OFFICERS OF H.M.S. SYDNEY

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 3287, 5 March 1926, Page 9

OFFICERS OF H.M.S. SYDNEY

VISIT PALMERSTON NORTH AND ARE ENTERTAINED.

Still another party of naval officers ha- . been entertained by Palmerston North, the seamen on this occasion being Australians from H.M.A.S. “Sydney," at present in Wellington harbour. The parly arrived yesterday about 1.30 p.m. as (he guests of Mr A. D. Wylie, of Wellington, who very generously placed his car at their disposal. They were met at the Grand Hotel by the depufy-Mayor (Mr A. J. Graham), borough councillors, Mr J. A. Nash, M.P., Major Sandlc and Mr J. M. Johnston. Dinner was then partaken of. The members of the party were Commander C. J. Pope, EngineerCommander B. W Pullen, PaymasterLieut. F. G. Crcwthcr and Lieut. F. R. James. All have seen active service in the Great War while Licut.Commandcr Pullen was navigating officer on the “Sydney’’ when she sank the Emden in 1914 off Cocos Island.

The weather was ideal for the motor trip from Wellington. The first stop %vas made at the top of the Paekakariki hill, where an expansive view of the Pacific w r as obtained. The officers were delighted with this sudden burst upon the blue which they regard as their homo. It was the last thing they expected on a journey ostensibly into the country.. The next step was at Otaki, where a visit was paid to the native church and Maori school, being introduced to Captain P. Tahlwi and Mr Mills, masters. Liout-Com-mander B. W. Pullen briefly addressed the scholars, congratulating them on the beauty of their district, which he intends to revisit on some future occasion with his wife and family. From the school tho party proceeded to the beach and ther e viewed what remains of the wreck of the old immigrant ship “City of Auckland,” which brought the late Mr Massey out to New Zealand as a boy. On their return to Otaki township, they were entertained by th e Borough Council and learned from Mr Burns-Smith of the early history of the district. Tho journey to Palmerston North was made via Foxton.

| After a quick run round the vari--1 ons beauty spots of Palmerston ' North, the party left on their return via the Manawafn Gorge and Wairarapa. It was proposed to stop at Mastorton to witness the RoseHahn race. ’ At the luncheon occasion was taken by Cr. Graham to extend a welcome to th 0 visitors. He regretted that time had not allowed of a more fitting reception of such worthy representatives of tho great British Navy. The speaker referred to the exploits of their ship in the war and ’ particularly the part played in convoying the main body of New Zealand soldiers to Egypt and the sinking of the elusive Emden. Cr. Graham also remarked upon matters ’ which New Zealanders and Australians had in common and hoped the visit to New Zealand would be of profit and pleasure. • Mr J. A. Nash, M.P., spoke in ' similar strain and also referred to the amicable trade relations between New Zealand and Australia. Although the interchange of products had gone on smoothly there was still a lot to he done in the way of stimulating trade within the Empire. Th 0 toast of “The Visitors” was then honoured to the singing of "For they are Jolly good fellows.” Commander Pope in returning thanks for the reception accorded his party, remarked upon its bounty. The wonder to him was tliat they should be entertained at all, let. alone In such a sumptuous manner.! Ever since the arrival of the ship in New Zealand hospitality had been showered upon both men and officers, and the many kindnesses wore heartily appreciated. The present occasion was not his first visit to New Zealand, but tho next time ho came h 0 hoped he would not be confined to a miserable time-table but would have plenty of time to Visit the Dominion’s many beauty spots. There was every reason why Australia and New Zealand should bo like two brothers. Tho very word Anzac suggested the closest of unions. Commander Pope then called upon his brother officers to drink the health of the municipality. Cr. Graham also referred to tho courtesy that had been shown by Mr Wylie in placing his car at the disposal of the officers. When a photograph had been taken of the visitors and councillors, the party proceeded on its way.