HIGH PRAISE FOR MISS BATTEN

Northern Advocate, 26 October 1936, Page 10

HIGH PRAISE FOR MISS BATTEN

[Per Press Association. — Copy'i'iQht-] WELLINGTON, This Day.

A civic reception was accorded Miss Jean Batten on Saturday, when nearly 3000 gathered at the Town Hall, where there were present representatives of the (Government, civic authorities and many prominent citizens. Miss Batten was greeted with cheers as she followed the Mayor, Mr T. C. A. Hislop, to the official dais.

Mr Hislop dwelt on the greatness of Miss Batten’s achievements since she was previously in New Zealand, and paid particular tribute to her skill in navigation. On behalf of the citizens of Wellington he extended her a warm Welcome and congratulations, and hoped that the future was going to take care of her in the same way as the past had done, because she deserved it.

On behalf of the Government, the Hon. P. Fraser joined the Mayor and citizens in a cordial and enthusiastic welcome to the aviatrix. “We welcome her as one of the greatest air pilots,” he said, “and we realise her skilful flight has written her name imperishably on the skies. She is the embodiment of the spirit of this country, which is still young and virile. The intrepid spirit, courage and ambition she has shown could well be copied by those associated with the Government and in' civic life.”

The president /of the Wellington Aero Club, Mr James Stellin, spoke and pinned a life membership badge on Miss Batten’s breast, with the regrets of the club that it could not confer a higher honour. In the course of her reply, Miss Batten remarked that ambition was a curious thing. No matter what heights one reached, there was always something further ahead for which one could strive.