CAVALCADE OF PROGRESS IN OTAGO PROVINCE

Greymouth Evening Star, 25 February 1948, Page 8

CAVALCADE OF PROGRESS IN OTAGO PROVINCE

(P.A.) DUNEDIN, February 24. Brilliantly imaginative floats, perfect organisation and timing, and the exemplary behaviour of tens of thousands of people lining the long route from Frederick street to St Kilda, a distance of six miles, made the Cavalcade of Progress the greatest single spectacle ever seen in Dunedin, if npt any part of the Dominion. Although it lasted but a few hours, it was a stirring record of what has been achieved in every phase of life by the province and the city in their first 100 years, and it will remain for ever in the memory of all who saw it. It was fitting on such an occasion that their Excellencies Sir Bernard Freyberg and Lady Freyberg were present to witness this observance of Otago’s centenary. From a dais at Market Reserve Sir Bernard Freyberg took the salute, while the Prime Minister (Mr Fraser), the Leader of the Opposition (Mr S. G. Holland), the Mayor of Dunedin (Mr D. C. Cameron), Cabinet Ministers, and civic representatives watched with marked interest the story of Otago’s first century.

The procession included more than 60 floats and scores of marching units. Massed Pipe Bands

The Scottish tradition of the province was exemplified by the massed pipe bands heading the cavalcade and introducing the historical section. The arrival of the Maoris was depicted in a float that immediately set a standard which succeeding units fully maintained. The arrival of the early settlers, their early homes, Cobb and Company’s coach, with the occupants dressed in the costume of the period, led up to a brilliant climax in the form of a Royal emblem carried out in rich gold, purple, and crimson floral designs. The cultural achievements of . the city were represented in the religious, educational, social, and sporting section. Following the industrial and public works sections, came Otago’s tribute to its sons and daughters who took part in three wars, the piece de resistance in this section being a floral float representing peace, from which pigeons were released at intervals. The floral section was undoubtedly the most entrancing feature of the whole cavalcade. The centennial bride float was probably the gem of the whole collection. The blending and design of the flowers, the frocking of the bride and her numerous attendants, and the lavish floral decorations were of a surpassing loveliness. The centennial queen was another magnificent, float, and Southland’s contribution was both a gracious gesture of a gay and attractive display.

Prime Minister’s Tribute “It was a great privilege to be in Dunedin today to see the Cavalcade of Progress,” said Mr Fraser tonight. “It was indeed worthy of the city and the province, of the history of both, and of the indomitable pioneers who laid the foundations of the present prosperity and greatness. It was a triumph of efficiency, enthusiasm, and beauty.” “The Cavalcade of Progress was one of the grandest spectacles I have ever witnessed,” said Mr Holland. “The organisation was masterly, and I doubt if for beauty and thoroughness there has been anything in New Zealand to equal this procession. If, when Canterbury celebrates its centenary two years hence, it can equal what was seen today, everyone will be well satisfied.” Lady Tute, of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, who is visiting Dunedin, said she had seen and judged displays in different parts of the world but in all her experience she had seen nothing which excelled today’s cavalcade.