GREAT CAVALCADE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22570, 25 February 1948, Page 4

GREAT CAVALCADE

<9 OTAGO’S JPROGRESS BRILLIANT SPECTACLE BIG CROWD LINE ROUTE (P.A.) _ ■ DUNEDIN, Feb. 25. 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. Kiida. a distance of six miles, made the “Cavalcade of Progress'” the greatest single spectacle ever seen in Dunedin if not in any part of the Dominion. This main centennial event into which had gone months of planning, preparation and hard work, enthralled those who were fortunate to see it moving in its full splendour througn beflagged and decorated streets early yesterday afternoon. Remain Forever a Memory Though it lasted but a few hours, it was a stirring record of what has been achieved in every phase of life by province and city in their first 100 years, and it will remain for ever a memory in the minds of all who saw it. The enterprise, originality and efficiency of those responsible for the display and the record of achievement re'.'ealed in such vivid form have filled the public cf Otago with just pride, and at the same time demonstrated to one and all the virilityfi vigour and progressiveness with which the province and city enter their second century. It was both a "Cavalcade of Progress" and a portent of what can be achieved in the years that lie ahead. It was fitting on such an occasion that Their Excellencies Sir Bernard and Lady Freyberg, were present to witness this observance of Otago’s centenary. From a dais at Market Reserve, the Governor-General took the salute while the Prime Minister. Mr P. Fraser, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. S. G. Holland, the Mayor. Mr. D. C. Cameron, Cabinet Ministers and civic representatives watched with marked interest the story of Otago's first century. Procession of Over 60 Floats Punctual almost to the minute, the procession of over 60 floats and scores of marching units left the starting point. Crowds of people, including thousands from all parts of the Dominion, welcomed it with obvious interest and admiration. With typical Otago restraint, however, they did not ‘allow their enthusiasm to become vocal, probably because they were too engrossed in what they saw, but nevertheless their admiration, though largely silent, was sincere. The Scottish tradition of the province was exemplified by 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 early settlers, their early homes, Cobb and Co.’s coach with its occupants dressed in period costume, led up to a brilliant climax in the form of the royal emblem carried out in rich gold, purple and crimson floral designs. Cultured Achievements 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 feature in this section being a floral float representing peace whence at intervals pigeons were released. The floral section was undoubtedly the most enchanting feature of the whole cavalcade. In the first float decked with the verdant green of native bush was represented an 1848 bride and her attendants, but 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 surpassing loveliness. The centennial queen was another magnificent float and Southland’s contribution was both a gracious gesture and a gay and attractive display,. Not content with watching the procession pass in all its splendour along the official route, thousands of people rushed to new vantage points in an attempt to gain a closer view of the units as they returned by different streets to the disbanding point at Logan Park, where throughout the remainder of the day they remained the centre of interest.

The decorated and illuminated streets of the city were again thronged with spectators last evening.