["What Is Being Done.", Broome Chronicle and Nor'West Advertiser (WA), Saturday 30 March 1912, page 2, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article260024773]
WHAT IS BEING DONE.
On Sunday morning last the Mayor, and Major Wood, R.M., with Mr. Archie Male, J.P., met, and after discussing the situation sent a joint cable to the Premier, as follows:--
"Koombana now 72 hours overdue from Hedland; intense anxiety is felt here, as oldest residents consider serious accitent has happened. We consider it absolutely necessary to despatch steamer search promptly.
To this the R.M. received the following reply:--
"Just advised by cable that by aid of night glass no sign yet obtained of Koombana. Authorise whatever you deem best. Will continue making enquiries this end. Keep me advised.--SCADDAN.
On Tuesday a representative gathering met at the Residency to further consider the position, the result of which arrangements were made to despatch luggers (reported elsewhere). The Minderoo from South was instructed to search the Montebello Islands, while the Gorgon from Singapore was instructed to search Rowley Shoals, and the Moira from Rowley Shoals down the coast.
Before the above actions were taken the agents, Messrs. Streeter and Male Ltd. were doing all in their power to relieve the trying situation.
The Bullarra will probably await the Gorgon for coal and further instructions from South.
