TO IMPROVE THE BEACH.

Evening Star, Issue 20440, 22 March 1930, Page 14

TO IMPROVE THE BEACH.

Carnivals have become an established method for the" improvement of the Ocean Beach. They deservo success, for the method is a wholesome one, which has self-help for its motive power, and this beautiful attraction of the city has not yet been so laboured on as to bo in danger of being improved too much. A strong body of workers attached to the St. Kilda Beach Improvement Society is staging the latest carnival, which was opened by the Hon. Mr Taverner this afternoon. The society has already “provided a very handsome pavilion for bathing facilities, with water and gas laid on for the convenience of picnic parties. In addition to the pavilion, a start has been made on the children’s playground, several fine amusement devices already being on the ground. The society has spent in the vicinity of £3,000 on the beach, and of this sum only about £9OO remains to be paid off. It therefore behoves the public to rally round the society and support the carnival, so that the debt may be liquidated and a start made on further improvements. The day is looked forward to when country and town residents in increasing numbers will be attracted to the St. Kilda Beach by reason of the attractions provided there. The society pictures a veritable tourist resort, with tennis courts and picnic grounds, and even a parking ground for motorists, where all facilities will be provided for picnickers; also a permanent camping ground, where country residents and visitors to the city may enjoy the privilege of camping right at the seaside with every convenience of a modern camp. The energy and foresight of the chairman of the Domain Board (Mr J. H. Hancock) have made it' possible for these improvements to bo carried out, and it only remains for the public to lend their support.

One of the annual social events of the Mosgiel Volunteer Fire Brigade is the smoke concert at which the prizes won during the year are presented. There was a good attendance last night at this annua! function of friends of the brigade and brigade members. Captain J. White was in the chair, and he was supported by the mayor (Mr W. E. M'Lean). Amongst those present were members 'of the Mosgiel Borough Council, and the town clerk and Messrs Rnsbatch and Burgess, of the Hillside Brigade. A toast list appropriate to the occasion was gone through, and this was interspersed with vocal and musical items. Mr Grieve presided at the piano. The mayor presented the prizes as follows: —First aggregate and championship, Branchman H. U. Smith (presented by Mr J. White) ; second aggregate, Fireman H. A. Paterson (presented by brigade members); third aggregate, Fireman R.. Campbell (presented by Mr A. F. Quelch). At an interval supper was served.