Books about Curramulka

Read Online Faces and Places Curramulka Really Good!!

Read Online Curramulka Institute jubilee souvenir, 1885-1935

Curramulka 1876-1975 James, A. (1975)

Centenary celebrations, Curramulka Wesleyan, Methodist, Uniting, 1878-1978

From Cornwall to Curramulka and beyond. The story of Josiah Polkinghorne and his descendants Polkinghorne, Janette (1980)

Curramulka Primary School, 1880-1980: centenary pictorial incorporating Cranbrook, Raeburn, Mount Rat, Roolama Watters, Rex Newbold, Lyall (1980)

District Council of Yorke Peninsula - History of Curramulka

In the native tongue the word meant "Drinking place for the emus."* Place Names of South Australia.

Yorke Peninsula Visitor Information Centre

The town of Curramulka was surveyed in 1878. The name reputedly refers to 'emu' (curre) and 'deep waterhole' (mulka). This small inland town has a general store, school, community club, agricultural supplies and a hotel which is affectionately known as the 'Curry Pub' – a great place to stop, enjoy a cold beer and chat with some locals. The town is very proud of its sporting community, and is home to bowls, netball, basketball, tennis, cricket, football and golf clubs.

In the 1870s when new farming land was being sought further from Adelaide, pastoralists established sheep runs in the Yorke Peninsula. For some time the area was populated largely by the shepherds caring for these flocks. During August and September 1876 hundreds of people travelled from Adelaide to Stansbury by steamer. They then walked to Curramulka to view land being offered for sale in the first selections.

Curramulka enjoyed its heyday in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when most farming produce moved through nearby Port Julia. The town's commercial importance dwindled when Ardrossan to the north became the main regional port for wheat and wool.

Curramulka comes alight at Christmas time in a big way. Well known for its 'Curramulka Lights Up' event held the first Saturday in December, the residents unite and provide a spectacular fairyland of twinkling Christmas lights throughout the town.

Just outside Curramulka is found what is acknowledged as the most extensive chain of limestone caves in the southern hemisphere. The caves are considered too dangerous for amateur cavers so the entire system is closed to the public. The only regular visitors are members of the Police Rescue Squad who do part of their training in the caverns.

Curramulka Hotel 1893 - State Library of South Australia - B 9006

GOVERNMENT LAND

Tuesday 19 September 1876, Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 - 1912) Trove

The Land Office was literally rushed this morning by would-be selectors anxious to lodge applications for the purchase of land at Curramulka, situate about 20 miles Inland from Stansbury, on Southern Yorke's Peninsula. The land is regarded as some of the finest in the colony, and when the sale takes place to-day high, if not fancy, prices are expected.

GOVERNMENT LIMITED LAND AUCTION.

Friday 22 September 1876, South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday. September 19.

The undermentioned portions of Crown Lands were offered for selection at £1 per acre; but there being more than one application for each lot, they were submitted to auction on Tuesday, September 19, at the Crown Lands Office, when the subjoined prices were realized. There was an unusually large attendance of purchasers, the room being literally packed. Competition was keen, and good figures generally were realized, one lot bringing as much as £7 10s. per acre:—

At £7 10s. per Acre.

Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson (Yorke's Peninsula)— Sec. 118, 125 acres, F. J. Craig, Kapunda, hotelkeeper.

At £6 5s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Ferguson— Part sec. 103e, 407 acres, John Gregor, Weaner's Flat, farmer.

At £6 per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Ferguson— Sec 104, 599 acres, S. Goldsworthy, Black Point, sheep farmer.

At £5 19s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec. 105, 491 acres, W. Gregor, Werner's Flat, sheep farmer.

At £5 12s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Ferguson— Part sec 89s, 515 acres, R. Kappler, Adelaide, storekeeper.

At £5 5s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Part Section 86e, 233 acres, J. Gregor, Weaner's Flat, farmer; part sec. 113s, 287 acres, F. Gregor, Weaver's Flat, farmer.

At £5 2s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Section 35, 392 acres, J. Goldsworthy, Black Point, sheepfarmer; sec. 103w, 41 acres, S. Goldsworthy, Black Point, sheep farmer.

At £4 17s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Section 27n, 248 acres, J. Johnston, Onetree Hill, farmer.

At £4 5s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson —Part Section 112s, 61 acres, W. Gregor, Weaner's Flat, sheep farmer.

At £4 0s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Ferguson — Section 55, 610 acres, Wesley Maley, Hindmarsh, clerk.

At £3 163. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Section 28, 533 acres, S. Lamshed, sen., Maitland, engineer.

At £3 13s per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson — Section 56, 517 acres, A. E. May, Mount Barker, farmer.

At £3 11s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Part Section 91s, — acres, W. McDonald, Kulpara, farmer.

At £3 10s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson — Section 24, 692 acres, Alfred Talbot, Weaner's Flat, farmer.

At £3 53. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson — Sec. 26, 538 acres, Henry Evans, Gumeracha, farmer.

At £3 6s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson — Sec. 63, 337 acres, John Hams, Para Wurtie, farmer; sec. 88n, 50 acres, Thomas Goldsworthy, Black Point, sheepfarmer.

At £3 4s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec. 118, 125 acres, F. J. Craig, Kapunda, hotelkeeper.

At £3 2s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec 25n, 248 acres, A. Anderson, Bald Hills, farmer.

At £2 10s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec 114, 352 acres, Pat Camerford, Oaklands, farmer.

At £2 9s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec. 14, 599 acres, H. G. Abbott, Dalrymple, farmer.

At £2 5s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec. 77, 520 acres, Wm. McDonald, Kulpara, farmer.

At £2 6s. par Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec 112n, 358 acres, Wm. Cameron, Plympton, tailor ; sec 113N, 323 acres, J. B. Spry, Kulpara, farmer.

At £2 Is. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec. 60s, 156 acres, Francis May, Mount Barker, farmer.

At £2 0s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec 27se, 248 acres, John Johnston, Onetree Hill, farmer ; Sec 88s, 542 acres, H. Hogasch, Greenoch, farmer.

At £1 1s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec 33, 533 acres, Wm. Greenslade, Maitland, farmer.

At £1 14s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec 61, 450 acres, C. B. May, Mount Barker, spinster.

At £1 11s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec. 54, 256 acres, R. F. Wilson, Minlaton, blacksmith.

At £1 10s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramuka, County Fergusson—Sec. 53, 449 acres, Thomas Douglas, Point Sturt, farmer.

At £1 10s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec. 25s, 339 acres, J. N. Way. Rapid Bay, farmer; Sec 86n, 351 acres, Peter James Dwyer, Magill, farmer; Sec. 87k, 426 acres, Eii Hart, Barunga, farmer.

At £1 9s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec. 13, H. Donoon, Adelaide, labourer.

At £1 8s. per Acre Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec. 76, 443 acres, Joseph Thomas, Strathalbyn, farmer.

At £1 0s 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec 59, 429 acres, S. C. May, Mount Barker, farmer; sec. 60n, 93 acres, A. May, Mount Barker, farmer; sec. 91n, 281 acres, Jos. Hanrahan, Oaklands, Y.P., farmer; sec. 1068, 148 acres, G. A. Bartley, Gum Plat, farmer.

The area opened for selection amounted to 87,230 acres, out of which 21,032 acres were selected, realizing £56,183 193. 61. The average Bum paid per acre was £2 13s. 5d., the highest number of applications for the same section (No. 115, Curramulka) amounting to 20. Two hundred and seventy-five persons applied, out of which 47 obtained land. Wednesday, September 20.

At £1 3s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec. 3s, 420 acres, Charles Parsons, Enfield, farmer.

At £1 7s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec 31, 621 acres, Wm. Lovelock, Noarlunga, farmer.

At £1 2s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson — Sec. 37, 124 acres. John Bickers, Port Ade!aide, merchant.

At At £1 0s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec 57, 600 acres, Wm. Pointon, Aldinga, farmer; sec. 64, 497 acres, Charles Barnett, Kangarillia, farmer; sec. 119, 470 acres, Alex. Lister, Bagot's Well, blacksmith.

At £2 1s. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec. 85, 535 acres, Neal Mile Rogers, Stansbury, farmer.

At £1 10s. 6d. per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson— Sec. 90, 587 acres, Peter William?, Willunga, farmer.

Thirty-six persons applied, and 18 obtained land. The area selected was 7,751 acres, realizing £9,250 19a. Average price per acre, £1 3s. 11d., Sec 85 obtaining highest bid, viz., £2 1s.

At £1 per Acre. Hundred Curramulka, County Fergusson Sec. 58, 565 acres, Thos. Pointon, Aldinga, farmer; sec. 80, 686 acres, Jno. Watters, Willnnga, farmer; sec. 107, 451 acres, Jas. Michelmore, Bull's Creek, teamster; sec. 51w, 124 acres, Alex. Anderson, Moiphett Vale, farmer.

FIRE ON SOUTHERN YORKE'S PENINSULA.

Friday 17 November 1876, South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900) Trove

Tuesday, November 14, 1876, is likely to be remembered by the settlers near Stansbury for some years to come, for what with hot wind, dust, and smoke it was a most trying day.

Early in the morning a tremendous fire was seen raging in the direction of the newly-settled land at Curramulka, and with the strong hot wind it was making fearful progress. It started somewhere near Michie's Flat, and made a clean breach in its track to within three or four miles of Stansbury, having travelled over 20 miles in a few hours. There being no crops at Curramulka this year the damage is confined to fencing. It is reported that a flock of 1,200 sheep, belonging to Mr. W. A. Thomas, of Strathalbyn, have perished, but it requires confirmation; for although the shepherds cleared out, and the tent and everything in it was burnt, they are not quite certain about the sheep. In the Hundreds of Ramsay and Dalrymple the damage has been serious, for while several have suffered from fencing being burnt, Mr. W. F. Edmunds, J.P., and Mr. Peter Anderson, jun., suffer serious losses in the crops. The former estimates his loss at from £150 to £200, while the latter will be a still heavier loser. The mallee scrub burnt like tinder, and the fire was only stopped by the strenuous efforts of willing hands. Had it occurred a month later when the crops were ripe nothing could have saved the whole of Southern Yorke's Peninsula from the flames, for the wind was blowing due north, and carried sparks and smoke everywhere. For some time the inhabitants of Stansbury were rather anxious, as the fire was blowing directly down on it; but fortunately the wind changed to west about 5 o'clock, and it was safe. Such a day has never before been felt at Stansbury, and with the notoriety it has for its Tasmanian climate its residents hope the day is far distant when there will be such another. A correspondent at Stansbury, writing under date of November 16, sends the following account:— 'A large bush fire has been for some days raging in the neighbourhood of Curramulka, and on Tuesday a terrific hot wind blew from the north, bringing the fire down this way with lightning speed. A large amount of damage has been done to several of the farmers that adjoin the scrub, besides destroying a considerable area of valuable grass. One new settler had his tent, all his goods and chattels, and a very serviceable cart and harness completely destroyed, while others lost many miles of fencing, and one farmer is reported to have, sustained a loss of nearly £400 worth of hay and growing wheat. Mr. Tolmar, the Crown Lands Ranger, was most energetic in rendering all possible assistance to the settlers at Curramulka, and while doing so had a very narrow escape, as by a sudden change of wind he found himself dead to leeward of the fire, which came down upon him with fearful rapidity, and had he not been well mounted, or had his horse fallen, nothing could have saved him from the roaring, merciless flames. Vast herds of terrified kangaroos rushed on by his side, many of which fell exhausted by the way from the intense heat and stiding volumes of smoke. The fire is believed to have originated by sparks from a camp-fire being carried some 50 yards by a sudden gust of wind.

Meeting at Curramulka. —

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Wednesday 17 January 1877, page 5

A meeting of selectors in the Hundred of Curramulka was held at the house of Mr. Lange on Tuesday evening, January 9, the object being the consideration and discussion of several local requirements and the obtainment of postal communication. Mr. W. Maley presided. Several speakers adverted to the great necessity existing for postal facilities, and various routes were suggested, the one finding most favour being from Stansbury by way of Surveyor's Point and Salt Lake to Curramulka Well. Mr. L. E. Lange then proposed 'That in the opinion of this meeting a bi-weekly mail should be immediately established at Curramulka,' the motion being seconded by Mr. Alex. Douglas. Mr. R. F. Wilson next proposed ' That Messrs. Happler, Lange, Parrington, and the Chairman be appointed a Committee to prepare a memorial for presentation to Mr. C. Todd, C.M.G., and to invite the co-operation of the members of the district.' Seconded by Mr. W. Doonan and carried. Various other matters were afterwards referred to. The clearing of the road from Mount Rat by way of Curramulka Well, thence to the eastern portion of the Hundred of Ramsay, as prayed for in petition shortly to be presented to the Surveyor-General, was thought to be the best suited to the wants of the majority, not only of this hundred, but Wauraltee, Koolywurtie, and Ramsay East. The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman, and to Mr. Lange for the use of the room.

CURRAMULKA,

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Thursday 18 January 1877, page 7

January 15. We have experienced very warm weather lately, the thermometer reaching 110 in the shade on several occasions. Clearing, fallowing, and farming are being pushed forward, but the dryness of the soil makes the operation very laborious. A good soaking rain is very much required to lighten the work. Yet with all disadvantages sufficient will be sown next season in various parts of the hundred to prove the capability of the land for wheat-growing. I do not hear of any sinking for water on these holdings, water being obtainable from the Government well ; yet the scale of charges per head and gallon, although reasonably low, will ultimately prove too much for those who require it in quantity and have to cart it a distance. Some, however, have begun to excavate for tanks to secure surface water, and I think from the nature of the country this will be the principal means of securing a supply. Many of the selectors have not arrived yet, while some have been here fallowing, &c, and have gone back to reap their crops in other parts of the country. The look of the country has been much altered during the last three months by the erection of houses of no mean pretensions, fencing, and ploughing. The continuous arrival of watercarters, cattle, and horses makes the place quite lively at the never-failing well, which keeps up its usual supply, however much the demand. I wish we could say the same regarding the feed, which is getting very scarce, especially near the well, where so many cattle and horses congregate. Our late great bush fire did no great damage to the settlers of this hundred, but it burned a great portion of the scrub lands here and in Ramsay, exposing to view the quality of the soil, and it looks quite desert. Kangaroos have removed to new feeding-grounds, and are very numerous near to the settlers' holdings. They have been very destructive to the crops, all attempts to stop them proving futile. In and around Gum Flat, Koolywurtie, and up to Mount Rat the crops have not realized what was expected — in many cases not half : yet some are sanguine of good crops with a favourable season. Still, it is very trying to those whose means are limited to have to struggle through fcr another twelve months. There is plenty of ploughing and fencing to let here. Those whose sections have been cut are nearly at a standstill. They can neither plough nor fence, as they do not know where the fresh survey will be made. It is nearly four months since the land was sold, and the resurvey would not take long with two parties of surveyors within five miles of here, and would greatly benefit those interested. There has been a large fire burning since Saturday, south-west of the Curramulka Well ; but this morning, with a strong north-east wind, it broke out with renewed vigour, travelling in the direction of Gum Flat, east through the mallee scrub, quite enveloping the southern portion of the Peninsula in dense smoke, and making it very hot.

CURRAMULKA,

Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 - 1954), Trove

Friday 19 January 1877, page 3

January 15. We have experienced very warm weather lately and exceptionably dry weather, the thermometer in the shade has on several occasions exceeded 110. Whether Egypt or Gawler can excell us for hot weather, on the day recorded to by 'Comet' we got up to 123, and receded to 65 on the following afternoon. However hot we have it during the day generally we have cool evenings. It has been very good harvest weather, but a very poor harvest gathered. The crops in the Hundreds of Minlacowie, and Koolwurtie have not turned out to expectations, in many instances not half ; they average will be about five bushels. I hear of several farmers contemplating leaving their holdings, while one has left: The bad season, combined with the scarcity of water, makes it very trying to struggle through for another season with limited means. I am referring to the neighborhood of Mount Rat and Wauraltie, where the crops are exceptionally poor and water scarce. I hear of people coming from near Maitland to Gum Flat for water, a distance, of 30 miles.

Minlaton is making very little progress -- two stores, opened and a public-house is being built. W. Long, late of Stockport, being the principle storekeeper, who is very much are respected and doing the best trade. Wheat today in Minlaton is 4s. 10d, but very little coming to hand.

We are to have your late respected minister,:Mr Knight, amongst us at Yorketown, when he is going to give one of his popular lectures, which, I have no doubt will be much appreciated. We are likewise having quite an influx of people in and around Gawler on the Peninsula.

We are at present endeavoring to secure postal communications to this Hundred, and a road cleared to Surveyor's Point, both of which are much required. To the centre of the Hundred we are about seven miles from the sea coast. There is abundance of work to be done here for contractors, who are getting from 15s. to £1 per acre for ploughing, and 5 1/2d. to 1s. per post for fencing, tank sinking for 7s. 6d. per yard. Settlers even can't get the work done at these prices. The country is very much altered since September last, ploughing, house building, and fencing being pushed on under great difficulties, the ground being so very dry and hard. The Government well is being leased— the owner making a fine thing out of it — with an abundant supply, which is a great benefit to this place; the feed is getting very scarce, especially near the well where so many horses and cattle congregate. There will be a large quantity fallowed for next season, but the kangaroos and rabbits will do much mischief with some of the farms adjoining the scrub lands.

CURRAMULKA,

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Saturday 10 February 1877, page 1

February 5. Most of our farmers are at a standstill, on account of the dearth of feed for their cattle. Those who are proceeding with their fallowing, &C, have to procure hay from Maitland, and often teams are to be seen passing Mount Rat en route for that place, invariably carrying with them water sufficient for their journey. The Wesleyans intend building a chapel at Minlaton, and have purchased the block of land adjacent to that on which Mclnerney's publichouse is being erected. This position, I think, is an anomalous one — certainly ineligible — and they ought to reconsider the matter. There are many better sites available, unless the object is to include cellarage in the edifice and secure a good rent from its neighbour. Surveyor's Point is becoming a lively port, and is doubtless destined to be of considerable importance. It is well sheltered, and the water is deep enough to admit of the ketches landing goods on the beach without the aid of a cart. Good water is obtainable on the beach, and consequently teamsters prefer carting from here.

CURRAMULKA,

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Monday 19 February 1877, page 6

February 10. The surveyors here have finished the resurvey of the cut sections. Mr. Strangways is engaged surveying the Wauraltee (Mount Rat) Township under great difficulties, the ground being very stony, and it has taxed his lengthened experience to place the pegs in position.

At Port Victoria one of the best hotels out of town is being built, and it is nearly finished. This together with a wheatbuyer's establishment, a smith's shop, and a few houses (mostly iron) form the shipping-place, which is one of the best on the western coast ; but what share of trade it will secure against its opposite rival, Ardrossan, has yet to be proved, the eastern coast having many advantages over the west.

The purchase of Port Vincent by a Company of enterprising Adelaide capitalists, who no doubt foresaw the future importance of the place, has given great satisfaction. They intend to begin operations at once, and thorougly open the place by giving facilities on shore, making a good road over the sandy portion, building a large store for cargo, and constructing a jetty into deep water so that the coasting steamers can lie alongside.

I hear also the Company are likely to obtain postal communication with the metropolis. When our memorial asking for a Post-Office here reaches Mr. Todd, it would be well to consider the advantage of carrying our mails by way of Salt Creek to Port Vincent. They could be carried at much less cost to the Government, and the plan would meet the requirements of all that portion of Ramsay East now under survey, and which will soon be a settled district. Besides, all our business communications and traffic will be with Port Vincent, which is the natural outlet for this and the adjoining country.

A serious drawback has been felt by the settlers who have been carting from Port Vincent in consequence of the rough state of the road. The work of clearing could be done for a very small cost, and is worthy the consideration of the Government, who have received a very large amount of money for land in this quarter.

CURRAMULKA.

South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889), Trove

Friday 2 March 1877, page 7

February 25. A store has been opened in this Hundred, and not before it was wanted.—A petition is now being signed for postal, communication via Stansbury. This is very badly wanted, as the settlers here have to go a distance of 12 and 14 miles for their letters; this means the loss of a day and a ride of 24 or 28 miles, and maybe a ride to both Postoffices, as letters are sometimes sent to one or the other. This gives a constitutional of nearly 50 miles.—We had light showers on thd 23rd, but not enough to do much good.—Horse feed is very scarce and has to be brought long distances.—Ploughing has been offered at 18s. and 19s. per acre, but on account of the scarcity of teams, has not been taken.—Kangaroos are still very abundant, although shot down and hunted by the settlers in all directions.

CURRAMULKA,

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 17 March 1877, page 6

March 12. This hundred presents quite a different appearance just now to what it did about six months ago. The late fires which swept through the hundred and extended over a large portion of Ramsay and near to Stansbury have made this portion of the Peninsula look black and dismal. The grass and mallee having been burnt up, the stones can be more plainly seen on the surface. In consequence of this state of things one selector in Curramulka has given up his land. Ploughing operations have been retarded on account of the dearness of hay, which is to be got only at Maitland and Gum Flat, for about £7 per ton chaffed; but there is a great deal of ground ploughed already. The soil generally is of a black loam, and of good depth. Should there be a fair season a great many hundred acres will be put under crop this year.

At present there is no water in any of the dams which have been made here. There is plenty at the well, from which the selectors get it at 10d. per 100 gallons. This comes rather expensive. It is said that the Government ought to allow the selectors of the hundred to have the water free of charge this year, as they have not had the chance of storing any.

It is likely that Surveyor's Point or what is called Port Vincent will be the chief port of shipping for this part of the district, as it is a safe harbour from the south and westerly gales in rough weather.

Curramulka March 21st.

Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser and Miners' and Farmers' Journal (SA : 1875 - 1878), Trove

Friday 30 March 1877, page 3

Yesterday we had a splendid rain all day, and as it came down steadily the dry soil took it in for hours without its showing on the surface. It will no doubt do an immense deal of good, as it seems to have extended all over the country. The stock in this neighbourhood was beginning to die off, the grass being nearly all gone ; and horses and cattle not constantly fed on hay-chaff or corn look very miserable.

Fencing and ploughing, grubbing and clearing have been the chief work of the farmers, who are nearly all on their land. I do not think there is a single dummy in the Hundred. Some of the Selectors have done a large amount of work, and have paid away many hundreds of pounds for improvements already.

Curramulka April 22nd.

Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 - 1954), Trove

Friday 4 May 1877, page 3

We have been favored with a portion of the late rains which has much desired, and which has been very beneficial. The grass is growing very fast, if we get a little more soon it will be the best season for feed that has been here for years past. Yesterday and and this morning we had slight frost with fine warm days. The Kangaroos have almost deserted the settled lands and gone back to the late burnt country which is looking quite green.

Some of the farmers have sowed a little, but the majority are waiting for more rain, being afraid, if fine weather continues, there won't be sufficient moisture in the soil to sustain life. Early patches of barley looked well, also vegetable gardens of a primitive character, taking into consideration the difficulty which the settlers have had to contend with the long continuous dry weather which made the breaking up of new land very laborious, and the carting of water which occupied much of their time. There is a considerable extent of land ready for sowing, besides what will be ploughed for the next two months. If we have a favorable season there will be a large quantity of wheat to ship from here, which leads us to hope the Government will give every facility to the proprietors of Port Vincent to erect a jetty for shipping our produce which would also induce some of the coasting steamers calling there. We have memorialized the Postmaster General for postal communication and the establishment of an office here, and we trust he will be in a possession to comply favorably with our request. We have to go at present ten miles for our letters.

The residents are contemplating erecting a school by subscription, and securing the services of a female teacher.

There is a good opening for a general store, and a good field of labor for a shepherd of souls, of which none have visited us as yet.

Curramulka April 27th.

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

Saturday 5 May 1877, page 21

The Government would do well to appoint a few more Magistrates on southern Yorke's Peninsula. At present they are few and fair between. Two Justices should be appointed for Curramulka, as this place is getting fast settled, and several other Hundreds adjoining would also be served by such appointments. We have no roads to any shipping place and no post-office. For a Justice of the Peace or a police-trooper we have to go 35 miles— nearly as far as we are in a direct line from Adelaide. Surely we are entitled to greater consideration!

COUNTRY NEWS.

South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889), Trove

Wednesday 23 May 1877, page 7

CURRAMULKA, MAY 21. We have just heard that the Commission appointed to find the most suitable site for a permanent quarantine station, has recommended Black Point as the most suitable place.

The people on the Peninsula do not appear to appreciate this kindness as they perhaps should do, especially as the Government has omitted to provide us with any reserves for good sized cemeteries. The people in Curramulka have an idea that if they were provided with a decent road towards Black Point on which to carry their produce to the seaboard, and with some sort of mail communication with the metropolis, it would be preferable to the intended quarantine buildings. There is no doubt, if such a station is ever built there, the greatest precautions will have to be taken, as it is pretty certain that men confined in quarantine will try to get out at times.—We had splendid rains last week. In many places the young wheat plant is showing two inches above ground, and Curramulka, so long known only as a sheepwalk, will shortly be known as a blooming agricultural area.

CURRAMULKA. May 22.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Saturday 2 June 1877, page 3

Ploughing and sowing are being vigorously pushed forward in this hundred. The season so far has been very favourable for farming. We have had beautiful rains, and they have made feed spring up wonderfully, especially in Curramulka Valley. A few of the farmers have finished seeding, but the majority intend continuing up to the middle of June, in the belief of the season turning out a good one. The present price of grain, combined with the present aspect of affairs on the Continent of Europe, tends to the belief entertained by many that the price of wheat will not be low, however much the increase in acreage or average. The wheat that is up is looking strong and healthy, and the barley is looking remarkably well.

There is employment here for some of the surplus labour so often represented in your columns to be out of employment. Those who are here demand quite an exorbitant price for their labour. Still I don't blame any working man for asking as much as he can get for his labour. But when farmers have to pay so dearly for work that must be done it becomes a heavy drag on their resources unnecessarily, all for the want of competition in labour. There has been miles of fencing erected at Is. per post, which I believe is the amount allowed by Government, exclusive of the price of wire, freight, and cartage; dam and tank sinking being no exception, from 7s. to 8s. per cubic yard. There is at present ploughing to let at per acre, dam and tank making and grubbing. Like other newly-settled districts we have numerous local wants— the clearing of the road from here to Port Vincent being a great necessity.

The Rev. W. Howe, Wesley an minister of Gum Flat, conducted divine service here for the first time on Sunday last.

COUNTRY CORRESPONDENCE.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Tuesday 5 June 1877, page 7

CURRAMULKA, May 29. The weather has cleared up beautifully since Saturday, enabling outdoor work to be resumed. Our farmers are working in real earnest, and sowing is, being pushed forward with great energy.

A crowded meeting of residents was held at Curramulka on Monday evening, May 28, to express disapproval of the action of the Quarantine Commission in selecting Black Point as a quarantine station. Mr. Wesley Maley presided. The Chairman, in answer to a question about Wauraltee Island, said that that was the most suitable place for the station, as it combined all the advantages requisite for such an institution. There was entire isolation, the anchorage was safe, and there was plenty of water on it. As to the want of fuel, that was do excuse. The establishment of such an institution on a mainland ought, he said, to rouse the whole country, and the people of Adelaide should co-operate with them.

Mr. Lovelock moved — ' That this meeting condemns in most emphatic terms the action of the Quarantine Commission in recommending Black Point as the most eligible site for a sanitary station- The motion was seconded by Mr. A. Douglas, and carried unanimously.

Mr. R. F. Wilson proposed — 'That a Committee be appointed to obtain signatures to a memorial and to confer with the Stansbury Committee, and that Messrs. Arthur May, Alex. Douglas, Wesley Maley, and the mover constitute the same.' Seconded by Mr. Jno. Hams, and carried.

The Chairman said as there was a large gathering they might consider various local matters. The juestion of postal communication was considered. It was resolved to wait a reply to the memorial sent some days ago. The clearing of the road from Curramulka to Port Vincent was next discussed.

Mr. A. Douglas moved — ' That a memorial be prepared for presentation to the Hon. the Commissioner of Public Works, asking that a sum be placed on the Estimates for the purpose of clearing the road from the western boundary of the hundred to Port Vincent; Seconded by Mr. Jno. Way.

It was resolved; that the Chairman and Messrs. A. Douglas, H. May, and R. F. Wilson be appointed a Committee to draw up a memorial and obtain signatures for that purpose. A few other matters were discussed, and the meeting was: closed.

CURRAMULKA, June 13.

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

Saturday 23 June 1877, page 21

The season has been a most favorable one for the numerous settlers in this Hundred, and great energy has been manifested during the few months since the land was selected in ploughing and fencing. A great breadth of land is under wheat, and with anything like an average season the quantity of wheat reaped (for which a port and a road thereto will be required) will be something considerable. At present there is neither port nor township in the Hundred, but I understand the former may be made almost anywhere on the east coast, and for the latter there is a fine site on two reserved sections near the Curramulka Mine. — A public meeting was held in Curramulka Valley on Monday evening last, at which petitions to the Government were adopted, praying for a sum of money to be placed on the estimates for clearing aroad through the Hundred to Port Vincent, and for a few small stone reserves to be declared in anticipation of a District Council. — It is hoped that after the busy time of getting the seed into the ground is fairly over, which will most likely be about the end of the month, the settlers will show as much interest and energy in attending to the requirements of the district in matters pertaining to the commonweal, as they have in their own individual private interests during the last few months.

CURRAMULKA, July 17.

Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser and Miners' and Farmers' Journal (SA : 1875 - 1878), Trove

Tuesday 24 July 1877, page 3

Settlers have been very busy sowing and harrowing and all will have finished for the season. The greater part of the land sown in the district this year is rather late, owing to the press of work of all sorts when settling in new country.

Fencing is also going on and in many places the road lines are getting fenced, giving the place quite a civilized appearance. I am glad to be able to say that before long we shall have mail communication, as I am informed that an offer from Mr. Douglas (our local storekeeper), to convey the mail twice a week from Mount Rat to Curramulka has been accepted.

At Port Vincent the Company have made great progress with the jetty. It will be finished in a few weeks. It is 150 feet long, and will have 10 feet of water at the end when the tide is in. The steamer Star of Hope, ketch Omeo, and cutter Enterprise trade there, and make the place look quite lively. It is a great pity that the approaches to this place are so very miserable. Port Vincent will no doubt be the outlet for the hundreds of Ramsay, and the south-western portion of the hundred of Curramulka : hut all the wheat grown on the splendid land in the neighborhood of what is known as the twelve-mile hut from there to Curramulka Hill, and Mickey's Flat, will undoubtedly be shipped at Curramulka Harbor, otherwise known as little She-oak Flat. A road to this place is urgently required, and we invite the attention of the local Road Board to the above. There are now about 54 settlers in the hundred.

CURRAMULKA, Aug. 12.

Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser and Miners' and Farmers' Journal (SA : 1875 - 1878), Trove

Friday 17 August 1877, page 3

At last, we have been granted mail conveyance to Curramulka and it is a great boon to us. Mr. Douglass, the contractor, started for the first, time on August 4th.

Generally, I believe it is the practice to lay out a township in a Hundred, especially when every section worth having is taken up by the agriculturist ; but I suppose that the Government will require the constant urging of deputations before anything will be done for this district. There are now no fewer than three blocks of lands reserved in the Hundred, no one knows for what purpose, except, perhaps, to keep the country supplied with that well-known pest—the rabbits. If the land is kept for that, it is a great success.

The Local Road Board would do well to spend a few pounds in this Hundred, instead of allowing all public money to be absorbed by a few old and well-known districts.

Rain is sadly wanted, and the fate of the late crops is almost decided. Water-carting has already commenced, many settlers not having had time to get tanks ready for the April rains, and we have had very little for the last three mouths.

CURRAMULKA, August 14.

Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 - 1954), Trove

Friday 17 August 1877, page 3

We had some sharp frosty nights last month, which combined with the present dry weather is giving rise to serious apprehensions regarding the late-sown crops.

The early wheat looks well, and promises fair for an average yields.

Grass looked much better about six weeks ago than at present, owing chiefly to the late severe frosts.

We are to have the road cleared from, here to Port Vincent, our shipping-place, the proprietors of which have surveyed a township, and numerous applications have been made for allotments, but which will be sold by auction, at an early date, and is expected to realise high prices. The Company have erected a jetty, which is doing good service now and reflects credit on the owners. They have also successfully applied to have the sandy portion of the road macadamized leading from this place to the jetty. Arrangements have also been made to have the steamer Ceres call twice a week, which will be a great convenience to intending, passengers, as it will save them the trouble of going, to Stansbury to embark.

We have also got our long-promised postoffice, and Mr. Todd has promised us a mail every Saturday if we succeed in establishing steam service between Port Adelaide and Port Vincent, which will, enable us to get the late edition of the Adelaide papers and the Bunyip every Saturday about noon.

A Cricket Club, numbering 30 members, has been formed here.

Religious services are held here twice every Sunday to fair congregations, and it is in contemplation to establish a Sunday school. A meeting will shortly be held for the purpose of raising funds for the erection of a temporary schoolhouse pending the survey of the proposed township, and it will be some time before a suitable site can be secured.

CURRAMULKA, August 13.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 18 August 1877, page 6

The altered aspect of the country—withering grass and parched corn-crops—is making the heart of the farmer less buoyant than formerly. The crops are looking healthy, and where fences have been erected they are promising, but the kangaroos and rabbits are making a clearance in many places.

No doubt the request recently made for a township near the Well, which is in a very dirty condition, will meet with ready compliance, and I apprehend that in anticipation of a survey being made the Government have called for tenders for clearing the road that passes that way to Port Vincent, and also for makking the sandy portion near the Port.

Postal communication is now established, and the mail is being conveyed with creditable punctuality. Twice a week, however, is not sufficient for the neighbourhood's requirements, and very soon we are sanguine of getting a bi-weekly ship mail via Port Vincent.

Country Correspondence

Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser and Miners' and Farmers' Journal (SA : 1875 - 1878), Trove

Friday 7 September 1877, page 3

CURAMULKA. September 3rd. Since my last we have had a change in the weather, fine light showers have fallen at intervals; and although we have not had sufficient to replenish our tanks, the rain has greatly refreshened the crops, and prospects are looking brighter.

Fallowing will now soon commence in earnest. The ground has been very hard and but few farmers had started in consequence.

I hear that Mr. Goldsworthy of the Twelve Mile Hut, intends clearing a road to Curramulka Harbor on his own account.

Country Correspondence-

Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser and Miners' and Farmers' Journal (SA : 1875 - 1878), Trove

Friday 7 September 1877, page 1

CURRAMULKA, Aug. 12. At last we have been granted mail conveyance to Curramulka, and it is a great boon to us. Mr. Douglass, the contractor, started for the first time on August 4th.

Generally, I believe it is the practice to lay out a township in a Hundred, especially when every section worth having is taken up by the agriculturist - but I suppose that the Government will require the constant urging of deputations before anything will be done for this district.

There are now no fewer than three blocks of lands reserved in the Hundred no one knows for what purpose, except, perhaps, to keep the country supplied with that well-known pest—the rabbits. If the land is kept for that, it is a great success.

Rain is sadly wanted, and the fate of the late crops is almost decided. Water-carting has already commenced, many settlers not having had time to get tanks ready for tile April rains, and we have had very little for the last three months.

CURRAMULKA.

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

Saturday 29 September 1877, page 8

Our Curramulka correspondent, writing on September 14, says: — 'A new way of dealing with Crown lands has lately come to my notice, a 'swop' having been made by the Government and Mr. Goldsworthy, late owner of Black Point. The latter has received 447 acres of the Curramulka Reserve for 100 acres of the Black Point Farm. What the Government want with Black Point seems a mystery to every one about here, as it is quite out of the way for a shipping place, and a considerable distance from any agricultural area. The talk here is that 'swopping' Crown lands in the way this has been done is very unjust and unfair to the general public, and we are curious to know if the Commissioner has introduced a clause in the new Land Bill providing for such little eccentricities.

CURRAMULKA 10 January

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

Saturday 12 January 1878, page 4

Reaping has been general for some time, but the return is anything but good. Some of the early sown crops, which looked splendid when in ear and gave promise of 18 to 20 bushels per acre, are now turning out seven and eight bushels, half the heads being empty. This failure is caused by redrust and blight. Some of the farmers have to pay a high price for the land and high interest to the Government: have worked hard for 16 months, have paid away heavy sums for improvements, clearing, and ploughing, and the return will net be equal to the cost of breaking up the land: —

Mr. Wurm, of Stansbury, has opened a general store at Curramulka Harbor, and purchases wheat. — Some allotments have been recently surveyed about half a mile in some other direction from this our shipping place, simply I suppose to give us another example of 'how not to do it.' — A fire occurred the other day on Mr. Wilson's farm near the well, started it is said by the carelessness of some passing travellers who were smoking ; the damage done was considerable. No inquest was held, I presume, because there are no Justices about here. - — Christmas Day and New Year's Day passed off very quietly.

South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889), Trove

Saturday 19 January 1878, page 4

During the hot weather which prevailed in the early part of the present week several bush fires occurred on Southern Yorke's Peninsula, the first fire broke out on Monday on the Minlacowie sandhills and had its origin in a wheat crop. It burnt a considerable quantity of wheat, and the grass off some miles of the sandhills. Mr. Phillips, the overseer, and a number of men from Moorowie Station, and the farmers from Minlacowie, rendered all the assistance in their power, and subduced the fire by Wednesday morning. On that day another large fire occurred near Curramulka, and at the same time an immense fire was raging at the south-west end of the Peninsula. On Thursday the wind veered to the west, and carried dense volumes of smoke up to Para Wuriie, where for some time the settlers were apprehensive that they would be burnt out. Mr. Phillipe, who had only just concluded his labors atthe Minlacowie fire started again with some of his men for this latter fire. It appeared to be burning in the direction of the White Hut Station, which, like the Moorowie Station, is the property of Mr. Fowler. Mr. E. Ward, M.P, also mustered a number of his men and accompanied Mr. Phillips. Fortunately, in the evening the wind shifted from the west to the southeast, and drove the fire back over the burnt ground, and the people who had assembled were enabled to prevent it extending further. The White Hut Station was burnt of grass almost from end to end; and the station itself was only saved by the most extrenuous efforts of the men belonging to the place, and by ploughing furrows round all the buildings. The sheep, with the exception of 200, were saved, and they are now being removed to the Moorowie Station.

CURRAMULKA. Jan. 24.

Bunyip (Gawler, SA : 1863 - 1954), Trove

Friday 25 January 1878, page 3

The holidays passed off very quietly here. The unseasonable reaping weather induced many to keep their reapers at work on Christmas and New Years' Days— both being good reaping days. Now we are getting it hot enough, when the reaping is all done. We had it very hot on the 8th, 9th, and 10th of last week — the thermometer reaching 122 ° in the shade on the 10th instant. To add to our discomfort we had large bush fires raging for four days, and I am sorry to say with serious loss to one farmer, who got his reaper, winnower, twenty bags cleaned wheat, and some of his standing crops burned— while others had miles of fencing burned.

The crops are very much below the expectation of the farmers— There being, straw enough for twenty bushels average, while the average won't exceed eight or nine per acre ; but without exception, a splendid sample. It is quite evident the crops were more injured by blight or frost than by red rust, which is the general opinion here. The price of wheat here is 5s. 10d. per bushel. There is a very large extent of land fallowed for the coming season.

There is abundance of feed ; and water we buy at the rate of 1d. per 10 gallons or 3s. 4d. per 400 gallon tank.

CURRAMULKA.

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

Saturday 16 February 1878, page 21

Harvest is now over in this Hundred and the return as a whole is anything but satisfactory. I should think the average will range from eight to nine bushels.Early fallowed land has given the best results, and the poorer ground turned out a better sample than rich strong soil, the crops on the latter beings mostly smothered with rust or blight. I am formed that the lessee of the Curramulka well is leaving at the end of the present month. If so, it is very desirable that the well should be immediately relet by the Government to some other responsible person, who should be bound to keep the tank at least decently clean and fit to drink from. If every settler has to draw his own water the gear and bushels would soon be smashed up besides causing even greater loss of time than at present— All the wheat this season has been carted either to Curramulka Harbor or to Port Vincent. At the former place plenty of water fit for stock has been found at a depth of about 12 feet, and as the distance is only eight or nine miles from the best wheat growing part of the Hundred it has proved, a grand little shipping place.-— Ploughmen and good agricultural laborers are very scarce and cannot be got.

CURRAMULKA V. MlULATON.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Monday 25 March 1878, page 2

Played at Curramulka on Saturday, March 16, and resulted in a victory for the home team. Scores : — Curramulka — J . Asbmeade, 50 ; S. Goldsworthy, 17 ; W. Twelftree, 0; G. McKinJay. 7 ; J. Coleman, 7 ; A. 'Williams, 0 ; J. P. Dwyer, 0 ; Barnett, 0 ; A. Douglas, 3; T. Goldsworthy, 7 (not out) ; W. McDonald (captain), 2 ; sundries, 5 ; total, 98. Minlaton— C. Smith (captain), 6—16; J. Smith, 7—0; H. Ward, 21 —4 ; O. Treasure, 0—6 ; Jas. Nankivell, 4—2 ; T. Smith, 0—6; 'W. Long, 2—3 ; A. Broadstock, 0—10; C. Willing, 7 (not out)— 9; R. Eogers, 2 — 1 (not out) ; T. Cook, 1 — 1 ; sundries, 2—1 ; totals, 52 and 59. For the victors, Ashmeade captured 12 wickets for 44 runs, Coleman 8 for 51, and 'Williams 0 for 13. For the losers, C. Smith 8 for 33, H. 'Ward 0 for 31, J. Smith 0 for 17, and T. Smith 1 for 12. Glen Osmond v. Glbnsidb. Played at Glen Osmond on March 16. Scores: —38 and 27 respectively.

CURRAMULKA, March 25.

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

Saturday 30 March 1878, page 21

The late rains, which appear to have fallen heavily about Adelaide and the North, have been very light in this district. I have only heard of one dam which was partly filled, and water-carting has never been interrupted during this long dry summer. — Travelling from here towards Ardrossan through the scrub track lately I came over some land a survey party is now engaged in surveying, and I can truly say that greater rubbish to survey cannot very well be found in the colony, not excepting the Long Desert. It seems simply astonishing that the public money is allowed to be wasted on such utterly useless work as this. In Curramulka Hundred and in Ramsay any quantity of rubbish was surveyed, and has of course not been taken up, and is never likely to be — at least, by any sane person.

CURRAMULKA, April 20.

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

Saturday 4 May 1878, page 21

The holidays have passed very quietly, the only public gathering being a tea meeting held by our Wesleyan friends near the Well, in a building lately erected, and in which it is proposed to hold divine service until a more substantial building can be raised. The weather was rather boisterous, but this did not prevent a fair gathering, as there must have bsen nearly 100 persons present. — We are having some splendid rains, and seeding operations will now be carried out with vigor. — The weary months of water-carting are now happily over, and as many farmers have dams and tanks ready as good deal of the storm waters will be stored for the next summer. The township is not surveyed yet, and persons going in for business have to either go on private land or leave the district. The road from the Twelve-mile Hut to the sea coast in a direct easterly line requires grubbing, as this would shorten the road to our shipping-place considerably.

CURRAMULKA. May 7.

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

Saturday 11 May 1878, page 21

This place, which has only been under cultivation for one year, is making good progress. — There will be a large quantity of wheat sown this year. The late rain has started the grass growing. The early sown crops are looking healthy, and farmers are busy ploughing and sowing. — On Easter Sunday the Curramulka Chapel was opened for divine service, when sermons were preached by the Rev. J. Mills, Minister of the Circuit. On Easter Monday tea and public meetings were held. The latter was presided over by Mr. P. Williams. Addresses were delivered by the Chairman, the Rev. J. Mills, and Messrs. Norman, Thomas, and Dodd. Considering the inclemency of the weather the attendance at the services was good. The proceeds amounted to about £8.

CURRAMULKA. June 3.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Tuesday 11 June 1878, page 2

The weather is favourable for farming, being quite a contrast from that of last year, and we have had no frosts as yet. The wheat looks strong and vigorous and feed is abundant. There is a large increase of acreage in crop this year.

The proclamation of the proposed township for which so many are waiting seems as near realization as it was six months ago. Since the Government were memorialized on the subject there has been a large increase of population, and the residents are put to great inconvenience in having so many miles to go for their various household requirements. No doubt the Surveyor-General finds his staff quite inadequate to meet the pressing demands for their services elsewhere, out the proposed site not being large could soon be surveyed, and would confer a boon on not only the residents, but those business people who are desirous of commeucing business here.

There is another matter concerning us which has resulted in a meeting being held here to consider the advisableness of asking the Government to put in thorough repair the Government Well, which is in such a dilapidated state that the terms offered by the Government in the Gazette preclude any one from accepting them. There being no lessee every one is making use of the whim, and the consequence is that people are in imminent danger of being killed with so many strange horses unused to the work being put to draw water. The meeting after fully discussing the matter resolved to ask the Government to repair the well and appliances, and appointed a Committee for that purpose. The meeting also nominated two gentlemen for recommendation as J.P.'s for this district. They are much required.

An iron chapel has been erected, in which services are held every Sunday to large congregations. The chapel is also used as a schoolroom, and is largely attended by the young under a competent female teacher.

Curramulka Post office 1900 - State Library of South Australia - B 25223

CURRAMULKA. June 11.

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

Saturday 22 June 1878, page 21

Splendid rain fell here on the 8th and 9th, filling the tanks and dams and giving the seed a start. It was feared that the cold and frosty nights experienced in the first week of June were the harbingers of another dry and miserable season, but things are looking brighter now. — Petitions are in course of signature tbroughout the district praying for the survey of a township, also for repairs to the Curramulka Well. — Seeding will soon be finished for the season.

CURRAMULKA, June I8th.

Yorke's Peninsula Advertiser and Miners' and Farmers' Journal (SA : 1875 - 1878), Trove

Tuesday 25 June 1878, page 4

Most of the farmers in the Hundred will finish their seeding operations about the end of this week. We have had a really good downpour lately, filling dams and tanks ; also a rather considerable amount of "blow gentle breeze," but I have, not heard that any damage has been done.

Meetings have been held at Curramulka Well. It appears the well and well-tank are very much out of repair. The Government requires any person taking it to put it in good repair. This will cost about £50 ; besides, the leasse would have to pay a considerable amount for the leasse as the reserve is high. Consequently no one has taken it, and this has caused great inconvenience. A memorial has been sent in about it. As no township has been surveyed, a memorial has also been signed and forwarded to "the powers," praying that this may be done. Since this land has been taken up very great improvements have been made by the farmers who have changed the face of country, from a dreary scrubby sheep-walk to really fine farms, by incessant labor and expenditure. After a lapse of over two years our pastoral government has no township surveyed, neither have we a good road grubbed to our shipping-place, " Little Sheoak Flat " and as a large quantity of fallow land has been sown a direct road will be greatly needed.

By the by, I had almost forgotten that a dancing-school had been established at the Well, presided over by a worthy " son of Vulcan." I am informed that about twenty young and howling swells of the Cockatoo fraternity are doing good exercise at times. The charge is very moderate viz., Is. entrance and 3d. a week after that till further orders. So if you, Mr. Editor, should ever want to practise the "light fantastic toe,'' and acquire bucolic grace and polish at a low rate, we can even oblige you in that line.

CURRAMULKA v. WAURALTIE.—July 20.

Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 - 1912), Trove

Saturday 27 July 1878, page 3

Played at Curramulka, and resulted in 8 victory for the visitors by 2 runs. The Curramulkas (captain, W. McDonald ; umpire, Mr. W. Norman) scored 58 and 19—77, Geo. McKinley scoring 15 (not out) and 9, J. Ashmeade 9 and 1. The Wauralties (captain, T. Hillier; umpire, Mr. Cliff) scored 46 and 83—79, Jno. Bradford contributing 11 and 0, W. Hardy 8 and 12. For the Curramulkars S. Goldsworthy bowled 8 wickets for 32 runs and Geo. McKinley 4 for 8. The bowling of Collett and W. Hardy for the Wauralties was good.

CURRAMULKA, July 29.

South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889), Trove

Saturday 3 August 1878, page 7

Sowing is finished and the early crops are looking well.— The farmers are busy fencing.— We have had nice showers of run, in fact, on the whole so far, it has been a good season. We have have had frost in the morning and ice has been found an inch thick, but no damage was done to the crops.— Our township is at but surveyed. The soil is very stony and rough, but it possesses the advantage of being near water.— A day school is being conducted in the Wesleyan Chapel by Miss McLoud ; about 30 children attend it. — A cricket match was played between the Wauraltie and Curramulka Clubs on Saturday last, which resulted in favor of the former.

CURRAMULKA, August 3.

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

Saturday 10 August 1878, page 21

We have had our share of the late rains, but as the nights have been very cold the late sown wheat is rather backward. — A township has at last been surveyed in the Hundred, and a petition, has been forwarded to the Commissioner of Crown Lands to get a road grubbed and surveyed from the township to the sea coast near Port Julia. We are anxious that this road may be cleared, as it is of the greatest importance to the settlers, and will have the bulk of the wheat traffic on it during the next season. — The Inspector of Agricultural Areas has just been round, and carefully inspected the improvements made, which I believe will favorably compare with any in the colony. — An enterprising miller would be able to do a good business somewhere in Central Yorke's Peninsula, as there is no mill nearer here than Yorketown to the south and Ardrossan to the north a distance of over 50 miles.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Saturday 10 August 1878, page 2

IN pursuance of Clause 8 of the Licensed Victuallers Amendment Act, No. 68 of 1877, I HENRY WHITE NEWLYN, of Curramulka, do hereby give notice that I did this day DEPOSIT with the Clerk to the Adelaide Licensing . Bench PLANS of an HOTEL proposed to be erected by me at CURRAMULKA, YORKE'S PENINSULA, and for which I intend to apply for a Publican's Licence.

Dated the ninth day of August, 1878.

H. NEWLYN.

Witness— S. Hewlett Bleechmore, Waymouth-Chambers, Adelaide.

2225v36j

Curramulka V Wauraltee.—August 10.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 24 August 1878, page 10

Return match. Played on the ground of the latter, resulting in a victory for the visitors by 31 runs. Scores:—Curramulka—J. Johnston, 0 —8; T. Goldsworthy, 6—2; W. Twelftree, 18 — 0: J. Giles, 12—1; G. McKinley, 0—1; J. Ashmeade, 4—8, J. "Walters, 0—0; W. McDonald (captain), 2—6; A. Douglas, 0—20 ; A. Williams, 0—16 (not out); W. Goldsworthy (not out) 0—0; sundries, 3—1. Totals, 45 and 64 = 109. Wanraltee—W. Bradford, 4—2 ; A. Whitwell, 2—14; W. Hardy (notout),6—0 ; T. Hillier (captain), 0—3: W. Hillier, 0—0; Geo. Crocker, 0—2; C. Twelftree, 10—8; W. Crocker, 2—1; J. Duthie, 0—3; D. Duthie, 1—0 (not out); J. Marshall, 2—1; sundries, 3—13. Totals, 31 and 47 = 78, For the visitors J. Giles took 8 wickets for 20 runs and J. Ashmeade 9 wickets for 39 runs. For the losers W. Hardy bowled successfully.

CURRAMULKA,

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

Tuesday 3 September 1878, page 2

August 7th. Things are very quiet just now and news but scanty. We have had the Rev. Mr. Marshall here lately to see if a Church service could be held once a month, but as there are few Church of England people about here it is rather doubtful if regular services can be held. Several children a have been baptized by him in this district while on his rounds.

Mr. Tolmer has been inspecting improvements on the selections; and while on this topic I cannot help pointing out that Government might save a considerable amount of redtape and also trouble and loss of time to selectors. For instance, there are a good many farmers who made sufficient improvements in the first year to cover all and more than is required by the Act, viz. 10s. value in four years per acre. Forms are sent in stating the amount or cost of improvements, an inspector comes round to see that this is correct, and then again the second, third, and fourth year, we have to travel many miles to find a Justice of the Peace to declare again and again what the Government must long ago have known to be correct by the report of their own officers.

The township has been surveyed and a survey party is now doing the suburban blocks. When the ground is sold there will be a good opening or trades people. The country around is beginning to look green but feed is very backward, and the same may be said of the later sown wheat.

A Ploughing Match was held at Port Vincent on Thursday last. I was informed that about £50 had been collected for prizes. A good many visitors were present and the whole affair was considered a success.

TOWN OF CURRAMULKA.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Friday 13 September 1878, page 2

Proclamation reserving certain Crown under and designating the same as the town of Curramnlka; also proclamation reserving suburban lands to the said township.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Friday 13 September 1878, page 4

WILSON.— On the 11th September, at Curramulka, Yorke's Peninsula, the wife of R. F. Wilson, of a son. Both doing well.

CURRAMULKA, September 9.

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

Saturday 14 September 1878, page 21

The weather has been very dry lately, and the ground hard, and consequently the late wheat is making but little progress. Yesterday a stiff gale was blowing all day, but towards night a fine soaking rain commenced, which lasted with little interruption all night, and. still continues.— A Show was held at Gum Flat on September 4, and proved a great success. Several Curramulka farmers carried away a fair proportion of the prizes.— We are glad to see that our petition respecting tha grubbing and clearing of the road to Port Julia has been so readily attended to by the Government, and we are thankful for the able support given in this matter by Mr. S. D. Boss, M.P.— The crops on the Peninsula are looking healthy. Those at Stansbury, Edithburgh, Yorketown, and Gum Flat are rather, more advanced than those in Ramsay and Curramulka. Still we are in hopes of a fair return this year if red rust does hot set in.

THE WESLEYAN CHURCH.

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

Saturday 26 October 1878, page 4

Under the questions' relating to church property, it was shown that during the year churches had been completed at Ardrossan, Port Victoria, Minlaton, Stansbury, and Minlacowie. Permission was given to erect a new church, at Curramulka at an estimated cost of £350 ; also a temporary building for worship at Mount Rat. In connection with the latter the following resolution was passed on the motion of Mr. J Nicholson: — 'That this meeting recommends the trustees of Wauraltee and Mount Rat to confer together with a view of building a church in such a locality as will serve the needs of both congregations.' The Chairman agreed to visit the district and meet the trustees. Leave was granted to sell the temporary church at Curramulka.

CURRAMULKA, October 25.

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

Saturday 2 November 1878, page 21

I am sorry to have to report that red rust is showing amongst the wheat crops in every direction. Its appearance is much earlier and more general than last year. The best crops in Mickey's Flat, the Twelve Mile, and near the Well are reported as very badly affected;- £ have seen the rust in last year's stubble and also in newly fallowed land; I have also been informed that the disease is making its appearance in the Hundred of Cunningham.— Since the sale of the township allotments Mr. Newlyn has started building a public-house. Mr. Wurm intends erecting a new store at once, and Mr. Douglas is now enlarging his business premises. — A good bootmaker would no-doubt still further improve the business aspect of our little township.

CURRAMULKA, December 9.

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

Friday 13 December 1878, page 3

Since my last things have gone on very quietly. On some farms reaping has commenced, and mostly with but poor results. Red rust, the curse of the farmer, has again wrought sad havoc amongst the crops this season. Reaping will be general in a week.

I hear that some athletic sports are to come off on Christmas day in the township.

Mr. Wurm has nearly completed hit new store, and Mr. Newlyn's hotel is fast showing above ground. Mr. Lee, of Gum Flat, has also started a branch butchering business at Curramulka, and will no doubt get a share of public support. A boot and shoe maker would be an acquisition ; one of the right sort would make a small fortune in a short time. A match was lately played between the Port Vincent and Curramulka cricket clubs. The result was in favor of the Curramulka club, which seems to be able to hold its own against any on the southern part of the Peninsula.

CURRAMULKA, December 9.

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

Saturday 14 December 1878, page 21

Harvesting has commenced early this year. I have seen several samples of wheat lately, and am satisfied that in very many instances the red rust has destroyed from one-third to half of the yield of the most promising crops. Mr. Goldsworthy informed me that he has about 100 acres which will be hardly worth reaping. This is on some of the very best land in the Hundred. The poorer land has fared better this year, as the rust has not developed itself so strongly, and the grain is therefore plumper. The average of tbe district will I think be from seven to eight bushels per acre. Farm laborers are very scarce.

CURRAMULKA. December 24.

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

Saturday 28 December 1878, page 21

There will be a very great deficiency in the faarvestreturnson account of the damage done by red rust. A great many farmers who had every prospect of reaping 20 bushels to the acre will not average more than about seven bushels. There is a talk of asking the Commissioner of Crown Lands for an extension of time to pay their next instalment of rent.— The weather is now dull. There was a light shower last night. — A lecture was given on Monday evening in the Wesleyan Chapel by the Rev. J. N. Mills on ' National Sins:' The attendance was good, ; and the proceeds amounted to about £2 10s.

CURRAMULKA, December 27.

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

Saturday 4 January 1879, page 22

Druing the last few weeks the weather has been very unfavorable for reaping. Several loads of wheat have been taken to Port Julia. Notwithstanding the red rust there are some good samples of wheat grown this year. I was shown some grown by Mr. Pointon, the grain of which was full and plump. Mr. Luxmore offered 4s. 5d. per bushel for it.— Since the township has been sold another store has been opened. — The new public-house which is in course of erection will be a fine structure. — On Christmas Day several sports were indulged in. The first two prizes were won by Master W. T, Williams who also, succeeded in getting the champion prize. The day no doubt would have passed off quietly had it not been that a drinking booth was erected on the ground. Many got drunk, so that quarrelling and fighting were the results ?

CURRAMULKA. ATHLETIC SPORTS.

South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889), Trove

Monday 6 January 1879, page 6

The first meeting of the Curramulka Athletic Club was held in Mr. Hay's paddock, near the well, on Christmas Day. The place was admirably suited for a picnic or gathering of this kind. as the fine sheaoak and peppermint trees gave abundant shade to the groups of visitors that were scattered over the ground. The events were fairly contested, and the energy of Messrs. Johnson and McLeod kept the games going throughout the day. Mr. Bickers acted as starter, and Means, Wilson, McDonald, and Bennett had but little trouble in giving their decisions as judges. There were visitors from Port Vincent, Ramsay, Mount Rat, and the surrounding places, about 200 holiday-makers in all being on the ground during the afternoon. The landlord of the Port Vincent Hotel had a booth open and did a roaring trade, the effects of which became palpable about sunset, when fighting and pummelling seemed for a time to be the order of the day.

Subjoined is a list of the events and winners:—

ICO Yards Race, Maidens.—Wm. Williams, Ist; F. W. Twelftree. 2nd; J. Johnston, 3rd.

Putting the Shot.—A. Beaton, 30 feet 64 inches, 1st; T. Halliday, 28 feet 3 inches. 2nd.

220 Yards Flat Race.—Wm. Williams, Ist; T. Goldsworthy, 2nd; F. W.Twelftree 3rd.

220 Yards Hurdles.—T. Goldsworthy, Ist; J. Ashmeade, 2nd; F .W. Twelftree 3rd.

Standing High Jump. — J. Ashmeade, 4 feet, Ist.

Throwing the Cricket Ball.—Geo. McKinlay, 84 yards 8 inches; T. Halliday, 83 yards.

Boys' Race, under 16 years.—J. Eastwood, Ist; H. Rogers, 2nd.

440 Yards Flat Race. T. Goldswortby, Ist; F. W. Twelftree, 2nd; J. Ashmeade, 3rd.

Running High Jump.—B. Dart, 5 feet 1 inch, Ist; A. Williams, 5 feet, 2nd; J. Ashmeade, 4 feet 11 inches, 3rd.

Three-Legged Race.—T. Goldsworthy sad Williams, Ist ; J. Ashmeade and R. Dart, 2nd.

230 Yards Hurdles.—T. Goldaworthy, Ist; F. W. Twelftree, 2nd; J. Ashmeade, 3rd.

Pole Leaping.—F. W. Twelftree, 8 feet, Ist; T. Halliday, 7 feet, 2nd.

Walking Match, one mile.—J. Ashmeade, 1st; W. Goldsworthy, 2nd; T. Halliday, 3rd.

Mile Flat.—Geo. McKinley, Ist; B. Dart, 2nd.

Long Jump.— W. Goldcworthy, 16 feet 7 1/2 inches, Ist; T. Goldsworthy, 14 feet 1 inch, 2nd.

Tilting. —T. Goldswortby, Ist; S. Goldsworthy, 2nd

Champion Race, 100 yards (flat).—Wm. Williams (Curramulka), 1st; J. Bennet, of Ramsay, and A. Goldner, of Stansbury ran a dead heat

150 Yards Handicap (for Mr. Goldsworthy's guinea). — W. Goldsworthy, 6 yards, Ist; T. Halliday, 5 yards, 2nd; S. Goldsworthy, 6 yards, 3rd. Eight started, and ran a very good race.

CURRAMULKA, JANUARY 14.

South Australian Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1858 - 1889), Trove

Thursday 23 January 1879, page 9

A fire broke out on Mr. Thomas's property at Micky's Flat on Saturday last, and as the wind was rather high at the time it quickly spread and made its way into Mr. Thomas's wheat crop, some of which was consumed, together with a heap of wheat in the chaff, which was soon in a blaze and could not be saved. His new reaping machine would no doubt have shared the same fate but for the timely assistance of the neighbors, who exerted themselves manfully. After crossing the road the fire spread into some stubble lands belonging to Mr. Wood, and from there into Mr. McDonald's, where the wheat bags had to be rolled out of the vicinity of the chaff. The cause of the fire so far is not known. An inquest was to have been held, and a message was sent to the police at Yorketown by Mr. R. Kappler, J.P., but for some unknown reason no trooper has arrived up to date.—Reaping is now nearly finished; the result is very poor.

HARVEST CIRCULARS.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 22 February 1879, page 9

3. Curranralka; about 54 square miles 2. Over 3,000- 3. All reaped but about 14 acres late sown, which was very rusty. 4. Between eight and nine bushels per acre. 5. Very little more than is required for farmer's own use; should say quite one ton per acre. 6. No other produce of importance grown. 7. Yes; rust and blighted ears: about six bushels. I have seldom seen better-looking crops, and would have averaged 15 to 16 bushels per acre; but not until reaping was general could any true estimate be formea of the injury done. The early sown and early fallowed lands were the best; late-sown had as a rule rusty and shrivelled grain. It is the general opinion here that it was not rust alone that caused the deficiency in the yield. On the best land (with a clay bottom) the wheat was shrivelled, while on the lighter soil with the limestone bottom the wheat as a rule was good and weighed well, some as much as 20 bushels per acre; and on the best farms the highest yield was about eight bushels, yet on the light land there was a deficiency, although not shrivelled by rust.

CURRAMULKA, January 30.

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

Saturday 22 February 1879, page 1

Yesterday, the 29th inst., a fire broke out in Mr. May's paddock adjoining the township. About 23 persons engaged in the erection of Mr. H.. Newlyn's hotel and the residents rendered great services at the outbreak of the fire, which but for their timely aid would have spread so to have become unmanageable. In half an hour about 50 persons were on the spot, and after three hours' hard work succeeded in subduing the flames. Two other fires were raging a few miles from this township, making the heat almost unbearable, but to-day there is a nice change. — Since the sale of the township great strides have been made in the way of building, showing that the place is to become one of considerable importance. Although the township was only sold in October last two large general stores have been erected. A carpenter's shop, timber and iron yard, saddler's, blackmith and wheelwright's shops also add to the business aspect of our place. — Mr. K. F. Wilson is making preparations for the erection of a large stone building for the purpose of carrying on his business as blacksmith and machinist. A shoemaker, two butchers, and other business people intend establishing themselves here. — A large quantity of wheat has been delivered here this year to Mr. F. W. Luxmoore and Mr. Warm, making the place quite lively. — Mr. H. Newlyn's hotel, only commenced in October last, is being vigorously pushed on with, as it is his intention to apply for a licence in March. The want of a place of accommodation is much felt by travellers, and it is hoped that he will get the building completed in time. — Our roads are in shocking condition, owing to the heavy traffic passing through here to the ports of shipment. As soon as there is a place for holding a public meeting steps will be taken to represent the matter to the Road Board, and also to agitate for the erection of a school.

CURRAMULKA March 10th.

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

Friday 14 March 1879, page 3

On March 4th we had for the first time for six months, a nice shower of rain. It seemed something to be remembered. For months past many farmers have had to cart water, and drive their cattle to the well which luckily holds out splendidly, considering the enormous drain to which it is subjected. A few farmers have still a small quantity of water left in their dams, and this will probably hold them over the season as rain will surely soon come.

Ploughing is now going on in earnest, and the land turns up much better when worked in the dry weather. A good many farmers have sold out on Southern Yorke's Peninsula and others are selling off on Southern Yorke's Peninsula. The farm, late in possession of F. J. Craig, was offered some time ago by the trustees of the assigned estate but there was not a bid for it, and the land now lies untilled and waste with all improvements. It is question if after another bad season the wretched Land Act now in force in this colony does not work its own cure The land here is now getting fined down a little and we are in hopes of a good harvest next season, bar red rust.

Curramulka v. Wauraltie.—March 1.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 15 March 1879, page 18

Conquering match, played on the Curramulka ground, and resulted in an easy victory for the home team. Scores Curramulka (umpire, Mr. Rogers)— J. Walters, H; A, Douglas, 2; P. J. Dwyer, 0; F. W. Twelftree, 1: G. McK inlay, 15; J. Giles (captain), 9; Alfred Williams, 2 ; S. Goldsworthy, (not out) 0—5; W, Williams (not out), 3—9 ; N. Rogers, 1; C. Barnett, 1; sundries, 8; totals 53 and 12, with 9 wickets to fall. Wauraltie (umpire, Mr. H. McOullum—M. Tonney, 2—1; W. Bradford, 0—7; G. Crocker, 0—0; J- Bradford. 1—0; T. Hillier, 0—6; W. Hardy (captain), 2—22; W. Crocker, 0—0; J.Dnthie, 0—0; J. Tormey, 1—5 (not out); J. Marshall, 0—0; W. Hillier, 0—0; sundries, 3- 7; totals, 8 and 49. For Curramnlka J. Giles bowled 128 balls, 10 runs, 8 wickets; S. Goldsworthy, 133 balls, 22 runs, 11 wickets. For Wauraltie the bowling of W. Hardy was most effective.

CURRAMULKA, March 11.

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

Saturday 15 March 1879, page 21

Things have of late been rather quiet here. Farmers are busy ploughing up last year's stubble land.— The Curramulka Cemetery was opened a few weeks since. — Water is now very scarce, and carting it is almost the daily employment of many. A shower fell on the morning of the 4th instant, but it was rather patchy, some settlers getting a week's supply, and at other places the ground was only damped enough to lay the dust. Sowing will commence here in about three weeks.— It is time that a meeting of the settlers was called to get the Cemetery looked after and put into the hands of trustees or some responsible persons, as at present no one seems to know or care anything about it. — The weather is now fine.

Curramulka April 28th,

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

Friday 2 May 1879, page 3

Since my last, sowing and water carting has been the employment of the farmers, some having started sowing as far back as the the middle of March, March. Rain has been anxiously looked for for many a week but none worth mentioning has come to our lot, and the wheat sown early in March has about as much chance of coming up early as that which will be sown next week. The

Rev. Mr, Marshall has commenced a monthly service at Curramulka Well which has been fairly attended,

Mr. Newlyn's fine hotel will soon be finished and no doubt will prove a comfortable house for the public when open, and with a man like Mr. Newly's at the head of affairs will prove a successful undertaking, financially. News is altogether scanty and if this weather continues much longer the outlook for the next season will be gloomy. (Since the above was written) there have been splendid showers of rain at Curramulka, in common with all other parts of the colony, and we have no doubt one correspondent is much more cheerful than when writing the above.

CURRAMULKA, April 29.

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

Saturday 3 May 1879, page 21

Yesterday we had a nice fall of rain, which lasted for several hours with but little intermission. — Sowing has been very general lately, and some farmers have nearly all their wheat in and the others will now push on the work as fast as possible. — A great deal of time has been lost in water-carting, but at last we may fairly reckon that this is over.— The Rev. Mr. Marshall (Church of England) is now holding monthly services at Curramulka, and appears to be very much appreciated. A Committee is about to be formed to secure if possible a continuance of the services and to provide for expenses.

CURRAMULKA, June 9.

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

Saturday 14 June 1879, page 21

We have had a few nice showers during the last day or two, which have had the effect of freshening up the early sown wheat, and also starting the young grass. The rainfall on the whole has been very insignificant in this district in comparison to what fell further south. Last year about this time our tanks and dams were overflowing, but at the present there is only enough water in them to keep us going for a few weeks; some farmers have not even that much. — Clearing, breaking up land, and sowing will be continued until near the end of the month. — Last year's late crop was almost a total failure, but many farmers hold that this will in all probability be a late season. — Our town has not made much progress lately, which is no doubt due to the bad harvests. — What little wheat has been held is being taken to Port Vincent.

Curramulka. June 23rd, 1ST*.

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

Friday 27 June 1879, page 3

Our district is beginning to show a more cheerful aspect. The young wheat is showing up well, and grass is also starting. Some farmers are still breaking up land, and tilling will probably last to the end of the month. A large quantity of land has been sown this season and we earnestly hope for a turn of the tide. The nights have lately been bitterly cold with a touch of frost.

We have not had anything like the rainfall this season as compared with previous ones, our supply in the dams is, to date, but very limited as the rain always came on very slowly, well soaking the soil, but not sufficient to fill dams or tanks, we are therefore anything but well supplied.

Mr. Newlyn has his fine hotel now open for business, and travellers coming into this district will have a comfortable hostelry to put up at.

Curramulka July 17 th.

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

Tuesday 22 July 1879, page 3

At last we have received our fair share of rain, hail, and thunder and the consequence is that our dams tanks and waterholes are full and overflowing. Some of our farmers have but just finished seeding, and appeared to have a rather sloppy time of it. Hundreds of crows are busy picking up the wheat just put in.

I hear that our local representatives of the willow are shortly going to Maitland to play a match there.

The wheat so far is looking well and healthy and is stooling nicely, but cold and frosty nights are keeping it rather backward.

We are sad to see that several roads in this Hundred are going to be cleared, and trust that the one from the Twelve-mile to Rogue's Gully will soon be taken in hand ; as it is a most wretched affair at present. By the bye that is through some of the fine country an Ardrossan correspondent has a burning desire to lease or rather to see leaded in perpetuity by the Government to farmers. I can only say I should like to see the Government give that party a few thousand acres in the Moolwurtee scrub, on condition that he get a living from it.

I am afraid he would he destitute before long and then see the error of his ways. As usual there is a very little news to report, no everlasting dam or jetty to grizzle over for the simple reason that we have none, I am sorry to say.

CURRAMULKA, July 18.

South Australian Chronicle and Weekly Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1868 - 1881), Trove Saturday 26 July 1879, page 22

Since my last we have had abundant rains, and all the tanks and dams are full, thus relieving all anxiety with regard to our water supply for the summer. The wheat appears to be doing as well as can be expected, considering the very cold nights that we experience. The grass is still very backward, but a few weeks of fine weather will doubtless soon improve it. — I am informed that the Port Vincent and Curramulka districts have amalgamated for the forthcoming ploughing matches, and it has been agreed that the next match shall be held at Port Vincent, and after that alternately in each district. — Very few laborers are being employed here just now, as the bad harvests have considerably crippled the means of farmers, and the work has to be limited to what they can do themselves. — Seeding operations are done with for this season, and hopes are entertained of a good harvest. — The weather is now fine.

Curramulka Cricket Club.—

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Wednesday 20 August 1879, page 4

The second annual meeting of the Curramulka Cricket Club was held at the local hotel on Wednesday evening, July 30. Captain McDonald presided. After receiving the Secretary's report, which showed that thirty members were good on the books and that the club was in a flourishing condition, the following appointments were made:— Mr. B. F. Wilson re-elected President, Messrs. Goldsworthy re-elected and H. Newlyn elected Vice-Presidents. Committee — Messrs. J. Watters (captain), W. McDonald, George McKinlay. A. Douglas, and J. S. McLeod (re elected Treasurer and Secretary). The club, with the representatives of kindred clubs, then sat down to a dinner provided by Host Newlyn. The President (Mr. E. F. Wilson) occupied the chair, and Captain McDonald filled the vice. The President addressed the club, and called on the Secretary (Mr. McLeod), who stated that the club had contested seven matches, winning six and losing one only. J. Ashmeade was at the head of the batting list with an average of 7, A. Douglas and T. Goldsworthy coming next with 6 each. In the bowling J. Giles was best with the splendid average of 1 1/2 runs per wicket ; Stephen Goldsworthy and J. Ashmeade next, with & 'The Carramulka Club' was proposed by Captain H. Bennett, of the Ramsay Cricket Club, and waa responded to by Captains McDonald and Watters. Several other toasts followed, which were interspersed with songs, duets, &c, and a pleasant evening was spent. On Saturday evening, August 9. the President, on behalf of the club, presented a gold pencil to Mr. McLeod. the Secretary, and in a short speech stated that it was not given as a recog nition of services rendered, but a token of the respect in which he (the Secretary) was held by all those associated with him, and expressed the wish of the members that he might long continue to act as their Hon. Secretary in the same able way he had done in the past. The recipient replied in suitable terms.

CURRAMULKA AND PORT VINCENT PLOUGHING MATCH AND SHOW.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 30 August 1879, page 5

This event came off on Tuesday, August 26, at Port Vincent, upon the section of land occupied by Mr. Luxmoore. The weather was very fine, the attendance of visitors numerous, and the competition in the ploughing match keen. For the accommodation of visitors from the eastern shores of the Gulf St. Vincent, arrangements were made to run the commodious steamer Wakefield across, and she was advertised to sail at 9.30 a.m., returning the same day. Unfortunately the fact that an "excursion" was on did not appear to be sufficiently public, and the number of excursionists was limited to a few. The steamer was delayed until half-past 10, arriving at Port Vincent at half-past 3, just as the matches were being finished. Instead of returning on the same evening — which would have prevented the visitors attending the dinner—the steamer was again delayed until half-past 12, landing her passengers, highly delighted with their trip, at 6 o'clock on the morning of Wednesday.

The Match Committee had laid themselves out to ensure a successful meeting, collecting a sufficient sum to warrant them in offering prizes to the amount of about £30. The total receipts, however, amounted to close upon £50—a result which was bailed with satisfaction by all pre-sent. Mr. A. G. Burt, agent for the Australian Lithofracteur Company, showed the immensely explosive power of that compound by blowing up a number of stumps. The ground was very sandy, and although some large and tough old stumps were picked out, he stated that it would be impossible on such ground to exhibit its full capabilities. He purposely used large charges to show its capabilities, but pointed out that in ordinary practice a single cartridge would be sufficient. In hard ground there was scarcely any limit to its power. To show its absolute safety from accidental explosion with-out the caps he set fire to a charge in the open air when it only "fizzed." When exploded with the cap and fuze the charges rent great chasms in the round and drove sticks, stones, and stamps through the air to a great distance. Every one present was astonished at the power displayed, and Captain Penberthy, who in connection with his mining pursuits on the Peninsula has had much experience with explosives, stated that he considered this to be far superior to anything he had yet used, and he should employ it for lifting the largest of the stumps and rocks on his farm.

The Committee much regretted the lack of competition in live stock classes; cows, sheep, and pigs being wholly unrepresented. Of horses, too, there were but few on the ground, but this might be naturally attributed to the condition attached that the prizetakers must travel the district for the season. In lieu of money the prizetakers in each instance chose to accept a silver medal, which is to be retained by the Society until the 31st December of this year. In the competition for the men's single furrow ploughing, a set of double harrows, presented by Mr. R. F. Wilson, of Curramulka, was given in lieu of the prize of £5. Some little dissatisfaction was expressed at a rule excluding those who had taken a first prize in other matches from taking anything but a first prize at this match, and in one case a protest was entered, but the Committee adhered to their rule, which resulted in the disqualification of two or three who would otherwise have received second prizes.

In the evening a dinner was provided by Host Hill at the Port Vincent Hotel, to which not less than sixty persons sat down, and Captain Penberthy occupied the chair. After the viands had been discussed and the usual loyal toasts duly honoured, the Chairman called upon Mr. Luxmoore, the Secretary, to announce the Judges' awards, which was done as follows:—

Judges—Messrs. J. Henderson, J. Dunkley, and H. McAllum.

Ploughing.

Men's Class. — Double-furrow Ploughs — Five entries. First-prize, £5, W. Grundy ; third, £1, John Grundy. Second prize-taker disqualified. Single furrow Ploughs—Three entries. First prize, set of double harness, W. Pointon, jun.; third, £1, J. East-wood. Second prize-taker disqualified.

Boys' Class.—Single-furrow Ploughs—Four entries. First prize, £3, A. Bishop; second, £2, W. Hamilton; third, £1, John Grundy.

STOCK.

Draught Entires—First prize, £2 2s. Mr. W. Phiilis's Pride of the Park; second, £1 Is., Mr. Hickman's Stansbury. Brood mare — Only one entry, Mr. Donnell's prize awarded, £1 Is. Weight-carrying hack—First prize, 16s., Mr. Goldsworthy; second. 7s. 6d., Mr. A. Douglas.

IMPLEMENTS.

Reaper—First prize, £2 2s., J. W. Stott, Alma; second, £1 Is., J. T. Potter. Winnower—Prize, 10s. 6d., J. Penberthy. Double-furrow plough—Prize, £1 Is., R. F. Wilson, Curramulka. Single furrow plough — Prize, £1 Is., R. F. Wilson. Harrows, set of double — Prize, 10s. Sd., R. F. Wilson, "Well worthy." (Cheers.) Scarifier—Prize, £1 Is., R. F. Wilson. Wagon— Prize, £1 Is., J. W. Stott. Tip-dray—Prize, 10s. 6d., J. H. Bennett. Grubbing Machine—Prize, £1 Is , J. Penberthy. Set of shaft and leading harness—Prize, 10s. 6d., T. Newland.

For the best team on the field the prize of £1 Is. was awarded to O. Bishop.

Mr. Montefiore, a visitor, proposed " The Parliament." Notwithstanding the no-confidence motion, he thought the Ministry had acted with great straightforwardness, and he hoped that now they had tried the relative strength of the two parties in the Lower House, the Parliament would continue to conduct the public business in the future as satisfactory as they had done in the past. Mr. Nobman responded, and thought there were no terms better suited the occasion than the stereotyped formula, " The Parliament of South Australia will bear favourable comparison with that of any other colony." Mr. Smith proposed" Success to the Town and Trade of Port Vincent," including the " Amalgamated Ploughing Match." He had visited Port Vincent by the back door, having come overland, and although he had seen some poor country at the back he was delighted with the appearance of the town. He admired the manner in which the ploughing match had been conducted, but thought the committee had made a mistake in excluding the best men from taking the prizes. The time was coming, and was not far distant, when better farming must be the order of the day—when it would be necessary to farm high, to keep improved stock, and to use the best class of implements; and these ploughing matches were a means of educating the rising generation. He thought from the number of children he saw about the district that it was time the Government should establish schools amongst them so that they might enjoy the same advantages as were accorded to other populous districts. Mr. Hickman responded. As regarded land the district could boast of possessing the best on the Peninsula, though some of it, close to the township, was rather inferior. He explained that the prize-list was arranged with a view to giving some of the younger hands a chance. If a number of men who had taken prizes at other matches entered in this one it would be champions against juniors, and they would take all the prizes. They had made the first prize worthy of competition amongst the best plough men, and to encourage the second-rate men they had excluded the champions of other matches from taking the second and third prizes in this. He noticed that the Press was represented at that meeting; and he trusted that it would re-present how strongly the inhabitants of that and the surrounding districts felt upon the education question, as well as upon the other points in which they were being neglected by the Government. A very large sum of money had been and would be realized from the sale of lands upon the Peninsula, but how little was there being spent in the improvement of its roads and upon public works. Surely they had a right to expect that the educational requirements of their children should be attended to. Then their roads sadly wanted making. If they had anything like a crop this year, it would be very difficult to convey it to the place of shipment, and he was sure that the Government might do worse than employ some of the surplus labour of the city in improving the means of communication upon the Peninsula; indeed, considering the past bad seasons, some of the farmers would be glad of the opportunity of taking contracts with their teams, so as to enable them to bridge over the time. Mr. Luxmoore supported in a few well chosen sentences, remarking that the roads in the district were in a shameful state. The " Successful" and " Unsuccessful" competitors having been duly proposed and honoured, Mr. Alfred Slade proposed " The Visitors," and Mr. A. Anderson responded. He was greatly pleased with the material signs of progress evidenced; the growth of so short a period, and thought that great credit was due to the inhabitants of the town and district, in that they had, by their own unaided efforts, effected so great improvements in a place which, only three short years ago, was nothing but a sheep-run and comparatively a wilderness. If they kept on at the same rate for a few years longer it would need no prophet to foretell a brilliant future for that portion of the Peninsula. He believed that very soon it would be one of the most prosperous ports on that part of the coast. Mr. Bennett, with a few complimentary remarks, proposed " The Press," especially thanking the Register for sending over a representative. Mr. Moltneux responded on behalf of the Register. " The Committee and Judges." " The Chairman," " The Ladies," and " The Host and Hostess," concluded the toasts of the evening, during the course of which a number of songs were given, Captain Richard-son, of the Wakefield, contributing several.

WANTS OF CURRAMULKA.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 13 September 1879, page 13

A largely attended public meeting was held at the Curramulka Hotel on Saturday evening, August 30, to consider the requirements of the district. Mr. J. Johnston was voted to the chair. Mr. Hickman proposed—"That the Government be asked to place a sum on the Estimates for the purpose of repairing the worst portions of the road from Mount Rat, via Curramulka, to Port Vincent." He said the road was in an almost impassable state in several parts, owing to the immense traffic, and if the worst portions were not metalled before harvest it would be quite impossible for them to convey their produce to the port of shipment. They had paid as high a price for their land as any other part of the Peninsula, and the Government had as yet spent very little on the improvement of roads and other works. Mr. Dwyer seconded the resolution, and stated that the road sadly wanted repairing, in order to meet the demands of the coming harvest. Mr. Wilson also supported the motion, and added that there was a piece of road in the township in a deplorable condition. The resolution was carried unanimously. Mr. Wilson moved, and Mr. Pointon seconded— "That the Government be requested to have the road, Section 34w and 64w, Hundred of Koolywurtie, thence easterly along the Chain-road to Section 58 and 56 east, Hundred of Curramulka, cleared." He said if this road was cleared it would be a great boon to farmers and others in that part, as that road was a direct road into the township of Curramulka. At present they were a considerable distance out of the direct line. The motion was carried. Mr. Wilson then proposed, and Mr. Douglas seconded—"That memorials be prepared asking the Government to have a sum placed on the Estimates for the purpose of clearing certain roads (named) in the hundred." Carried. Mr. McDonald said that the road from Curramulka township to Port Julia was in a very bad state in some parts, and he thought the Government ought to do something in the shape of repairs. He would therefore move —" That a sum be asked for repairing the worst parts of Port Julia road." Mr. Woods seconded the motion, which was carried. The Chairman said the next question he would call their attention to was the appointment of another Justice of the Peace in the township.

CURRAMULKA. October 4.

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

Saturday 11 October 1879, page 21

On Monday last the Lynch Family of Bellringers gave their entertainment at Host Newlyn's commodious hotel to a large and appreciative audience. For Wednesday evening another entertainment was provided by local talent, which proved very successful. It was on behalf of the harmonium fund, and was held in the school chapel building. It consisted of selections by the choir, recitations, dialogues, and solos. The Rev. Mr. Dawson was in the chair, and. Miss McLeod presided at the harmonium. The principal performers were Messrs. John McLeod, Norman, Twelvetree, Douglas, Diprose, Newlyn, and the Misses McLeod (2) and Miss A. Williams. Mr. Thomas gave one of Mrs. Caudle' Curtain Lectures' with effect. 'Larboard Watch' by Messrs. Thomas and Norman had to be repeated. — Mr. Luxmore is having a fine large wheat store erected in the township. It is to be ready for the coming harvest. — Take-all and black rust have made their appearance in this district. The former is doing a good deal of mischief. The weather has been splendid for the wheat crop.

Curramulka. October 7th.

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

Friday 17 October 1879, page 3

The heaviest shower for the season came down this afternoon, filling tanks and dams in a very short time.

The Lynch Family of bellringers performed here on the 29th September and gave general satisfaction.

On Wednesday an entertainment was given by our " locals'' in aid of the harmonium fund. The Rev. Mr, Dawson presided, The programme was a varied one comprising solos, recitations, selections by the choir, and dialogues. The leading parts were taken by Messrs. McLeod, ably supported by the Misfes McLeod (2) Miss Williams, Ales. Douglas, Newlyn, Diprose, and others. Mr. Thomas read one of the Caudle Lectures which created, as usual, considerable amusement. The affair was a decided success and would, with a few alterations, bear repetition.

A large and substantial wheatstore is now being built in the township for Mr. Luxmoore. Mr. Lamb is the contractor for the masonry, and is pushing the work on very fast.

A cricket match was played on Saturday last between the Curramulka and Minlaton clubs, the Curramulka club proved the victor, beating the Minlatonians by nine runs.

I am sorry to say that this district has also been visited by take-all and black rust, and if red rust should be added to the lift it will make things lively again for the farmers. Fallowing is commenced on come farms. On the whole, so far, the wheat looks well and healthy, but in many places grassy.

FROM ADELAIDE TO MINLATON AND BACK.

Kapunda Herald (SA : 1878 - 1951), Trove

Tuesday 21 October 1879, page 4

The advent of the second annual show under the auspices of the Central Yorke's Peninsula Agricultural and Horticultural Society afforded me an opportunity of revisiting the scene of some of my former exploits in kangaroo hunting, and by the good steamer Ceres I was conveyed to Stansbury on Wednesday last. The voyage across was without incident worthy of note, the only objects seen upon the route being a couple of empty kerosene tins floating upon the surface, and a few porpoises sporting beneath the waves. We arrived at Stansbury at an early hour in the afternoon, and were soon fast beside the jetty. This place used to be called Oyster Bay, on account of the bivalves which were then found there, but which have been long since "worked out" upon the same principle on which, many other beds have been similarly destroyed. We only stayed long enough at Stansbury to take a " wee drappie o' whiskey wi' a canny Scot frae Alma," and to allow Mickey O'Dea to harness his team, and away we went in two vehicles for Minlaton, the other trap being driven by a grey-headed old gentlemen, who had more idea of speed than comported with the taste of the owner of the team. This other conveyance had two or three ladies and a gentleman from near Angaston, who was travelling with samples of wine to be shown at Minlaton (or any other place where orders might be expected). The road, we heard, was very heavy, and the distance about sixteen miles. Taking it altogether we were very agreeably surprised, the road being made in the worst places, and mended in many others. The mending was a most original proceeding, consisting of a "smashing down" of the rough nodules of limestone cropping through the surface of the track. The scrub through which we passed was most beautifully interspersed with flowering shrubs, orchids, and bulbous flowers, great number of which would be an acquisition in our gardens. Some of them greatly resembled hyacinths in form and color, chiefly pink and blue. The pimeleas were in great plenty, and there was a white flowering thrub which particularly struck us all with its beauty. About eight miles out from Stansbury we came upon a large excavation consaining water, which we chose to call the half way; here we called upon the friend in the other trap for "samples," which he immediately produced in the shape of Burgundy and Constantia, which were pronounced to be " vera guid " by our " canny Jem," as well as by the rest of the company. Having refreshed both man and beast, we proceeded on our way, and reached the scene of the morrow's show before the sun was down. On this road there are very few crops, and amongst them were several of " volunteer" growth, generally called " self-sown." Those upon winch work had been expended looked very well indeed, but in the case of the '' volunteers" the old adage certainly did not hold that " one volunteer is worth two pressed" crops. The greater part of the crops were in the vicinity of Minlaton, or as it was formerly called Gum flat.

Three years ago there were no other residences here than those comprised in the two or three huts belonging to the sheep station. Now there are a number of substantial erections, including a large public-house, two chapels, two stores, a bank, a Post-Office, a Telegraph Office, three blacksmith's and wheelwright's shops, besides several other evidences of the great progress made during that time, and a large mill is about to be erected by a company. The hotel is kept by Mr. M Mclnerheny, who is a host in himseJf. After the evening meal had been disposed of one of our company mentioned that the moonlight would afford a splendid opportunity for oppossum-hunting if we had a gun, and our host immediately offered to lend him one, which being produced turn out to be a duckgun, generally carried in a punt, and weighing about forty pounds. The offer was declined with thanks, and instead we all went out for a moonlight walk with the intention of inspecting the crops, and (figuratively) " making hay whilst the moon shines." This was not altogether satisfactory, and we returned to the inn, where we spent the rest of the evening till bed-time. Everything about the sleeping arrangements was perfect, but the efforts of some artisans engaged in papering the rooms for the morrow precluded that reign of quiet which is necessary to the repose of light sleepers. One individual in particular seemed to be gift with the light and airy gait of a draught horse, and the persistency with which he trotted up and down the passage between the bedrooms was deserving a better cause. Notwithstanding these drawbacks, the clean soft beds seemed to have rested the large number who were accommodated with that luxury, and at an early hour on Thursday we were all trotting about the new town of Minlaton, inspecting the exhibits as they arrived. From one direction came a reaping machine, and from another two ducks and a bunch of carrots. Here would come a young lady with a bunch of wild flowers, and there her papa with a couple of flitches of bacon, whilst; mamma would follow, proudly bearing a couple of loaves of wholesome-looking homemade bread in a basket on one arm and a dish of fresh butter on the other. Smiling faces and cheery greetings are as plentiful as flies in summer, and the hearty " Good mornings" and the loud guffaws of the incoming farmers give a better idea of the prospects for the coming harvest than any number of well-written newspaper articles, could afford. On making enquiry—an almost needless proceeding—the universal report was that the crops were looking " first-rate." A rumour, however, was circulated during the day that " black rust" was prevalent in the vicinity of Maitland, and that one or two fields were badly injured by it; but this rumour needs confirmation.

The show was altogether a very good evidence of the progress made in the district during less than three years, and the exhibits in the horse stock and agricultural departments proved that the farmers here appreciate the value of effective means for the performance of their work. After the show came the dinner, and after the dinner the speeches, the general impression left upon my mind being that the speakers would be far better at the plough-tail than the forum. Several of them displayed a courage and a perseverance in trying to make themselves understood which excited my admiration. One or two, however, distinguished themselves at speechifying, and several of the company possessed good musical voices which they exerted for the benefit and enjoyment of the rest.

As there were four of our party who wished to reach Port Vincent in time for the steamer to Adelaide on Friday morning some of the gentlemen at Minlaton kindly arranged for a trap to take us on to Curramulka after the dinner, and we started off with young McKinlay for our Jehu. The track carried us beneath treee, over stones, and into ruts which would have been awkward to a less skilful driver or on a darker night, but the beautiful full moon shone above, and lit up our road for us. On one occasion only did a passenger get a touch, a small branch coming across the bridge of his nose and making him see more stairs than were in the firmament. All along the track there are evidence of the advent of the plough. The land is cleared and fenced in every direction, and the country where kangaroos jumped in thousands a few short months back is now covered with fields of waving corn. Curramulka Hill was soon reached, and down we sped at a smart pace, with fields of wheat on both sides, all looking strong, thick, and healthy. We got to the Curramulka Inn at half-past 10, and I was astonished at the proportions of the place. Less than a year and a half ago there was only a shepherd's hut there. Now there is a public house which exceeds in size and comfort most of our suburban hotels, and which would be a model for the greater portion of those in town. Here, three years back I came hunting kangaroos, killing close upon a hundred in a day and a half with the aid of five dogs. Then there were thousands of the marsupials—now there are none. In the neighbourhood of this new township there are many caves, the entrances to which open like wells in the fields, and the farmers have to place trees over the apertures to prevent their cattle and horses falling into them. The Curramulka Well is very deep, and in making it the men went through two caves. The whole of the flats and a great part of the hills are covered with hard limestone crust or travertine, and I was very much astonished to see one large house in Curramulka built of weatherboard, and one or two others constructed of galvanized iron. The host of this hotel is one of the most jovial-looking men I ever saw; his eyes seem to be always dancing with fun, and his whole countenance heaving over with good nature. After a capital night's rest, we got an early start for Port Vincent, passing several healthy-looking corn fields on our way at first; but after proceeding three or four miles the character of the country changed into poor hungry-looking scrub and spinifex. From the top of the rise we saw the Salt Lake with some nice fields of wheat in its neighbourhood, and the thought arose whether the immense deposit of gysum salt, soda, &c cannot be utilized for the fertilization of the surrounding acres. There is another lake not far off which might perhaps be used for the same purpose. The scrub flowers on this line were neither so numerous nor so pretty as on the other road, but still there was much to admire. We reached Port Vincent in first rate time; for the steamer which was to have started at 10 o'clock had stuck in the sand of the bay (though anchored a long distance out) through an extraordinarily low tide, which delayed her till nearly 2 o'clock. Advantage was taken of this delay to go upon a prospecting expedition, some of the passengers searching for cowries, said to be abundant, but certainly scarce on this occasion, as only one was found amongst about 20 searchers. A few others looking for crabs, of which the searchers caught a great number, the crabs retaliating now and again by catching the catchers. At last the Wakefield got afloat, and the captains cheery cry of " all aboard" was responded to with alacrity, the steamer landing us in time for the half-past six train for town.

CURRAMULKA NOVEMBER 3.

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

Saturday 15 November 1879, page 21

On Tuesday the anniversary of the Wesleyan Sunday-School was celebrated. The weather was very unfavorable and boisterous, but a considerable number of persons attended the tea. The Rev, Mr. Dawson gave an address. In the evening a public meeting was held, and was fairly attended. Mr. Polkinghorne was in the chair. — A rabbit destruction party has commenced operations near the well, and we trust that they will make a clearance of thesw pests. —On the whole the wheat looks well so far, as the red rust has not yet put in an appearaace and the plant has only to contend against take-all and grass, which are serious in some cases.

Curramulka November 15th 1879.

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

Friday 21 November 1879, page 3

A man named George Boyce died very suddenly on Tuesday last. He leaves a sickly widow and three young children totally unprovided for. Mr. R. Kappler J.P., held an inquest on the body, Mr. James Hanrahan being chosen foreman of the jury. The following evidence wag taken. Sarah Boyce deposed, deceased is my husband, last saw him alive on Monday 10th. He was then at home. Left after breakfast to work for Mr. McDonnell, and seemed then to be in good health. He has sometimes complained of palpitation ; and about a month ago he was laid up for a few hours with it. To my knowledge he has never been to a doctor for this complaint. The palpitation generally showed itself after any excitement or hard work. Did not see him again until after his death. Have sometimes heard him as if smothering in the nighttime. By the foreman believe this was caused by palpitation of the heart. William McDonnell, farmer, of Curramulka deposed, deceased came to work for me on Monday 10th, have known him about two years. On Tuesday evening he complained to me of not feeling well, and could not get on with his work very well. I asked him what was the matter, he said he had palpitation of the heart. He had a hearty supper after coming from the field. Saw him again about 10 p.m. and asked him how he felt now. He replied that he felt pretty well. I then went to bed. Slept in the same room with him, and was awoke during the night by hearing deceased making a noise like any one with night-mare. He was moaning and gasping in his sleep. I called out his name, but as he did not reply got up and shook him. The noise then ceased. I struck a light and looked at deceased, who was lying on his right ride in a natural position. I thought the night-mare had gone off, as he was then quiet, so blew out the light and went to bed again. In the morning I got up and called deceased by name to wake him, but got no reply. Went over and shook him by the shoulder, and saw something was the matter. Then put my hand on his face and he was quite cold. Knew that he was dead, and at once telegraphed to the police. Deceased was in the same position in the morning as when I saw him in the middle of the night. Daniel McPharlin, Police Trooper, of Stansbury, deposed, I received a telegram on Wednesday 12th. stating that an inquest was required at Mickey's Flat. Arrived here about 11 a.m., and saw the body of deceased lying on the right side, examined it, but found no marks of violence. The deceased had the appearance of having died suddenly. Francis Shelly said I was here on the evening of the 11th when the deceased died. He seemed in good spirits but complained of palpitation. During the evening he sang two songs. Went to bed and did not know of his death until the next morning. The jury returned the following verdict, That the deceased George Boyce died by the visitation of God."

CURRAMULKA. November 29.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Saturday 6 December 1879, page 2

Haymaking is now general in this district, but operations are much retarded owing to the boisterous weather we are experiencing. On the 10th we had very heavy rains, accompanied with thunder and lightning, but I have not heard of any damage done by It. The wheat crops are looking splendid, and some give promise of a very high yield. There are slight signs of red rust, but the general opinion is that the wheat is too far advanced to receive much injury.

The Rev. W. Dawson delivered his lecture ' Personal Experience in the Weat Indies,' in the chapel, which was moderately well filled, considering that the weather was boisterous that evening. Some portions of the lecture were very amusing. Solos were rang by the Misses Williams and McLeod, J. McLoud, and William Norman. Miss McLeod presided at the harmonium.

Business Is moderately good.

Our Athletic Club held a meeting the other evening to arrange for their annual sports, which they have decided to hold on Christmas Day.

Wallaroo Times and Mining Journal (Port Wallaroo, SA : 1865 - 1881), Trove

Wednesday 10 December 1879, page 2

Our Yorketown correspondent writing on December 8, says:—The weather during the past week has been very changeable, and with occasional showers of rain. The crops are ripening fast, and although in some parts of the district they show signs of rust, it is not in any way detrimental to the yield, as the grain is well formed.

Throughout the Hundred of Melville and Dalrypmple the returns will be good answering to the utmost expectations of the farmers. Those in the Hundred of Minlacowie are a decided improvement on the former seasons, but in passing through the Hundred of Koolywurtie it is painfully apparent that the yield will be very light, the crops looking thin and small, and in many paddocks the returns will hardly pay for the labor of reaping and cleaning. Passing eastward towards Curramulka there is a gradual improvement, and in the Hundred of Curramulka the crops are looking splendid and give every indication of a bountiful yield. The town of Curramulka, considering its date of existence, (about six months), bids fair to be a flourishing place. Mr Newlyn's fine hotel and large wheat store 36 x 70 feet internal measurement, with a storage capacity of 6,000 bags wheat, and other fine buildings, is a proof that enterprising spirits in the place are looking forward to the general prosperity of the district, which certainly strikes a traveller as being one of the finest on the Peninsula. Passing northwards, and leaving the, light hungry country of the Mount Rat District behind, Urania and Yorke Valley are reached, and in this beautiful valley the crops are looking their very best, and will bear favorable comparison with those in any other part of the country.

PROVINCIAL TELEGRAMS.

Evening Journal (Adelaide, SA : 1869 - 1912), Trove

Monday 15 December 1879, page 3

Curramulka, December 13. The first three loads of wheat were delivered here today by Mr. Wm. Pointon. The crop from which it was taken will average nineteen bushels per acre. Mr. F. W. Luxmoore was the purchaser.

YORKE'S PENINSULA CROPS –

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Wednesday 17 December 1879, page 4

Mold's Ennobled Wheat. — On the arrival of the English creeping wheat, grown by Mr. W. H. Mold at Ashford, Kent, and known as ennobled wheat, which was sent out to the colony from the Paris Exhibition by Mr. J. Boothby, C.M.G. (U.S.), the Hon. W. H. Bundey, Attorney-General, at the request of Mr. Stephen Goldsworthy, of near Curramulka, Southern Yorke's Peninsula, obtained for him 20 lb., which he sowed this season. Mr. Goldsworthy's first impressions were unfavourable to the grain in consequence of the stalks running along the ground, or creeping, instead of standing up, and until the last few weeks he thought it would not be at all a desirable species to acclimatise. However, later experience proved him to have been mistaken, for the wheat not only sprung upwards, but has produced some of the finest wheat that is to be seen on the Peninsula. On Saturday, on the invitation of Mr. Goldsworthy, the Attorney-General and Mr. O'Halloran, the Manager of the Commercial Back, accompanied by a young yachtsman, went over in the Zephyr to inspect the crops. They were met on arrival at Port Vincent by Mr. Goldsworthy, who drove them to Curramulka. Mr. Bundey was surprised at the splendid crops which he saw on the way. It is not only that the yield will be of a high average, but the quality of the grain is unexceptionable, besides which it is remarkably clean. He does not consider it an exaggeration to state that in 1,000 acres of wheat it would be difficult to obtain 10 bushels of anything of a deleterious nature. Mr. Goldsworthy himself has been extremely fortunate in his selection, the soil being eminently adapted to the purpose to which it has been put. He has 1,000 acres under crop, a patch of which is planted with the English wheat referred to above, and Mr. Bundey will not be surprised if he obtains 20,000 bushels from it. In some places there appeared to be no doubt that 25 or 30 bushels would be reaped to the acre, and in the worst the yield would not be less than 16. A dozen heads of the creeping wheat, which is all to be kept for seed, were culled by Mr. Bundey, and can be seen at our office. It seems to have one disadvantage as compared with the ordinary kind, inasmuch as it will be another week or ten days before it will be fit for the reaper. Some ears which were tested contained upwards of 50 per cent more grains than the ears of other wheat. The area under cultivation which he saw on the Peninsula astonished Mr. Bundey, and from what he could gather the crops all the way to the North from Port Vincent to the head of the Gulf were equally excellent. At Curramulka a commodious wheat store has been built by Mr. Luxmoore, capable of holding 10,000 or 12,000 bushels of wheat, which being within 10 or 12 miles of a shipping port is likely to be largely availed of by the farmers. On Monday morning Mr. Goldsworthy drove the party to Black Point, where they embarked in the Zephyr, reaching the Semaphore in the evening, in time to have the opportunity of sailing round the Orient.

COUNTRY CORRESPONDENCE.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Thursday 1 January 1880, page 6

MOUNT RAT (Yorke's Peninsula). December 28.

Cnmtmas Day wan very quiet at this place and not even the hum of a reaper could be heard to break tbe stillness. Every one went off early to Curramulka to be in time for the long program of sports which were got up in aid of the local cricket club. The day was splendid for outdoor amusements. It was a pleasure to see so many well-known faces round the well-spread tables, partaking of tea in Mr. Luxmoore's magnificent new wheat store, which was got up most tastefully for the occasion. The young ladies of the place presided at the tables. After tea there was a concert, also got up by the club. The store was crowded, and the funds of the cricketers must have been considerably augmented.

The weather, unfortunately, this afternoon took a change and stopped the machines, which should be now in full swing, every one being anxious to have his grain saved. The crops about here will not be heavy, but the grain is large and a good sample, and very clean. We expect an average of ten bushels.

CURRAMULKA January 3.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Saturday 10 January 1880, page 1

Since my last communication we have had some very changeable weather, and at times it has been very stormy and wet, and this has retarded reaping very much. Some farmers are reaping twenty and twenty five bushels to the acre, and the sample is excellent. It is impossible to form any exact estimation of the average yield yet. Wheat is coming in pretty freely.

On Christmas Day the Athletic Club held their sports, which were a success. In the afternoon there was a public tea in aid of the Cricket Club funds in Mr. F. W. Luxmoore's store, which was tastefully decorated with evergreens, and in the evening a musical and literary entertainment was given to a large audience. The following ladies snd gentlemen rendered some very nice music:, both vocal and instrumental :— Tlie Misses McLoed. Wtlshire, Williams, Parsons, and Jessie McLeod, Mrs. Chamberlane, Messrs. Norman, Bennett, Parsons, Fesenmeyer, Edwards, Luxmoore, and Newton. Recitations were delivered by Messrs. McFarlane, McLeod, and Twelftree. Mr. R. T. Wilson, President of the clubs, occupied the chair.

CURRAMULKA SPORTS.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 10 January 1880, page 30

The second annual sports in connection with the Curramulba Athletic Club were held on Christmas Day on the suburban lands. The site selected was splendidly adapted, and the day being delightfully fine for outdoor amusements a large number of people assembled to witness the sports. The committee were very energetic in their endeavours to make the affair a success. Messrs. R. F, Wilson, S. Goldsworthy, and Chamberiane gave satisfaction in their decisions as Judges, and Messrs. F. W. Luxmoore acted as starter; Messrs. W. McDonald, A. Douglas, and J. Walters, handicappers; and A. Douglas and J. 8. McLeod, Treasurer and Secretary. W. T. Williams won the Gurramulka Cup.

The following is the programme:—Running long jump —W. Goldsworthy,1st; C Barnell, 2nd. 220 yards handicap hurdles (1st event Gurramulka Cup)— W. T. Williams, 3 yards, 1st; W. Goldsworthy, 3 yards, 2nd; T. Goldsworthy, scratch, 3rd. Four started, and Williams won easily. Putting the Shot—W. Twelftree, 1st; J. T. Allen, 2nd; eight competitors. Half-mile fiat race, handicap— Geo. McKinlay, 8 yards, 1st; T. Golden, scratch, 2nd ; A. Goldiner, 5 yards, 3rd. Standing high jump—Alf. Williams. 1st; Geo. McKinlay, 2nd. 150 yards boys' race, handicap, under 16—Geo. Eastwood, 1st; W. Luxmoore 2nd. 220 yards hurdles .handicap, all comers —W. Goldsworthy, 10 yards, 1st ; Peter Goldiner, scratch, 2nd ; M. Hatcher (10 yds ) and J. Hendry (15 yds.) also ran, but were disqualified for jostling. Throwing the cricket ball— N. Rogers, 1st; W. Twelftree, 2nd. Four hundred arm forty yards flat (second event cup) —W. Williams, scratch, 1st; T. Goldsworthy, scratch, 2nd ; Nahrahan, 15 yds , 3rd. Won easily. One mile flat race, handicap—George McKinlay, 40 yds., 1st; T. Golden, scratch, 2nd ; A. Goldiner, 70 yards, 3rd. A very close and esciting race. McKinlay won by half a yard. Pole-leaping—W. Twelftree, 8ft. 6in., 1st; Prindwell, 2nd, 8 ft. 4 in. Jumping in sacks— Glachan, 1st; Naharan, 2nd. Tug-of-War—Six men each side; Mr. Winter's side won. One hundred and fftty yards flat race (third event cup)—T. Goldsworthy, scratch, 1st; W. Goldsworthy, scratch, 2nd. Two hundred and twenty yards hurdles (all comers) S. Goldsworthy, 5 yards, 1st; C. Barnell, 8 yards, 2nd; T. Goldswortby, 3rd. Close race. One mile walking match—T. Golden, scratch, 1st; C. Hickman, 70 yards, 2nd; J. Goldsworthy, 40 yards, 3rd. Won easily. Tilting—G. McKinlay, 1st; Dan Tucker, 2nd.

CURRAMULKA, March 1.

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

Saturday 6 March 1880, page 4

Harvest is finished and the result will be about ten bushels average for the district. Some time since I saw in the Chronicle a paragraph to the effect that many farmers here were getting thirty bushels average. I take it that this report originated with some soft goods traveller who did not know any better, as the facts will not bear the statement out. — Last week some heavy showers fell which interfered with stubble-burning ; since then the weather has been very cold and boisterous. About Minlaton a heavy downpour was experienced, which filled the tanks and dams. — Mr. Douglas has commenced building his new store, which will, no doubt, be an improvement to the township when finished.— Mr. Luxmoore has been doing a heavy business in wheat-buying this season, loading the vessels at Port Vincent, and maintaining a fair figure, considering the low price of wheat.— Ploughing will be general very shortly. Good ploughmen are scarce.

Curramulka. March 8th 1880.

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

Friday 12 March 1880, page 3

We have finished with harvesting and the hundred will be likely to yield an average from 10 to 11 bushels per acre. Those farmers who have been able to hold have waited for a rise in price but very few will be able to hold much longer, as the installment has soon to be met, which in miny instances will swallow up what little wheat is still in farmer's hands. Ploughing has commenced, in earnest and is likely to be carried on for three or four months.

The township is being improved by the erection of two buildings, we have also the comfort of a resident boot and shoe maker. The anniversary of the Wesleyan chapel will be celebrated by a tea and public meeting on Tuesday next, trays are being prepared at Maitland.

A few heavy showers fell last week which effectually stopped stubble burning and will doubtless give the farmers a great deal of trouble to get their land ready for the plough. Some persons caught sufficient rain water to last a fortnight or three weeks, others again got very little.

CURRAMULKA. March 14.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Monday 22 March 1880, page 4

During the past week we had a nice rain, which has replenished some of the dams and tanks. The weather has remtined unsettled ever since, bnt there is not much likelihood of a return of extreme heat. The early rains will cause the weeds and oats, &c, to spring up, so that the farmers will be enabled to kill them in ploughing before seedtime. Ploughing has again commenced, and in a week or so will be general. The wheat rush is about over, but some of the farmers are holding back in anticipation of higher prices. Mr. F. W. Luxmoore has been a large buyer here, and has dispatched two shiploads to the Cape.

Mr. A. Douglas has commenced his new store, which when completed will be an ornament to the township. There is also a butcher's shop in course of erection, which will supply a long-felt want. Mr. W. Skenes, of Onetree Hill, has opened a boot-shop.

The Road Board have repaired some of the worst portions of the road between Mount Rat via. Curramulka to Port Vincent, and are calling for tenders to make a piece in the township, which will be a great benefit to the residents and others.

Some time ago a requisition was sent to the Minister of Education, praying that a public school might be erected here, but nothing has yet been done in the matter. The building where the school is conducted is quite unfit for the purpose, it being an iron building kindly lent by the Wesleyan denomination.

It is surprising that some of the Banks are not establishing an agency here. I do not see why a Bank should not do a good trade, as the hundred is a flourishing one and can boast of a good deal of money charging hands daily.

The anniversary services of the Wesleyan Church were held on Sunday, 7th instant. Two sermons were preached by Rev. W. Dawson to large and appreciative congregation ; and on Tuesday, 9th, the usual tea meeting took place. The building was nicely decorated with evergreens, and the tables were waited on by the young ladies of tbe district. The meeting was held in the evening, and the Rev. W. Dawson was in the chair. The Treasurer read the report, which showed that the chapel was in debt. The Rev. Mr. Dawson gave an address, explaining how tea meetings were conducted in the West Indies. The choir, under the leadership of Mr. Thomas, rendered some anthems in good style, and they were much appreciated. The proceeds of the tea and collections amounted to £13.

We cannot yet boast of a branch of the Farmers' Association, although the advantages to be derived from such must be considerable.

A memorial was some months back sent to the Attorney-General, praying that Curramulta might be declared a polling place. Our request has not been granted yet.

CURRAMULKA, April 20.

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

Saturday 24 April 1880, page 25

Tne farmers are all busy ploughing, and as there is a considerable quantity of land ia stubble it will no doubt tare them to the end of June to finish.— I am sorry to have to report an accident which befell Mr. John McLeod, a well know and highly respected resident of this district, it appears that he was getting into a cart, when the horse suddenly moved on, thereby throwing him out, the result being a heavy fall. His collar-bone was broken, and a doctor had to be brought from Maitland, a distance of about thirty miles, to attend him. — We experienced some heavy showers last Thursday, accompanied with thunder and lightning. The grass is beginning to show in consequence of these early rains. I hear that a few farmers have started sowing, but it will not be general for another fortnight. — Another butcher, Mr. Howe, has started business in the township. — Mr. Douglas's new general store is nearly completed. — The low price of wheat is very disheartening to the farmers, especially as nearly all their money has to go in to the Governmant in payment of rent.

CURRAMULKA BRANCH.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 8 May 1880, page 10

A meeting was held at the Curramulka Hotel on Saturday evening, April 24, for the purpose of considering the advisability of establishing a branch of the Farmers' Association of South Australia. Mr. J. Johnston was nominated to the chair, and, in explaining the object of the meeting, dwelt upon the necessity of the farmers uniting with the Association in order to protect the interests of the farming population of the colony. The farmers as a rule were, or had been, very backward to their own interests, but he hoped the time had now arrived when they would form themselves into a great body to secure their rights. Mr. Hickman endorsed the remarks made by the Chairman, and thought the Association was a step in the right direction. The Association would be of immense advantage to the farmers. By forming themselves into Associations they could return men who would thoroughly represent their interests in both Houses of Legislature, have grain depots established, load vessels, and send their own produce home. By the present method of the wheat passing through so many hands the farmer was the loser. The farmers were the mainstay of the colony, and yet were the most ill-used class. It was their duty to form themselves into bodies and try to break the monopoly of the merchants, who had it too much in their own hands. Mr. J. McLeod here read the rules of the parent Association. Mr. W. McDonald proposed, and Mr. Hickmann seconded—"That a branch of the South Australian Farmers' Mutual Association be established in Curramulka." The proposition was unanimously carried, and thirteen names were taken as members. Mr. Johnston was directed to write to the General Secretary and ask for a full definition of rule clause 4. It was decided to call another meeting at a future date for the election of officers. A vote of thanks to the Chair closed the meeting.

CURRAMULKA May 3.

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

Tuesday 11 May 1880, page 3

The late heavy rains have put a stop to the plough, and formers are now turning their attention to sowing. The land is saturated to a depth of 15 or 18 inches, and the seed will doubtless soon show above the ground.

A Farmers Association was started here last week when 13 members were enrolled to join shortly. I hear that Mr. John McLeod, of this place, who met with a nasty accident lately, is progressing favorably. Sore eyes appear to be the rage just now, as many persons are suffering from this ailment. Mr. Lamb and Mr. Douglass are busy erecting respectable looking stone-buildings, in the township.

The metalling of the road from ? ship toward Port Vincent has ? ? in hand by the Contractor, It has been urgently required for some considerable time. Grass is beginning to show nicely, this season being fully a month in advance of last year;

Farmers are generally taken terribly low price of wheats the being 3s. 7d. As the greatest harvest returns have had to be paid for the three years advance of rent to the Government, it makes things look rather dull.

The Port Vincent Hotel has changed hosts, and Mr. Sefton inaugurated his advent by giving a grand ball and supper on Thursday last.

CURRAMULKA BRANCH.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 29 May 1880, page 10

A meeting of the Curramulka Branch was held at the Curramulka Hotel on Saturday evening, May 22. There was a fair attendance, and Mr. Johnston was voted to the chair. The election of officers for the ensuing year resulted as follows, viz.:—Chairman, J. Johnston; Vice Chairman, R. F. Wilson; and Secretary, J S. McLeod; Treasurer, William McDonald; Auditors, Messrs. Eastwood and Dodd. A letter from the General Secretary was read re clause 4 of Captain Bagot's letter, and a lengthy discus-sion took place in reference to it between Messrs. Wilson, Hickman, and Johnston. It was decided to allow the matter to stand over until next meeting owing to its great importance to the farmers. Mr. McLeod called the atten-tion of the branch to clause 19 as to the votes of farmers and their sons being registered, and said the matter should be attended to, as it was of much importance. Mr. Wilson endorsed Mr. McLeod's remarks, and added that he did not believe that one-tenth of the farmers of Curramulka had their names on the electoral roll. In order that men who would thoroughly represent the farming interests of the colony might be returned, it was absolutely necessary farmers should have their votes registered. It was finally decided that the Secretary be directed to write to the Returning Offioer of the province for forms. The Secretary was also directed to write to General Secretary for copies of rules for the guidance of the branch.

CURRAMULKA, June 15.

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

Saturday 19 June 1880, page 4

Seeding operations will now soon be over. Farmers have worked hard to get their seed in, yet there are many who will not be able to finish until the end of this month. The early wheat looks passable, and as the season here has been rather dry, farmers have kept the plough constantly going, thereby clearing the rubbish off some of the dirty lands. The talk is that the price of wheat is and has been so low that before long land will have to be sold at a lesser price by the Government than has been obtained of late years, or farming will become absolutely unprofitable. The price of wheat here is 3s. 7d., and at Port Vincent 3s. 9d.— A Government wooden school-building is being erected in the township although there is any quantity of good stone within a few hundred yards of the site.— I hear that a trooper is to be stationed at Gum Flat. He will, from what I know of that and the surrounding districts, have a quiet billet.— The contract for detailing the approach to the township from Port Vincent appears to be going on satisfactorily.— We have had some splendid rains, which will bring up the late wheat, and also do a deal of good to the grass.

CURRAMULKA, June 21.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 26 June 1880, page 15

Splendid rains have fallen during the last week, which will be gladly welcomed by the farmers, as we had rather a lengthy spell of dry weather and fears were entertained for the late-sown wheat, as it was very much in want of rain. Some of the early-sown crops look remarkably well. The weather is still cloudy and overcast and more rain threatens. The majority of the farmers have finished seeding operations, but a few intend keeping on until the end of the month. There will be a much larger area under cultivation this season than last.

We have a few buildings in course of erection, the most notable one being the public school and teachers' residence, and they are fast approaching completion. The residents were of opinion that the Government would erect a stone building here instead of a wooden one, as building material of the former nature occurs conveniently to the town; but it is supposed that the Government are beginning to study economy in order to evade taxation.

The local branch of the Farmers' Association had a long discussion on Captain Bagot's letter at their usual monthly meeting.

CURRAMULKA. July 5.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Friday 9 July 1880, page 7

Mr. Barker, the contractor, is progressing favourably with the operations on the Port Vincent and Curramulka-road. The road will be of great value to the farmers and others when completed. The roads generally have been m a very heavy state since the rains, and it may reasonably be expected that the Board will have some of the worst portions of the main line to Port Vincent repaired.

A few farmers are giving attention to tree planting, principally fruit trees. Mr. Goldaworthy, sen., has laid out a nice orchard and planted a number of trees of various kinds. The soil appeal to be well adapted for the purpose, as they are making rapid growth.

Mr. A. Douglas's new general store is a nice substantial building, and adds greatly to the appearance of the township. The Post-Office is removed to the new building, which is more conveniently situated for the majority of the farmers and residents of the township.

The approaching elections for the Legislative Council do not create much excitement here. The majority of the settlers this end of the Peninsula seem to be quite indifferent in regard to political affairs, which shows that it should be severed from the northern end. It is to be hoped that the new Electoral Bill will be passed.

CURRAMULKA, July 24.

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

Saturday 31 July 1880, page 12

We have just had another soaking rain. The nights are very cold, and the wheat is consequently rather backward. The members of the local Farmers' Association held their meeting last Wednesday at host Newlyn's Hotel. It was resolved that the following replies be sent to the questions furnished by the central committee; 1 This branch is of opinion that further extension of the credit system is required by selectors. 2. That it is preferable to pay one-fourth each down in six years to receiving a lease in continuity with the right to cancel such lease by payment of purchase-money, the, interest payable in either case being 5 per cent. 3. That selectors should be allowed to take up land which has remained undetected for two years on a perpetual lease, with option of cultivation, such blocks not to exceed 3,000 acres. 4. The establishment of model farms was considered of little advantage and not intertained. 5. Limited immigration was thought necessary. A resolution in favor of abolishing the duties on fencing wire, cornsacks, and agricultural machinery, was carried. Other questions of minor importance were discussed, and some postponed. In conclusion, Mr. Johnson read a paper on 'The Treatment of Horses,' for which a hearty vote of thanks was accorded him. Mr. Wilson (president) was in the chair.— The Government school building is now receiving its finishing touches, and will very shortly be ready for occupation.— Seeding in this hundred may be considered as finished, farmers as a rule being late this season.— The price of wheat is still very low. At Port Vincent it is 3s. 9d.

CURRAMULKA, July 23.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 31 July 1880, page 12

We are having glorious weather, all that the farmers could desire. The early-sown crops are looking very healthy and making rapid growth; the late-sown are beginning to make a little headway now.

A meeting to arrange for the Curramulka and Port Vincent Ploughing Match and Show was held at the Curramulka Hotel on Saturday evening, July 24, to make preliminary arrangements, &c, for the annual ploughing match and Show. A good number was present, and Mr. Johnston was nominated to the chair. Mr. F. W. Luxmoore, one of the joint Secretaries, read the balance-sheet, which showed £5 13s. 6d. and medal valued at £3 3s. on hand from last year's Show. The statement was adopted. After a lengthy discussion it was the opinion of the majority of those present that as a piece of land suitable for a ploughing match was not available close to the township the ploughing match in connection with the Show be left to the committee to decide, &c. The following committee was then appointed, vis.:—Messrs. R. P. Wilson, W. McDonald, A. Douglas, S. Eastwood, A Slade, T. Corral, and F. W. Luxmoore and J. S. McLeod joint Secretaries. The date of the Show to be fixed at a future meeting. A vote of thanks to the Chairman closed the proceedings.

The Curramulka Branch of the Farmers' Association held its meeting on Wednesday, July 21, at which there was a good attendance. It was the most successful meeting the branch has yet held. Questions from the central committee were discussed.

A meeting of the Curramulka Cricket Club was held on Saturday, July 17, and it was resolved that the club celebrate its opening practice-day by playing a match—local eleven v. twenty-two.

There is a capital opening for a mill here. The township is centrally situated, wood is plentiful, and of water there is an abundant supply in the Government well. The mill would command a good share of grist work.

Minlaton. August 7th.

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

Tuesday 10 August 1880, page 3

Yesterday was observed as a holiday by most of the townspeople. Tbe stores being closed, a picnic party was made up to visit the caves at Curramulka. The gentlemen of the party thoroughly explored the caves, after which the ladies, being assured there was no danger, were induced to enter the bowds of the earth, but notwithstanding the assurances of the gentlemen some of the ladies were very nervous,

A friendly shooting match took place in the afternoon ad the Park Lands, and the idea was mooted by forming a local Rifle Club.

CURRAMULKA, August 12.

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

Saturday 21 August 1880, page 24

The weather during the last four or five days has been very wet, and heavy showers have thoroughly soaked the soil. Tanks and dams are now full and running over. The late wheat will be immensely benefited by this downpour. — Messrs. Stott & Marshall exhibited their prize reaper and winnower, together with a stumpjumping plough and grubbing machine ai Curramulka on Tuesday last. The plough was started to work on Mr. Water's section, the mallee was out close to the ground, the soil being light, but rather wet. The work on the whole was very well done, and gave great satisfaction. The general opinion appeared to be that an improvement could be effected by placing the ploughs a little closer. I hear the implement was purchased at once by one of our local farmers. The grubber was also tried on some large mallees, and brought them up in good style; but a breakage having occurred the trial had to be discontinued. The price reaper was nest taken in hand at the township, and after a little delay caused by the slippery state of the ground and belt, the machine was fairly got under way, and started to work threshing wheat-heads. It appeared to do the work very fairly, and is certainly a great improvement on the old reaper ; still a trial with a few bags of tough heads can hardly be considered a fair one to the makers, neither is there on the other hand a chance to judge of any defects until fairly started in a wheatfield. The cog-wheels at the back are certainly too light for rough work, but this could no doubt be easily remedied. Great interest was manifested in the proceedings, large numbers of farmers having flocked in from this and surrounding hundreds to witness the trial. Great credit is due to the inventors, as these implements are a step in the right direction; and if scrub lands were offered for sale by the Government for 5s. per acre many a farm would be started in the dreary wastes of scrub now utterly useless to cither the Government or the people.

Curramulka.

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

Tuesday 24 August 1880, page 3

This last week we have been having some of the finest rains of the season. All the tanks and dams are full and overflowing and if the farmers do not have a good yield this harvest, it will not be for want of rain. So far the wheat is looking very backward for the time of the year. That doubtless, is owing to the extreme cold.

Messrs. Marshall and Stott exhibited their prize combined reaper and winner at Curramulka on Tuesday last It did its work in a satisfactory manner so far, but some part of the belt fixings are evidently incomplete. But that will no doubt soon be perfected. The same day Messrs. Marshall and Stott started their tripple stump jumping plough in Mr. Watter's paddock. It did its work very well and gave great satisfaction. The plough was sold on the ground. They also tried their stump grubbing machine which seemed to act very creditable, but soon after starting one of the chains broke and the work had to be discontinued. Several farmers are determined to go into the mullinizing business since witnessing the trial on Tuesday.

Another blacksmith is about starting business in the township and the timber is already on the ground for building. The Curramulka Show and ploughing match will probably be held next month.

CURRAMULKA, August 23.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 28 August 1880, page 37

The weather during the past fortnight has been fine. The crops are growing fast, and farmers appear to be satisfied with the present prospect. On Thursday, the 16th, a mission meeting was held in the chapel. There was a very fair attendance. Addresses were delivered by the Bev. Mr. Angwin, M.A., and Messrs. A. W. Mills, J. Johnston, and J. Thomas. The choir rendered several musical selections remarkably well, and were deservedly applauded. Miss McLeod presided at the harmonium. The usual vote of thanks closed a very pleasant meeting.

The Curramulka Cricket Club celebrated its opening match on August 4 by playing a local match First Eleven v. Twenty-two. The day being delightfully fine a number of spectators congregated to witness the play, which was very creditable for the beginning of the season. The match resulted in favour of the eleven with 8 wickets to fall. The bowling of S. Goldsworthy, jun., was very effective, he capturing 17 wickets for 10 runs, In the afternoon a public tea in aid of the club funds was held in Mr. Luxmoore's large wheat store, very kindly lent for the occasion. The ladies of the district provided a capital tea, and after the room had been cleated a very enjoyable evening was spent in dancing and singing.

On the 14th inst. the Curramulka Cricket Club held its annual general meeting. Mr. Twelftree occupied, the chair, and called upon the Secretary (Mr. McLeod) to read the report, which stated that the club had contested six matches last season, winning; four of them and losing two. The club had a balance in hand of £11 odd. The balance-sheet was adopted. The following officers were then elected for the ensuing season President—Mr. R. F. Wilson; Vice-Presidents—Messrs. S. Goldsworthy, sen., and H. W. Newlyn; Committee—Messrs. John Giles (captain), A. Douglas, T. W. Twelftree, S. Goldsworthy, jun., and J. S. McLeod (Secretary and Treasurer). A vote of thanks to the officers of last season was accorded, and after arranging some matches for the present season the meeting closed.

The new State school is now completed, and is a neat little building. It is obvious to the residents that the building will not provide sufficient accommodation for the number of children of a schoolgoing age in the district.

The Curramulka Branch of the Farmers' Association held its meeting on Saturday last, August 21. Several new members were enrolled, and there was a capital attendance. The General Secretary, Mr. W. J. Venning, was present and read a valuable paper.

The committee of the Curramulka and Fort Vincent Amalgamated Agricultural Society have decided tohold their annual Show in September. The committee are making strenuous efforts to issue a good prize-list.

Curramulka Show.

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

Friday 1 October 1880, page 3

The first Curramulka Agricultural Show was held on 22nd inst. in and around Mr. Luxmore's wheat store. The weather was splendid and there was a large concourse of visitors from this and all the surrounding Hundreds. The store was beautifully decorated with festoons of shrubs and bushes now in the perfection of bloom. Mr. Fesenmeyer, from Port Vincent, kindly gave his services as decorative artist and soon displayed, not only the stature but the energy of the first Napoleon. Great praise is also due to the Committee and Secretary, who worked manfully to make the Show the success it undoubtedly was. The exhibits in the vegetable, dairy, and poultry lines were especially good.

The following is the PRIZE-LIST.

HORSE STOCK—

Judges Messrs. James. Anderson, Goldsmith and F. Rieka' by, J.P. Best draught entire Hickman's Stansbury. 1st ; Philips, Pride of the Park, 2nd. Best Brood Mare, Wilson 1st, Evans 2nd. Best two-year-old Filly, Booth, 1st. Best two-year-old colt, Mr. Thomas 1st. One year-old filly. Snoswell 1st. One year-old colt, Douglas 1st. Special prize (by Michelmore) for best Yearling Colt or Filly by " Heart of Oak", Eastwood 1st. " Best roadster entire, Calnan's " Nimblefoot," 1st. Hack, Douglas 1st; T. Goldsworthy 2nd. Best buggy pair, Pointon 2nd (only.)

CATTLE.

Best bull—T. Dodd, 1st. Cow in milk, Dwyre 1st. Two-year-old heifer, Hams 1st. Fat beast, Short 1st. Team eight working bullocks, Hunt 1st. Boar, Smith 1st. Sow, Talbot 1st.

AGRICULTURAL PBODUCE.

Best 9 bushels wheat. Short 1st. Best 3 bushels cape barley, Pointon 2nd (only). The judges in these sections were Messrs, Ford, Leonard, and Tonkin

DAIRY PRODUCE.

Best side bacon. Smith 1st and 2nd. Best ham, Wilson 1st and 2nd. 6 lbs. fresh butter Mrs. Kappler 1st; Mrs. Mastrel 2nd. 14 lbs. potted butter, Mrs. Hoooer Ist Mrs. Kappler 2nd. Cheese, Mr. Hooper 2nd (only). One doz. eggs, Lovelock 1st, 1 do. Lovelock 2nd. Judges — Messrs. Quartly, McKenaie and Evans.

POULTRY AND VEGETABLES.

Best cock, and two hens, any breed, Mr. Mastiel 1st; Mathews 2nd. Pair turkeys, Short 1st. Pair ducks, Short 1st. Pair Geese, Eastwood 1st. Vegetables grown here, T. Goldsworthy 1st. 12 carrots, Mathews 2nd. 12 turnips, Mr. Nettle 1st. Best collection cut flowers, Miss Goldsworthy 1st. Geraniums Miss Goldsworthy 1st. Judges —Messrs Long, Smith ana McCallum.

IMPLEMENTS.

Best ordinary Reaper, Short 1st. Improved Reaper, Marshall 1st. Winnower, Bagshaw 1st; do. Nettle 2nd. Threefurrow plough, Pearson 1st. Two-furrow plough, Pearson 1st. One-furrow, Wilson 1st. Scarifier, Wilson 1st. Harrows, Wilson 1st. Waggon (English), Dodd 1st. Tip dray, Diprose 1st. Buggy, Tucker 1st. Seedsower (Dobbie) recommended for prize 1st.

MISCELLANEOUS

Best Set buggy harness, T. Newlyn 1st. Shaft harness, Hickman 1st. Three loaves home made bread, Mrs. Diprose 1st; Dodd 2nd, Judges for above—Messrs, Flintoff, Anderson and McCaIIum.

Our Wesleyan friends held a tea meeting in the chapei on the same day, which proved a great success. The proceeds amounted to over £13, which is to be spent in the purchase of books, See., &c., for the Sunday School. A dinner was prepared by Host Newlyn in good style to which about 50 gentlemen did justice. The usual loyal toasts were given and honored, and the company broke up in the wee small hours, well satisfied with the success of the first Currmalka Show.

CURRAMULKA, October 4.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 9 October 1880, page 16

The anniversary services of the Curramulka Wesleyan Sabbath School were celebrated on Wednesday, 22nd, and Sunday, the 26th September. The services were preached by Mr. A. D. Mills, but the congregations were not very large. On Wednesday the tea meeting was held. It being the Show day, a large number of people partook of the good things provided by Mesdames Dodd, Thomas, Johnston, and the Misses Wurm and Douglas. The chapel was tastefully decorated with evergreens and flowers, giving it a pleating appearance. In the evening the usual public meeting was held. Mr. T. C. Dodd occupied the chair. Addresses were delivered by Rev. T. B. Angwin, and Messrs. Thomas and Johnston. The children, assisted by the choir, sang some excellent selections of music under the leadership of Miss McLeod. A comprehensive vote of thanks was accorded the ladies and gentlemen who had assisted in connection with the anniversary services. The proceeds of tea and Sunday collection amounted to £14.

Our provisional teacher, Miss McLeod, who is on the eve of resigning her position, gave her scholars a tea, and they afterwards entered into numerous games with much spirit.

The public school opened on Monday, 4th instant, under the superintendence of Mr. Gardner.

Much dissatisfaction is expressed by the residents at the delay of the Government in taking steps to repair the Government Well, as it is in a very dilapidated state. In fact, it is quite impossible to draw water from it. The inconvenience is beginning to be much felt, as the supply of rain water in private tanks is diminishing with alarming rapidity, and the well is the only one at which the general public can obtain water within a radius of six miles. The Government have been written to on the subject by a committee who were appointed at a public meeting held some time ago, and it is thought that the authorities should have taken active steps in the matter ere now.

The Road Board passed through here on their annual tour of inspection, and promised to put some of the worst portions of the road to Port Vincent in repair to meet the demands of the coming harvest.

In the report of the Curramulka and Port Vincent Show Mr. A. Talbot's name should have appeared as the winner of the first prize for best sow, instead of Mr. Smith.

The season so far is one of the best we have yet experienced in the hundred, the rainfall being all that could be desired. Alternate showers and sunshine have prevailed for the last three months, and the latesown crops are beginning to push ahead, their rapid growth lately being very apparent. A few patches of takeall exist in some of the wheat-fields, but the farmers do not apprehend much danger from that Grass is growing rapidly, and in the course of a week or two pasture will be in abundance. Fallowing is being pushed on vigorously, and there will probably be a large area under fallow this year.

MEETING AT CURRAMULKA.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Tuesday 12 October 1880, page 6

A public meeting was held at the Curramulka Hotel on Wednesday evening, October 6, to consider the prospectus of the South Australian Farmers' Co-operative Agency Company, and to direct the attention of the Government to the urgent necessity of repairing the Curramulka Well. Mr. J. JOHNSTON was voted to the chair, and briefly introduced the first subject for consideration. Messrs. R. F. Wilson, J. Thomas, F. Gregor, J.P., T. Dodd, G. Marshall, and F. W. Luxmoore spoke at length upon the advantages and disadvantages of the Agency Company. Ulti-mately it was decided to postpone the subject for further consideration. The CHAIRMAN said he would bring before their notice the state of the Curramulka Well. The residents were suffering a great inconvenience, owing to the dilapidated condition of the Government Well, and as there was no other well within a distance of six miles where water could be obtained, the residents were entirely dependent upon that one for their supply. He might mention that a public meeting was held some time ago, and Messrs. B. F. Wilson, A. Douglas, and H. Newlyn were appointed a committee to communicate with the Commissioner of Crown Lands on the subject, asking that the well might be repaired and then leased. In reply, they were directed to "see last week's Gazette, and they would see therein that the lease of the well would be offered for sale on November 4, the lessee to repair the well." Now they would observe the inconvenience they would suffer by the Government not disposing of the lease of the well until November 4. He thought the residents should exert themselves in the matter, considering how important it was. They should urgently request the Government to repair the well, and then lease it to a reliable person. Mr. F. GREGOR, J.P., said the question was one that concerned them all. He thought it was a mistake on the part of the Government to have sanctioned the transfer of the lease of the well. Mr. WILSON said Messrs. Goldsworthy, Newlyn, and himself were appointed as a deputation to wait upon the Commissioner of Crown Lands. When the lease of the well in question was offered at £30 there were no offers for it; they got the lease reduced to £5. When Mr. T. Dodd purchased it, agreeing to put the well in a perfect state of repair, he was of opinion that the conditions of the lease were not strictly carried out. He thought it was a grave mistake on the part of the residents when they did not protest against the lease being transferred to McKinlay and then to Roe, who was now insolvent, as those men, having no stake in the place, directly the rains commenced and the demand on the well decreased, would neglect it, and a sufficient supply would not be provided; consequently those residents who were entirely dependent upon the well for water were on numerous occasions much inconvenienced. Mr. DODD explained that the residents were agreeable to his transferring the lease of the well to McKinlay, and with regard to the necessary repairs the Government Ranger expressed himself satisfied with the work, and it was accordingly passed. By the present condition of the well he was a sufferer, as he was quite at the mercy of his neighbours who were fortunate enough to possess a supply of water for his stock, and of course be could not expect the free access to their dams and tanks much longer, as they required it for their own stock. He thought the Government should be petitioned on the subject. Mr. Thomas said he failed to see how any blame could be attached to Mr. Dodd for transferring the lease and not making sufficient substantial repairs, as the Government Ranger was satisfied with the work. However, putting that aside, he could sympathize with those who were dependent on the well, and would suggest that a memorial be prepared, signatures obtained, and then presented to the Government, and that the members of the district be written to requesting their assistance in the matter. Mr. Marshall thought they should not waste time in discussing past incidents, &c, connected with the lease of the well. The question now before them affected all present, as the want of water was a serious drawback, and as there was an abundant supply in the well he thought the Government should repair the well, as the expense of repairing same was nothing in comparison with the expense of sinking and building a tank. Mr. Talbot also endorsed some of the remarks of the previous speaker, and Said it was a serious matter to them. Now that the busy times with farmers were approaching they would unquestionably be put to a great disadvantage. He had a very limited supply and did not know how soon it would be exhausted. Mr. H. Netvltw also spoke upon the grievance they were labouring under, and said he would propose that he following memorial be adopted and presented to the Commissioner.

Mr. T. Dodd seconded, and the motion was carried :— ' To the Hon. the Commissioner of Crown Lands, S.A.— We the undersigned, residents of Curramulka, humbly sheweth— 1. That the Curramulka Well is in a very dilapidated condition, the timber having fallen in ; consequently it is impossible to obtain water from it. 2. That the well is the only one in the hundred where the public can obtain water. That it is unlikely any person will take the lease of the well in its present state of repair. 3. That unless something is speedily done the consequence will be most disastrous to the residents of the district, as no water is obtainable within six miles of Curramulka, and the inhabitants are entirely dependent upon the well for the supply. We, therefore, humbly and earnestly pray that the Government Well at Carramulka may be put in a proper state of repair as speedily as possible.' A vote of thanks to the Chair closed the proceedings.

CURRAMULKA, October 11.

Adelaide Observer (SA : 1843 - 1904), Trove

Saturday 16 October 1880, page 11

We have had some nice showers since my last. Red rust has made its appearance in some of the crops, and some of the self-sown are rather badly affected by It. It has shown itself earlier than usual in this neighbourhood this year.

Mr. J. Way, the mail contractor from Stansbury, via Curramulka, to Wauraltie, met with a slight mishap on Wednesday evening last. He was driving through the gate at a brisk pace, and the night being rather dark, and having a fidgety young horse in the team, ran against the post, causing the pole to break, the horses, of which there were three, getting clear with the pole. Way, who manfully stuck to the reins, was pulled out of the coach, but, sticking to the reins, succeeded in bringing them to a stand. Way escaped with only a slight shaking, but one of the passengers, Mrs. Fahrahan, received a rather awkward fall.

Our cricketers played the Maitland cricketers at Curramulka on Saturday, October 2, and succeeded in defeating the visitors. In the evening the Curramulkas, entertained the visitors at the Curramulka Hotel, and about forty sat down to a capital dinner provided by Host Newlyn. The President of the club (Mr. B. F. Wilson) occupied the chair, and the healths of the Maitland and Curramulka Clubs, the Australian Eleven, Press, Umpires, Scorers, Ladies, Host and Hostess, were duly proposed and responded to. Some capital songs and recitations by Messrs. J. J. Thomas, O. Short, D. A Flintoff, R. Hyde, H. Newlyn, A Douglas, J. S. McLeod, and W, H. Hussey greatly enlivened the proceedings. Altogether a most enjoyable evening was spent. The Maitlanders visited the Curramulka caves, on the farm of Mr, Talbot, and expressed themselves highly pleased with them.

It is high time that the residents should bestir themselves with regard to the cemetery, or the piece of land reserved for that purpose, and request the Government to have it gazetted, and a committee appointed to make the necessary arrangements for fencing it in, &c.

There have been a few additions in the building line in our township recently. F. & D. Tucker have opened a blacksmith's shop as genetal smiths and coachbuilders, and Mr. George Marshall has started as a machinist, &c. A few private residences are in conrse of erection.

It would be a great convenience to business people if there were an additional overland mail on every Tuesday.

THE NEVER FAILING WELL.

Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), Saturday 3 December 1921, page 41

A Famous Well

The curious formations to be found in limestone, country were known to the aboriginals, and those living on the Yorke Peninsula had several wells that were never known to go dry. In most instances these were comparatively shallow, owing to the fact that the primitive implements of the blacks could not cope with the task of sinking through the limestone. At Curramulka, however, there is a permanent well that has all the traces of being originally one of those used by the blacks, but which, in the earliest years of white settlement was taken down to a considerable depth and formed into proper shape. This gives & constant supply for the town, and has never been known to run dry, or even vary in the height of its water column. During the worst drought in the history of the district, the well supplied water to everyone within 20 miles, and the streets of the little township used to be filled with the teamsters and their teams waiting their turn to get supply.

There is an enormous cave leading from the well that is supposed to extend for over a mile and come out on one of the farms. Apparently there are legends mixed up with fact in the story that is told of the well, but at the same time particularly valuable and interesting things have been obtained from the cave. The entrance to this is 30 ft. down the side of the well, and on one occasion Mr. M. Ridgway, Adelaide manager for Mr. H. V. McKay, got a local resident to explore the entrance. The result was, that although no attempt was made to make more than a cursory examination of the mouth, bones were recovered of many extinct Australian animals, including those of the giant kangaroo. These were handed by Mr. Ridgway to the Museum, There seems no doubt that a proper exploration of the cave would result in interesting and valuable scientific information being gained.

THE CURRAMULKA WELL.

South Australian Register (Adelaide, SA : 1839 - 1900), Trove

Monday 18 October 1880, page 2

TO THE EDITOR. Sir— As a visitor to the Curramulka neighbourhood, and one totally disinterested in the matter, allow me to direct attention to the injustice and disadvantages under which the settlers in that district suffer. The whole of the land at Curramulka was sold originally at very high rates, up to £7 10s. per acre, and averaging £3 2s. 6d. I am told the settlers are dependent for their water supply upon their tanks, necessarily small, because of the rocky nature of the land and upon the Curramulka Well, which is 135 feet deep. In summer-time the whole of the water for the district is derived from this well, which is also depended upon by travellers. By some means the well has fallen into such disrepair that it is impossible to obtain water from it; and even now the people in the township are begging water from one or two who have tanks. The estimated cost of putting the well into thorough repair is £80, and as the well is upon a reserve there is no one but the Government who has authority to do anything in the matter, and the Government moves always so slowly that it is certain almost that travellers and the settlers will be put to very great inconvenience in about three weeks' time, when the water in the private tanks is exhausted, and the nearest available supply for cattle, &c, is about ten miles off.

Will you please urge the Government to immediately see to this matter, and at the same time to insert such conditions in the lease of the well amount to be offered as will prevent the lessee disposing of his lease when the winter comes on, and thus getting rid of his responsibility to keep it in order after the profitable summer season has passed away? If the well is put in order and a lease offered at the upset price of £10 the well will pay its own expenses, and the Government will earn the gratitude of the settlers, who consider that they hive a right to immediate consideration in such an important matter.

I am, Sir, &c,
ALBERT MOLINEUX.

THE STORM AT CURRAMULKA £12,000 DAMAGE

THE LATE MR. JOHN GREGOR.

State Library of South Australia - B 53898

CURRAMULKA: Group view of Curramulka schoolchildren, 1904. Back row: O. Bittner, C. Snoswell, W. Biebrich, W. Campion, A. Sparrow, R. Tucker, A. Way, J. Hickman, H. Goldfinch, F. Goldsworthy, J. Biebrich, H. Lindquist. Second row: Tina Goldfinch, V. Goldfinch, E. Tucker, M. Pointon, E. May, K. Newland, D. McFarlane, V. Poole, P. Sparrow. Third row: M. Clift, Q. Lovelock, E. Griffiths, L. McFarlane, O. Clift, L. Martin, G. Newland, V. Twelftree, I. Sparrow, G. Goldfinch. Fourth row: Edith Jones, teacher, F. Martin, J. Griffiths, E. Way, C. Martin, M. Way, A. George, J. Tucker, Len Pointon, W. Pointon, R. Way, L. Gregor, E. Griffiths, S. Sparrow, A. Pointon, V. Goldfinch, C. May, D. Goldfinch, Mr Griffiths, Head teacher. Fifth row: G. Tucker, A. Clift, L. Tucker, F. Biebrich, T. George, Tom Tucker, C. Goldfinch, E. Campion, D. Campion, E. Goldsworthy, L. George, B. Goldfinch.