Hoonanza Fair ‘a success'

Press, 28 November 1977, Page 6

Hoonanza Fair ‘a success'

Fine weather at the weekend was a mixed blessing for the Hoonanza Fair in Hoon Hay Valley. It meant that the fair had to compete with the beaches as an attraction for Christchurch families, and some of the organisers felt that the beaches had proved more enticing. “We could have done with two not-so-fine days,” said one organiser. However, between 10,000 and 15,000 people visited the fair. The exact number was not available last evening. The fair was organised by the Rotary Club of Christchurch, and club members were well satisfied with the efforts of all who took part.

“It was definitely a success,” said the attractions committee chairman, Mr A. Milligan. “We did not raise as much as we hoped for the two charities, but they will certainly get something.” The takings and the costs had not been worked out last evening, but there would be a surplus, he said. More than 70 charitable organisations had stalls at the fair, their average takings being about $5OO each, with some taking considerably more than $lOOO for the two days, said Mr Milligan. But none of this $35,000 would go to the two charities supported by Rotary. These are Old Stone House restoration appeal, and a warden’s cottage for the Girl Guide centre.