1870 (Oscar Hughan married Frances Elizabeth Smith on November 30, 1870, at the house of Robert Johnson, Wesleyan Minister, Bourke)
Above: The Commercial Bank, the very first built in Bourke. This photo was taken in the early 1870s. Souce: National Library of Australia.I have also included articles written by Oscar for the Dubbo Dispatch as their ‘Bourke Correspondent”, and republished by the Maitland Mercury. As far as I can tell in, in 1870 Oscar wrote on the happenings of Bourke for the Dubbo Dispatch, and these articles were then re-published by the Maitland Mercury, Town & Country, Empire and other newspapers as they saw fit, either in their entirity or edited to a few short paragraphs. Sometimes, particularly in times of flood or severe drought, Oscar's correspondence did not make it out of Bourke for weeks on end, and the Bourke community was silenced in the eyes of the world for these periods.
BOURKE.
(From a Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch)
I am sorry to record the violent death of William Hunter, long a resident here. The foul fiend, intemperance, has had him in its toils for a long time, and on Tuesday last, I think, suicide ended the drama. The dreadful act was committed about three miles from Mr. G. Collitss' Inn, on the Culgoa. The unhappy man nearly severed his head from the trunk. Dr. Roberts proceeded to the body.
There is much speculation here relative to brave McCabe's monument. The question asked is, will the Government be insane enough to place it at the scene of that officer's' infamous murder, which, for the benefit of the ignorant, I will say is a lonely sandhill, about 60 miles N E. from Bourke: and a more desirable-place for the haters of the police to work their petty malice, could not be found, Should this memento to a dead servant's fidelity be left there, the certain work of demolition will take place.
The man Murphy, alias Barnet, alias Sydney Bob, has been committed for fraudulently uttering, and a witness has been produced relative to the double murder of the German hawkers. The case was heard with closed doors, so, of course, all is but conjecture as to his guilt. Much credit is due to constable Johns in this affair. The prisoner will be up again next week.
Other race-horses have arrived.
Rain has fallen in astonishing quantities in patches all through the-district. In Bourke, the Queensland squatters' delight, pigweed, is green and juicy.
510 head cattle, Cobb and Co.'s, en route for the Mole, are going down the Warrego, 200 of them fat. These, with others from the Mole, will be sent to Melbourne. O'Shannassy's are at home, and considering the distance travelled, they reflect great ____in the junior of the firm -___ had them in charge. At a rough guess, they must have passed over 800 miles of ground.
Colless opened his splendid new house last night.
The weather is - oh, how hot ! Cocytus, our river is very low, but we have plenty of feed.
West Bourke races came off on Monday.
Sharpe, of the Paroo, is mustering fat cattle.
December 25.
-Maitland Mercury, January 6, 1870.
BOURKE. (From a Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch.)
The West Bourke races came off on Boxing Bay in the face of a fierce sirocco. There was a good attendance, but a guiding spirit was sadly needed on the occasion-a chaotic affair, the only redeeming feature in the affair being the cool drinks, warranted not to be above the temperature of 108, -while the electric movements of the bar-keepers will be long remembered About six a.m. the Bourkites proper, ravenous as wolves, bade adieu to the West-enders.
A son of Mr. Flanigan met with a severe accident whilst driving cattle; he is not in danger. His horse fell with him.-A son of Mr. J. Brice was run over last night. Had the gentleman been riding the usual insane pace got up here, the child would probably have been killed.
The Rev. Mr. Currey has departed, taking a handsome testimonial from the people and a full conviction of the importance of Bourke as a field for clerical labour.
At the Police Court, on Dec 28th, before C. Cowper, Esq., P.M., with Messrs. Foott, Becker, and Symes, J.P.'s, Thomas Bolton was charged by Constable John with feloniously abstracting three melons from the garden of a Bird of Paradise named Charley Lane. The officer clearly proved that the unfortunate Bolton had exhibited a too fond desire for the succulent produce of the Chinaman, and he was set aside for three months' hard labour.
A robbery of considerable extent was effected at Yanda last November, the total amount reaching to £70. On Christmas Day, Sergeant Cleary arrested a youth, named G. Edwards, who seemed, to belong to Darwin's Red Sandstone period, on suspicion of stealing sundry of the articles missing, the chief one being a saddle made with others in Victoria especially for the Yanda Station. There was much evidence taken, and prisoner was committed for trial. Mr. Billyard defended the prisoner. Great praise is due to Johns for his promptitude and energy in following the fugitive, who had resorted to every dodge to throw out a pursuer.
William Murphy, alias Ryan, alias Sydney Bob, &c., &c., was remanded to Wagga Wagga on suspicion of being implicated in the Pohlman murders. He called R. Nancarrow to prove an alibi, but as forty-seven days intervened between Nancarrow's interview with the prisoner and the murders, it failed.
Very cloudy and raining slightly, after terrible heat. The children, 60 in number, had a grand party this afternoon. Jan. 1st.
-Maitland Mercury, January 13, 1870.
BOURKE. (From a Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch)
There are more Florence Nightingales than we wot of among the rugged pathways of life— many a noble deed accomplished of which the world is not cognisant—many a lesson taught whose fruit may not be seen for years afterwards, if even then. These reflections have been thrust upon me by a scene which took place in our court-house to-day. For a long time Mrs. James Foott, assisted by her daughters, has been doing a good and truly woman's mission in extending to the young around her the blessing of Sabbath school teaching. From a little speck the movement has grown to ponderous size, from a meeting of twos and threes in her husband's house, the little band numbers between thirty and forty well dressed, and what is better, bright and intellectual children. These little ones, through their parents, and the appreciation of a few of the lady friends, presented her publicly with a handsome gift. At the same time sixty children, under the direction of our P.M., were regaled with all that makes juveniles happy. In presenting Mrs. Foott with the token of respect provided by the friends of the scholars, Mr. Cowper said that it gave him much pleasure in thus testifying to the worth of the teachers, whose goodness was here in some part, though humbly, recognised. He wished the gift more worthy the occasion, but it was the best that could be procured in Bourke. He trusted the children appreciated the unselfish kindness of the ladies, who, out of pure love for their welfare, met each Sabbath to teach them the truths of the Bible. He hoped they would all prove grateful for the benefits received, and attend punctually, which would please Mrs Foott better than any present they could bestow. He could not omit mentioning the liberality of Messrs. Becker and Nancarrow, who on all occasions were the first to aid in the promotion of acts such as the present. Mrs. Foott, in few words, thanked the people of Bourke for this good-will, and trusted that her poor endeavours might be found bearing fruit in after years. Until dark the children thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and will doubtless think much of the first school treat which has been given in Bourke.
The Bogan, I hear, is a banker.
The Mechanics' Institute people are getting on the boards a theatrical display, assisted by others. I hope it will be a success.
Our children are without a school instructor, and forgetting what they learned during the past two months with delightful facility.
Our kettles, cans, and frying pans are sadly out of repair, and a good tinsmith would find, I think, an opening here.
We have another baker, and consequently bread is 6d. per loaf.
The weather is distressingly hot, but we had some splendid rain on Monday night.
McCabe's monument has arrived, and I trust that the ashes of the brave man will be placed within our cemetery, surmounted by the record of his deeds.
Sydney Bob has been forwarded to Wagga Wagga.
Grapes are now to be had at Horsfall’s garden -the whole of which establishment reflects
great credit on Mr. James Francis, under whose care it is. Jan. 8.
-Maitland Mercury, January 20, 1879.
BOURKE. ( From a Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch.)
As far as the weather is concerned we might as well live on the other side of Styx; but we are getting used to it, and have plenty of watermelons. Rain has fallen out to the N.N W, in gushing quantities. Two dams at Belalie and one at Conn's Hut (Shearer's) have been swept away, and the river is coming down a roarer. It had reached Claverton Downs some days ago. Report states one of Tyson's dams is gone.
There is another man lost, supposed to be George Ford, between this place and the Warrego. Constable Morrow was dispatched to the scene, but not being able to glean sufficient intelligence, nothing further has transpired. A horse went in to Kelly's Station, supposed to be the one ridden by the lost man, and all his accoutrements have been found in the bush. God help the rider-lost in the desolate track where these were found.
In my police report last week there appeared a strange mistake. After detailing the purloining of a horse- the following him over 130 miles into the back country by trooper Johns- the administering of six months to John Devine the horse fancier- the said Johns is made to appear deserving credit in a case in which Sergeant Cleary was the actor.
Our police magistrate has just returned from a professional tour to Brewarrina and Gongolgan.
A petition has been forwarded to the Chief of Police, praying that McCabe's Monument be erected here. Another petition, very numerously signed, is to be forwarded, asking for a resident judge, for the people are about tired of their little trips to Dubbo and elsewhere at ten pence per mile, and find your own boots, &c., &c. You would be surprised at the amount of crime which goes unpunished from this state of things. In equity, the case is just as bad. I think our member will find that the 'camel's back is broken, though he bore his burden long."
The new mail contracts are correctly earned out; in fact, they are generally hours before their appointed time.
Mr. Harris's new building is going up bravely, and will be a very fine erection when completed.
Mr. Huggins, a publican on the Pink Hills, was fined at Gongolgan, for giving a blackfellow grog, who, under its influence, introduced a stirrup-iron to the skull of a poor white brother, and then running a muck with Jones's" passenger coach. The conduct of these poor devils, while under the influence of strong drink, is not to be wondered at. The mystery is that more horrible outrages are not committed through its agency.
There is a difference this morning in the temperature of 36 degs.; cloudy and like rain ; let it come, and welcome to it. River rising.
About 40 tons of wool, splendidly got up by Mr. F. Wall, are ready for market at Tooralie, and 10 ditto at Gundabooka. Mr. Wall has given great satisfaction.
Mr. Josephson has issued tenders for the cutting of hay grass about his station, two feet high, green as a new chum. What do you think of that? - January 15.
-Maitland Mercury, January 27, 1870.
The Bourke ANNUAL RACES come off on Wednesday and Thursday, the 20th and 27th January. The committee have put forth a most liberal programme, in which they offer upwards of £300 of public money for competition. The prizes comprise a Maiden Plate of £40, Prince of Wales Stakes of £20, Great Central Australian Stakes of £80, Squatters' Purse of £50, Bourke Handicap of £70, and several Minor events. The Dubbo Dispatch says a large number of horses are training in and around Bourke, and there is no doubt that the meet will, as it deserves, be a great success. The affair is in excellent hands-the officers and committee being all "good men and true." When the Bourke people take up anything warmly, failure is out of the question. We hear Mr. Joseph Booker, J.P., will be unavoidably absent during the meeting, but the duties of treasurer have been kindly undertaken by Mr. C. Cowper, junior, P.M.
-Town & Country, January 22, 1870
The Bourke correspondent of the Dispatch is truly sorry to report the total destruction of a very large portion of the growing garden crops by diminutive grasshoppers which literally swarm the place, penetrating even to our beds. I visited, he says, Mr. Horsfall’s garden, and without I had seen the devastation I could not have believed it possible so insignificant an agent could work such evil. Beds of cabbages were actually cleared from view in a period of thirty minutes. Mr. Horsfall left seven beds of fine thriving cabbage to procure sulphur from the town, and on his return there was nothing but the bare stalks of the plants. Carrots, celery, rhubarb, mint, onions, and in fact nothing is neglected. They have also attacked the trees, stripping them of leaves two and three feet from the ground, eating to the wood itself. The orange and fig seem to have been the favourite food among the trees. The vines too have suffered much, even the clusters of the grape falling a prey. The grape itself is not eaten, but the stem is, and the ripe fruit falls in thousands. Sulphur has been burned to no purpose, and men are employed threshing the gardens with boughs. For two nights this system has been kept up but to little avail. Mr. Horsfall having the finest garden in the district, and having gone to very great expense, feels this visitation severely. Parts of the garden, which but a few days ago promised rich recompense, are now as though feet of flame had trampled over it.
-Town & Country, January 28, 1870
BOURKE ANNUAL RACES.
(From the Dubbo Dispatch.)
The morning of the 26th dawned upon the expectant people of Bourke muggy and uncomfortable ; the wind blew uncomfortable from the west and north, accompanied with dust, and was not what we should have had could we have ordered it for the occasion. The course-a new one of ‘course’, was heavy, but turned out better than I expected. The straight running home is very good, and shows judgment in whomsoever laid it out. The order of punctuality was strictly to have been carried out, but somehow it was a failure. There was little or no wrangling, and no serious fighting; no accident of moment, and no arrests. As regards the handicapping, of course there were discontented spirits, as there always are. There was a good deal of tall talk; but the stewards, I believe, acted conscientiously, and with judgment, as the races will show. On the officers I have nothing but unqualified praise to bestow, from the judge down to the clerk of the course, who appeared dressed and mounted to perfection. Of the racing, there is little to be chronicled, save that the money run for deserved better competition. It was, save in two races, and those handicapped ones, a too one-sided concern.
There was none of that intense excitement called forth by a well-contested struggle. The horses started, and you could have picked out the winners all the way round, and have risked a pony to an orange skin on the event. This will be sufficient description for each race given below. ,
Maiden Plate of 40 sovs. ; 1 1/2 mile.
Mr. Ferry's b m. Herculine_ (Gibson) 1
D. M. Jones’ b.g Exile 2
Saul’s b g. Standard 3
Five horses started for this race, My Dream being scratched. Herculine was the favorite. They went off well, but the mare proved too good for her opponents.
Prince of Wales Stakes of 20 sovs. ; 1 1/2 mile.
Mr. Graham’s ch. Elk (S. Davis) 1
Davis’s b.m. Barmaid.................................2
Skewthorpe’s bg. Elton 3
This was a better race by a shade. Davis's good riding pulled it through.
Great Central Australasian of £80; 3 miles; weight for age.
Mr. Ferry's b.g Physician (owner) 1
Pallissier’s b.m Idea 2
Graham’s g.g Tagrag 3
Physician, that ran very well at Brewarrina, was booked for this race; but Tagrag was counted a dangerous rival, and from his former running down the river had made himself many friends. Idea no one seemed to know aught about. Some considerable time after three o'clock, the time for the start, Mr Josephson, with his usual ability, sent them off for their spin There was a little racing past the post the first time, and the grey seemed to have steel in him; but as the race went on he tailed off to third place, which he gallantly maintained to the end. Physician won as he liked. The rain had fallen before this race, but it did not make the running heavy.
A Hack Race was next run, and pulled through by an OB pony. Thus ended the first day's sport, towards sundown.
Second Day.
The second day came cloudy and cold-a regular racing day-and the number of fair women and brave-looking men seemed increased.
The same sharping-the same betting-the same drinking-the same devouring of melons was gone through as on the previous day, business being a little more lively.
The Ladies' Purse was the first on the calendar, and brought three horses to the post. Ladies' Purse of 15 sovs. ; for all horses ; gentlemen riders ; 1 1/2 mile.
Mr. Skewthorpe’s Nightshade (Hoden) 1
Readford’s Alhambra 2
Graham’s Tagrag 3
This was a milk and water affair. Nightshade won without whip or spur.
Bourke Handicap of 70 sovs.; distance, 2 ½ miles.
Mr. H Ferry’s Physician 10 stone 12 lbs 1
Palissier’s Idea 2
Skewthorpe’s Velox 3
This was the bon bouche of all the contentions we had, and one of the only two races worthy of the name. There were five horses entered, but only three came to the post; many thought Physician, with his 10st 121bs, was crushed down, while the other two, carrying seven or eight stone with a few pounds, were looked upon as winners. Another good start, and away the three went racing as that word is understood in the old country. "Velox wins," "No, Idea's race," broke from the crowd. Now the heavy weighted horse crawls ahead; now a struggle, Idea running like a run. “Velox for a hundred." “Fifty to one on Idea”, yet not more than a length divides them ; on they come like horizontal rockets into the straight, and whip and spur are brought into use, the light weight going tremendously at the saddle-flap of the gallant doctor. "Idea for ever ! He wins" comes from a score of lungs. Another few minutes breast to breast and stride for stride, come the first and second horses. Loud cries ring from the crowd; a dead pause,-a slashing and ringing of whip- cord, the dull swish of thongs on quivering flesh, and Physician is hailed the winner by half a neck. Velox well up. Mr Ferry rode his noble winner well, and by his winning showed that the Stewards were not so wrong as many supposed them in their handicap.
Never Despair stakes were won by Mr. Skewthorpe’s Mountaineer by a bare head, Velox second.
The Forced Handicap ; 1 ½ mile.
Mr Pallissier’s b.m Ideal (Davis) 1
Readford’s g.g. Alhambra 2
This race, from the jump was a most exciting struggle. Four came to the post, but only two got away. From the off they dashed round at express speed, so closely together that a banner would have covered them. Neck and neck they entered the straight, and neck and neck they neared the post. When within six strides of home, Davis, by sheer good riding, called on his horse, who was declared a winner by a little more than a head. So much for the handicap. May all such races be as closely contested. Thus ended the second day.
The settlements were amicable, if I may except a deal of talk about half-forfeit in the Bourke Handicap, the stewards maintaining that no money should be returned. This point, however, was ceded at last, subject to the decision of the Australian Jockey Club. Mr. Donaldson strongly opposed the return of any money, but for peace sake allowed things to slide pro tem. Mr. D. M. Jones, from Walgett, was one of the stewards, and gave ample satisfaction.
-Maitland Mercury, February 10, 1870.
( NOTE: the following article was most definitely NOT written by Oscar Hughan...it was penned by a visitor to the town who had arrived for the race meeting. It is of such interest, however, that I have included it here as part of the Bourke Articles Collection)
BOURKE ANNUAL RACES. (From our Special Correspondent)
The town of Bourke and its district has been so often described that I feel I shall be only turning over old ground in noticing its features ; but, believing that it has not been entirely worked out, I venture to submit the following résumé as the result of my peripatetic observations.
BREWARRINA TO BOURKE.
My labours having finished at Brewarrina with the race week, I closed my portfolio and prepared to accomplish the seventy-five miles that separate this township from Bourke; and, while cogitating upon the best method of performing the journey, Mr. William Kerrigan, of the Sportsman's Arms, kindly offered me a seat in his buggy-an offer which, I need not say, was immediately closed with, my friend acting as Jehu. Precisely at six o'clock on the morning of the 21th we parted with the " Fishites,' rattling away at fully ten miles per hour.
The appearance of the country below Brewarrina is uninviting in the extreme, being bare and bleached-looking, without a single oasis to relieve the eye. Travelling stock have assisted to do this, but the country in question being occupied by sheep is the principal cause. Seven miles from Brewarrina we passed a primeval looking establishment, described to me as Gundiwerah Station. "Who's place is that?" I enquired. "Old Cooney's," replied my compagnon du voyage. Its forlorn aspect procured for Old Cooney my pity.
But the pace continues, and the country is changing fast: kidgar clumps have disappeared ; while sand hills, stony ridges, and red plains are succeeded by long low-lying stretches of land, interspersed with polygonum swamps and broad dry " warrambhools." Here it is dangerous to leave the road on horseback, the ground being one mass of fissures and chasms, calculated to overthrow an equestrian. Eighteen miles have passed, and we are at Yambecoona Station : its appearance elevated Old Cooney in my estimation. My pilot was still tooling his mare along gaily, and did not slacken his pace one inch, but, as we drove by this fallen temple, I mentally ejaculated-''Are these our gods?" On our left I perceived some elevated ground that stood out in relief to the marshy land that we were traversing. On enquiry I ascertained it to be Mount Druitt. It is surrounded by deep and dangerous watercourses, and stands as 'twere in the centre of the flood basin; in the 1864 inundation it saved an incalculable amount of property in stock, and was an ark of refuge to the squatting community. A few more miles of swamp and warrambhools of dwarf box, bastard willow, and gnarled gum trees, and we are at Beemery station, having performed the thirty miles in a trifle less than three hours, over a very difficult road. We alight, and partake of some refreshment hospitably provided, and allow our reeking steeds some relaxation by a roll and feed of hay. Beemery was originally occupied by the Bogan River Company in 1860. At that time Mr. Donald McKellar superintended its formation and settlement. The company speedily disposed of it to Mr. Forlonge, who placed it in charge of Mr. John Rutherford, under whose liberal management it became famous; it was then noted for its hospitality and wages amongst the labouring class, while the upper crust regarded it as an elysium of good grog and good feeding -Rutherford could always provide a squatting friend with an overseer, the demand however seldom equalling the supply. Many a thin skinned pauper the aforesaid John Rutherford is accredited with having aided, while an improvident swagman could always "spell" a day, and if bootless it was rarely he left Beemery so. But a change came-the baek of the camel was broken-since those days Beemery has become more famous, but the opposite. The Moss Joshua trials, and Mr. Forlonge's insolvency, are amongst the causes of this-not omitting the affray that occurred in which the elder Cowper figured. This matter is looked upon in the light of a good joke by the outside public, but had our Premier acted otherwise than he did upon that occasion, I am assured that he would have been hanged as high as Gilderoy is popularly supposed to have been; the rope was actually rigged for his suspension by the insane fools that mobbed him, and it was only by yielding to their threatening demands that he escaped with his life. This squattage is now owned by Towns and Co., and managed by Mr. T. McNevin; the improvements upon it are of the cheapest description, but quite good enough for the property.
Having " hooked-to," a drive of one hour brings us to the Bogan River, an insignificant stream which rises in the Boldorodgery ranges, near Palmer's, after a circuitous course of 350 miles, disembogues its waters into the Darling, six miles above Bourke. Beyond a few water- holes it is dry for its entire length in a protracted drought, and it is questionable if it is not the poorest grazing tract in New South Wales. In 1862 it was totally dry for two hundred miles from its source, every station being deserted by its owner in that distance. It is known as the stream upon which Cunningham, the botanist, was killed by the blacks, while attached to Sir Thomas Mitchell's party. An obelisk in the Botanical Gardens perpetuates his name, but his bones are buried in a wild spot known as "Cunningham's Scrub," on Tabratong West run. It was the Bogan that guided the " Major " to the Darling, which he also followed until the aborigines compelled him to entrench his little party behind the rudely constructed fort which so well protected the explorers. So elated was the " Major " with his success that he formally named the log barricade " Fort Bourke," in honor of the Governor of the day. A few blackened posts and some logs yet mark the site, which is some few miles below the town of Bourke on the opposite side of the river.
Crossing tho Bogan, we speed onwards, and in the next ten miles pass several shepherd's huts-miserable looking kennels, that in the distance resemble huge anthills, and which indicate that their occupants are sunk below the level of semi-civilization. Sad results ensue from their debasing disregard of social and physical comfort, the termination usually being a dreadful death, either by scurvy or drink. We are now twenty miles from Bourke, our road being through good country, but still liable to inundation; while within eight or ten miles on our left a fine and lofty mountain rises boldly from the open landscape that surrounds it, as if designed by Providence to be a second Ararat to the dwellers of these regions. This elevation is known as Oxley's table land. When Surveyor Oxley first attempted to trace the course of the Macquarie it was in high flood, and upon tracking the mole of Macquarie marshes, he found himself surrounded by the flooded waters, that then gather and expand. He believed he had solved the problem, but to make sure, the swollen waters were followed round to the Bogan, where the mountain was descried ; ascending the highest altitude, Oxley made observations, and finally concluded that he had discovered an inland sea. A few years back, when Captain Sturt was despatched to test Oxley's report, the country was dry. Coming to Oxley's " inland Sea, " Sturt met only an immense bed of high reeds, with narrow streams permeating through in all directions, and a vast quantity of snakes infesting the marshes; pushing through with vigour and determination, and hewing and cutting his way like a Spartan, he managed, after wading about thirty miles, to get through them, and he then had his labour rewarded by discovering that a main outlet was again formed from the reed beds, and continued in a westerly direction. Following this channel (at this time dry) for 40 miles, and passing through Polygonum Swamps, twelve feet high, this indefatigable explorer was about to return exhausted, for want of water, when the screeching of waterfowl caught his ear, and revived his followers. In one more mile the Macquarie problem was solved; Sturt had succeeded in following it to its junction, with a broad and noble stream abounding in wild fowl and plentiful with fish. Prayers we are told, were offered up for the providential discovery ; Sturt fired a salute, and formally named the new-found river " The Darling," in honour of his patron the Governor, under whose auspices the expedition had started, and on leaving he marked a tree to commemorate the event. The tree may yet be seen at the disembouchure of the Macquarie, and it is only those who have passed through Sturt's tract that can fully realise the difficulties he surmounted.
We are now approaching Barton's station, ten miles from Bourke: its appearance is something more homely than is usually met with; the improvements are above the usual type-a fine haystack of some forty tons, made from wild oats, is neatly enclosed within a paling yard-a very fine garden is also to be seen attached to the proprietor's residence, melons are here in profusion, while some pure cold water affords us the pleasure of slaking our parched thirst, after a hot and dusty drive of thirty-five miles from Beemery. Mr. Barton is a sheep squatter of some extent, and contemplates subdividing his run into paddocks, and improving his property in other ways. May he be successful. Such men are needed.
Hurrah for the road-again we are skimming onwards. "Phiz away, horses!" "Yah, go long !" "What's the matter with them?" were the running exclamations of my excellent driver. To the last remark, I suggested to him that the horses were perhaps exhausted; an expressive whistle, followed by an ingenious undercut of the whip, at once removed this impression-the staunch animals went away beautifully. "Fresh as kittens," suggested my friend, approvingly. I acquiesced, without seeing the exact force of the comparison. The journey is now almost accomplished, while the outlines of three mountains are perceptible, looming to the westward, in the back country. These are Rankin's Range, Greenhough's Group, ind Gundabooka, situated back from the Darling. A few minutes more, and we are amongst the suburban fences of Bourke, with the town in the vista ; and dashing along we reach Tattersall's Hotel at 4.30 precisely, having performed the 75 miles in ten hours and a half, including stoppages. And in closing these remarks on my journey I beg to thank Mr. W. Kerrigan for his kindness in providing me with a seat, and also to compliment him for his clever judgment in the pace he started and finished with.
THE TOWN OF BOURKE.
I have remarked that there is little to be said or sung in praise of Bourke that has not been chronicled. However, I will place before the gentle public the result of my observations and peregrinations, and trust to their indulgence if am periphrastical. The site of Bourke, unlike that of Brewarrina, is an unfavourable one. It is surrounded by marshy land, and encircled by a large watercourse that converts it into an island in a high flood, but this has occurred but once since the township was formed. In its rear a vast extent of uninhabited country exists, extending back for some two hundred miles to the Lachlan. It is approachable by four roads, viz, from the Upper Darling, the Lower Darling, the Bogan, and the Warrego. It has postal communication with Sydney four times per week, once with Mount Murchison, and once with the Warrego. A line of coaches extends from Bourke to One Tree Hill. It possesses three fine brick hotels, and three excellent stores, besides several boarding houses. Amongst the business premises are two bakeries, one butchering establishment, two cordial manufactories, three boot and shoe shops, two tailoring houses, saddlers' shops, and a chemist and druggists hall; blacksmiths and wheelwrights are also represented. Two stock and station agencies have also been started, and three auctioneers are licensed to sell. Amongst its public buildings are the hospital, the court- house, the police barrack, and the bank. The last is a fine spacious building, built of brick, and replete with every improvement, manager's residence, &c., &c, erected at great cost by Joseph Becker, Esq, J.P. Its rental amounts to £1 per day. En passant I feel bound to observe that Tattersall's Hotel, recently erected at a cost of £3000, is a building calculated to adorn any township fortunate enough to possess it. It is approached by a colonnade 12 feet wide and 60 feet long, columns fluted and of the Tuscan order. The eastern front is protected a noble verandah, 70 feet long and 10 feet wide, the main entrance being from the front colonnade, through an arched door. The spacious entrance hall is somewhat imposing, but the dining-room may be termed palatial. Its dimensions are 40 feet long by 30 broad, and 20 feet high; the walls and ceiling being cement, beautifully grained and polished. The sitting rooms are on the same scale, but smaller; a private suite of apartments is also set apart for such as may require it, while the bed-rooms are well ventilated and cool. The architect and builder is Mr. H Pascoe, and the faithful and efficient manner in which the contract has been fulfilled, affords indubitable proof of his ability, both as a designer and builder. Bourke also abounds in elegant private dwellings, many of them being of brick and stucco, while every house cab boast of a well of good water. Amongst its officials are the Police Magistrate, the Crown Lands Commissioner, the Crown Lands Bailiff, the Clerk of Petty Sessions, and the Scab Inspector, besides the police staff, the postmaster, and the pound keeper. I may also add that Bourke is plentifully supplied with vegetables by a number of industrious Chinese, and melons can always be obtained at 1s. each. While in conclusion I may say that a bellman and a private night watchman discharge their respective functions in the town in the employment of the inhabitants. Its resources are purely pastoral, and with the squatting interest it rises and falls. Its population is about 500. Such is Bourke of today: nine short years ago it was unknown but as the "Eighteen-mile Point"; then 'twas merely a cattle camp.
THE RACES.
On the morning of the 26th I wended my way to the racecourse, which is situated one mile I from the town westward. The road was thronged with fashionable vehicles and well dressed people. I found the racecourse crowded; a street of booths had been erected, with bunting and flags in profusion; cafés, saloons, restaurants, fruit stalls, skittle alleys, gambling tables-in short, all the appurtenances of a racecourse were represented. The inspiriting strains of music proceeded from the principal booths, the most eloquent discourses being from a trio consisting of a harp, piccolo, and violin; two brass bands also were present. The course itself indicated the desire of the racing committee to give satisfaction, the straight running being fenced substantially, and a roomy and well paled weighing and saddling yard having been erected for the accommodation of horse owners; the grand stand evinced the same liberality, being faithfully built and shingled. Having thus briefly noticed passing events, I now proceed to detail the racing, prefacing the account by observing that D. A. Byrne, Esq., C.C.L., acted as judge. The Stewards were C. Cowper, jun., P.M.; W. Donaldson, Esq., J.P.; John E. Kelly, Esq. ; and Mr. D. M. Jones. The handicapping was performed by Messrs. Cowper, Donaldson, and Jones; Mr. W. W. Davis officiated as clerk of the course, attired in the usual costume, assisted by the stewards; and Mr. Josephson creditably performed the duties of starter. ( NOTE: I have omitted this journalist’s coverage of the actual races, due to Oscar Hughan’s adequate reporting in his article)
The third day was wholly occupied in racing, while the nights were passed in witnessing the graceful St. Leon Troupe of acrobats, or in patronising Ashton's Circus, which performed to crowded houses for four consecutive nights, and it is due to that old public favorite, Ashton, to add that he gave a bumper benefit in aid of the Bourke Mechanics' Institute in return for the patronage he had received. At the conclusion of the performance, Mt. Cowper, as president of the institute, returned thanks, and called for three cheers for Mr. Ashton, a hearty response, the band give the coup de grace. To detail the settling, the race dinner, presided over by the most popular man in the Bourke district to wit, Charles Cowper, jun., the nee ball, and a host of other arrangements, would occupy too much space, suffice it to say that nothing was left undone, Bourke eclipsed its former efforts, it sustained its superiority, and I am half inclined to admit that it affords strong promise of ultimately ranking as the "central city of the Australias " Feb 7.
-Maitland Mercury, February 15, 1870.
BOURKE. (From our Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch.)
The poor old woman, O'Brien, who was so sadly burned some time ago, and snatched from death's cold embrace by the skill of Dr. Roberts, is still in a very weak state, and I hear that the poor soul of late has been much neglected by those whose duty it is to see her wants attended.
Mr. Cowper is on his eastern circuit, where there is much work to be done. He has to earn his salary at any rate. It would be a good thing if others, I could mention, gave as fair "quid pro quo" as he does. "The labourer is worthy of his hire," and the labour dignifies the receiver. I wish the country understood this a little better.
The weather is again warm, but it is a blessed season.
Ashton's Circus Company gave a benefit for the Mechanics' Institute on Monday.
Beresford and Jones's coach arrives punctually, and gives every satisfaction.
The Bree River is coming down.
Mr. Josephson is busy hay-making.
At last we have a fine sample of home-made bricks, thanks to Mr. J. Starkey. - Feb. 5.
-Maitland Mercury, February 19, 1870.
The Bourke correspondent of the Riverine Advertiser furnishes the following items:-The river has gone down about sixteen feet, but I have heard that the Queensland rivers are rising again. The Providence steamer has crossed 8700 fat wethers from the Toorale station en route for Melbourne; they are in charge of Mr John O'Brien, and are the finest lot of sheep that have left the district for some time. A large mob of store cattle (1000) from the Landsborough River Company's stations passed Kearney on the Warrego a few days ago; they are all bullocks, and are for sale. Bush fires are likely to be prevalent this season; there have been several already in the vicinity of Gundabooka.
-Town & Country, February 25, 1870.
BOURKE.
(From a Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch.)
The weather is unbearable. The prickly heat is bad, and several cases of low fever are here.
Yesterday, I followed the remains of a brave man to its last resting place. At five pm., punctually to time, Sergeant Cleary, followed by his troop of well-mounted, well-dressed, and soldierly looking fellows, brought in the remains of John McCabe, from Shearer's on the Warrego, where the gallant officer met his death. Proceeding down Mitchell Street, they turned into Sturt Street, and were joined by a number of gentlemen, who followed the sad procession to the grave, prepared in the cemetery. Mr. Cowper, P.M., read the splendid service of the Church of England over the coffin (a very excellent one) in a most expressive manner, and as the dust was piled above the dust, everyone felt that a just tribute had been paid to a faithful servant. Too much praise cannot be given to the police in their burial of a comrade, who was respected by all classes. Another grave was waiting for the body of Sandy McNabb, who, while proceeding from Beemery to the hospital here, was thrown from a cart. A magisterial inquiry was held at the Royal, when it was found by a post mortem that the man was in the latest stage of consumption, and must have died had the accident not happened. The deceased's friends reside near Bathurst.
The woman O'Brien is now comfortably housed, thanks to Mr. Becker.
At sundown, the mercury stood 104 in Becker's verandah. If it don't soon get cooler, it is needless to expect further communications from Bourke : we shall all have melted away. February 20th.
-Maitland Mercury, March 3, 1870.
Dreadful Sufferings of a Man Lost in the Bush.( from the Bourke Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch)
Y van Wallack, a native of Poland, and lately from Queensland, and who now is under medical treatment in the Bourke Hospital, has furnished me with the following terrible narrative, which is only one more of many which have come under my notice since my residence on the Darling and its tributaries. People in the towns, and in the mountains, where the best of God's gifts gush forth at every step, sparkling in the sunlight in purity and plenty, little know the agony and bloody sweat of suffering which overtake men lost amid our desolate wastes, where water becomes more precious than gold, and would be taken in exchange for liquid gems. Some three weeks ago Yvan arrived at Dunlop, a station 80 or ninety miles from Bourke, well to do in the world's goods. His horses were excellent, and his exchequer well supplied. Receiving instructions from a Chinaman at the place, he started up the river with a happy heart, little knowing what a horrible fate awaited him. Confident as to his route, he went on his way, when some simple cause-the tracks of sheep, for instance-deceived the eye. At any rate, the road was left, and the wilderness, with its terrors, entered. Still confident he journeyed on- what had he tofear ? His horses wore strong, and hope, with her golden horn, played soft music to the patter of their feet. A dray track was visible-it would lead him aright, but until now the fearful word ' LOST' had not occurred to him. The sun went down in crimson cruelty in the west, a globe of molten throbbing heat, and the habitations or tracing of man were absent. Thirsty, but trustful, he lay down, amid the solitude ; and when again the persecuting sun arose, the traveller, who was now disturbed by a vague misgiving, followed the tracks of the friendly dray-for even the track of a senseless wheel, in such a scene, becomes a friend. As the heat arose like a vapouring veil, quivering and palpitating amongst the pulseless leaves and dried grasses, thirst, that unpitying friend, presented itself. The tongue lost its pliancy, the lips clung to each other with a feverish dryness, and the eye searched out every spot where water might be found. The horses too had lost the springiness of the day before, and their eloquent eyes turning imploringly to those of their master. Still, they nobly did their duty. Again, the night's grateful coolness fell on the scorched earth, and the wanderer lay down, "LOST!" Up with the morning stars, the first thought was for the touch and splashing of the water. All day long, in vain, the helpless search went on, and weakening, but still hopeful, the third sun went down. The fourth day-and a terrible one-dawned, and went into the past, and man and beast shook and trembled like a drunken man. Four days without water ; four days of intense heat ; and the wanderers again stood on the brink of dissolution. Up rose the sun again shining in a thousand streams so dearly coveted ; and as one horse had lain down, the swags were placed on the strongest, and both were left to their own instinct. This led them in an easterly direction, and their master having strangely, but as is generally the case in such trouble, thrown away all but his trousers and boots, followed them as best he could. Here the narrator seems to lose the lucid description of his woes. He struggles on-falls -prays God for release from his sufferings, and becomes unconscious. The sun has struck him down, and cowering amid the bleak sands, he lies dead to his pains. By-and-bye-hours afterwards-he is roused by sharp pungent prickings, reason resumes her throne, he stares wildly about as one aroused from the touch of madness, blood in little clots is around his camp, blood is over his prostrate body, and millions of ants are cleansing the stains away. At his side is a sharp knife, whose point is coated with the dark vital fluid. There is a numbness in his arms. He turns to them, and two deep gashes are visible. In his despair he had opened the veins, drinking doubtless the fevered stream; but this he knows nothing of, but it is reasonable to suppose the thirsty lips sucked up the life of the famished body. Another torture now presents itself. The naked body, exposed to the solar heat, was burning and blistered, so that the half-crazed man looked more like a leper than the strong man of a few days ago. Cracked and peeled, the skin came from the inflamed flesh, leaving it raw and sensitive; but, strange to say, he felt better than on the previous day. Doubtless, the senses were benumbed, and pain had lost its first bitterness. On he staggered towards the east; the horses were long since lost sight of, until at last the quiet passiveness of certain death presented itself. All thoughts of relief had faded-hope now only wailed a requiem in his ears-the " fair fields of Poland" had been thought of-cooling fountains had been visited-in dreams a mother's smile had bent over his sleep; but all now were vanished, and the extent of his desire was to form a comfortable place in which to give back the spirit to the God who gave it. He collected a few fragmentary bushes of withered foliage, and lay them in a dried-up water bed, and feeling at peace he lay down; but as his frenzied eye was about to close, the friendly glaring of smoke arrested him. Glaring on it as a beast about to make its fatal spring, he uttered a faint cry, and crawling forward-oh ! how slow-he painfully made the camp fire of some blacks. Water was then given him; then tea until little by little, his life returned. The natives, for the bloody knife, gave him an old hat and a fragment of a shirt, and he reached at last the station from where he started, where sorry cheer was extended him. At any rate, in the shirt and hat given him by the blacks, he reached the hospital. With the two horses are two new saddles and bridles, with a large wardrobe of new clothes, fourteen £5 notes, and two sovereigns. I am authorised to offer a reward of £20 on delivery of the property mentioned at the Bourke hospital. -Bourke correspondent Dubbo Dispatch.
-Published March 17, Maitland Mercury.
- Published March 19, 1870, Australian Town & Country.
THE GOVERNMENT GAZETTE. - March 12, 1870.
THE following notifications appear in yesterday's Government Gazette;
BOURKE - The JUSTICE of the Peace in Petty Sessions assembled have appointed Mr. Oscar Hughan, to be Bailiff of the Small Debts Court, Bourke, vice Mr. Alfred Merriel, resigned.
Above: The old Bourke Court House during the 1870s, prior to the building of a far more substantial building. It was here that Oscar would have worked as bailiff of the small debts court.
MELANCHOLY AFFAIR.-" I have just been favoured" (says the Bourke correspondent of the Maitland Mercury) " by Mr. H. Bobart with the following melancholy record, found by Jack, a blackfellow, coming in from Mr. J. E. Kelly's, Warrego country, and which was written in a pocket-book, and hung up in a tree close to the mournful remains of the wretched sufferer. You will observe how minutely the dying man notes the circumstances of his fatal mistake and awful position. And it is strange that there are no dates.
Salmon's team left Bourke on the 30th January last. The faithful black who brought in the information to the police, and who deserves to be rewarded, says that ' there is no head-no shirt-and that he was cobborn frightened.' The black was journeying through the bush, or this fearful event, like many others, would have lain unrecorded:-
' George Ford : Lost in the bush three days without water. I think I shall hang myself tonight if it don't rain ; it looks likely to rain, at present it is very hot, I think it is far better to die at once, than to lie at the mercy of the crows and ants,-too weak to keep them off. I may thank my own foolishness for the present state of affairs. I left Bourke and put up for the night at Lunn's Inn, left there at daybreak, and went past the Warrego-road, where Salmon's teams were camped, when I struck out for the Warrego-road, and crossed it, thinking it an outside river road ; thought I could make the Warrego by keeping a north west course ; lost my horse the first night, and now I am sure to perish before I can pull water, without it rains, then I would try. I can only just walk now, so it would be only folly to try without rain. I leave ten one pound (£1) notes, and 9s in silver, one new pair of boots, two shirts, two pair pants, and the dark bay cob, branded A over N near shoulder."
- Town & Country, April 1, 1870.
"MELANCHOLY AFFAIR."
To the Editor.
SIR,-Your issue of this day contains the report, under the above heading, as furnished by the Bourke correspondent of the Maitland Mercury, of the death of an unfortunate man, one George Ford, who was lost in the bush. In the account it is remarked that "It is strange that there are no dates given." As I happened to be in the immediate neighbourhood at the time, I can furnish you with the correct date of the melancholy occurrence. It will, I think, be found recorded in the police office at Bourke, that I found a saddle, pair of red blankets, two shirts, two pairs trousers, one pair boots, books, tea, sugar, and a box of pills, upon which was written " Take three daily, Mr. Ford," at about thirteen miles south-east of my Pirilie Station, on tho Warrego, on the 25th October,1868.
I may further state that I followed Ford's tracks for nearly thirty miles. I came across them in a dense scrub, and at once concluded that they were those of a man who had lost his way, and I therefore followed in the hope of affording assistance, until I came to a place where he had camped about a fort night before. At this place I found his saddle, &c, &o. The course he appeared to be taking was equidistant from the Rivers Warrego and Darling, and going parallel with them. Finding it impossible to continue the track where Ford went in search of his horse on foot, I returned to the station and reported the matter to the police magistrate. I subsequently mado inquiries respecting Mr. Ford, and found that he had left Bourke on or about the 6th October, and that his description was follows :-Five feet nine inches high, dark complexion, hip put out; supposed to be well connected ; last employed on Mr. Tyson's stations.
I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
JOHN E. KELLY.”
-April 1, 1870.
DUBBO. Saturday.
The news from Bourke to the 26th ultimo; the Darling is rising rapidly, and a big flood is anticipated. Steamers are expected in four weeks. The country on all sides is looking splendid. The rain is now clearing off. Several mobs of fat cattle from stations, near here are en route to Sydney. April 9, 1870
DUBBO: The Bourke mail, due yesterday, has not yet arrived, though the mailman, by compulsion, is bringing it on horse- back - leaving his coach behind. We are apprehensive that he has been met by floods at Canonbar. The proprietor of the mail hence to Bourke will wait several hours in order to take with him the missing mail of yesterday if it arrives - so, hence to Bourke they may yet get their papers, &c., nearly within the usual time.
Judge Josephson is here, and leaves by the mail for Bourke today, in company, I believe, with Mr. W. Forlonge, who appears to have purchased Mr. Josephson's station in that quarter.
- Town & Country, April 9, 1870.
BOURKE. (From The Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch.)
Darling rising rapidly. Big flood expected. Business in the same glorious state of flatness, steamers expected in four weeks. Weather delicious, plenty of grass. Nothing much at the Court, the P.M. on his eastern tour.
I saw the body of the third of A. Boyd's children pass to the rest of all, yesterday. This is the third child in two weeks. We all lament our sorrows, but as this sign of calamity wended its slow way along, I thought how lightly we are touched in comparison to this visitation. Many are suffering from colds.
Our cutting is trembling in the balance. I hope it will stand, but it is very doubtful. The Government punt on the broad river looks like a blue-bottle fly on the top of an elephant, it is so insignificant. Just like New South Wales!
Mr. Lord's dumbness gives universal satisfaction. He acts up to Shakespeare's advice, " Give every man thine ear, but few thy tongue;" but we still live in hope that the Oracle will speak yet, even if he does not come up to Cato in his philosophy.
All our mails are doing their contracts faithfully. March 26.
-Maitland Mercury, April 14, 1870.
TERRORS OF THIRST- MORE SUFFERING ( from the Bourke Correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch)
Mr. Malpas, of the Paroo Hotel, Paroo River, some weeks ago left the river to proceed to back country. He had implicit confidence in a man named Scrivener, and to his guidance he gave himself to be conducted to a spring forty or fifty miles in the wilderness. So confident was he in this man's pilotage, that he started with only a small bag of water in his buggy. Leaving their starting point, a tank at one of Malpas' stations, they pushed forward, Scrivener on horseback, Malpas driving a pair of good horses. On they went through the terrible scrub and terrible sand-on through the fearful heat and glowing sunshine-blind to the danger and deaf to the admonition of caution. There was a spring beyond where clear cool waters would reward them and their cattle for the day's trial; a spring gushing up from a hill of desolation. Once there, they could rest and watch their horses munch the long grass which grew there in abundance. The water bag, a small one, fearful mistake-was soon drained of its last welcome drop, and the sun began to lose its seimetar-like flashing. Still before and behind and around them, like eternity, lay the cruel unrelenting sand and scrub. Bye the bye, the strength of the horses began to fail; there was an uncertainty in their going, a throbbing of their tails ; a drooping of the ears, with a vague something that they could go no farther. Malpas, used to the bush, sees that more than forty miles have been passed over, questioned Scrivener as to the nearness of the spring. ''Oh, it must be close up," was the reply. Still onwards, wearily onwards, with a dread misgiving for the coming morrow. The horses stop- nature is overtasked-the sands are heavy, and the buggy must be left. Fifty miles, and no water. The horses are unharnessed, and now the frightened men mount to ride for their lives. “The spring must be close up," comes from Scrivener; mile after mile the buggy is left behind. These two men ride the life and death search. Ten, fifteen, twenty miles, and no spring; they can go no further. Scrivener is at fault, and both feeling the first awful pangs of thirst, lie down till the morning star rises; and then, with the help of God, we must retrace our steps for the tank. Great God, assist us; eighty miles on foot in the dead hot scrub from life; one horse dead in the morning, the others very bad. They start, driving the horses, trusting them to lead them safely to refuge; they lose their tracks, and a consultation is held whether to return and start again. Malpas acts with decision, and follows the mare; she will return to her foal it possible.
"I will strike so and so, and must cut the road; should I reach it and fail, you will find my body across the track. Should I succeed in reaching I water, I will seek you; do the same by me.”
The milk of the mare was now exhausted; it had relieved them much until now; strength, and pluck now alone could save them. Scrivener goes his way with God's aid invoked, and Malpas plunges into the scrub on his lonely way. All day long how dismally the road appears. The heat gnaws like the furnace of Abeanyo, and the usual resort of throwing away the clothes is gone through-shirt, trousers, and boots. Hot and burning the blistering sand sparkles and rolls from the bare feet; stingingly the sunbeams lash the naked breast and shoulders ; but on, still on, life or death is the cost. Nature sinks amidst the desolation-home, wife, friends come up before the filmed eye; reason is all that is alive. The body, insensible to the stings of ants, which literally swarm it, lies passively still, while the soul offers up a fervent prayer for rain. Strange- marvellously strange-the clouds from copper take a leaden tint, darker and darker, and at length the glorious life giver fell on the senseless sufferer. As Lazarus from the tomb came forth at the voice of the Divine Master, so the inanimate Malpas rose to his feet renewed. A roll in the mud, a little drop of water caught here and there, and hope again returned. On again without pause, and this was a wise thing; for had he rested he would never have told his story. On through the moist soil for half-a-mile (the rain had fallen no farther), and the heated sand was again beneath his feet; but forward-the stars beckoning him on-was his cry, and bravely he pushed on. The road was cut, and exhausted to the last step, he sank again to die. How long he lay he knows not; he was startled by what he thought was a spirit, so disturbed was his reason. It was Scrivener; the mare had found her foal, and Scrivener, true to his parting promise, sought his friend in peril. Malpas was saved by Scrivener, for though only eight miles from the tank, it was more than he could have done, and he must have perished. I may have erred in some small matters, for I lost the account given me by Mr. Malpas, of this terrible journey.
-Maitland Mercury, 14 April, 1870.
The news from Bourke states that the Darling is rising rapidly, and steamers are expected shortly. A big flood is anticipated there. All the northern rivers are in a state of flood, and pouring in their waters into the Darling. The Condamine is running bank high; the Warrego and tributaries are full; the Macquarie and the Bogan are also carrying more than their usual share of water to the main stream. As they all empty themselves into the Darling, it is imagined a heavy and high flood will be in that river. In 1864 the river was fifty miles wide at Bourke, and Mr. Furlonge, who then owned Beemery and other stations just bought from the Bogan River Company, lost 20,000 sheep right off. Other owners also lost heavily. Our contemporary trusts, therefore, that such a calamity may not again overtake the settlers on the Darling; for really, after the severe drought of 1866-69, they are unable to meet heavy losses.
- Town & Country, April 16, 1870.
THE WEATHER: The mail from Bourke, due here on Sunday forenoon, has not yet (one p.m. Tuesday) arrived. Steady rain continues, and our opinion is that the mailman has been "blocked" at Canonbar. Though the Macquarie is not rising there is still a strong fresh in it. This rain has now continued steadily for about a month, and is unprecedented in its duration and volume within the memory of the "oldest."
- Town & Country, April 16, 1870.
THE MAILS.-From what has been written above with reference to the state of the back country, it is worthy of record that the Bourke mailman manages to come in-somehow or another, if not with his coach, at least with the mail bags sometimes, unavoidably leaving a passenger or two behind.-
- Town & Country, April 23, 1870.
BOURKE (from the correspondent of the Dubbo Dispatch)
The man Buckley, who broke his leg at Louth, has been brought to Bourke by Dr. Roberts, at a very great inconvenience and trouble, having ridden over 400 miles to effect this ; and when we consider there are no "loaves and fishes" in the compact, we can but admire the generosity of the Doctor.
Sunday.-No mail. Been raining all night, raining still, and likely to rain. Water over all that is left of the unfortunate cutting -betting, 10 to 1, that not a vestige of it remains. News from the Fishites tells us prepare for "an old man flood." Fears are now shaking men's hearts. Much rain on the Warrego.
A man named Tayner died in the hospital on Friday. Health of the town better.- April 5.
Waters still rising fast. Ten miles from Bourke, east, a wondrous rain storm took place yesterday-the plains were covered in half-an-hour.
Well, our river is still growing in height, and we have had abundance of rain. Mr. Kelly tells me that the Warrego rose four feet from rain alone.
We are busy boat building. Mr. H. Cornish has turned out several, which would not disgrace Wapping. There is a good deal of anxiety that they will be needed.
Our glorious punt lies rocking on the wave, as useless as she is unornamental.
The mails, as a matter of course, are late, but all is done which can be accomplished.
The Court-house is very quiet. Four cases in the Small Debts Court were settled on the 4th, and this is about the amount of business done there. In all other departments it is much the same.
Jandra has changed hands. Mr. C. Guinness is expected daily to take charge.
Our old friend Mr. H. L. Zouch is again with us, and his presence is as welcome as a holiday to children.
Mr. J. E. Kelly has sold his country on the Bokira to Messrs. Saunders and McKenzie, for about £1000, unstocked.
I must again mention the labours of Mrs. Foott and daughter among our children. They still go on in their good work, and many a future man and woman will bless them in days to dawn.
There is no clergyman yet arrived, but one or two are expected.
The mosquitoes are fearfully fierce here just now, and a perfect infliction to man and horse. They were never known so plentiful-you might as well live in a huge bee-hive.
Mr. Cowper has started for the Bathurst Assizes. He will be able to put Mr. Lord up to his duty towards the desert town, Bourke. Here we are, without a single Government means of safety, should a flood hem us in. That delightful punt is moored to a gum-tree across the river, and, save a private boat or so, we may all share the fate of Pharoah and his host for all the " silent member'' cares.
I believe tenders have been called for a Government boat, but the floods, ere it is built, will probably have passed into the past. River still rising.-April 9.
-Maitland Mercury, 21 April, 1870.
DUBBO. Via ORANGE.
Wednesday, 3 p.m.
On Saturday the Macquarie commenced rising; and on Sunday, at midnight, was nearly two feet higher than the flood of June 1867. Stacks, stables, huts, bullocks, horses, pumpkins in thousands, and a large quantity of furniture swept away. Five free selectors at Warril Flat lost all ; and some at Talbragar also. Communication to Bourke stopped. Unprecedented flood. No life lost at Dubbo.
- Town & Country, Saturday, April 30, 1870
DUBBO. Saturday. The Bourke mail of the 1st May, arrived yesterday. The roads in the country beyond Canonbar are in a frightful condition. -28 May, 1870.
The Bourke mail from Bourke 1st instant arrived this forenoon. A medical gentleman travelled from Bourke until he came to Canonbar, where he preferred remaining for awhile to continuing his journey. At Mount Oxley the mail was "blocked" for about four days. It was impossible to get along. The country was flooded and soft. In fact, it was dangerous to travel. For sixteen miles on this side of Warren the country is a perfect quagmire. Teams have cut up the road. It is useless attempting to head the creeks with a view to get round them - the horse sinks above his knees, and a vehicle above its axle trees. The attention of the Government, through our M.P. is worthy of being called to the necessity of something being at once done to put this portion of the Bourke road in some moderate state of repair. There are plenty of men up here who could be employed on a work of this importance. I trust Mr. Bennett, commissioner for roads, may read this, and look at his road map for Sandy Creek and Elengerah Creek, about a mile from Cox's station, for I am convinced if he only knew the difficulties of passing them during the last month - in fact, after every three day's rain - and the rottenness of the road on both sides, he would suggest some practical means of facilitating traffic and removing, for a national benefit, a long-standing grievance. One has only to look at the mail coach and horses when they arrive to predict the condition of the roads. Strong horses are nearly exhausted, and coaches clean and substantial in ordinary weather, are covered with mud, and constantly requiring the healing art of the black- smith or wheelwright.
-Town & Country, 28 May, 1870.
Our latest reports from Bourke are nearly a month old, being dated 23rd ultimo. At that time-and one-half the waters had not found their way to the Darling- the river had risen forty feet above ordinary level. The local rains were something extraordinary. On one night it poured down in torrents, and it is roughly guessed that during the twelve hours fully six inches of water fell. Great preparations were being made at Bourke for a flood, the like of which was never before on the Darling. Great fears were entertained that there would be losses of sheep on the Gunningbar stations, between Warren and Cannonbar ; but from letters dated the 17th, and received by us today, we are happy to be enabled to state that no losses of any consequence have occurred. The water rose fully two feet higher than during the great flood of 1867. On Mr. Ryrie's Enaweena station all the yards were flooded, and the water up to the wall plates of the huts. The water was in the Enaweena homestead and woolshed. The plains for miles and miles were one sheet of water. Not a hoof, however, was lost, as Mr. Heath succeeded in getting the sheep on to the sand ridges before the full body of the water came down.
–Town & Country, May 29, 1870.
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