ODDFELLOWS CONFER.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20820, 12 March 1931, Page 14

ODDFELLOWS CONFER.

THE MANCHESTER UNITY.

AUCKLAND DISTRICT PROGRESS. FUNDS IN SOUND CONDITION. The annual conference of Auckland district members of the Manchester L T nity Independent Order of Oddfellows, was opened at Otahuhu yesterday by the immediate past grand master, Mr. F. Best. The conference, was attended by representatives of 63 lodges in the Auckland Province. A civic welcome to the delegates was extended by Mr. 11. T. Clements. Mayor of Otahuhu. Mr. W. G. Pitcher, district grand master, presided. Mr. Pitcher said the progress of the district was highly satisfactory, considering the adverse times through which the country was passing. During tho year 946 new members had been initiated, showing an increase of 339. Tho total membership at tho end of the year was 7959.

The various funds were in a satisfactory condition, ho said. The hospital fund showed a credit balance of £233, in spite of tho additional amount of £630 paid in claims, compared with the amount paid tho previous year. The accounts for the year all showed a credit balance. Tho sick and funeral fund was particularly satisfactory, thero being an increaso of £5723 for tho year. The total assets of tho district amounted to £162,313, of £72,318 was invested on first mortgage.

Tho following officers were elected* District grand master, Mr. R. T. - Scott, Morrinsville; deputy-district grand master, Mr. F. Hard, Pukekohe; district secretary, Mr. J. McLeod, Auckland; district, treasurer, Mr. J. Clark, Auckland; district warden, Mr. F. N. Bushell, Devonport; district trustee, Mr. T. Aitken, Thames; district auditor, Mr. W. Dean, Auckland; representatives to Auckland United Friendly Societies' conference, Messrs. T. Aitken, J. McLeod, W. McMillan and W. G. Pitcher.

At the close of the business session tho delegates attended a dinner at Otahuhu.

The conference will continue to-day and will bo completed this evening, when tho newly-elected officers will bo installed. The ceremony, which will bo held at the Gaiety Theatre, Otahuhu, will conclude with a musical programme.