MANAWAIU WOMEN’S CLUB.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVIII, Issue 230, 27 August 1938, Page 12

MANAWAIU WOMEN’S CLUB.

ADDRESS BY PROFESSOR PEREN. A charming decorative scheme in lemon and orange, carried out in Iceland poppies and. echoed in the colouring of paper napkins, tablecloths and china, brightened the tea tables at Messrs Collinson and Cunninghame's rooms, yesterday afternoon, when the members of the Manawatu Women's Club held their monthly meeting. Mrs A. E. Hansford presided and members and visitors were received by Mrs Cranston and Miss Cranston.

Professor G. S. Peren gave an interesting address on "A Course of Domestic Science." Thi6 was on similar lines to previous addresses on the forthcoming short course of domestic science to be held at Massey College. The college authorities had often been approached with the view to having such a course started, 6aid Professor Peren, but had been unable to see their way to do so until the Sarah Ann© Rhodes Scholar (Miss Hazel Johnston) had been attached to the college. It was intended to hold a three-weeks' course for country girls, in November. The number of studentswould be limited to 30 as Miss Johnston and her assistant would not be able to cope with a larger number. Already 28 students had been enrolled, and if the conditions warranted, a further course would be held later. A number of male students would finish their courses in November and thus accommodation would be available in the hostel. One wing, under the supervision of Miss Johnston and her assistant, would be entirely given over to the use of the girls. Girls residing with their parents in town would be able to go out to the college daily. Others who wished to reside in town would have to produce written permission from their parents. No one under 1/ would be admitted—no male student was admitted under the age of li and Professor Peren preferred students not to be under 18 for a university course. There was no age limit above the age of 17 years. Matriculation was not necessary for the girls or for male students not taking a 'university course. The course would embrace dressmaking and cookery. . The latter would deal with foods, their values and. characteristics. He did not believe this subject should be treated too scientifically, but should be practical and deal witli such things as invalid cookery. He was a strong advocate of proper, instruction in home nursing. For instance,, people should realise the grave consequences possible from measles, which were now regarded as more serious than scarlet fever. A doctor would give a lecture on this subject fnd arrangements were being made for a dentist to give a lecture on the care of the teeth. As the facilities were there beekeeping and poultry courss would be available for those wished. The speaker hoped that from this small beginning something of value to the country would be developed. ll.e course would not be limited to country Eirls only—anyone was entitled to attend If the sleeping accommodation could be made available, a ***•£■ university course could be held ana ho cost of building an extra dormitory wouUl bo a mere bagatelle compared tootter public expenditure Professor Peren appealed for suggestions and thanks, tea, items were rendered by Misses Lola Bmck (pianoforte solbsf Joan Eaton ('cello solos) and Mrs J. Findlay (songs). The entertainers received much applause and were accorded a hearty vote of thanks on the motion of Miss Cranston. Mrs I. K. Rickard played the accompaniments.