MOTOR TRADE’S GUEST

Dominion, Volume 30, Issue 42, 13 November 1936, Page 11

MOTOR TRADE’S GUEST

Colonel Avery Honoured

The guest of the Wellington Motor Trade Association and the Wellington Petrol Resellers' Association at a smoke concert last night, Colonel H. E. Avery was presented with a set of crystal ware by Mr. H. Anderson, president of the association. There was an attendance, of 100."

Proposing the toast of the guest of honour, Mr. Anderson said Colonel Avery had given great service to the motor industry and to his country during the Great War. The friendships he had developed had resulted in the gathering which was being held to do him honour. That spoke volumes for the esteem in which he was held. Mr. J. F. Cousins, secretary of the New Zealand Motor Trade Federation, spoke on behalf of absent garage proprietors. Colonel Avery, he said, had shown his value and sterling qualities during his dealings with the federation, in the formation of which he took a very active part. He would be remembered as a model of what a man could do to raise the status of the motor trade.

Mr. C. R. Edmond, vice-president of the Petrol Resellers’ Association, referred to Colonel Avery's ability to make friends and his good nature in watching the interests of the “under-dog.” All the men who had worked for him and with him had nothing but praise for his humane treatment.

Mr. W. M. King, president of the New Zealand Petrol Resellers’ Association, said he was pleased to be able to pay a tribute to one whom he held in great respect. Mr. E. G. Martin conveyed good wishes for the future to Colonel Avery on behalf of the oil companies. Mr. M. G. Phelan, representing the New Zealand Wholesalers’ Parts and Equipment Association, added a tribute to Colonel Avery, and Mr. H. Richards spoke on behalf of the tire companies. In reply, Colonel Avery said the motor trade had to stand behind its interests, but the results would justify the efforts. Tires, oii, and cars were all tied up together, and the success of one was linked up with that of the others. Cooperation was needed for that success. All be had tried to do while he was in the trade was to pull his weight. Colonel Avery returned sincere thanks for the presentation, and expressed his appreciation for the tributes that had been paid to his work. Musical and elocutionary items were contributed during the evening.