BANK OFFICERS

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21715, 24 February 1936, Page 18

BANK OFFICERS

SMOKE CONCERT HELD

The first of a series of social gatherings planned by the local section committee of the Bank Officers' Guild took place on Saturday evening in the Automobile Association's rooms. The function, a smoke concert for the combined staffs of Christchurch banks, was very well attended and its success in every w&y justified the energy and time which the committee had devoted to its preparation, Mr J. L. Barriball (National Bank) was in the chair. ■

The chairman, in proposing the toast of "The Banks," referred to the- service rendered by the banks during the depression and urged upon members of the guild ihe necessity of correcting at every opportunity, public ignorance concerning the true function and valuable work done by the banks for the good- of the community. Mr H. H. Rodd, manager of the Commercial Bank of Australia, Ltd., replying to the toast, said that the banks were dependent on the loyalty ot their staffs. "Be loyal to your service, and the banks will come out all right," he added.

Benefits of The Guild

The toast of "The Guild" was given by Mr C. L. Bacon (Bank of New Zealand), who reviewed the history and growth of the. guild, paying tribute to the courage and foresightedness of the foundation members. He emphasised the necessity of more use being made of the guild as a unit through the promotion of sporting and social activities which would give members a better knowledge of each other and make their work.together more pleasant. A vice-president of the guild, Mr J. E. Gudgeon (Bank of New Zealand), in replying to the toast, outlined the benefits which the guild made available for its members. It had accomplished much for. the betterment .of conditions in their work, which operated for the benefit of all by aiding efficiency and securing a.contented service. It had provided opportunities for the advancement of ambitious members by instituting a university course for the Diploma of Banking, and a certificate of .Proficiency in Securities. He theft outlined the many plans which the guild had for giving social enjoyment and professional aid to its members in the near future. It had at present a 93 per cent, membership of all bank staffs, but it wanted very much the membership of the other 7 per cent. "You can all assist the guild to further achievements and still greater usefulness by taking a personal interest and extending its membership," he said. "Please, do not forget that the stronger thfe guild Is, the better for all." In conclusion, Mr Gudgeon read a telegram from the executiwa committee and general secretary congratulating the local committee on arranging the function. Items interspersed through the toast list were given by Mr N. Fleming (National Bank), Messrs D. McGill, H. Crow, J. Lockhart, and G. Titchener. Mr Clinch was the accompanist. ■