River carnival revival?

Press, 22 October 1981, Page 11

River carnival revival?

The Avon Loop neighbourhood wants to bring back the old days of summer river carnivals. Both the Canterbury Rowing Association and Christchurch Canoe Club have been urged to participate in the January 30 carnival by the Avon Loop Planning Association, .which is trying to. raise money to buy its Hurley Street community cottage. “We hope to revive the

spirit of previous river carnivals held earlier this century on the same part of the river,” said Mrs Noreen Penny, the Avon Loop Association’s secretary.

Decorated boats, rafts, and bathtubs will be included in the expanded carnival, which last year featured games, dancing, and other events centred on the river. Elizabeth, the sea elephant, was a star attraction. In the early 1900 s, many boats and costumed crews plied the river along the Avon Loop, down to a footbridge where the Fitzgerald Avenue bridges now stand. Rowing scratch and novelty races were also held. .

Activities in the modem summer carnival will include craft ‘food stalls, theatrical and musical entertainment, and a fancy dress competition for children.