["New Steamer for Nor'-West", The Hedland Advocate (Port Hedland, WA), Saturday 10 April 1909, page 6]

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What a contrast there is between the A.S.S. Co.'s bold step in providing such a magnificent ship for the Nor'-West and the lackadaisical attitude of the Government? Here we have a ship, built by a private company, which suits the every need of the community, yet no provision is made to allow the vessel to berth; in fact, a big new jetty has been put right in the way of a ship of Koombana's size berthing at the old jetty. In order to unload from two hatches, the vessel's stern had to be moored 20 feet from the wharf, necessitating the goods from the cool storage being taken along the deck in hand-barrows. A deal of cargo has had to be over-carried. Last November the new jetty, which is in the way as far as the old jetty is concerned, was sufficiently completed to allow of a vessel unloading, yet no steps are being taken to assist those who are assisting the district, by allowing this new jetty to be used. It is quite on the cards that, unless the new jetty is made available for the Koombana, she will be compelled to shut out some portion of the Hedland cargo. Should not Port Hedland people seek to have this remedied?