Russell

Northland Age, Volume 1, Issue 9, 4 December 1931, Page 5

Russell

Burning Accident Mrs. Sim Williams met with a very unfortunate accident recently through the benzine iron she was using exploding, burning her badly about the arms and neck. Fortunately, she was able to smother the flames, and is now progressing favourably. Progressive League Floral Fete On Friday afternoon 20th. ult., during glorious sunshine practically the whole of Russell assembled on the green by the public hall, to view or take part in a Floral Fete which is considered the best ever held in Russell. The floral decorations of trucks, motorcars, handcarts, prams, etc., with the artistic and brilliantly coloured costumes of the owners, made a display which called forth most praiseworthy comment. The procession started at 2 p.m. in the following order : League’s outrider bearing the emblem “Progressive League”; League’s vehicle with its band and entourage of masked and costumed committee, followed by decorated baskets, boats, prams, wheelbarrows, scooters, decorated pets, tricycles, pedalcars, handcarts, bicycles, cars, lorries and ponies. On reaching the Russell domain, which was gaily decorated with flags, the competitors paraded before the judges, Mesdames Warren, MacDowell and Sweeny, who gave the greatest satisfaction in their difficult task. Aunt Sally, wearing one of many grotesque masks made by the schoolchildren was a very attractive feature, and games, competitions, afternoon tea, and strawberries and cream, all added to the success of the entertainment. In the evening - a Fancy Dress Ball was held by the Progressive League in the public hall which was packed to its utmost capacity by spectators and children and adults in fancy costumes. Again the masks made by the children were very much in evidence. Mr. Lindauer, one of the League organisers, announced the names of the winners of the various items, and Mr. Bisset, the president of the League, thanked the judges and congratulated the League committee. A dainty supper was provided and dancing was enjoyed till midnight. Property Transfer Mrs. Dr. Hoskins has bought from Mr. Seth Smith the property called Tahapuke, the pretty little bay just beyond “The Bungalow” at the southern end of Russell beach. The dwelling is now being redecorated. Boy Scout Social On Wednesday, 25th, a very jolly evening was held in the Russell public hall by the Russell Boy Scout Company. The hall was packed to its utmost with interested spectators and all thoroughly enjoyed the splendid performance given. The scouts, who looked very trim in their uniforms, have been well trained by their scoutmaster, the Rev. Mr. Isherwood, who stated that the performance given was just the usual routine of the weekly scout meetings. He explained that the object of the social was to raise funds for the Company’s first camp. The boys gave an interesting exhibition of knot-tying, bandaging, signalling, etc., and played several jolly games which were as much enjoyed by the spectators as the competitors. Dancing, in which everyone joined in, added greatly to the evening’s enjoyment, and a humorous sketch “Auntie” acted by the Scouts and Girl Guides caused much amusement. The scoutmaster thanked the ladies and workers for their good work and for helping to make the evening such a success. With the Maori and Zulu warcries and the singing of the National Anthem was ended a very commendable scout display enjoyed by one and all. Whaling Season The s.s. Hananui 11. has just finished her whaling for this season having captured 25 whales, which is an average catch. On Saturday the Hananui goes to her anchorage off Russell till the commencement of next year’s season in May. Lady Yule’s Visit Lady Yule, who with her daughter has left Cannes for New Zealand, will arrive at the Bay of Islands about January 12th in her palatial steam yacht. The vessel carries a crew of 51 and cost in the vicinity of £250,000. Messrs. Arlidge Bros, with their launch “Zane Grey” have been

engaged for deep sea fishing for three wee. s from the date of their arrival. Freemasonry The newly constituted Masonic Lodge, Kororareka No. 304, held its second regular meeting on Friday, November 27th. The lodge was excellently attended and promises to be most prosperous. We understand that Masons visiting Russell will receive a warm welcome if they will take the trouble to get in touch with the Master or Secretary of the Lodge. Meetings are held each Friday nearest after full moon. RUSSELL PROGRESS LEAGUE The Russell Progress League has now been formally organised with 104 senior and 45 junior members, who are enthusiastically determined to push Russell ahead. They are already looking forward to celebrate the centenary of Russell (and incidentally the Dominion) in 1940 in a manner fitting the importance of the occasion. Meanwhile a Carnival Week is to be held from January 22nd to 29th, when Russell will provide sport and other attractions, including a visit of H.M.S. “Veronica,” that will insure a great influx of visitors. There are plans for making Russell even more attractive and better known as an ideal holiday resort.