises a return of about six bags per acre. An adjoining field of Silver King is equally good and will compare very favorably with anything of its kind in the district, being level as a table and of good, uniform growth. Stenwedel crops are also looking splendid. These crops are chiefly grown on fallow land and not a speck of rust or sign of disease was detected on them. A nice lot of stock was noted which for value, nowadays, will compare with gold in the bank. Implements are all of modern type and are well housed. Complete harvesters hare not been introduced at Spencer Fiat, Mr Tilly preferring to use the ordinary stripper and clean with a horsepower winnower one of which was noticed in his shed. In this way, Mr Tilly argues, the land is kept cleaner, the chaff is gathered and, in the long run, this method of harvesting will probably prove cheaper while at the same time he is inclined to the idea that, unless great precaution is taken with the later method grain is better stripped and cleaned in the ordinary way. From a limekiln volumes of smoke were issuing and it was learned that new buildings were in progress. The usual farm smithy is found at Spencer Flat and it was seen that Mr Tilly excels at the forge, the carpenter's bench or with the trowel. For many years he has been the leader of the Tipara Church choir the instrumental and vocal music being chiefly supplied by himself and family, He has recently secured a large tract of country in the Franklin Harbour district where prospects this year are reported to be particularly good. The departure of some members of his family to the opposite coast will mean a loss to this district.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 1 Dec 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

November 27. A warm week has had the effect of ripening of the crops. Oats are being reaped, and the harvester will be at work on a few wheat crops this week.

The steamer "Jessie Darling" called at this port last Monday and took away a cargo of wheat on account of Messrs John Darling and Son. This is the first freight carrying steamer to visit this port, and the sound of her fog horn, which was heard in the early morn for a distance of five miles, caused quite an interest. A number of residents visited the bay during her stay. A shooting party come off the steamer and satisfactory work was done. In addition to a useful bag of game a sturdy death adder fell a victim to the captain and engineer's rifles.

As Mr F. Ardee was returning from the port in the evening something started his young and skittish horse. It played up, broke a shaft, and the luckless agent had to walk home. The following day as Mrs and Miss Wakefield were driving out the swingletree bolt broke allowing the swing to strike the horse's heels. Fortunately the animal did not kick, but the ladies were compelled, to leave the trap and walk home.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 8 Dec 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 4. THE CROPS.—Several good crops of oats have been reaped and a few warm days last week so far ripened wheat crops as to allow a few farmers to start harvesting the golden grain. It has been noticed that a great many heads have dried off while the grain has not ripened. Farmers have been speculating as to the cause of this, and it has been variously attributed to frost, white ants, a small fly or worm at the root, salt or magnesia in the ground, or takeall. A farmer was found the other day, down on his knees in his field. It was feared that he had met with an accident, had been bitten by a snake, or had had a sunstroke. All anxiety, however, was removed when it was found that he was a firm believer in the germ at the root theory and with an old ploughshare was digging away at the roots of the crop with the object of making a minute examination and discovering the cause of the trouble. The results of his investigations have not yet been made public.

NEW WHEAT. — The first load of new wheat was delivered at the port on Friday by Mr A. Whitelaw, of Glengarry. It was of the King's Early variety, and was reaped from a field averaging 16 bushels per acre. The sample was good weighing 63 lbs to the bushel.

THE STEAMER. — Jessie Darling arrived last Tuesday and cleared up the balance of old wheat from the port. About fifty residents came down during the afternoon and a boat having been provided by Captain Ronald, the party went off to the steamer at the anchorage. The engines and everything of interest were inspected including a consignment of new wheat from Port Germein. After a brief stay on board the party again took to the boat and during the sail home, with a fresh southerly breeze blowing and spray flying, a number of the jovial company bad a good sprinkling of salt water. On reaching shore, tables were set and a good tea provided, in the disposal of which the proverbial burner could hardly have hoped to successfully compete against the returned voyagers. Before adjourning, Mr Jabez Tilly, on behalf of the company, thanked Captain Ronald for the pleasure he had afforded them. Mr J. J. Vanstone, agent for the owners of the steamer, thanked the visitors for their attendance, and remarked that the presence of the "Jessie Darling," which was the first freight-carrying steamer to visit the port would, he trusted, lead to the inauguration of regular steam communication with Balgowan and marked another step in the progress of the rising port.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 15 Dec 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 11. THE WEATHER continues cool and damp for this season of the year, with the result that crops are slow in ripening. Consequently farmers are delayed in getting on with harvesting work, although reaping should be fairly general this week.

A PHENOMENON.—The latest meteorological phenomenon experienced is a fall of honey dew last week. A misty fog prevailed during the early morning and it was discovered that the crops, etc, were coated with a sticky substance resembling honey. This adhered to the legs of animals giving them a curios appearance A damp wind still reveals its presence on the crops, and farmers reaping have had to scrape it from the combs of the harvesters. Some farmers say that the wheat appears to have been varnished.

NEW WHEAT—Some oats and a few loads of new wheat are arriving at the port.

NARROW ESCAPE.— Mr Spencer Tilly had a narrow escape last Saturday. A young horse he was working started kicking, and after a good deal of rough and tumble succeeded in breaking both shafts off the wagon. Mr Tilly, who was standing on the opposite side of the shafts, received a nasty kick on the leg, but being at some distance from the refractory animal, did not receive the full impact of the blow.

AROUND THE FARMS.

Fri 15 Dec 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Glengarry, situated about two miles north of Balgowan, is the residence of Mrs R. Whitelaw and her sons, Messrs Albert, Arthur and Gilbert Whitelaw. Standing on a picturesque rise overlooking the gulf it constitutes an ideal vantage ground for lovers of the sea. The phantom sails, catspaws, surging billows, the lights and shades on the face of the great deep, the shriek of the storm gull or piping of the red plover, the soft croon of the tide and thunder of the mighty waves breaking on the rocky coast all appeal to the sentiments of the occupants of Glengarry. Away to the northwest, standing sentinal like, the Tiparra lighthouse is visible, while nightly the gleam of its faithful light may be seen. Visitors to Glengarry are impressed with the general aspect of neatness about the homestead, Mrs Whitelaw is quite a horticultural enthusiast, and a glance at her flower plots is sufficient to show that in the attractive pastime of flower culture she is most successful. Around the house and garden the hardy tamarisk and the lovely bloom of the hibiscus may be seen. English and French honeysuckle, the innocent jessamine, snowwhite and purple lilac, iris, Iaburium, roses, lilies, sweet williams, hyacinths, carnations, cornflowers, antirrhinums, scented verbena, the stately foxglove, &c„ contribute to the wealth of beauty and perfume. No fewer than twenty-four kinds of phlox were counted and pansies of almost every shade made a splendid display of color. Ferns, fuschias, aspidistras, coIous, &c„ occupied the summer house. As an exhibitor at the Peninsula shows Mrs Whitelaw has secured many prizes. On the land, which slopes off towards the sea some fine fields of wheat may be seen. In one of these a couple of harvesters are at work, and already several loads of new wheat have been carted to the adjacent port of Balgowan, these being the first deliveries at the bay this season. Nice crops of oats and barley have just been harvested. Among the horses are those eminently suited for heavy carting on the roads are well known for good wagon work. Being close to the sea the Messrs Whitelaw to some extent adopt fishing as a pastime. One method employed is to provide a bright light at night. The fish apparently out of curiosity are attracted to this and readily fall victims to the small net or spear. In this way some nice hauls have been secured. After tea a game of "crib" proved most interesting, Mrs Whitelaw fully maintaining her reputation as an exponent of the popular game.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 22 Dec 1905, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 18. REAPING is now the order of the day and crops are averaging from three to six bags per acre. Wheat is coming into the port daily. Samples are fairly good although the effects of one or two bad days last month are in some cases detected. A bag delivered by Mr W, Kanaley to-day weighed 364 lbs. The Lurline called on Wednesday and took a consignment of oats.

SNAKES have proved plentiful in the port this season. A large one took shelter in one of the wheat stacks the other day and defied all efforts to dislodge it. At last a fowling piece was brought and the unerring marksman succeeded in shooting the reptile, the charge cutting it clean in two. A short piece of the tail (about four feet in length) was captured and killed, but the head part has not been seen since. Residents are anxious to discover and kill this also before it develops a new tail pieces the loss of which they feel sure, must, to some extent, interfere with its movements. Another snake was found the other day in one of the lumpers' beds. The lumper, who happened to be one of the particular sort as to who he had for a bedmate, asserted his claim to the bed and for a few minutes that apartment was one of the liveliest in the port. When the dust and the melee had subsided it was found that the guile and venom of man's ancient enemy was no match for the dexterity and strength of its brawny opponent. The following night one of the men was awakened from his innocent sleep by a suspicious, rustling sound in the room. He lay quite still and in terror, well knowing that a large piece of snake was at that moment in the port not killed. The rustling sound drew nearer and he was certain he felt a movement on the bedclothes. He saw a small evil looking pair of eyes shining like stars and was out of bed with a bound. On striking a light he discovered a small, halfstarved camp kitten patrolling his bed. Along the highways there has been a heavy mortality among these reptiles and their graceful forms may be seen dangling from many a wire fence or lying bleaching by the wayside. A very large and deadly tiger snake was killed on the Balgowan road the other day by Mr W. Kanaley.

AROUND THE FARMS.

Fri 5 Jan 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Within half a mile of the North Kilkerran public school we arrived at Bellevue. which is the residence of Mrs R. Bell and her family, and where, under the supervision of Miss Bell, the local post office is kept. Here, three times a week residents meet, tell the latest snake stories and discuss current topics while they await the arrival of the veteran postman, Mr Langsford. On the farm some splendid crops have been grown during recent years and those now being harvested are quite up to the average. A crop of Marshall's and one of the Comeback variety are extremely tall and promise good returns. Some heavy crops of oats have been cut for hay or harvested and one of barley produced a splendid sample. New sheds have been erected and a chaff-cutting plant bat recently been installed. Sheep are kept on the farm, which not only provide a direct source of revenue but at the same time feed off fallow land in such a way as to greatly assist cultivation. In addition to the usual sturdy type of horses generally found on a farm, the Messrs Bell have some excellent light stock. One now being broken in by Mr Geo. Bell is quite a model and would be no disgrace to any show ring. Poultry are much in evidence at Bellevue; in fact each member of the family having a separate colony of fowls has brought about quite an egg-laying competition on the farm The first pen inspected was one under the management of Miss Florrie Bell, and these which were a good laying strain, had suffered ranch from the 'ravages of hawks. Another pen under the supervision of Mr R. Bell contains some imported strains and includes some fine specimens of the Gold and Silver Wyandotte as well as Buff and Brown Leghorns, As a poultry exhibitor at the' country shows Mrs Bell has been most successful. Miss Alice Bell drew the attention of the visitors to a beautiful pen of ducks, chiefly Indian Runners, and mentioned that these ducks were even more profitable than fowls. Her Buff Orpington ducks were much admired. The flower garden was inspected and the wealth of roses would appeal to anyone with the slightest sense of beauty. The carob tree thrives at the homestead and the dark-leaved olives look extremely healthy. Mrs Bell, who is au old resident and for whom much sympathy was felt, has recently passed through a very severe illness, and the anxiety of her fi lends has only lately been removed by a wonderful and rapid recovery.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 5 Jan 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 26. XMAS DAY found a large influx of visitors to this port. All the important people of the district were present, excepting those who had duties elsewhere. Those of active temperament played games on the sandy beach, while those of a more passive turn of mind, sitting on the mossy rocks, studied the placid face Old Neptune as he appeared on a hot summer day. A small contingent plied hook and line from the old jetty and one ardent disciple of piscatorial Isaak Walton actually caught himself. A puff of wind carried a gentleman's hat into the water and in trying to catch it with his book as it gracefully floated away the angler got the hook into his own finger. It refused to be taken out until a gentleman, who had possibly had some instruction in first aid to the wounded, succeeded in extricating the hook from the injured finger. A splendid spread of Xmas dainties having had proper attention from the combined parties the company disbanded, and the drive home in the cool of the evening was much, enjoyed.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 12 Jan 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

January 8. REAPING is drawing to a close and crops have exceeded expectations, self-sown fields having returned up to three bags per acre. Grain will now be delivered pretty freely at the bay, where some nice stacks may already be seen.

THE HEAT has been excessive during the holidays. Peaceful, lawabiding people have had to leave their apartments at night and try to sleep in the open air. With the thermometer obstinately standing at 115 in a well-ventilated room, and flies registering at least 999 around every honest citizen, residents of some of the inland towns made their way to the seaport where they could enjoy to the full the shade of the pier and the cool, soft breezes which came off the sea. Another company met at the Rocks, a few miles above the port, and here rollicking games, wrestling contests and seaweed encounters constituted the holiday programme.

AN incident is reported which should prove most interesting to students of natural history, more particularly as the details are absolutely authentic, which, unfortunately in these days of modern snake stories is not always the case. A couple of gentlemen driving out on New Year's morning noticed something peculiar in a bush by the roadside. A halt was made and a large snake was found some three feet from the ground engaged in a deadly contest with a jew lizard which evidently had the worst of the tussle. With the snake tightly coiled around its body and with a firm grip of its teeth in the lizard's nose the latter was suffering badly. Just as it was on the point of throwing up the sponge a large stone was thrown at the combatants and a great scrimmage began. Stone and sticks were flying in all directions and the snake, resenting outside interference and no doubt feeling chagrined at the prospect of being deprived of his lawful prey, darted from one bush to another and was seen two or three times to spring some three feet from the ground. The utmost agility was required on the part of the gentlemen to avoid the onslaughts of the furious reptile and one or two narrow escapes were experienced. At last one of the flying missiles gave him his quietus, much to the relief of his assailants, who were well night exhausted. The gentleman passed on to witness the carrying out of a good programme of sports at a neighbouring port but saw no movements there which for rapidity of execution could compare with those of their own when in pursuit of the lizard killing snake.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 2 Feb 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

January 29. The King's accession day brought a number of visitors to the port. The usual picnic pastimes were indulged in and a pleasant day was spent. The pressure of work in the wheat yards would not permit of a holiday being kept by the unfortunate agents who very keenly felt the fact that at the wheat scales they were totally unable to adequately show to the world their loyalty to the king.

Harvest thanksgiving services in connection with the Tiparra church were held yesterday. The Rev. T. S. Williams preached twice to large congregations. The church was very nicely decorated, and special music was rendered by the choir, Miss Tilly presiding at the organ.

The departing days of summer seem to have brought out the snakes for their final flutter, and some sensational experiences are recorded. A few days ago a well known local lady with a young lady from town were driving out. On passing a haystack an immense snake was observed coiled up and ready to assume the defensive. There was no fainting or screaming, but with great pluck and presence of mind the local lady sprang from the trap leaving the spirited horses in charge of her town friend. Seizing a stout stick a great tussle ensued. The monster reared up, showed his teeth, darted forward and back until, finding the position getting too hot for him, he took to his heels and making for the haystack proceeded to get under it. Only a few feet of his tail was now visible but the lady never hesitated. With the same true Australian courage which made heroes of our bushmen in South Africa, she threw down the stick and grasped the reptile's tail. Only four or five feet were how showing and a real tug of war commenced. The monster felt himself steadied, and wriggled and twisted but of no avail. At last the tail, could no longer stand the strain and broke off with a snap. It is to be regretted that the plucky lady was not even more successful but she and her fair city friend had the satisfaction of knowing that if they did not actually get the snake they were in possession of a few feet of the reptile's tail. The snake itself has not been seen since. Had it been of stronger variety and more calculated to stand the strain no doubt it would have been withdrawn from the haystack and destroyed. Several snake stories are in circulation but will not be reported until your correspondent is perfectly satisfied as to their genuineness. Reaping is now finished and crops have exceeded expectations. Wheat carting, which has been brisk, is now easing off. Manure for next season's crops are arriving in the district.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 16 Feb 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

February 12. The past week has been very hot, and in consequence of the long spell of dry weather tanks and dams are getting low and roads are getting cut up and dusty.

From early morn till late at night the little busy fly keeps on improving each shining hour, but not each shining eye, for these, unfortunately, are frequently found to be badly bunged. Even strong, able-bodied men cannot seem to resist their venomous attacks.

Snakes are very plentiful. The other day when carting straw a wellknown farmer inadvertently put a large one on the load. The young fellow on the load had a great scare as his snakeship darted hither and thither. At last the snake buried itself in the straw until when taking off the load the farmer caught sight of its tail and instantly grasped it. Summoning all the farm hands to his assistance he put on a steady strain. The snake, with his head far down in the straw, clung tenaciously until pierced several times by pitchforks. He was finally dispatched and proved to be of immense size, The same day a farmer, was seen with a rod and line fishing front a large tank. At first it appeared as if he had gone in for fish acclimatisation and was anxious to secure one or two for tea just as the writer approached up came the rod with an enormous snake noosed around the body.

The mosquito pest has become very severe. Residents, after vainly trying eucalyptus etc, have now adopted the practice of sleeping with bags, sacks, etc, on their hands so as to repel the attacks if these serenading insects.

Farmers are making preparation for seeding, and with this in view have already burnt off some paddocks in readiness for the plough. An inch of rain would be welcome just now. A picnic was held at this port on Tuesday last. In consequence of the extreme heat the pleasure seekers did not arrive till evening. Visitors were present from Floradora Cottage, Spencer's Flat, Lynwood, Bellvue, Glengrove, Gortmore, and Gowrie, and a most enjoyable time was spent. A jetty truck was utilised as a table, and after proper attention had been given to the wants of the inner man, moonlight games were played during the evening on the sandy beach.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 23 Mar 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

March 19. THE FAEMER.—Preparations are being made for seeding, and 4 few drills are already at work in the district. Water supplies are running short and a good rain is anxiously looked for. A few residents have visited the Port Lincoln district with a view to inspecting the land. They report having seen some splendid country, but prices for land, they say, are getting somewhat, high.

FIRE.—A cricket match, Kilkerran v Mission Station, was arranged for St Patrick's Day, but a fire breaking out in the neighborhood the knights of the willow were detained fighting the flames. A large number of willing workers assembled and so far succeeded in keeping the fire within bounds that little damage was done.

SHIPPING at the port has hardly commenced yet, but one or two steamers are now due for wheat, About 36,000 bags await shipment.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 30 Mar 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

March 26. RAIN set in last Friday evening and a splendid fall has resulted. The gauge registered 1.60 inches, and the weather still seems unsettled. Tanks and dams are well replenished and water carting, which was proceeding, is now, a thing of the past. Farmers are delighted with the opening of the season as weeds will now start on the fallow land and early feed is practically assured.

SHIPPING promises to be brisk in a few days, one or two large consignments of phosphates being now on route for this port. The Albatross is at anchor in the bay awaiting a cargo of wheat on account of Messrs W, B. Gave & Co-, and other vessels are due to load for the same firm.

FOXES.—Residents are again experiencing considerable anxiety through the sudden appearance of foxes, which promise to give trouble again this season. One or two of these destructive animals have been seen in the jungle west of Floradora Cottage but have so far evaded capture. Farmers and poultry raisers are anxious to at least keep the nuisance within reasonable bounds, and notwithstanding the busy season of the year are contemplating organised action against them in the shape of a hunt similar to the one conducted last winter.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 6 Apr 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

April 2. Splendid weather has followed the recent fine rains and already the country is presenting a green tint. Cultivators are at work on the fallow land preparatory to drilling wheat.

A beautiful meteor, was seen on Friday evening. It was travelling in a northwesterly direction and the illumination was splendid.

A social given by old scholars' was tendered Mr and Mrs Wood,in the schoolhouse last Saturday evening when several old pupils spoke in eulogistic terms of their teacher, who, after twenty five years of service in the North Kilkerran school, had retired, closing his school the previous evening. The opportunity was taken to present Mr Wood with a silver tea and coffee service, suitably inscribed. Mr Wood, in a neat speech, gracefully acknowledged the mark of esteem shown by his old scholars.

The following original lines were handed to Mr C. W. Wood on the expiration of his term of twenty-five years of service in connection with the North Kilkerran school :—

My schoolhouse doors I close to-night, my long day's work is done ;

My classes are disbanded and my boys and girls are gone ;

And as I sit and meditate, in fancy, I review

The long line of old scholars, the gentle, kind and true.

Some grown to sturdy manhood, some queens in homely life ;

The husband and the father, the mother and the wife ;

My pupils once, but scattered now through all the country 'round,—

In all the Commonwealth's broad states my scholars old are found,

And some dear ones who took their part in lessons and in play

Have gone from desk and playground here to classes far away;

Their voices sweet we hear no more, nor see their face's fair,

The tasks, and games of life are lost in nobler pastimes there.

In search of undiscovered lands the sailor tracks the deep ;

The scientist new forces find oftimes when others sleep;

The soldier gains his victories through ruin, sword and flame,

And through destruction, grim, he gains the pedestal of fame.

But in the class the teacher gains a conquest greater far

Than e'er achieved on battlefield, 'neath I fortune's fickle star;

In realms of intellect he works, the young mind to explore,

And helpful knowledge to import from wisdom's precious store.

Now boys and girls, my school I close and I must say, adieu!

I'll ne'er forget the five and twenty years I've spent with you ;

The seed I long been sowing all through my busy day

Will still continue growing, even when I've passed away '

BALGOWAN.

Fri 20 Apr 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

April 17. EASTER Monday was beautifully fine. A number of pleasure seekers visited the favorite port, but the chief rendezvous was the scene of proceedings in connection with the anniversary of the Tiparra West Sunday School. On Sunday the pastor (Rev T. S. Williams) conducted two services when interesting addresses were delivered. These were much appreciated by the large congregations which attended each service. The church, decorated with beautiful cosmos, roses, etc, looked very attractive. Special singing was given by scholars and friends, while violin accompaniments by the Misses Heinrich (2) were greatly appreciated. Solos were nicely given by Misses Kuss and Essie Heinrich. Mr John Tilly acted as conductor and Miss Tilly as organise. The tea on Monday was a great success. The public meeting was presided over by Mr H Carmichael, while addresses were given by Mr T. B. Wicks and the Rev T. S. Williams. A pleasing report of the year's work was given. The proceeds of the fixture were extremely satisfactory.

FARMERS are awaiting rain and do not seem inclined to push seeding until a further fall comes. Vegetation started by the early rain is now suffering somewhat through lack of sufficient moisture but with falling barometers and a threatening sky farmers are hopeful of another good down pour.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 18 May 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

May 14. THE WEATHER has been more favorable for seeding during the last few days some nice showers having fallen. Drilling is being proceeded with but would receive fresh impetus from a good fall of rain. Grass has been suffering through lack of moisture.

SHIPPING.—The bay is very busy just now. A fleet of five craft are lightering wheat on account of Messrs Jas Bell & Co and the Farmers' Union, the former having the Vigo and the latter the Sierra Cadena loading at the anchorage. At present the Lurline, Stormbird and Wellington are lying in the bay. The former, which is the first craft in our coastal service to use motor power for hoisting purposes is whipping up wheat by means of an electric engine and Captain Littley is greatly pleased with the result which is both expeditions and economical.

WHEN fox hunting among the sandhills a few miles below this port the other day, a gentleman, who represents a well-known city firm, discovered a very large death adder. A shot in the bead from the sportsman's rifle put the quietus on the reptile. The gentleman, who has some knowledge of taxidermy, pronounces the adder, which is two feet in length, splendid specimen, and is taking steps to have it properly stuffed. The skin still retains the deadly sting but this the gentleman intends to treat with chemicals so as to destroy the poison. The specimen will doubtless be a valuable addition to his collection of natural curiosities.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 1 Jun 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

May 28. THE SEASON.—Splendid showers have fallen during the last day or two and have given a new incentive to seeding operations, which were progressing in a leisurely manner on account of the recent dry weather. To-day is quite a wet day, but baromoters are rising. Drilling will practically finish by the end of this week. Feed is fairly plentiful and stock are in good condition. Lambs are much in evidence and a good percentage is reported.

SHIPPING.— is proceeding vigourously at the port. A flotilla of crafts are engaged lightering wheat to the various oversea ships now lying at the anchorage and it is expected that one of the number the Vigo will complete loading by the end of the week. The large three masted schooner Maclntyre anchored in the bay last week and took in a full cargo of wheat. As many as eight crafts have recently been seen at once in and around the bay. The rolling stock and teams are fully occupied. Over thirty men are employed at the port. Arrangements have now been made for the erection of a new jetty in the bay and work on the new structure will probably be started within a few months time. The old jetty proves altogether inadequate for the growing trade of the port.

ACCIDENT. — A serious accident happened to Captain Atkin of the ketch Capella, last Thursday, when he fell down the hold of his vessel and sustained some severe injuries about the head. Dr Nicholls, of Maitland, was telephoned for and advised the patient's removal to the Wallaroo Hospital. Latest reports are to the effect that the unfortunate captain is progressing favorably. It, appears that the crew were getting ready to start loading, and the captain was handing a rope down the hold, when a bag of wheat, which was being twisted, swung over the rail, and, striking Captain Atkin on the back, caused him to fall down the hold.

SOCIAL.—A good number of friends visited "Witto" last Tuesday evening and tendered Mr J. Allen a surprise social in honor of his birthday. Mr and Mrs Allen, who were genuinely surprised, gave the unexpected visitors a hearty welcome. A most enjoyable evening was spent.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 15 Jun 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

June 11. THE SEASON.—The recent rains have greatly improved the appearance of the country. With the increased moisture and the absence of frost, crops are making good headway. Farmers, as a rule, have finished seeding. The area under crop this season is quite up to the average.

WEATHER.—was extremely boisterous last week and on Wednesday night we had the highest tide known for many years. The old jetty was almost submerged and a cargo boat from the ketch Wellington broke its painter and, drifting ashore, became a total wreck, A couple of other boats in the vicinity were swamped.

SHIPPING.—is still proceeding and some of the wheat stacks are now reaching vanishing point. The ship Vigo has completed loading and the Sierra Cadena should finish in a few days time. An other large ship, the Camersdoon arrived at the anchorage last Friday and is to load wheat on account of Messrs John Darling & Son. The steamer Jessie Darling is now lightering wheat to her from Port Victoria and she is to complete from this port.

A SURPRISE SOCIAL.—was tendered Mrs E. Gregory, at Rock Villa, on the occasion of her birthday, last Friday evening, visitors from Woodburlie, Spencer's Flat, Floradora Cottage, Lynwood, Gracefield. Prospect Rise and Fairview were present and a nice evening was spent.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 22 Jun 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

June 18. RAIN.—A steady, soaking rain fell on Saturday night and has much benefited crops, which are growing rapidly. A good quantity of water was caught in tanks and dams.

SHIPPING is quieter at the bay. The balance of one large stack was cleared up on Saturday when the Stormbird sailed with a cargo of wheat for Port Adelaide. The steamer Jessie Darling arrived on Friday morning and anchored in the bay. The wind, which was rising, blew a gale during the afternoon, and on the steamer dragging her anchors the captain hove anchors and headed for sea. The steamer, having no stiffening and being high out of water, refused to answer the helm and the wind catching her bow carried her on to the reef about a quarter of a mile north-west of the old jetty. Efforts were made by means of kedges, &c, to get the steamer off but these proved unavailing. Early next morning the tug Euro, from Port Pirie, was in attendance and without difficulty succeeded in getting the steamer off the reef. The Euro with the Jessie Darling in tow left for Port Adelaide on Saturday morning. The stranded steamer sustained some damage to her propeller and will probably be put on the slip for repairs. The prompt arrival of the Euro and her early departure with the Jessie Darling is regarded as an admirable piece of work seeing that the well-known steamer had only been aground about twenty hours.

THE FOX nuisance has again been giving some trouble. One or two have recently been seen by a gentleman near The Springs, and had it not beea for the numerous wire fences he would certainly have given reynard a run, for in addition to the possession of sporting instincts the gentleman was well mounted. Foxes have also been seen in the sandhills south of this port and a certain restless uneasiness among poultry at night forced a conviction on the minds of residents that this pest is still around the roosts on their errands of destruction. Farmers getting up at dead of night and sallying forth in their pyjamas have seen creatures sneak away from their homesteads, but somehow could never go near enough in the dim light to make sure work of the troublesome animals. To find that foxes still exist in the district is certainly a source of disappointment to residents for it is claimed that no district has tried harder than this to keep the pest within bounds. It was at first thought to bring the matter before the Federal Parliament, but a big hunt was finally decided on, and last Saturday morning there was a clatter of hoops and a baying of dogs as the huntsmen met on the borders of the Woodburhe forest. In addition to a number of good sportsman there was present a gentleman, who has had considerable experience in fox hunting in the Burra district and who had received several orders for fox skin rugs. The tactics were perfect and during the morning hunt a great number of wallabies, rabbits, wild cats, &c, fell victims to the sportsmen's guns. After a well-earned lunch the party proceeded to investigate the jungle in the sandhills north of this port. The strategy was on the lines of the Zulu campaign. Several lairs were surprised, while enveloping movements, ambuscades and outpost encounters proved very effective. Most of the party secured honors but it might be mentioned that although very suspicious tracks were seen in the forest and jungle no fox was actually captured. Some sympathy is felt for the expert hunter who consequently cannot execute his orders for fox skin rugs just yet.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 20 Jul 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

July 16. THE SEASON—The past week was marked by warm days and dry north winds, but splendid showery weather has prevailed during the last few days. This has greatly improved the crops and the country now presents a promising appearance. Fallowing is now in full swing and a good quantity of land will be turned ever this season.

NEW BUILDINGS—Several new buildings are about to be erected and there is a big demand for tradesmen in this line.

SHIPPING has been brisk during the past week. The Hawthorn landed a quantity of general cargo and the Lurline discharged several consignments of building material. The Wellington and Stormbird each took full cargoes of wheat on account of J. Bell &c Co, and the Lurline is under orders to load grain for Messrs W. K. Cave & Co.

NEW JETTY—The long-talked-of jetty is now practically in sight, for tenders are to be called for tbe erection of tbe structure forthwith.

A FINE FOX — was recently trapped near Witto and his friends have again been seen in the same locality Gentlemen from England declare that they have never seen a finer specimen in the old country. The skin is in the possession of Mr George Miller. A gentleman who has just arrived from The Springs report having seen a fox in the entrance of a large burrow last Saturday. The fox's movements were too quick to allow the gentleman to get a fair view of the animal but the lithe appearance and bushy tail left no doubt in the gentleman's mind as to the identity of Reynard.

July 17. A STORM—A terrific wind blew last night. The crafts Stormbird and Lurliue, lying in the bay, dragged their anchors some distance and preparations were about to be made on board for beaching the crafts when the storm abated. Timber, etc, were washed away and at the Port galvanised iron was flying in all directions. Further fine showers have fallen and the weather is still wintry.

FALL OVER A CLIFF.

Thur 26 Jul 1906, The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922) Trove

MAITLAND, July 23—A young man, Arthur Whitelaw, met with a serious accident at Balgowan to-day. He fell over the cliff at one of the schutes where wheat is loaded into boats, breaking both his wrists, fracturing two or three ribs, and receiving injuries to the head. Dr. Nicholls was soon in attendance. Whitelaw had a narrow escape from death.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 27 Jul 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

July 23 THE WEATHER. — Soaking rains have fallen during the past week while the winds have been phenomenal. Trees have been uprooted and the tops blown off haystacks and strawstacks. The local office of a wellknown firm of merchants caught the wind very severely. The office is a wooden structure and was blown considerably out of perpendicular. On account of the high winds shipping has been generally delayed. On account of the incessant rains roads are again in a liquid state. The sound of the motor is now unheard and there has a great falling off in the trying visitations of travelling agents, the heavy weather having forced them back on to the main lines. On this account farmers say that the bad state of the roads is by no means an unmitigated evil and that it really seems as if the good old days have returned.

ACCIDENT. — A painful accident happened to Mr A. Whitelaw this morning. He was engaged with others in shipping wheat, when, by some means he overbalanced and fell off the schute. Mr Whitelaw was badly shaken and Dr Nicholls, of Maitland, was sent for.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 3 Aug 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

July 30. After another boisterous week we are experiencing milder weather and crops responding to the recent supplies of moisture and the warmer atmosphere now prevailing. So far no frost has appeared and the growth of vegetation is equal to that, of last year although the season is somewhat later. Up to the present the rainfall for this month has registered 2.75 in. and the ground is in splendid condition for following.

Mr A. Whitelaw, who met with an accident last week through falling from a schute, is progressing favorably, although both wrists are broken. Dr Nicholls, who is attending the suffered, is satisfied that there are no serious internal injuries.

A number of respectable citizens have, during the past week, "gone to the dogs" ' having been attracted by the meeting of the Central Y. P. Coursing Club at Maitland. Enthusisiam in this direction is now running strong ; so much so that early hours, chilling mornings, cutting -winds and driving showers have proved to be no deterrent to the following of the now favorite pastime. Just at present, to correctly maintain one's status as a sportsman, it is absolutely necessary to be the bonafide proprietor of at least one swift dog, and the man who has no good dog is practically ''out of the running."

BALGOWAN.

Fri 7 Sep 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

September 3. THE WEATHER: — Mild weather with soaking rain interspersed with showers of hail prevailed during the past week The air was intensely cold and snow is reported to have been seen by a well-known lady near Maitland. The ground is thoroughly soaked and crops are showing the effects of the cold and continued wet weather. The average of really fine days is not much more than one per week, and the ideas of those who forecasted a dry season are completely upset. Feed is abundant and shearing will probably commence this week at Groseville.

A CONCERT was held at the Tiparra Church on Tuesday evening. Notwithstanding the bad weather there was a very good attendance. A couple of glees were rendered by a detachment of the Mainland Congregational Choir. Miss Clegg contributed a solo and Mr A. L. Foord, (leader of the choir) gave a couple of songs. A violin selection was nicely given by the Misses Heinrich (2) and a reading by the chairman (Rev T. S. Williams) was well received. Mr C. A. Brown, of Groseville, gave some capital phonograph selections and reference was made by the chairman to the very excellent quality of the instrument, the power and enunciation of which were unusually good. The accompanists were the Misses Kuss and Williams. Considering the unpropitious weather Mr Foord is to be congratulated on the spirit shown in bringing the members of this choir out, as well as on the efficiency attained.

CRICKET.—A cricket match was played by the local team against the Mission Station on the grounds of the latter on Saturday. The game resulted, in a draw with 317 runs to the credit of the Station team and 134 for five wickets to the Kilkerran eleven. In spite of the showers during the day several visitors assembled to watch the game. This is the third match played between these teams this season and the position now is two drawn games and one win for Kilkerran.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 21 Sep 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

September 17. THE WEATHER has been warmer during the past week and vegetation has responded by making splendid growth. A few crops are coming into ear but on the whole the season will apparently be rather later than usual. Shearing has commenced at several sheds and the clip is quite up to the average.

THE SHOW. — Visitors to the Adelaide Show are returning and express themselves as well satisfied with the indications afforded there of the prosperity of the State.

SHIPPING.—The steamer Jessie Darling sailed last week with a full cargo of wheat and oats on account of Messrs Jno Darling & Son. The wheat was for transhipment into a large steamer carrying 50,000 bags, and which was chartered for South African ports.

PICNIC.—The first picnic in connection with the Tiparra school was held on Friday. After games the youngsters were regaled with sweets and tea. Cheers were given for the parents, the teacher (Miss Starrs) and the King. In the evening a programme of parlour games, music, etc, was submitted and thoroughly enjoyed by all present. Mr C. A. Brown, of Groseville, rendered much assistance with his phonograph.

CRICKET. — A match, Kilkerran and Urania was played on the local grounds last Saturday. The day was superb and among the company who assembled to watch the game were noticed visitors from Lynwood, Spencer's Flat, Bock Villa and Belleue. The home team first took charge of the batting and at the fall of the last wicket 217 runs stood to their credit. The principal scorers in compiling this fine score were J. Moody 78, B, L. Gregory 48, F. Oakley 33, and O. Moody 25. For the visitors, who made 72 runs, Sanders contributed 23 and D. Sanders 16.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 12 Oct 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 6. THE SEASON continues splendid for crops, &c., rain falling at regular intervals. Crops show the presence of more foreign growths than last year, which fact is attributed to the somewhat dry seeding. Unusually good feed is noticeable in all parts of the district. Shearing is now in full swing, although the moisture has interfered with its progress.

BUILDING.— A considerable amount of building is noticeable in the district. Artisans in this line are in great demand.

ANNIVERSARY.—The anniversary of the Tiparra West Church was held last Sunday, the services being conducted by the Rev R. Jones, of Wallaroo. The capacity of the church proved altogether insufficient for the congregation which assembled, and the lecture-room had to be utilised by those unable to secure seats in the main building. A tea was held on Monday, after which Mr Jones delivered a lecture on " Geo. Whitfield." The Rev T. S. Williams occupied the chair. Special singing was provided by the choir and friends, with Mr John Tilly as conductor, and Miss Tilly as organist. The Misses Heinrich (2), with their violins, assisted with the accompaniments.

A PICNIC AND SPORTS.— in connection with the South Kilkerran German School was held in Mr Hasting's paddock on Wednesday The grounds are nicely sheltered and well suited for picnicing, &c., notwithstanding the equinoctial disturbances, the reputation of this annual fixture attracted a good number of visitors. In addition to the programme of sports, games were indulged in until rain set in and put a damper on the proceedings.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 26 Oct 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 22. WARM WEATHER.—The advent of summer weather has made itself felt in a very decided manner. The last few days have produced a rise in the thermometer and the sudden heat is already bringing crops into ear and turning off the grass. Haymaking has already started at Groseville, and the crop will go between two and three tons per acre. Binders generally will be at work in a week or ten days' time.

A PICNIC in connection with the Lutheran school at St Paul's Church, South Kilkerran was held last Tuesday. The day was perfect and a good number of parents and friends were present. Sports and games were the order of the day and the picnicers, in holiday costume, enjoying themselves on the green sward, beneath the waving flag of the Commonwealth, produced a scene both suggestive and picturesque. The work of the scholars, who number about thirty, was much admired and reflects credit on the teacher, Mr Oster. Tea was provided in the school room and competition was keen in all classes.

CRICKET.—The local eleven journeyed to South Kilkerran on Saturday and tried conclusions with the newly-formed club there. This was the first match played on the South Kilkerran grounds, and it resulted in a win for the visitors whose innings totalled 103 runs, while the new club, in two innings, compiled 85 runs. The new pitch proved very erratic and precluded the possibility of anything like high scoring. For the old team the principal scorers were :—H. Ormsby 24; E. A. Gregory 23; B L. Gregory 21. The bowling of F. Oakley and B. L. Gregory proved very destructive, the latter performing the hat trick. For the new team W. Edwards with 20 not out, was the only one who got into double figures and in company with S. Edwards did the principal bowling.

SNAKES.—The hot weather has brought out a number of these reptiles and it is to be regretted that snake yarns which could have no place in George Washington's catalogue are already in circulation, and, for this reason, could not possibly appear in these columns. All doubtful yarns are rigidly excluded from this page. A farmer, walking round his fields a few Sundays ago, encountered no less than seven large snakes and was fortunate in dispatching all of them .Another gentleman, crossing a field a few days ago, saw two immense reptiles basking in the sun near some old wombat holes. He made an onslaught on them killing one but the other attempted to escape into a hole. The gentleman grasped it by the tail and putting on a severe strain succeeded in withdrawing one half of the snake while the other half escaped. While this feat was in progress two other monsters were noticed slipping into a hole near at hand.

AN ACCIDENT which might have terminated seriously happened the other evening. A well-known gentleman, driving home in the cool of the evening was calmly smoking his pipe and admiring the splendour of Venus, when one of the traces came unfastened, the horse swerved short and the trap, which was a hooded one, turned right over, making a circuit and lighting again on the wheels. Of course during this evolution the astronomical gentleman, who is of aldermanic proportions, discontinued the study of celestial objects and ungracefully falling to the ground is nevertheless reported to have seen " stars " which were doubtless of mundane origin. Excepting a shaking the gentleman got off unhurt although the hood of the trap was broken beyond repair. The horse getting clear of the vehicle was found awaiting admission at the farm gate next morning.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 2 Nov 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 29. THE WEATHER—Saturday was a very bad day on crops, a strong north wind blowing all day. Some rain fell during last night which has greatly refreshed vegetation and the weather is now cooler.

A TENNIS CLUB— has been formed with a large membership. At the initial meeting held at the Kilkerran school on Friday it was decided that the club should be called the Albert Au Fait Club, and that the colors, in keeping with the royal name of the club, should be scarlet. Mr Dawson was appointed president, Mrs Wood and Mr F. Oakley vice-president, Miss Murdock secretary, and Miss Heinrich treasurer. A court is to be prepared forthwith.

CRICKET—A match was played by the local team against the Urania eleven on the grounds of the latter on Saturday. Winning the toss the Urania captain sent the visitors to the wickets and during the innings 201 runs were made. The Urania team was dismissed for 54 runs. For the visitors, captain J. Windebank played a capital game contributing 75 runs, the other principal scorers being F. Oakley 89, J. Moody 35 and A. Moody 23. In bowling E. A. Gregory captured 5 wickets and J. Moody 4. Of four matches played against Urania this season, two were drawn and the ether two were won by the Kilkerran eleven. As usual the luncheon tables in the Institute hall disclosed a splendid spread.

AROUND THE FARMS.

Fri 2 Nov 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

Travellers on the main road from Balgowan to Maitland cannot fail to notice the picturesque appearance of Grove Park, which is the residence Mr A. H. Heinrich. This is situated about four miles from Maitland and the farm comprises some of the most fertile land in that much favored locality. From this point; a very fine view presents itself, land and seascape being visible almost as far as the eye can reach. Mr Heinrich, who bears the name of a family for many years well known on the Peninsula, is one of the shrewd, energetic men who, under conditions adverse or otherwise, have made their way in the world. Since the advent of the seed drill some of the finest crops in the district have been grown on the farm, and at present the strong healthy crops, some just bursting into ear, present a beautiful picture giving promise of excellent returns. Side by side in the fields we noticed crops of the varieties known as Marshall's, Silver King, Comeback and Gamma, and t it was ascertained that for the first two varieties mentioned, viz Marshall's and Silver King, Mr Heinrich has a special fancy, these having hitherto given exceptionally good results The land under crop has been fallowed and well worked. All seed is put through a blower cleverly improvised from an old winnower. The visitors saw this in action and it was observed that the strong blast of the blower effectually took out all small or light grains while the motive power required is very moderate. A visit to the stables disclosed a capital type of horses the waggon teams comparing favorably with anything on the roads. Sheep play a prominent part on the farm considerable attention being given to breeding a uniform class of Merino. The improvements about the farm have been made with a special view to durability and the Grove Park fences made with large, split gum and iron posts with six wires, including two of barbed design, are much admired for their stability and appearance. Plenty of shed accommodation has been provided for implements and vehicles and the well-preserved appearance of these plainly show the value of good housing. Ample water conservation has been made, a windmill with elevated tank being provided and from the latter water is laid on where required about the garden and stables. Around the homestead nature has been induced to co-operate with the artisan in beautifying the surroundings. The house, which is one of the most up-to-date in the district, both in architecture and convenience, is nicely surrounded with gum trees which, although comparatively young, are making splendid growth. Mr Heinrich in a great believer in tree culture and incidentally mentioned that his trees are all raised from his own seed and the seedlings thus produced, he finds, start better than anything obtained from outside nurseries. The gardens are giving ample evidence of the favorable season some enormous cabbages being noticed in the vegetable section. Shrubs and flowers are extremely bright and healthy while in the fernhouses there are specimens which eclipse anything of their kind hitherto seen by the writer in these districts. Hymen's altar and court frequently receive their choice decorations from the Grove Park conservatory. A useful object lesson is certainly afforded visitors calling on the genial owner of Grove Park.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 16 Nov 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

November 12. HAYMAKING IS now in full swing and, a good deal of carting has been done. The abundance of feed now drying off constitutes a source of danger if fires should break out in the district. Some farmers have taken the precaution to prepare fire breaks in suitable places by means of the plough, and have burnt the grass around their homesteads.

BUSINESS is quiet at the port. One stack of wheat still remains to be shipped, and this will probably be worked on within the next three week's time.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 14 Dec 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 10. WEATHER and CROPS—The heat during the past week has been excessive. This sudden rise in temperature after the cool, damp weather experienced for some time has been keenly felt by residents of the district. Crops hare ripened off quickly and harvesting is now in full swing.

NEW WHEAT.—The first load of new wheat was delivered at the port on Thursday. The sample, which was of the Steinwedel variety, was grown at Lynwood and was reaped from a crop averaging five bags per acre. The grain was plump and well matured weighing 64 lbs to the bushel. Messrs J. Darling & Son were the buyers.

SHIPPING. —The Jessie Darling has been making weekly trips to this port and is now in the bay loading wheat on account of Messrs Darling & Son. The Bobby Burns landed cargo last week and the Lurline called with cornsacks on account of Jas Bell & Co and also for the Farmers' Union. She received consignments of grain for these traders. The requirements of the port show that the now jetty which is to be completed by the end of March will not be ready a day too soon.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 21 Dec 1906, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 17. WEATHER AND CROPS.— The extreme heat of the past fortnight culminated in thunder showers on Sunday and last night These have not only cooled down the temperature but have also replenished water supplies. Harvesting operations have had to be suspended and farmers complain that crops are knocked about to such an extent that, in some cases, false combs have to be used on their harvesters. A fair quantity of wheat is being delivered at the port the grain being of a very satisfactory character.

SHIPPING.— The steamer Jessie Darling sailed on Thursday with a cargo of grain for Port Adelaide. This shipment just about clears up the last of the old crop only a small shipment now remaining.

A PARTY.— of residents visited the port on Thursday evening and after a short sailing cruise boarded the steamer. On landing, tea was provided by the ladies in their usual good style, after which games on the sandy beach brought an enjoyable outing to a close.

JETTY FOR BALGOWAN.

Tue 22 Jan 1907, The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929) Trove

MAITLAND. January 10.— A pleasing ceremony in connection with the erection of tho Balgowan Jetty was witnessed last Thursday, when Mrs. Heinrich drove the first pile. The jetty will supply a long-felt want and although it will not be finished for a little while yet it is reckoned that, from about 36,000 to 40,000 bags of wheat will pass over it this season. Some years ago the Government put down a jetty, which has been a white elephant ever since its erection, as not one bag of wheat has ever passed over it. It was built in the vicinity of a reef of rocks, and shipmasters deemed if too risky to venture near the jetty in such circumstances. Of late a privately owned shoot has done service in a somewhat primitive manner, but now the residents will be on a level with other ports as regards shipping facilities, and the local district council is to be commended upon taking over the responsibility of the undertaking, which will eventually run into nearly £2,000.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 25 Jan 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

January 21. THE FARMER.— Harvesting operations are now practically over and farmers are turning their attention to wheat carting cutting bushes, &c, preparatory to another seeding. Crops have turned out satisfactorily on the whole, some exceeding expectations. Samples have been excellent inferior grades being out of the question. Oats and barley crops have proved very encouraging to farmers.

NEW JETTY.—The first pile of the new jetty was driven last Friday in the presence of a large and representative company. The contractors Messrs Gambling & Son, kindly held the ceremony over until residents, who were notified of the fact, could make it convenient to be present. The visitors first had an object lesson on the method of blasting by means of gelignite, the charges making a great upheaval in the excavation approaching the jetty. A pile was in readiness for driving and Mr Gambling, the senior member of the firm, in a few well-chosen words invited Mrs C. F. G. Heinrich to start the driving machinery and the pile was driven home amid cheers from the company. A splendid spread of refreshments was provided, to which the party did good justice. There is now a grocery store in the port, and four reputable traders in grain. Shipping facilities have been of a most primitive character and the new jetty will supply along-felt want. The new structure promises to be neat and durable in appearance. Mr Gambling has a good staff of men under him and by his courteous manner has made himself popular among the residents of the district. Mr Dearden, of the Engineer-in-Chief's department, arrived last week.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 8 Feb 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

February 4. Wheat carting is slackening off, and there are now some nice stacks of wheat at the port. Work in connection with the new jetty is being pushed on. During last week the three-masted schooner Mclntyre landed a quantity of timber and rails for the new structure and further shipments are expected early.

A fishing party the other day report having seen some magnificent shoals of salmon a mile or so from the jetty. On the regular grounds fish were very plentiful.

Thanksgiving services in connection with the Tiparra Church were held yesterday. As usual, the church was nicely decorated with fruit, flowers, sheaves, &c. The services, which were well attended, were conducted by the Rev G. Paynter, of Ardrossan. The discourses were attentively listened to. Suitable music was provided by the choir and friends, Miss Nellie Green presiding at the organ.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 22 Mar 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

March 18. NEW JETTY. — Messrs Gambling & Son, the contractors are pushing on with work in connection with the new jetty. No serious difficulty has arisen in connection with pile-driving and the men are now at work on the double pier portion of the new structure. An official from the Engineer-in-Chiefs Department inspected the works last week and expressed himself perfectly satisfied with the character of the work. Messrs Gambing expect to complete the job next month.

BUSINESS. — at the port is quiet, but shipping will probably be brisk when the jetty is completed.

FARMERS. — are burning bushes, stubble, &c, preparatory to seeding. Water supplies are hefting out fairly well, and in only a few cases have farmers found it necessary to cart.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 5 Apr 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

April 2. SEVERAL farmers in the district have started drilling and an early fall of rain would be welcome. Water supplies are lasting out fairly well although two or three farmers now find it necessary to cart.

CRICKET.—A cricket match, Balgowan v. Kilkerran was played on Good Friday and resulted in a win for the latter. The match, which was witnessed by a fair number of spectators, proved a very interesting one, the Balgowan team which went first to the wickets putting up a score of 170, the old veteran team totalling 186 runs. For the winners J. Mooody (107) and J. Windebank (31) did the principal scoring while for the seaside team Joe Edwards played a brilliant game with 86 not out, and J. Newchurch 49. The brunt of the bowling for the old team was done by S. Edwards and J. Moody and the principal trundlers for Balgowan were W. Edwards and B. Sansbury.

ANNIVERSARY. — The Tiparra Sunday School anniversary services were held on Easter Sunday. The weather was superb and the Rev T. S. Williams preached afternoon and evening to crowded congregations. On Monday a well attended tea was held followed by a public meeting Mr Williams, who presided; addressed the meeting and was followed by Mr T. B. Wicks and Mr W. Wilson, all of whom gave practical speeches. Under the baton of Mr Jno Tilly the scholars and friends gave special music fully maintaining their reputation in this direction. Miss Kuss presided at the organ in her usual pleasing style and the Misses Heinrich (2) assisted with their violins. A supper concluded the proceedings. The financial results were reported to be very satisfactory.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 12 Apr 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

April 9. THE WEATHER. — Heavy, boisterous winds have been experienced during the past week and wintry weather has prevailed. Some fine showers have fallen, making about an inch at the port, while both on the north and south the fall was much heavier. This has replenished the tanks and dams to some extent and should be sufficient to start the grass which will be welcome as the lambing season has started.

THE JETTY is fast nearing complesion. It is expected to be ready for traffic by the end of this month.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 3 May 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

April 29. WEATHER AND CROPS. — Weather has been extremely boisterous lately. The wind blew a hurricane during Saturday and last night. Dust rose in clouds and roofs and haystacks were severely tried. It was hoped this would be followed by a steady rain but, so far, only light showers have fallen. Farmers are pushing on with drilling and early sown oats are already making their appearance. The early rains started the grass, which promises to be abundant.

THE FOX NUISANCE.—For some considerable time past patriotic correspondents have endeavoured to bring this ominous evil prominently before the minds of your readers but possibly in too many cases have been thought to possess exaggerated ideas on the gravity of the question. At all events, residents have made strenuous efforts to keep the pest within bounds but reports just to hand are of a most disheartening character. It seems that Mr John Arthur had discover a number of his best lambs mangled in his field but could not discover the culprit. A few days later the cause of this was seen by a young man in the employ of Mr C. H. Martin, who detected a large fox sneaking away from Mr Arthur's paddock and making for the low-lying swamps near the sea coast. Being absolutely unarmed the young fellow could do nothing in the way of intercepting the cunning enemy of the sheep farmer. Last Friday another fox was seen by Mrs Gooley near the Kilkerran school. This was also making towards the sae. The same day a fox was sighted near Mr John Millane's farm. Fortunately a number of dogs were at hand and on these being put on his trail reynard was soon bought to bay and dispatched. This is really the first fox to be actually killed in this locality. The skin is said to be a very fine one. No doubt the annul fox hunt will be held after seeding as it is felt that only by these means can the pest be kept under.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 31 May 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

May 27. WEATHER AND CROPS.—After about a week's rainy weather, during which the gauge registered upwards of 2in., finer weather has enabled farmers to push on with seeding operations. Another fortnight will see most of the seed in the ground if weather permits. This at present seems doubtful, seeing that north winds and a falling baromoter indicate more rain. So far, little surface water has been caught.

NEW JETTY OPENED.—The first to go over the new jetty was put on board the Lurline last Thursday, when Messrs J. Darling & Son loaded that craft with wheat and oats for Port Adelaide. It is noteworthy that the Lurline, with Copt. Liitley's flag flying, was the first craft to anchor in the bay when the port was opened some four years ago. History so far repeats itself that the Lurline, with Capt. Littley, was also the first craft to berth along side the new structure The rolling-stock worked smoothly and satisfaction is expressed with regards to the finish of the contractors' work in connection with the new jetty. The Lurline also took the contractor's plant to Port Adelaide.

FOXES are frequently caught sight of, and only last Monday morning one was seen in the early light by Mr R. L. Gregory, pausing within a hundred yards of the Woodburlie homestead. The wellknown coursing dog Lightning sighted him and, with his wiry ally Codger, gave chase to the fox which Lightning succeeded in turning several times. Mr Gregory followed on foot and on coming up to the dogs saw signs of a scuffle among the underwood but there was no Reynard who, probably, escaped by getting in a neighbouring wombat hole.

ON Saturday afternoon a party consisting of the Messrs Moody, H. Ormsby and J. Obst determined on a fox hunt. Proceeding along the coast, about a mile above Balgowan, a fine fox was sighted on the cliffe. After an exciting ten minutes, during which the shouting, firing of guns and barking of dogs could be heard above the roar of the breakers, the fox was killed. This makes the second fox killed during the last few weeks at no great distance from this port.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 14 Jun 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

June 10. THE WEATHER. — Seasonable weather has prevailed during the past week and farmers are delighted with the prospects of the season. Further rains have fallen and, as the weather is still warm, crops are making good growth. Most of the farmers have finished seeding.

SHIPPING has been exceedingly busy at the port during the last few days. Messrs Bell & Co, who have a large ship at Port Victoria anchorage, are lightering from this port and as three crafts, the Stormbird, Wellington and Elizabeth Annie, are engaged the output of grain is almost continuous. The appointments of the new jetty are working satisfactorily but the depth of water is found to be insufficient and steps are now being taken to remove some stones from the bottom where crafts berth alongside of the jetty. It is generally admitted that an extension of the present structure will have to be made sooner or later. The jetty is only 380 ft. in length and an additional 150 ft. would give a depth of water sufficiently for all ordinary coasting crafts or steamers .

HORSE DISEASE.—Some consternation has been caused in the district by the report of horse disease having made its appearance, Mr A. Wearing, of Weetulta, has, lost three of his best horses within a week. Efforts have been made to determine the cause but, so far, farmers are not satisfied as to what the trouble is. It appears that the animals were suddenly taken ill and all efforts to effect a remedy proved unavailing. They appeared to be paralysed almost as soon as the trouble was noticed.

FOXES.—Messrs Moody and a company of hunters recently killed another fox near this port. Yesterday Mr A. Moody's dogs killed a large one near the post office. This makes four foxes killed in this locality during the last few weeks. One was seen this morning within a mile of the port. Resident are enthusiastic in their endeavours to check the nuisance, and a united hunt is now talked of.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 28 Jun 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

June 22. WEATHER AND CROPS.— So far, the season is all that could be desired. The seed drill has once more completed its rounds in the fields and are again stowed way to await the advent of a future seedtime. Frost has not yet made its presence and the warm conditions are proving very favorable for the growth of crops and pasture. With the broad areas of fine, fallowed land now under crop it is hardly an exaggeration, even at this early stage, to say that to a great extent good crops are practically assured. With abundant feed in sight, the season for lambs Is unusually promising.

SHIPPING—Messrs Bell & Co. have been very busy shipping and have just about cleared up their stack. The Farmers' Union have a large ship on voyage and expect to be shipping at an early date. The "Lurline" called last week and landed a quantity of building material and general cargo.

BUILDINGS.—Several new buildings are being erected in the district and the demands for builders is considerable.

FOXES.—There has been some abatement of the fox nuisance although some are still known to exist in the locality, their doleful voices being frequently heard in the quiet hours of night. A well organized hunt, arranged by the Messrs Moody, was carried out last Saturday. Some ten miles of the coast was traversed by a large company of hunters with dogs of all nations but although tracks were seen Brer Fox himself proved too "?--m" to give any chance of capture.

An exciting incident occurred this morning at Dayleaford, the residence of Mr C. H. Martin, which not only shows how numerous foxes are growing in the locality but also proves how daring these animals are getting. Just before noon one was noticed quite near the house and immediately a horse was saddled, the dogs were let off the chain and with a horseman and Mr Martin on foot in pursuit the fox ran off in a southerly direction. The dogs came up to the fox several times but seemed afraid to grip the cunning animal which finally escape by dodging round a sandhill. When first sighted the fox appeared to be lame but all lameness disappeared as soon as the dogs were put on his tail. A fox was here last evening near Sorcer's Flat and another during the early hours this morning near Woodburlie.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 5 Jul 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

July 1. WEATHER AND CROPS.—The past week has been unusually cold. Frost has at last appeared and been unusually severe. Troughs and dams have been coated with ice, which in some cases had to be broken to allow stock to drink. Vegetation has received a slight check and now that the frosts have ceased some rain would be welcomed. Fallowing is the order of the day.

SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL EXAMINATION.— The North Kilkerran school was examined by Inspector Sutton last week. The scholars acquitted themselves splendidly, one only failing to pass. Friday was visiting day and a good number of parents and friends assembled at the school. After the youngsters went through drill exercises (for which the inspector had awarded them 100 points), the Rev T. S. Williams gave a short address, and was followed by Mr W. Bowey, of the Board of Advice, and Mr C. H, Heinrich who also gave the children some sound advice. The work of the children was much admired. After tea the scholars were regaled with fruit and sweets. Races and games concluded an enjoyable programme. The teacher, Mrs Murdock, is to be congratulated on the success of the exam.

CRICKET MATCH.—The cricket season opened with a match last Saturday between the North and South Kilkerran teams on the grounds of the local eleven. The Souths, who first took the wickets, made 93 runs and the Norths following compiled 102. In the second innings the visitors were all out for 36, and for two wickets 28 stood to the credit of the local team when stumps were drawn. For the Norths the principal scorers were J. Moody (37) and A. Moody (15), while for the visitors S. Edwards made 22, Campbell 14 and J. Edwards 14 not out. In bowling J. Moody, for the Norths, did most execution. For the Souths most of the wickets were secured by S. Edwards. The day was perfect and a good number of spectators witnessed the game.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 19 Jul 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

WEATHER AND CROPS.—The late rains have benefited crops and pasture, which were suffering from the effects of the severe frosts of a fortnight ago. Farmers are busy fallowing.

SHIPPING.—The Farmers' Union have started shipping wheat. Several crafts have taken cargoes to the Socoto now loading at Port Victoria. Some loose stones at the end of the jetty have proved very dangerous to crafts loading. Mr J. Jenkins, diver F. Armstrong and Mr W. H. Newington, from the Government Ford Deepening Department, commenced operations this morning in connection with the removal of the troublesome rocks Diver Armstrong, who descended for an inspection, reports that the rocks appear to be all loose and can be easily removed. The work will occupy a week or ten days. The ketch Elizabeth Annie is in attendance hauling up the rocks. Diver Armstrong was instrumental in recovering a quantity of valuable jewellery from the steamer Tasmania, which was lost on the New Zealand coast a few years ago.

A FOX KILLED.—Foxes are frequently seen in the locality. Another one was captured by the Messrs Moody last week This makes the fifth fox destroyed near this port.

OPENING OF THE BALGOWAN JETTY.

Fri 2 Aug 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

The formal opening of the new jetty was celebrated on Tuesday, 23rd ulto., in the presence of about 300 spectators. Showery conditions had prevailed during the morning but the clerk of the weather very generously granted an armistice, the sun shone out splendidly, and a lovely afternoon fitting to the occasion was experienced. Mr J. W. Edwards, who introduced the speakers, called on Mr S. Moody, who in a neat and practical speech, declared the jetty open calling on Mrs C. Heinrich to sever the white ribbon which temporarily obstructed the traffic. This was snipped amid cheers from the onlookers. Mr C. Cane, Chairman of the Y. P. District Council, followed with a sound speech, in which he explained that the slow progress of negotiations experienced in connection with the building of the new structure was due more to the inexplicable tardiness of the Government than to any want of effort on the part of the, Council. Councillor C. Heinrich, who was well received, also addressed the meeting, followed by Mr T. B. Wicks, of the Clinton District Council, Councillor D. Smith, and the Rev T. S. Williams, who in concluding an interesting speech, moved a vote of thanks to Councillor Heinrich for his consistent efforts, in promoting the interests of the port. The vote of thanks was carried with acclamation.

Diver F. Armstrong was at work removing stones from the mooring berths at the end of the jetty and the novel sight of the diver in full dress proved very interesting to the company present. After the diver in working attire, together with the members of the Demonstration Committee, had been grouped and photographed, a good negative of the speakers and crowd was secured by enterprising photographer. An adjournment was then made for tea where lavish preparations hail been made in a large marquee, erected for the occasion. The toast of the " Ladies " was entrusted to Mr J. J. Vanstone, whose remarks were endorsed by Mr H. G, Kelly and supported by Mr B. Moody. During the evening games were well patronised by the juveniles, while those of less active temperament availed themselves of the opportunity afforded for walking exercises on the sea shore, or from suitable points studied the flow of the tide as evening shadows settled over the bay. Beautiful moonlight favoured the drive home, which brought a most enjoyable afternoon to a close.

Men unloading produce at Balgowan jetty 1910 - State Library of South Australia - B 21507

BALGOWAN.

Fri 6 Sep 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

September 2. WEATHER AND CROPS. — The weather bas been splendid for crops during the past few weeks, but just now a little rain would be welcome. Crops are looking healthy and if conditions continue favorable the district will give a good return. Agents are travelling through the district in quest of fat lambs and wool and already one consignment of early Shropshires have, gone forward to Moonta.

SHIPPING has been fairly busy. The farmers Union has sent a quantity of wheat by various crafts to the ship Socoto, which completed loading at the anchorage last week. Messrs Cave & Co. loaded the Lillie Hawkins for transhipment into the Blenheim at Port Broughton, and on Saturday Messrs J. Darling and Son dispatched the John and May with oats for Port Adelaide.

A CRICKET MATCH, Kilkerran v. Mission Station, was played on the ground of latter on Saturday, the game resulting in a draw.

THE HOLIDAY (to-day) is being generally observed, a number of residents having gone to the attractions at Moonta, Arthurton or Urania.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 27 Sep 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

September 23. THE SEASON Weather during the past few weeks has been extremely trying for crops. Through the absence of rain and continued dry winds practically all moisture had gone out of the soil and crops generally were languishing. Some of the later sown fields have suffered irreparable injury. Last night, however, some nice rain fell, which has refreshed vegetation. Weather is still unsettled and farmers are hopeful of a further fall. Grass will not be plentiful this season and most of the tanks and dams are only partly filled. Several farmers have finished fallowing while others have had to stop their ploughs on account of the ground being too dry.

SHEARING is pretty general. The Groseville clip, which is reported to be quite up to the usual standard, has already gone forward to the city market.

NEW BUILDINGS. — There has been considerable activity in the building trade and several new structures are in course of completion.

SNAKES.—The warm weather of the last two or three weeks has brought out a number of these reptiles. Several have already been killed including both the brown and black varieties.

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY.—The anniversary in connection with the Tiparra West Church was celebrated yesterday. The services were conducted by the Rev R. J. Rose of Kadina and the congregations were unusually large. The usual tea was held to-day. At the evening meeting, which was presided over by the Rev T. S. Williams, an interesting lecture on "Mission Work on the Murray" was given by the Rev R. J. Rose. Under the baton of Mr J. Tilly the choir rendered special music. Miss Nellie Green, as organist, played the accompaniments very nicely. The floral decorations were extremely pretty.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 11 Oct 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 7, THE SEASON. Weather continues too dry for the crops which consequently are running up into head. Heavy winds with a little hail and light showers have been frequent but not enough moisture to reach the subsoil. The relative position of early crops on well worked fallow land as compared with those sown later on ground ploughed up in the winter furnishes a good object lesson on the former system of agriculture. The majority of our crops will be short but promise to be well headed. Barley is showing signs of ripening. At Woodburlie the binder has already been at work. The hay-cut will not be up to those of late years.

A SAVAGE HORSE.—An unusual accident occurred to-day on the form of Mr H. G. Kelly. The horses were being mustered when one of the spirited animals kicked a nice pony on the head with fatal results.

SHIPPING. — The "Lurline" called Friday with large consignments of building material and general cargo. To-day she is cleaning up Messrs Cave & Co's wheat and several farmers are taking the opportunity to ship their lots of wool to Port Adelaide.

FOXES.—A fine fox was sighted by Mr H. Koch on the Balgowan road this morning.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 25 Oct 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 21. THE SEASON. — We have been visited by some very high winds during the past week or two and it is surprising to note how well crop's stand these considering the dry conditions of the season. Crops are heading well and there will be some good returns in the district. Shearing is over and the bulk of the wool has gone forward to the city market. Farmers are pleased with the prices being realized this season and also with the promise of good prices for the new season's wheat crop.

SHIPPING.—The Stormbird called last week and took a consignment of sheep, on account of Mr W. Adams, to Franklin Harbour. About 16,000 bags of wheat still remain at the port. The Farmers' Union intended putting their wheat on the Aagot for oversea shipment, but the wreck of this vessel on Wardang Island will necessitate the stack remaining for a further period.

CRICKET.—The Urania eleven visited the North Kilkerran cricket ground on Saturday when a match was played against the local team. The game resulted in a win for the visitors.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 1 Nov 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

October 28 THE SEASON. — The prevailing warm weather is turning off the barley crops and the harvester will be at work on these in a few days time. Haycarting will be fairly general this week.

SHIPPING. — The Lurline arrived last week and landed a quantity of cornsacks for the Farmers Union, and on Saturday the Capella sailed with wheat, barley and oats on account of Messrs Darling & Son. This craft also took the balance of the farmers' wool to Port Adelaide.

PICNIC.—A farmers picnic was held at the Port on Saturday afternoon. About 100 persons were present, including representatives from nearly every household in the district. Tea was provided in the shelter of one of the wheat stacks and games on the beach were afterwards indulged in until coaches were ready for home. Mrs C. A. Brown and Mrs Greaves, of Groseville, who initiated the outing are to be congratulated on the success of their efforts.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 6 Dec 1907, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 2. HARVESTING is now general and crops are quite coming up to expectations. Samples are very satisfactory. A fair quantity of new grain has already found its way to the port.

OBITUARY—The sudden death of Miss E. Wakefield last Tuesday cast quite a gloom over district. The deceased lady, who was of a bright and happy disposition, had been unwell for some time past. She attended church on Sunday, and appealed as usual on Monday, but on Tuesday morning was seized with a fainting fit from which she never rallied. The remains were buried on Thursday, at Maitland, in the presence of a large number of friends, the Rev T, S. Williams officiating at the grave. Great sympathy is felt for the family.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 3 Jan 1908, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

December 28. HARVESTING operations are fast drawing to a close, crops in most instances having turned out much better than was anticipated. The grain is first class, inferior samples being out of the question. A good quantity has already found its way to the port where some nice stacks may be seen.

THE DIVINING ROD—Mr J. Bentley, of Maitland, visited the port the other day and by means of the divining-rod tested the probabilities of the presence of water springs, On examining the locality the unerring rod pointed to a couple of spots where, in Mr Bentlsy's opinion, water might be found at no great depth. A bore having been put down at one of these points water was struck about twenty feet from the surface, and apparently there are from two to three feet of water in the bore. The water seems fresh and steps are now being taken to open up the well. Should the supply and quality of the water turn out well, as is promises to do, the residents will be under a great obligation to Mr Bentley for exercising his magic power in discovering the precious liquid, particularly as the shortage of water has seen one of the greatest drawbacks of this seaport.

SHEEP BLINDNESS.— Farmers have had considerable trouble through a number of their sheep going blind. Some sheep owners have had as many as sixty or eighty affected and no one can seem to satisfactorily explain the cause.

SOCIAL AND PRESENTATION; — A farewell social was tendered Miss Kuss on the 18th inst at the residence of Mr C. Heinrich. A number of friends assembled for the evening, during which recitations and musical selections were given. On behalf of the Tiparra friends Mr L Tilley handed Miss Kuss a silver teapot, while Mr C. Heinrich presented the departing guest with a silver tray, jug and basin which was the gift of the South Kilkerran people. Mr H. Heinrich suitably responded on behalf of Miss Kuss whose unassuming and genial manner had won the esteem of her friends. Miss Kuss had been of great assistance in musical circles.

XMAS DAY passed off quietly, the extreme heat inducing most people to remain in their homes. Small parties visited the seaside during the evening.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 24 Jan 1908, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

January 20. HARVESTING operations have just about come to a close and deliveries of wheat are now falling off. In nearly every instance farmers are pleased with the returns, which in most cases have exceeded expectations.

WATER CARTING.—Tanks and dams are feeling the effects of the continued dry weather and a number of teams are already carting water.

SHIPPING has been somewhat brisk during the past week. The ketch Seaflower cleared with a load of oats and barley for the Farmers' Union, the Stormbird landed a cargo of phosphates and then loaded wheat on account of Messrs Bell & Co, and the steamer Bobby Burns took a couple of cargoes of wheat on account of Messrs Darling & Sen for the ship Selene at Port Victoria. On Saturday the ketch Albatross called with timber, etc, for the new goods shed which is to be erected forthwith. The ketch John & May is now alongside discharging superphosphates, after which she will load wheat for Messrs Bell & Co.

ACCIDENT. — A serious accident. happened to a young fellow last week. It appears that, with others, he was sleeping on one of the wheat-stacks when, several bags of wheat fell on him, crushing his chest badly. He has been sent for treatment to the Wallaroo Hospital.

UNPLEASANT EXPERIENCE.—The resent heat wave has had the effect of driving a number of visitors to the seaside. Several residents have been sleeping in the open air, and one young fellow when just dozing off the other evening was suddenly disturbed by a snake crossing his arm and neck. He did not hesitate about getting up, but secured a light and killed the snake which proved to be very lively.

A FOX was sighted the other day in a sheep-paddock on the farm of Mr H. Kelly, A boy on a small pony gave chase and the fox apparently did not care about trying to get through the fence, but ran round the paddock. The day was extremely hot and on Mr Kelly coming up at full speed on one of the waggon-horses, Reynard, who was found to be almost exhausted, was soon dispatched.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 14 Feb 1908, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

February 10. THE WEATHER.— The continued dry weather has put a few teams on the road carting water, but most farmers have supplies sufficient to last another four or five weeks. Farmers are busy cleaning dams and every scoop in the district is in demand.

SHIPPING is brisk. Messrs J. Darling and Son have shipped a considerable quantity of their wheat by steamer, and Messrs Bell & Co. and the Farmers' Union, have been sending consignments on to their respective ships at Port Victoria. Wellington is loading to-day. Super is already arriving. The new goods shed is nearing completion and will be a great convenience.

THANKSGIVING. Tiparra West church held their Thanksgiving services yesterday. The Rev. T.S. Williams conducted the services and the congregations were large. The church was nicely decorated with seasonable fruits and flowers. Special music was provided by the choir and friends, Mr J. Tilley conducting and Miss Tilley presiding at the organ. The Misses Heinrich assisted with their violins.

BALGOWAN.

Fri 28 Feb 1908, Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser (SA : 1878 - 1922) Trove

February 24. WATER SUPPLIES.—Although few farmers are really out of water the strain on the public tanks and dams is daily becoming greater. Unless a fall of rain comes within a few weeks time water carting will be general. Farmers are enlarging their dams in order to be better prepared for future dry seasons.

SHIPPING has been pretty busy during the past week. Several crafts have loaded wheat for the Farmers' Union and Messrs Bell and Co. while the steamer Avoca sailed for Wallaroo on Saturday with a cargo of wheat on account of Messrs J. Darling and Son. The steamer Bobby Burns arrived from Wallaroo yesterday with a cargo of superphosphates. She is under order to Ioad wheat on account of Darling and Son.

THE FOX NUISANCE is again becoming acute. Not content with their proper line of business, waiting on the poultry roosts after nightfall, these animals are now seen in broad daylight hanging about if not actually pursuing, their nefarious degradations, with all the daring and cunning proverbial to the crafty species. Early one morning last week a gentleman, well-known in the district, was aroused from his peaceful slumbers by an unusual commotion amongst the farm animals. Dogs were barking vigorously, horses were snorting, and poultry were running cackling in all directions. The gentleman, who is an early riser, hurried out and took an hasty survey of the homestead. To his utter amazement he observed a large fox cooly rounding up his prize wyandottes. It was evident that no time was to be Iost. The men were summoned and armed to the teeth, the frightened but faithful dogs were encouraged for attack and then followed one of the most exciting scenes ever witnessed in this quiet locality. Of coure the men ran and the dogs ran, missiles were flying in all directions and the fox, cleverly dodging in and out of among the bushes, hidden by his own dust, finally disappeared and has not reported himself since. The hunters looked very much disappointed when they came up for breakfast. It was very unfortunate that a gentleman on the premises who had trained the to every class of hunting was not quite early enough for the hunt or there is no doubt that the fox would have been secured.

Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929), Wednesday 17 March 1909, page 8 Trove

MAITLAND, March 14.— Another enrly pettier in this district passed avray to-day in the person of Mr. Samuel Butler Moody, of Innisfail, Kilkerran ; The deceased was one of seven brothers who came out to South Australia 56 years ago from Londonderry, in the ship North of Ireland. They entered farming pursuits in various places. Three of the brothers still remain— Messrs. Solomon Moody, of Gowrie, Kilkerran; Israel Joseph Moody, of Gortmore, Kilkerran; and David Moody, of Kapunda. For several, years, the lastnamed was a member for Light. The deceased was 83 years old. He was among the first to recognise the possibilities of the Peninsula as a wheatgrowing distric, and to urge upon the Government to survey it and throw it open for settlement. Over 30 years ago he showed his faith, in the possibilities of the country by taking up a number of sections in Kilkerran, were he has resided ever since. The deceased led a quiet life, and never sought public positions; but he was widely known and much respected by all classes of the community. For many years he held the office of deacon in the Kilkerran Congregational Church. He has left a widow, one son, and six daughters.

BALGOWAN BUOY SUNK.

Wed 18 May 1910, Daily Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1910 - 1924) Trove

At the adjourned meeting of the Marine Board on Tuesday a letter was received from Messrs•> A & E Le Messurier drawing the attention of the board to the fact that the small mooring buoy at Balgowan had been wilfully sank by persons firing ballets at it from the shores. Captain Little, of the ketch Lurline, when he visited the place recently repaired and replaced the buoy. In the absence of the buoy vessels had to trust to their own anchors, which was unsafe. The board were asked to take stringent measures in the matter. After a little discussion the board decided to enquire into the matter, and asked Captain Little to furnish them with a report on the question. Captain Little was also thanked for his promptitude.

THE BALGOWAN JETTY.

Fri 16 Jun 1911, Daily Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1910 - 1924) Trove

Of late years a number of jetties have been built on parts of the coast on the guarantee of district councils to pay interest on the cost of construction, but at a recent meeting of the Marine Board that body found itself in an anomalous position concerning the jetty built at Balgowan, for the local governing body. An agreement had been sent to the secretary of the board to sign on behalf of the boards but when the matter was referred to the Crown Solicitor for advice it was found that the board had no authority to do so because the lease was for an indefinite period. The board recommended the Government to call upon the Balgowan District, Council to pay the construction instalments covering a period of 27 years. At yesterday's meeting of the board this jetty was again the cause of a good, deal of discussion. Warden Fricker brought the matter up by moving - "That the Government be urged to have the extension of the Balgowan Jetty carried out as early as possible, the present structure being quite inadequate for the needs of the place." He said that great difficulty had been experienced in getting the grain away this season. The weather conditions had been bad, and the smallness of the jetty bad added to the difficulties. The structure was heading in the wrong direction, and the depth of water was insufficient. At least about 40,000 bags of wheat stored there would have been shipped away had the jetty been of more service. He had been particularly urged to bring the matter up. Warden Berry seconded, and the motion was unanimously carried. The secretary was instructed, when calling the Government's attention to the matter, to inform them that the board was of opinion that in the event of any difficulties arising with the Balgowan District Council in the matter, the jetty should be placed under the control of the Marine Board whose members are satisfied that they can make it pay handsomely.

A MODEL FARM. ON YORKE'S PENINSULA.

Sat 4 Sep 1920, Observer (Adelaide, SA : 1905 - 1931) Trove

There are in South Australia some of the best designed and most carefully managed farms in the whole.-of the Commonwealth,and foremost among these is the property of Mr. H. Heinrich, a few miles from Maitland, on the Balgowan road, Yorke's Peninsula. In practically every detail the farm is a perfect model, and it reflects credit not only upon the progressive owner, but also upon the district and the State. In the first place it should be stated that the homestead is charmingly located, and the natural attractiveness of the situation has been enhanced by the wise disposition of the outbuildings and the planting of sugar gum trees. There is a fine avenue of trees leading from the main road to the house; other sugar gums have been planted on the north, and a block of mallee on the west has been considerably improved by the addition of further sugar gums. The presence of the last mentioned immediately arouses the interest of the visitor, who cannot help wondering by what means they were induced to grow and flourish with the established mallee all around them. During a recent visit the writer was informed that the sugar gums forming the plantation on the north were all raised from seed by Mrs. Heinrich. When they were ready for transplanting "post boles" were made in the chosen positions, and filled with pure sand, in which the trees were placed. That was away back in 1903. To-day the trees are standing 25 ft. or more high, and are remarkably vigorous, without a sign of disease or mechanical troubles. A fine object lesson here for the farmers in other parts who do not appreciate the full value of trees about the home.

—Stone Structures.—

Next to the generally excellent lay-out and pleasing appearance of the homestead, the feature which impresses the visitor is the obvious solidity of all the permanent buildings and their neatness. On many farms the outbuildings are strong enough to resist anything but the fire of modern artillery. The finish of the structures, however, especially those consisting mainly of stone, often leaves much to be desired. No such fault can he found with any of Mr. Heinrich's buildings, but all of them, both outside and inside, are comparable with quite a big percentage of the smaller homes in the metropolitan area and rural townships, and markedly superior to many. The barns and traps-bed are large stone structures, and an idea of their size, as well as of the popular esteem in which Mr. and Mrs. Heinrich are held, may be gathered from the fact that, on the occasion of the happy celebration of their silver wedding in April last, 300 uninvited guests were accommodated in one of them, and in another 80 of the guests sat down to supper at the one time. The motor garage is splendidly finished, and equipped with all the appliances desirable in the maintenance of a motor car in a high state of efficiency. The stables, engine house, hayshed, and other buildings are all in keeping with those described, and it would be a decidedly good thing for everybody concerned, as well as for the animals, if the pigsties throughout the State were on similar lines to those of Mr. Heinrich. They are large and roomy, under the shade of a spreading tree; the floors are of cement-faced concrete, with a suitable slope, and the facilities for feeding are tiptop.

—Clever Planning Everywhere.—

It was like a tonic to inspect the yards and examine the buildings, for they all revealed much careful thought and judgment in their planning. The sheep shearing filled contains provision for getting through the work rapidly and effectively, and there is sufficient room for between 400 and 500 sheep to be comfortably housed in the event of wet weather occurring. The equipment for tilling the ground, putting in the crops, and taking them off is of generous proportions, and includes three harvesters. The writer noticed that all the swings are of hollow piping, varying in size according to the strain imposed upon them. Mr. Heinrich said they are remarkably strong, said they have this great advantage—they never decay, and white ants cannot affect them. The mention of iron piping recalls the fact that there are on the property 50 gates formed of this material. Most of them were made by Mr. Heinrich himself, who, by-the-way, looks upon his blacksmith shop as a most valuable feature of the farm equipment, and they swing beautifully. The stables and yard are well arranged, and the feeding troughs permit the distribution of the feed readily and easily. A No. 5 cutter, driven by a 8 h.p. engine, drops the chaff into an elevator, which is between 40 and 50 ft. long, and the chaff-house is capable of holding fully 30 tons of chaff at a time.

—100 Tons of Hay Under Cover.—

How many farmers in South Australia can, without making special provision, place 100 tons of hay under cover? Very few. One of these, however, is Mr. Heinrich. His hayshed—another stone building—will accommodate 100 tons of hay, and as it is right alongside the chaffing shed the sheaves can he quickly tossed to the man handing up to the feeder, and chaffing operations can proceed no matter what the weather conditions may be. Handy to the cutter as an emery wheel and grindstone, so that the knives can be ground or touched up without undue delay. The thoroughness manifest about the homestead is carried into the tillage and seeding operations. Each year Mr. Heinrich puts in about 500 acres of crop himself, and has some more sown on halves. He has found that a dressing of super at the rate of 100 ft. to the acre gives the most profitable returns, year in and year out, The wheats he favours are Marshall's No. 3, Federation, Yandilia King, Nugget, King's Early, and German Wonder. The best crop be ever harvested averaged 32 bushels to the acre.

ATTACKED BY KANGAROO

Fri 10 Aug 1923, News (Adelaide, SA : 1923 - 1954) Trove

Boy Injured MAITLAND, Today. Lying in the Maitland Hospital in a serious condition is the four-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Bull, of Balgowan. It appears the boy went to a paddock to get the cow, and a pet kangaroo followed and attacked him. Luckily Mrs. Bull heard his screams and ran to his aid. Dr. Fletcher attended the sufferer, whose head is badly cut and bruised.

FATALITIES AND ACCIDENTS.

Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931), Monday 23 May 1927 Trove

FATAL SULKY ACCIDENT. Maitland, May 21. When motoring back to Maitland from Balgowan on Friday night, at about 7 o'clock, Messrs. E. F. Moloney and W. S. Allen saw an upturned sulky and horse on the side of the road. On investigation they found Mr. J. W. Moody lying in a semi-conscious condition near by. Having freed the animal and paddocked him they brought Mr. Moody to Dr. Wells, who found him suffering from, severe concussion and ordered his removal: to the hospital. Death from hemorrhage of the brain supervened two hours later. It is surmised that Mr. Moody was driving too close to the fence, and that the near side wheel of the sulky struck a post and overturned, throwing him on to his head. Mr. Moody was a son of Mr. Solomon Moody, and was bom at Two Weils in 1873. In partnership with his brother, Mr. E. W. Moody, he took over his father's estate, "Gowrie'' Kilkerran, in 1893, and carried on agricultural and pastoral pursuits. Some years later he acquired the property and continued in occupation until his death. He has left a widow (a daughter of Mr. R, Whitelaw, Kilkerran), three sons, and one daughter.

KETCH LIALEETA OVERDUE.

Fri 22 May 1925, Port Adelaide News (SA :1913 - 1933) Trove

The Federal Navigation Department (Melbourne) on Tuesday reported that the ketch Lialeeta was 30 days out from Balgowan, north of Port VictoriaT in Spencer Gulf. The normal crew of the craft comprises the ^master and four men. Shipping has been warned to keep a look out for the vessel. Sea-men," however, fear that the vessel is lost; owing to the run of fair weather she should have reached her destination several weeks ago. There are few harbors where the little boat could have run for shelter were she caught in a heavy gale at the entrance to Bass Strait. On enquiries being made at Messrs. R. Fricker & Co.,'s shipping office at Port Adelaide on Wednesday it was learned that the Lialeeta arrived at Port Adelaide on March 22 last with a cargo of timber from Hobart. At the chief seaport she loaded a cargo of super for Point Turton, sailing on April 3. At Balgowan the vessel loaded 110 tons of barley for Melbourne, leaving there in the afternoon of April 11. Eight days later it was reported that a white ketch had been sighted off Cape Northumberland, sailing east. As the Lialeeta was the only ketch painted white known to have left for Victoria it is surmised that she was the vessel sighted. Since then nothing has been heard of her. Captain H. W. Taylor, of Gardenvale, Melbourne, was in charge of the ketch The crew are believed to have been signed on at Melbourne. The Lialeeta was a ketch rigged wooden vessel of 48 tons net register, and was built in Tasmania in 1913. She is believed to be owned by Mr. William Knights, of Williamstown. Captain Taylor had chartered the vessel for engagement in the wheat trade in Spencer Gulf, but it is understood that he missed the busy part of the season.

FATE OF THE KETCH ECLIPSE. CREW ROW TO SAFETY.

Thu 2 May 1929, Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954) Trove

An exciting experience befell the crew of the ketch Eclipse, which was wrecked on the Wolf Reef, near Balgowan, on the coast of Spencer Gulf, about 1 o'clock on Tuesday morning. The four men lowered a dinghy, and rowed two miles to the beach known as Chinamen's Well, which is opposite the rocks. From there one member of the crew walked four miles along the coast to Balgowan, which is four miles north of the scene. The harbormaster at Port Victoria was notified, and he sent a telegram to the chairman of the Harbors Board (Mr. E. A. Farquhar) notifying him of the accident.

Members of the Crew.

On board the vessel when it struck the rocks were Captains J. and E. Littlely, the owner and master respectively, and Messrs. Walter Webster and O. Skimmerland, seamen. The The Wolf Rocks, where the boat foundered, consist of three reefs. The Eclipse is at present resting on a reef, and stands above the waterline at low tide. Should there be heavy seas it is likely that the vessel will break up.

Well-known Trader.

The Eclipse, which is of wooden construction, was a well-known trader between the Spencer Gulf ports a art Port Adelaide. She had discharged wheat at Wallaroo for the Farmers' Union, and was on her way back to Port Adelaide when the reef was struck. She was built at Footscray in 1864. The ship is 79 tons gross, and has a length of 75 feet, with a 19-foot beam, and is valued at £2,500. She is net insured. In the early days she was a square topsail schooner trading to the West Coast ports carrying passengers in addition to cargo. She was then owned by Messrs. Cave & Company, and lay idle at that company's wharf at Port Adelaide for many years. Sue was reconditioned and put into commission again when purchased by the late Captain J. Tainsh during the war. Captain Littlely next acquired the ship, and it had been running in Iris interests for a number of years.

Personal Belongings Saved.

The personal belongings of the crew were saved, and it is believed that it will be possible to salvage the sails, deck, main engines, and spars of the vessel. The owner inspected the vessel in daylight yesterday. An official report will be received by Mr. Farquhar this afternoon.

Balgowan jetty about 1930. Schooner 'Waimana'. - State Library of South Australia - PRG 1373/39/61