DUKE OF GLOUCESTER IN COUNTRY

Press, Volume LXX, Issue 21308, 30 October 1934, Page 11

DUKE OF GLOUCESTER IN COUNTRY

- ♦ - J EST WITH CHIEF OF STAFF i NTRODI'CTION TO WOMBAT MELBOURNE. October 29. While on tour in Gippsland on Saturday the Duke of Gloucester was introduced at Maffra to the wombat, one of Australia's strange native animals. The Duke was intensely interested in the curiosity and chaflingly asked Major-General R. G. H. Howard-Vyse: "What are you going to do about it?" The point of the jest was the fact that Major-General Howard-Vyse, when chief of staff to General Sir Harry Chauvel in Palestine, was nicknamed "Wombat." Another wombat was included in Ihe welcoming party at Berwick later the same day, but the inhabitants of Berwick were horrified when they learned that their great idea had been anticipated by Mafira. The Duke, however, appeased the outraged smalltown dignity by paying special attention to Berwick's wombat. Ercildoune, where the Duke is resting, one of Victoria's historic properties, dating back to the pioneer days. The homestead resembles an old English mansion. The Duke is able to enjoy shooting, riding and fishing. • On Sunday morning he paid a surprise visit to Learmouth Church, six miles from Ercildoune. Neither the vicar nor the congregation were expecting him, and they were excited by the arrival of the - Royal party. The vicar's sermon dealt with the influence of the Royal House on the life of the people.