S.A. WAR VETERANS

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXVI, Issue 112, 24 April 1936, Page 5

S.A. WAR VETERANS

Hastings Branch Reunion A very pleasant reunion of the members of the Hastings branch of the South African War Veterans’ Association took place last evening at the residence of their president, Mr H. W. C. Baird, York street, Hastings. Twenty-sax members attended and apologies for absence were received from seven or eight others. Supper was provided by Mrs Baird, 'the proceedings opened with the singing of the National Anthem and the toast of “The King,” and thenceforward music, mirth and melody prevailed until only too quickly the happy evening drew to a close. The secretary, Air Hammond, produced a balance-sheet showing a credit of approximately £l4. This included a sum of £7 10/-, being the local branch’s share of tho proceeds of an art union, and it is to bo used to relieve the distress of needy comrades in financial trouble through sickness and other adverse causes. The association is in a healthy financial position and interest in its "affairs are being stimulated. Mr W. Lord presided at the piano, and during the evening contributions were given by Messrs J. P. Poddy, Brathwaite, Schjnneck (recitations), while Capt. T. C. Bax sang several songs in response to encores and also gave an exhibition of club-swinging. It is interesting to note that Capt. Bax broke tho world’s endurance record in club-swinging in Napier in 1913, and is ‘‘still going strong.” .Mr Johnston, who was a delegate,to the last Dominion conference in Wellington, presented his report and was duly thanked for his services by acclamation. He was selected as delegate for the next conference to bo held in August. A copy of the War Veterans’ Allowances Act recently passed by Parliament was read to the meeting and excited considerable interest. About 15 members expressed their intention of attending the Anzuc Day Parade. After all the old-time songs had been sung, the night was well-nigh spent and the proceedings were terminated with a hearty vote of thanks to Air and Mrs Baird for then hospitality, and the singing of the National Anthem and ‘ Old Lang Syne.”