COUNTRY NEWS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22566, 9 May 1935, Page 13

COUNTRY NEWS

BALCLUTHA High School Board At the meeting of the High School Board of Governors on Tuesday night the rector (Mr J. Garfield Anderson 1 reported that the roll number 6tood at 198, and the attendance during the month had been moderately satisiactory. The end of the month would see a number of changes on the staff. Miss Peglar would be leavine to take up a position at Palmerston North, and Miss Ewing was retiring from the teaching profession. He could not speak too highly of the excellent seroice which both these teachers had rendered, and he wished them the best of success in their future careers. It was proposed to celebrate the King's silver jubilee on the closing day of the term, when short addresses by members of the staff would be given on various aspects of the King's reign. An endeavour would be made to reinstitute the evening technical classes during the next term. The Education Department advised that it proposed to add two new rooms to the present main building, extending from the south-east. —Approved. It was agreed to meet members of the Farmers' Union regarding the establishment of an agricultural school for South Otago, the date to be arranged by the chairman and the rector. Obituary Miss Margaret Jones, youngest daughter of a very respected family, died suddenly in Balclutha Hospital on Tuesday, following an operation for appendicitis. Her father, Mr Robert Jones, died about a year ago, and she is survived by her mother and a large family of brothers and sisters. Four brothers of Miss Jones served in the Great War. PALMERSTON Highland Ball The annual Highland ball was held after the first day of the Palmerston Collie Club's dog trials in the Town Hall, a good crowd being present. Excellent music was provided by the " Black Cat" orchestra. The lucky spot waltz was won by Miss H. Philip and partner, and the Monte Carlo waltz by Miss M. M'Gregor and Mr D. Burrows. The Palmerston Highland Pipe Band commenced the evening with a selection of Scottish airs. Ladies' Golf Club The annual meeting of the Ardleigh Ladies' Golf Club was held on Friday, there being a fair attendance of members. The following officers were elected: —President, Miss Glynes; captain and handicapper, Miss Galbraith; secretary. Miss Betty Thomas; committee —Mrs North, Misses Glynes, Galbraith, Holland, and Thomas; Match Committee, Misses Glynes and Thomas. The annual report and balance sheet were adopted. It was decided that a letter of thanks be sent to Mr R. H. Hudson for the use of the links, and appreciation was expressed of the splendid condition of the course. At the close of the meeting, Mrs G. Hudson was presented with the silver championship button. QUEENSTOWN Municipal Elections Messrs George H. Hansen and George Joseph Scoles were nominated to fill the two extraordinary vacancies on the Arrowtown Borough Council. Only five candidates were nominated for the seven seats on the council on the statutory date fixed for the close of nominations. [ St. Andrew's Church The Rev. Mr Boyd, of Malvern, Canterbury, is to be inducted into the charge of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Queenstown, to-morrow evening. The Rev. L. Rothweil, of Wellington, who has filled the pulpit in St. Andrew's for some weeks past, left on Monday. Next Sunday he will preach in the Malvern Church. Returned Soldiers The following office-bearers have been elected to the Queenstown branch of the Returned Soldiers' Association: —President, Mr A. Simson (re-elected); vicepresident, Mr J. M'A. Dagg (re-elected); committee —Messrs D. H. Cockburn, C. H. M'Kay, A. Boyd, J. Watt, W. D. Warren, D. R. Hamilton, and H. Armour. Mr C. H. M'Kay was re-elected auditor and Mr S. M. Barclay secretary, in place of Mr W. D. Warren, who has resigned. Mr Warren's resignation was accepted with regret, and laudatory reference was made to the long and faithful services rendered by him in the secretarial capacity. The secretary was instructed to write to the Dunedin R.S.A. expressing the thanks of the Queenstown branch for many courtesies received. It was also decided that the Lake County Council and Queenstown Borough Council be communicated with on the subject of giving preference to returned soldiers when vacancies occurred. The office-bearers of the Arrowtown branch for the ensuing year are as follows:—President, Mr M. Elliott; vicepresident, Mr J. B. Fletcher; secretary and treasurer, Mr W. H. James; committee —Messrs J. M. Butel, T. Jenkins, J. W. Reed, and G. H. Hansen. The chairman and Messrs J. W. Reed and N. Cowie were appointed a committee to supervise work on Soldiers' Hill. Farmers' Union The annual meeting of the Wakatipu branch of the New Zealand Farmers' Union was well attended, Mr Alexander M'Bride presiding. The balance sheet disclosed a credit of over £lO. It was mentioned that certain items of expenditure connected with the formation of the district Rabbit Board were non-recurring, so that it might reasonably be expected that the balance next year would be larger. The following office-bearers were elected: —President, Mr M. Jenkins (Crown Terrace); vice-president, Mr A. V. Miller; secretary and treasurer, Mr W. P. Saunders (re-elected); honorary auditor, Mr L. Lee; committee—Messrs R. Shaw, A. W. Scott, T. Kinross. J. Grant, K. Brown, W, S. Reid, John Reid (Cave Farm) and A. M'Bride. Mr D. H. Cockburn was unanimously re-appointed the branch's representative on the Otago Provincial Council. It was decided to issue an appeal to farmers to make an effort to provide reasonably good accommodation for threshing and chaffcutting employees when they were engaged on the farms. Following a discussion on the small birds pest, it was resolved that the Lake County Council be written to asking that small birds' heads be purchased during the winter months, with a suggestion that 3d a head be paid. It was also decided to forward a remit on the subject to the Provincial Council. The wish was expressed that Mr Polson, Dominion president, would include Lake County in his proposed southern I tour in June. Celebrity Concert The entertainment given in Quecn.slown on Thursday evening by the party of Dunedin artists as a benefit for Mr Denis Dowling, the young Central Otago halftone, was poorly attended, but those present were richly rewarded, an excellent programme being presented. Mr Denis Dowling fully justified all that had been written of him, and (here could be but one opinion regarding his voice. Madame Winnie Frascr charmed her audience with a delightful rendering of several solos, as sbe was heard in company with Mr Dowling and with Mr Alfred Walnisley, who also presented numbers which suited his tenor voice admirably. At the piano Mr Charles A. Martin gave ample proof of his profound musicianship, both in his solo work and in his accompaniments. Variety was given to the programme by the contributions of Miss Leonora Mackenzie, elocutionist. In the absence of the Mayor the chair was taken by the Rev. Father Ardagh. Anniversary Dance A dance in celebration of the fourth birthday of the Public Hall at Lower Shotover was held on Friday evening. Though the attendance was not up to the standard of previous years, wide patronage was given. Always a popular event, it was characterised by a gaiety and goodwill which put _ everyone at their ease. Excellent music was supplied by Reg. Romans's orchestra, and supper was provided by the Lower Shotover ladies. Obituary A well-known resident, Miss Ellen R. Seller, died suddenly at her home in Queenstown on Wednesday last. She had

been in her cvistomary health except for an attack of influenza. She -was born at Moki Creek 69 years ago, and was the eldest daughter of the late Mr and Mrs Vasilio Seffer, being one of a family of seven. When her parents removed to Queenstown many years ago Miss Seffer accompanied them, and had resided in Queenstown ever since. She was of a kindly nature, and was always ready to go to the assistance of people in sickness or distress. A tireless worker, Miss Seffer rendered faithful service to her several employers. She is survived by two brothers, Messrs Matthew and John Seffer, of Moki Creek, and three sisters, Misses Kate and Jane Seffer, Queenstown, and Miss Rose Seffer, who lives in the North Island. The Weather After a very bleak week-end; the weather cleared, although there is a good deal of snow on the ranges, and colder temperatures prevail. Rugby Football The first of the senior cup competitions took place on Saturday afternoon, when two matches were played. Arrowtown and Queenstown met on the latter's ground, Queenstown having a win by 10 points to 8. Mr A. Jackways was the referee. A Glenorchy team piayed a Country fifteen the same afternoon, this being the first match played by the Head of the Lake seniors since the recent resuscitation of the club there. The game w r as very closely contested, Queenstown carrying off the honours by 5 points to 3. Mr J. Thornton was the referee. A. and P. Society A deputation from the Upper Clutha Agricultural and Pastoral Society, comprising Messrs J. S. Hunt (president), D. C. Aubrey, and W. S. Wilson, met Messrs D. H. Cockburn (president of the Lake County Agricultural and Pastoral Society), L. Lee, W. S. Reid, and Robert Munro in a discussion at Arrowtown on Saturday afternoon. Various matters affecting the welfare of the two societies, including that of show dates, were gone into, and the result of these deliberations will be placed before the next meetings of the two societies. King's Jubilee The Queenstown celebrations of the King's Silver Jubilee were commenced on Monday afternoon with the holding of a civic gathering in the Garrison Hall. It was originally intended that the proceedings should be carried out at the rotunda in the park, but the inclemency of the weather precluded all possibility of adhering to this arrangement. At 2 p.m. a procession was formed at the hall, and it paraded round the business block, returning to the hall for the programme of speeches and national community singing. The Borough and County Councils officially represented, and the local volunteers, Girl Guides, fire brigade, and Returned Soldiers' Association, echool children, and the general public took part. The gathering was presided over by the Mayor (Mr W. H. Overton). Associated with him on the stage were Messrs Leo Lee (chairman of the Lake County Council), Dr W. A. Anderson (Deputy Mayor), and Mr D. H. Cockburn (a member of the Lake County Council). Very impressive addresses were given by all four, warm tribute being paid to the devoted rule of the King. In the evening the citizens' jubilee ball took place in the Garrison Hall. Close on 70 couples participated in the grand march, which was led by the Mayor, partnered by Mrs W. A. Anderson (wife of the Deputy Mayor). Excellent music was supplied by a Clyde dance band. On Tuesday morning the children of the local public school were addressed by the Mayor, Mr Leo Lee (chairman of the Lake County Council), and Dr Anderson. LAWRENCE Jubilee Celebrations The celebrations of the King's Silver Jubilee, held at Lawrence on Monday, were partially marred by the inclement weather that prevailed. The combined religious service in the Town Hall in the morning was well attended considering the wintry conditions, the devotional part being taken by the Rev. Mr Pinnock (Methodist), the Rev. Mr Simpson (Anglican), and the Rev. Mr Barton (Presbyterian). The Rev. Mr Barton gave the address, and made eulogistic reference to the King and Queen for their nobility of character. He referred to the greatness of the Empire and the loyalty of the dominions to the Mother Country. The combined choir rendered appropriate music under the leadership of Mr R. C. Moore, Mrs Hely being the accompanist. A tree-planting ceremony took place at the school after the religious service and two kowhai trees were planted by the Acting Mayor (Cr S. R. Talboys) and Miss Barbara Gunn (senior girl pupil) to commemorate the silver jubilee. The children's demonstration and sports had to be abandoned owing to weather conditions, but the committee arranged a free picture entertainment for their benefit in the afternoon. They were also given a present of a bag of sweets and cakes. The evening function consisted of a bonfire, supervised by the Boy Scouts. Later the' Fire Brigade organised a torchlight procession, and with Scouts and Girl Guides marched to the Town Hall, where a free concert was given. The programme was submitted by local artists to a packed house, the audience showing its .appreciation of the various items presented. ALEXANDRA Antique Exhibition The antique exhibition, _ which was opened on Thursday and continued on Friday and Saturday, proved a decided success. The weather throughout was bad, and this no doubt affected the attendances. The show was concluded on Saturday night, when the hall was packed until about midnight. The Gore Pipe Band, which was present, added greatly to the enjoyment of the evenings programme. As an amusing interlude the bandsmen and Scottish friends served the haggis with due ceremony, and this was sold at one shilling a plate. The funds were considerably augmented by this means. The manikin parade of period costumes arranged by Miss G. A. Brown was a decided attraction, dresses worn by parents and grandparents of residents 100 years ago proving very interesting. The display of shawls, mostly hand-made, and worn in various periods during the last century, was also of particular interest. The display of photographs was very extensive, and this section was always well patronised. Financially, the exhibition was an outstanding success, and the net takings will probably be over £IOO. The individual days' takings were:—Thursday £'2B, Friday £4l, Saturday £9l;—a total of £l6O. A Pleasing Gesture Prior to its return to Gore on Sunday the Core Pipe Band marched through the main street to the soldiers' memorial, where it played the " Lament." The gesture was made the more impressive by the fact that during the playing snow was falling, but as the band finished the sun shone out of the heavy sky. The action of the band was greatly appreciated by local residents. MIDDLEMARCH Celebrity Concert The series of entertainments which has been held throughout Central Otago by the musical societies of Duuedin on behalf of the Denis Dowling Fund was brought to a close at Middlemarch on Saturday evening. The weather was boisterous, but, nevertheless, the hall was filled to capacity by an audience that fully appreciated the excellent programme that was presented. Mr T. Carrutherg was in the chair, and explained in detail the object of the concert. Mr Denis Dowling was heard in " Prologue to Pagliacci," which has brought him so much fame, and to repeated recalls he sang "The Garden Where the Praties Grow," ''Border Ballad," "List to Me, Rosebud," " King Charles," " On the Koad to Mandalay," and " Good-bye." Madame Winnie Fraser sang "Dolorosa" and " The Cuckoo Clock," ■ and, with Mr Walmsley, the duet "The Miserere Scene from ' II Trovatore.' " Mr Alfred Walmsley sang " Love Went a-Riding," " Ireland, Mother Ireland," and "Didn't It Rain." Miss Wallace (violin), Miss L. M'Kenzie (recitation), and Miss Betty Powell (songs) also contributed to the programme. Mr Charles A. Martin played the accompaniments and also gave several selections on the piano. Middlemarch R.S.A. The annual meeting of the Middlemarch branch of the Returned Soldiers'

Association was held on Saturday evening, when there was a very good attendance of members. The report and balance sheet for tn« past year were submitted by the eecratary (Mr D. Gunion), and were adopted. The Poppy Day collection amounted. to £l9 4s 6d, which was a considerable increase on any previous year. Mr O. L. Ferens (general secretary of the association) wa s present and gave an interesting address on the operations of the association during the past year. The following officers were appointed for the ensuing year:—President, Mr D. Gunion; secretary, Mr J. Jones; committee—Messrs F. R. Tucker, G. T. Rippm, R. .Campbell, E. A. Jeffs, F. M. Howell, L. F. Brough, and D. Gallagher. A. and P. Society The monthly meeting of the Middlemarch A. and P. Society was presided over by the president (Mr D. B. Craighead) . The secretary presented a balance sheet of the show held on Easter Monday, which showed a net profit of £4O. This was considered satisfactory. A lengthy discussion ensued as to ways and means of improving the annual shows, and the following recommendations were approved:—That more permanent sheep pens be erected; that a sub-committee_ of ladies be set up to revise the baking and industrial classes; that steps be taken to prevent trimming of stud sheep; that more accommodation be provided for light horses; that the method of selecting judges and class stewards be reconsidered; and that trees be planted round the new grounds. CLYDE County Election Six out of the eight candidates oa the Vincent County Council are returned unopposed. Mr S. A. Stevens, an cxcouncillor, is contesting the Dunstan Riding against the sitting member, Mr R. Tohill, and Mr A. Armstrong is in the field against Mr R. Butcher for Manuherikia. Hospital Board There will be no election for the Hospital Board, only the required number having been nominated. Rugby Football Clyde were unable to field a team against Tarras on Saturday, and lost by default. The local club will be hard pressed for a team this season. Shooting Season Though grey ducks are not very plentiful close at hand, some local shooters obtained fair bags further afield. Quail are more plentiful than in previous years, and all the birds are in good condition. Obituary The death in Dunedin of Mr John Davidson, an old Clyde boy, who was very popular throughout the whole of Central Otago, came, as a great shock to his relatives and friends. Mr Davidson had not been in good health for soma time, but his sudden passing was unexpected. Few men in the community wer« more universally popular than he was, and it would be difficult to find a man of more sterling character, more charming personality and more generous iu- ' stincts. Even his rivals in business will agree that they knew no more fair and honest a man and nobody wag more popular with his company and its clients than Mr Davidson. He took a great interest in sport, particularly Rugby football, and endeared himself to all those associated with the game. The funeral, which took place at the Southern Cemetery, was a very large one, and the floral tributea testified to the respect in which he was held by his many friends.