Retiring Whangarei Stationmaster Honoured

Northern Advocate, 4 October 1944, Page 5

Retiring Whangarei Stationmaster Honoured

Completing 40 years’ service with the Railways Department, and retiring on superannuation from the position of sia tionmaster at Whangarei. Mr. G. McNeil, with Mrs. McNeill, was tarewelied by departmental employees at a social last night. Railwayman from as far north aa Gtiria Junction were among those present. The Mayor (Mr. W. Jones) spoke most eulogist really of tlie fine service Mr. McNeil had given to the public of Whangarei during his term of office as stationmaster. of his high qualities in his relationship with the public, and of the high esteem in which he was held by the business people and citizens.

Regret at Departure The regret of Whangarei departmental employees at Mr. McNeill’s departure and congratulations on his completion of service r.nu retirement, was expressed by the transport officer (Mr. S. Martin). MV. McNeill had proved himself a most eiii cient as well as popular officer, and on behalf of employees, he presented Mrs. McNeill with a weekend bag. and Mr. McNeill with a bowls bag and a -wallet of notes.

Thanking the railwayman for their gift.: and for their references, Mr. McNeill spoke of his happy associations in Whangarei. All hough pleased to be completing his service, and looking forward to his retiring years, it was with regret that he was leaving so many friends in Whangarei. Mr. McNeill also thanked the Mayor and Borough Council for the courtesies extended to him.

Dancing occupied the evening, and items were given by Mesdames lewnlie. Weir and Thornton. Miss Pennell, and Messrs. Dennis. Wilding, and Lister. Accompaniments and dance music were provided by Mesdames Wyllie and Crawshaw, and Messrs. Standring and Pomery. Mr. J. W. Crawford was M.C. Police Presentation Earlier in the evening. Mr. McNeill was met by members of the Police Force in Whangarei. and presented on their behalf with a fountain-pen and inlaid stud-box by Inspector J. Fox. The courtesy and assistance shown to police officers by Mr. McNeill was referred to by Inspector Fox, Senior-Scrgeanl A. Henderson, DetectiveSergeant J. B. Finlay, Detective G. S. Miller and several constables, all of whom wished Mr. and Mrs. McNeill happiness in their retirement. Mr. McNeill thanked the officers for their gifts, and said it had been a pleasure to work with Inspector Fox in the Emergency Precautions Service, and with him and members of the Force in carrying out their respective duties.