["The Koombana", The Western Mail (Perth, WA), Saturday 04 May 1912, page 37]
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Third Day's Proceedings.
Inquiry Again Adjourned.
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William Patrick, clerk in holy orders, and a member of the Church of England, was called by Mr. Parker. Witness stated that he was at Port Hedland from March 18 to March 25. He saw the Koombana arrive in Port Hedland on March 19, which was a very clear day and exceptionally hot. He saw the vessel leave Port Hedland on the 20th, but did not take particular notice of her propeller. The sky was very cloudy, the clouds were low, and there was a fairly strong breeze blowing. It was an easterly wind blowing, just a little stronger than usual. At the post office he heard people remark that the glass was steady and not too low. He had a conversation with Captain Pearson, who was a passenger for Derby, and who did not expect anything in the shape of abnormal weather. He (witness) did not think there was the slightest truth in the statement that Captain Allen had discussed the weather. Captain Allen appeared to be a little anxious, and seemed unwell, as he was suffering from the heat.
To Mr. Moss: He regarded Mr. Gardener, manager of the A.S.S. Company at Port Hedland, as a very honourable man, whose reports could be thoroughly relied upon.
Mr. Parker asked for an adjournment to allow of evidence being received from the road boards of Port Hedland and West Kimberley and the Mayor of Broome, at the request of the Premier.
After consultation with his colleagues, Mr. Dowley adjourned the Court until 2.30 p.m. on Friday.
