Russell Farewells Esteemed Residents

Northern Advocate, 2 June 1943, Page 6

Russell Farewells Esteemed Residents

(Special.) RUSSELL, This Day. Dr. Eva Hill, together with Miss Gladys Holt, was guest of honour at an afternoon function held by the residents of Russell on the occasion of their leaving Russell. Mr. Norman Lovegrove, on behalf of the citizens of Russell, outlined in his speech the esteem in which Dr. Hill was held in Russell. Over a period of 82 years she had endeared herself by her unselfish devotion to the sick at all times, and the confidence she had inspired by her very presence, in times of need, in all who had sought her aid. Through storm, flood, mud and cold, Dr. Hill had always been known to get to where her skill was required, fording streams and riding miles on horseback, embarking on journeys embracing the use of car, launch, outboard, horse and on foot. Dr. Hill left Russell with everyone’s good wishes for the future in her new sphere of work in Auckland.

Regarding Miss Gladys Holt, Mr. Lovegrove eulogised her 30 years’ work for Russell in many spheres of service, embracing young children’s activities, Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, Sunday school work, school committee, the Anglican Church in all its branches and many women’s organisations. Sympathy was expressed’ for the wrench she must feel in uprooting after so long a sojourn here, and the best wishes for her future life as housekeeper to Dr. Hill were cordially expressed. Maoris’ Gratitude Mr. David Woodcock, called upon to speak on behalf of the Maori people, said that the Maoris of Russell, Opua, Paihia, Waitangi, Punerua, Rawhiti, Punamuku, Mokau and Whangariiru were in a real sense of the word grateful for the sterling qualities of service and skill shown by Dr. Hill. They had desired to place on record their deep regret at the loss which would be theirs by her going away. It was a fine thing to win the confidence of the Maori people as Dr. Hill had done. The trying conditions outlined by Mr. Lovegrove under which she endeavoured to attend to these people could only be touched on, and scarcely imagined by those present. All night driving alone under atrocious conditions was common and there was sometimes no thought of any possiblo reward eventuating, but, acting with characteristic promptness and cheerfulness in all states of emergency, Dr. Hill had earned the undying gratitude of the Maori race. In the short notice available, the Rawhiti Maoris had taken up a collection, and Mr. Woodcock asked Dr. Hill to purchase something useful to remind her of them. Presentations The chairman of the Russell Town Board spoke briefly of the grave loss the district was suffering through Dr. Hill and Miss Holt going away. On behalf of the residents he presented them with cheques to the accompaniment of musical honours. Dr. Hill and Miss Holt made feeling reply. Dr Hill is to practice in Auckland, and reside at Mangere. The party left Russell yesterday.