USC21_0008

2.

duced to our waters. It will be seen that Capt. Kent is pilot-
ing a scheme the realization of which will be a matter of the
utmost value and benefit to this community and he and his prin-
cipals deserve all encouragement and everything that can be given
to them to carry it through to a successful issue. The field of
their enterprise has undoubtedly been well chosen. Our bay waters
abound with edible fish of all kinds, and are already famed for
their oysters, while a vast area of Fraser Is. should be ideal
land for the growth of sisal hemp. 'the introduction of the pearl
oyster is an experiment well worthy of a trial, and, seeing how
well the common oyster does here, there seems no good reason why
the pearl oyster should not thrive in the deeper waters of the
bay. The career of the company will be watched with keen and
sympathetic interest."
Wilson and Hart and also Hyne & Son, timber merchants of Maryborough
both with leases on Fraser ls. lobbied the Government for the pro-
tection of their interests.
After being interviewed by Ministers and Government officials,
Captain Kent submitted his plans, accompanied with Press clippings
from the Sydney Mail and the Daily Mail - all very impressive!
Kent's submission:
THE FRASER ISLAND COMPANY IN PROCESS OF FORMATION.

"The original offer made by the representative of this company
was: To take all the homeless blacks, who are now loafing about
the various towns in Queensland and who the Protector (capable
and vigilent as he undoubtedly is) cannot reach, and employ
such of them as are able to work at various new industries at
the same rates of pay as white men, and finding rations, blankets
and clothing for the women, children and men unable to work,
with schooling and religious (unsectarian) instruction for the
young.
"During the six months, in 1903, Capt. and Mrs Kent were in
charge of Fraser Is. Mission Reserve, with an average number
of about 150 blacks of mixed sexes and ages, there was only one