MIRAMAR GOLF LINKS

Evening Post, Volume CXXX, Issue 108, 2 November 1940, Page 8

MIRAMAR GOLF LINKS

(To the Editor.)

Sir,—l would very much like to subscribe to the logical and generous arguments relating to the proposed acquisition of part of the Miramar golf links by "Rongotai Mother" in your issue of the 29th inst. At the same time I would appreciate the opportunity of replying to "Parent's" letter in the same issue.

(a) The difficulties mentioned that are being experienced by the principal and staff of Rongotai College would be largely overcome if the original promises of the Exhibition promoters were honoured. The suggested use of the adjacent Stadium ground together with the use of the Kilbirnie Recreation Ground as playing areas offers a very real solution, (b) It cannot possibly be argued that any possible danger would be reduced if the college were erected on the golf property. Accidents to planes have actually occurred on the links. In the light of present-day events and developments it appears to be a very irrational procedure to house, large numbers of school children within the precincts of an aerodrome. (c 5 The growth of the Miramar Golf Club extends over many years, during which time an amount of money has been spent in developing and fostering a genuine public asset. Why should those responsible be faced with the burden and inconvenience of having to build and shape elsewhere? The question is rather one of justice than of sacrifice. No one gainsays the value of education nor is there the slightest suggestion to belittle the fine work done by the Rongotai College. However, if present conditions militate against the successful functioning of that school then why not, as has been previously suggested, let Wellington College cater for the boys of the Miramar district? The girls already have to travel to the city and surely it would be no hardship for the boys to do likewise.

It appears that rather envious eyes are cast upon the fine golf area, but from all points of view—danger, growth of population, minimum disturbances, health, transit, etc., if a new college is to be built then Karori is the logical place when times and circumstances permit. It is unreasonable and unjust to call on a section of the community to make an undue sacrifice when there is offering an alternative that would be of inestimable value to the people. If the acquisition of the links were the only solution to the performance of an urgent and necessary national service then the golfers would willingly sacrifice and assist. The golfers have helped to make a valuable "breathing space," and they have m no small measure contributed to the city's obligations. Surely they are worthy of tolerant and reasonable consideration. In short, if the links are taken the city will be the poorer and education none the richer. —I am, etc.,

PINHIGH