MAUNGAKARAMEA NEWS.

Northern Advocate, 23 March 1925, Page 7

MAUNGAKARAMEA NEWS.

BENEFIT CONCERT,

There was a crowded house on Thursday night last at Maungakaramea when the residents of that and other districts rolled up to do honour to Mr J. W. Martin, who was the victim of a motor car accident some little time ago. Mr Martin, Home Missioner, who has been an inmate of the Whangarei Hospital for several weeks, has always been ready and willing to help the various functions held in the district, being the possessor of a fine voice and a player on the English concertina of 110 mean ability, while as conductor of the local Glee Club, he did much to further the interest in good music.

The programme for the concert, over which Mr P. Kenna presided, was provided by Whangarei friends and proved a rare treat. The following ladies and gentlemen took part:—Mrs Irwin (songs), Mrs Finlay (songs), Mrs Jones (songs), Mr McLeod (reading, etc.), Mr Dawson (recitation), Mr Baker (songs), Mr Blanshard (songs), Mr Fraser (songs and recitations), and Mr Calder (songs), while duets were rendered by Mr and Mrs Blanshard and Mr and Mrs Calder (by request). MiGardiner was accompanist.

At the conclusion of the programme Mr McKenna said he saw that Mr Murdoch, M.P., and Mr W. Jones, the County Council chairman, were present, and called on them to say a few words'.

Mr Murdoch said it was a pleasure for him to be present, although he regretted the necessity for the occasion. When he saw how the people had turned out to assist a deserving case he felt proud of the people of the district. Everything had been done freely and willing to help to swell the funds. Thanks were due to the chairman, Mr McKenna, who had inaugurated and undertaken tho affair. He knew lie was always ready to step in and help any such movement as the present one. The Whangarei people would be only too pleased to again assist at any future time if occasion arose.

Mr Jones said he joined with Mr Murdoch in saying that it was a compliment to the cause to see such a large number present. It spoke well for both Maungakaramea and Whangarei and it gave him great pleasure to be present, to assist such a worthy cause.

The chairman said he must thank the people for their attendance. Thanks were also due to Mr S. W. Crawford, who had acted as secretary. With regard to Mr Martin, they all knew how ready and willing he was to assist in anything for the good of the district, and he had often conic from Mangapai on dark, wet nights. He hoped he would soon be restored to his usual health and strength and be amongst them again. He would like to propose a hearty vote of thanks to the Whangarei friends for their valuable assistance.

The vote was carried by acclamation and Mr Fraser replied on behalf of the artists, saying they were pleased to associate themselves with the movement and how gratifying it was to see such a big audience.

A further vote of thanks was then accorded the chairman and his helpers on the proposal of Mr Jones.

"God Save the King" and "Auld Lang Syne" were then heartily sung, after which dancing was indulged in and supper partaken of. The music was given by the Tauraroa band and was of its usual high order.

As a result of the function a substantial sum will be available for the purpose indicated.