FOR PLUNKET FUNDS

Dominion, Volume 29, Issue 300, 15 September 1936, Page 4

FOR PLUNKET FUNDS

Afternoon on Awatea With bunting flying and with more than 1500 visitors aboard, the Awatea presented a gay sight yesterday for the afternoon arranged by the Union Steam Ship Company to benefit the Plunket Society. It was evident that the ideal warmth and calm of the weather, in contrast to the week-end, had induced most of the women to don spriug clothes, and many smart costumes and ensembles with spring felts and straws were seen. In spite of the number of goople, remarkable order was maintained as they toured the ship from end to end, exploring cabins, and investigating the kitchens, and showing great interest in all that was taking place. In the comfortable lounges groups gathered to talk and smoke together, and a large band of very willing stewards saw that all had what they wanted. Afternoon tea was served on the closed decks, from which a splendid view of the harbour was obtained, and in the dining saloons and the cafe. Here again the efficiency of the good-natured stewards accentuated the smoothness of the service. An instrumental trio provided music which was rtlayed to all parts of the ship. Among so many people the heat was noticeable, and it was an unexpected pleasure when stewards came with laden trays of welcome ice-cream to distribute among the guests. At five o’clock u reluctant stream of people crowded down the gangway, thrilled and pleased vK ith what they had seen and with the enjoyable time spent. As a result of the afternoon the Blanket Society should benefit considerably.