SETTLERS GATHER FOR COUNTRY OBSERVANCE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22621, 26 April 1948, Page 4

SETTLERS GATHER FOR COUNTRY OBSERVANCE

Settlers in the country districts were drawn to the various memorials yesterday to commemorate Anzac Day. The unveiling of memorials and their dedication to the glory of God and in memory of the fallen in World War II was

conducted at Makaraka and Patutahi. Wreaths were laid by next-of-kin and representatives of local organisations in remembrance of the soldiers who had paid the supreme sacrifice in the service of their country. TOKOMARU BAY SERVICE There was not a large attendance at the service conducted in the Te Puka Hall, Tokomaru Bay, yesterday. Between 30 and 40 returned servicemen paraded under the president of the Tokomaru Bay sub-association of the R.S.A. and there were some Guides and Brownies.

The Rev. W. G. Bird conducted the service and the address was given by the Rev. W. McSkimming. A wreath was later laid on the war memorial by a sub-association vice-president, Mr. A. M. Wilkins. AT WAERENGA-A-HIKA Following a short service outside the memorial gate at St. Luke's Church, Waeienga-a-hika, yesterday afternoon, a well-attended gathering entered the church for the completion of the service, which was conducted by the Rev. J. G. B. Talbot. There was little formality at the simple service. Returned servicemen had grouped themselves opposite the gates for the opening of the out-door service. Wreaths, were laid at the memorial by next of kin and a representative of the Women’s Institute. . : \ WHANGARA REUNION ?' : a Forty returned servicemen attended the parade at Whangara yesterday under Captain T. Ngata on the occasion of the commemoration service conducted there by the Rev. W. T. F. Skey, Tolaga Bay. A reunion followed at the Whangara Marae Hall, the chairman of that gathering being Mr. K. Te Hau. There were about 400 present. The following toasts were honoured:—“R.S.A.,” proposed by Mr. F. C. Kelly, and responded to by Mr. Te Hau; “Home Front,” Mr. P. Kaua. Mr. R. P. Milner; “Allied Services,” Mr. J. A . Thorburn, Mr. J. Cowan; “Diggers,” Mr. T. Ngata, Mr. N. Hinaki. The guests were entertained at dinner.