"HOMEWOOD" EN FETE

Evening Post, Issue 29, 4 February 1935, Page 15

"HOMEWOOD" EN FETE

BAND FUNDS BENEFIT

"Homewood," Karori,. the home of Mr. and Mrs. B. Sutherland, was looking particularly attractive' on Saturday afternoon and evening when it was thrown open to the public, in aid. of the Port Nicholson Silver Band. As early as 2 o'clock people began to arrive, until by three the grounds were crowded, and the garden party was in full swing. On the lawn below the tennis court stalls were set up. Those in charge were Mrs. W. Matson (sweets), Miss M. Ormrod (varieties), Mrs. C. Bell (produce), Mrs. G. Charteris (ice cream and soft drinks), Mrs. E. Coffin (cakes). Mrs. L. Burleigh organised the tearoom, which was situated in the garage. Several items were given by four of Miss Adeline Burnett's pupils dancing the schottische to Mr. Angus Graham's piping, while the Port Nicholson Silver Band gave an exhibition of the quickstep. A Punch and Judy show, conducted by Mr. C. Lansdown, was very popular with the children. These items were repeated in the evening. In the intervals, the visitors took the opportunity to view the aviaries and aquariums, which were an endless source of interest. The begonia bouse was greatly admired. Perhaps the most popular.places of all were the ferneries and the swimming pool. An exhibition of trick swimming was given by Captain Allen. In the evening the garden was lit by floodlights, and the coloured fountain and glow-worm cave attracted crowds of enthusiastic spectators. Opportunity was taken by Mr. Harry Parsonage to express the sincere thanks of the Port Nicholson Silver Band for Mr. and Mrs. Sutherland's kindness in.opening their home to the public,' and through whose act the band would be able to go to Timaru to compete in the band contest. The success of the party was so great that there were one thousand people present in the afternoon, and fifteen hundred at . night. Evidently Wellington people appreciate a good offer when it is made, and the privilege' of seeing this garden, conservatories, and other attractions is a very great one. The sum of £160 was taken, which will be a very substantial help to the funds of the Port Nicholson Silver Band. . Mr. and Mrs. Sutherland have been generous enough to promise another afternoon and evening when the grounds will be open again (on February 19), when the funds derived will be in aid of St. Mary's Homes, Karori. This will be a wonderful chance for friends and supporters of these flne and useful homes, to see the attractions at Homewood, and help the good cause of the kindly homes for orphans and destitute children.