NORTH OTAGO AND PROVINCIAL SECTION OTAGO AND PROVINCIAL SECTION

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23515, 1 June 1938, Page 14

NORTH OTAGO AND PROVINCIAL SECTION OTAGO AND PROVINCIAL SECTION

THE OAMARU DISTRICT

WAIAREKA SALE BIG YARDING OF FAT SHEEP There were fairly big yardings at this week's Waiareka stock sale, which was held yesterday, this being especially the case with fat sheep. Bidding, however, was poor and prices were down. FAT CATTLE Wright, Stephenson and Co. sold: For W. Watson 1 cow £4 7s 6d, 1 £4 15s. National Mortgage and Agency Company sold; For J. Ewing (Incholme), 1 heifer £6 ss, 1 £5 10s, 1 £4 10s, 2 steers £6 12s 6d, 2 £4 10s; J. S. R. Duff (Kia Ora), 1 empty cow £3 15s, 1 £3, 1 £1 15s; clients, 1 empty heifer £7 10s, 1 £4, New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Company sold: For clients, 1 cow £6 7s Cd, T £5 4s sd, 1 £5 ss. North Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association sold: For S. J. Kennedy (Kia Ora), 2 cows £6 15s, Dalgety and Co. sold: For Thomson Bros. (Kia Ora), 1 steer £7 10s, 2 heifers £5 12s 6d. , Bruce Christie and Co. sold; For client, 1 cow £4 7s 6d, 1 aged cow £2 17s 6d. DAIRY CATTLE Bruce Christie and Co. sold: For J. Brown (Waiareka), 1 Jersey cow £8 10s; J. Small, 1 cow £5. FAT SHEEP Wright, Stephenson and Co., sold; For J. Preston (Bortons), 6 ewes 11s i)d, 12 lls 6d. 12 wethers 17s 6d, 5 20s fid 18 275, 11 24s 9d, 16 two-tooth wethers 235; A, McDonald (Totara). fi lambs 17s, 9 ewes 17s 3d, 14 13s fid, 27 lls; Client, 8 two-tooth wethers 18s Pa, National Mortgage and Agency Company sold: For A. B. Hapson ueen f Flat), 12 ewes 14s. 11 18s; client a ewes 235, 6 20s fid. 3 17s fid, 5 13s fid. 1 10s 9d, 5 22s fid, 1 six-tooth wether 29s fid. 2 lambs 20s; C. J. Cowan (Kia Ora) 1 ewe 22s 3d; client, 25 ewes 10s 9d: T. F. Docherty (Reidslon), 6 ewes 17s fid: Mrs J. Munro (Otekaieke). 12 two-shear wethers 24s 3d. 10 24s fid. 10 three-shear wethers 22s fid, 13 24s 3d, 12 235, 5 four-shear wethers 21s. North Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association sold: For A. Cuthbertson (Waitaki). 12 ewes lls. 12 12s; estate of J. Cuthbertson (Glenavy). 12 ewes 17s 9d. 11 12s Od. 2 ss; A. Trcsize (Glenavy). I ewe 23s fid: C. Robinson (Mahon o), 8 ewes 18s Gd: G. Pringle (Kauru Hill). 30 ewes 20s. 2 IBs: A. Dumblolon (fTildcrihorpe), 1 lamb 21s. Dalgety and Co, sold: For a southern client. 6G owes 7s, STORE SHEEP Wright, Stephenson, and Co. sold; For A. McDonald (Totara). 20 ewes ss. PIGS There was a very small yarding of pigs, and prices advanced. Bruce Christie and Co. sold; For J Martin (Alma), 3 sips 26s Gd, 1 13s fid; D. Rosie (A warn;, a road). 3 v/eaners 14s Gd; J. White ‘Waiareka). 2 wcaners 13s 3d. 3 15 j Gd. rniF LADIES’ CLUB The best cards returned in last week's . bogey match were;—Mrs Wylie 1 down. Miss’ M. Armstrong 4 down and Mis? Cuthbertson 5 down. The draw for the medal mulch today is as follows: First Tec.—Mrs Ireland v. Miss Armstrong. Miss Cuthbertson v. Miss Lane Mrs Grater v. Mrs Mcßeath. Mrs Wylie v Mrs Meek. Mrs Jordan v. Mr? McCulloch, Mrs Smith v. Miss Nichols Mrs Wilson v. Mrs Barclay, Miss Mackie V. Miss McQuado. Mrs Spooner v Miss Gnrrey. Mrs Donaldson v. Mrs Brown, Mrs Irving v, Mrs Dulhic, Miss McLay v. Mrs Fothcnngham. Mrs Crawshaw v. Mrs Forrest. Mrs McDouall v. Miss K, Robins. Mrs Ewart v. Mrs Porter. Tenth Tee.—Mrs Hall v. Miss Simpson, Mrs Miller v. Mrs Hendra. Mrs Tail v. Miss Clark, Miss Oed y. Mrs Bradlev, Mrs Steenson v. Miss Gome Miss Maude v. Mrs Roxby. Mrs Kerr a bye. , , , The draw for the week-end bogey match is as follows: —Miss J. Fraser v Miss G. Hall, Miss Clark v. Miss Joan Fraser, Miss N. Fraser v. Miss Cussack, Miss D. Hall v. Miss Hanley. Miss E, Hall v. Miss K. Catto.

OAMARU HARBOUR BOARD ANNUAL MEETING MR IRELAND RE ELECTED CHAIRMAN The annual meeting of the Oamaru Harbour Board was held yesterday morning. There were present: Messr ■ R. K. Ireland (chairman;. A. N. Hayes. C. J. Ma;shall. G. W. Todd, A. W. Barnett, A. H. Chapman. E. S Brewster, G. T. Gillies. A. C. McLclland and P. Malthus. Mr G, A, Lee (consulting engineer) attended the meeting. Mr R. K. Ireland was unanimously re-elected chairman of the board, members paying very high tributes to Mr Ireland's valued services to the board, especially in connection with the important harbour works now boms carried out. Mr Ireland thanked members for his re-election, and extended a welcome to the new members, Messrs Todd, Gillies and Chapman, saying he was sure thev would give good service in the interests of the port, which was a valuable asset to the district, He also expressed gratification at the return of the old members to the board. He regretted that the board had met without the presence of Messrs J. A. Macpherson and J. S. Adams. Mr Macpherson hod been a valuable member not only on the board, but also as the member of Parliament for the district Mr Adams had also taken a live interest In the work of the board, and he hoped that both would keep up their interest in the port, A minute of appreciation of the services given by the retiring members was recorded.

Mr A. N. Hayes was elected deputy chairman, and the following commitloos were appointed:—Standing Committee: Messrs Mclnnes, Hayes, Ireland. Marshall and McLelland. Local Disputes Committee; Messrs Hayes, Marshall and Ireland. MONTHLY MEETING

The monthly meeting of the board followed.

The returning officers advised that the following members had been elected to the board:—Oamaru Borough Council—Messrs G. T. Gillies, R. K. Ireland, C. J. Marshall, and G. W. Todd; Waitaki County Council—E. S. Brewster, W. E. Aubrey, A. Mclnnes, and A. H. Chapman, jun.—Received. Mr G. A. Lee (consulting engineer) expressed satisfaction at the result of the firing of No. 20 tunnel. The quantity of rock dislodged, 20,000 tons, was remarkably good for the quantity of explosives used. He suggested that as far as practicable work should be concentrated at the point quarry, in order to get the rubbish removed back to solid rock. He suggested that soundings be taken outside the breakwater in order to obtain a record to compare with the marine survey made two years and a-half ago.—Mr Lee explained in detail the methods to be employed in the development of the quarry for the ultimate benefit in working the quarry, his recommendations being approved. Mr Lee recommended that the proposed flush-decking of the railway points on Holmes wharf be done m asphalt instead of timber. The whole matter was referred to Mr Lee and members for inspection and a further report, with estimated cost. Mr Lee was authorised to carry out repairs to the seaward apron of the north mole when opportunity offered. The Railways Department forwarded a plan showing the proposed lay-out of the railway sidings at Sumpter wharf, which would permit of easier working of wagons on the wharf, —Mr Lee was authorised to discuss the matter with the railway engineer and report to the board. The Reciprocal Trade Federation of the United Kingdom forwarded a letter of appreciation of the board 3 action in supplying it with particulars from time to time of successful tenderers of British goods.—Received. The Waitaki High Schools’ Board of Governors wrote applying for the grant to the Oamaru Technical School. —lt was agreed to make the usual grant of £5 ss. Accounts totalling £1576 17s lid were passed for payment. HARBOUR MASTER'S REPORT The harbour master (Captain H. S. Cox) reported that 'the shipping for May had consisted of two overseas, one intercolonial, and nine coastal steamers of a total of 17.440 tons, compared with one overseas, two intercolonial, and 11 coastal steamers of a total tonnage of 18.103 during May, 1937. The sailing of the Mahia. which was m port at the beginning of the month, was delayed for 24 hours, owing to a rough swell across the port entrance, otherwise the weather had been fairly fine.—The report was received, SECRETARY'S REPORT The secretary (Mr T. J. Guthrie) reported that during the month 41 men were employed. 2374'; tons of stone being deposited on the breakwater extension. 2221 on the breakwater apron, 570 V on Ilia foreshore gasworks, and OS'* on the foreshore freezing works, a total of 32421 tons. Heavy seas again on Mav 5 and 6 damaged the protection works on the foreshore, and alone had to be deposited to protect the foreway line. The usual maintenance of plant and mach nery had been carried out. and repairs made to Sumpter wharf. The Oamaru Sea Scouts have beep re established, and were now under a very enthusiastic officer, who requested permission to use a shod near the Sumoter wharf, previously granted lo the Sea Scouts.—The report was received, the secretary's action in granting the ire of a shed to the Sou Scouts being approved. GENERAL NEWS The rainfall recorded by Mr E. S Brewster at Awamoku for May amounted to 71 points. An excellent record was achieved bv Mr Jack McLean, jun., of Ure street Oamaru. at the Kaikorai Bird Show, when he secured the New Zealand Championship, and with three birds obtained seven awards, including the championship and the best bird in' the show. _ _ , During May the Oamaru Borough Council issued 721 drivers’ and 33 heavy traffic licences. The Waitaki County Council issued 992 drivers’ and 33 heavy traffic licences. , _ . . On Monday night the Sanatorium Health Food Company’s big motor van struck the railing of a small bridge south of Hampden and overturned The van was damaged, but the driver was unhurt, though he was pinned by Die packages sliding forward on to him and was not released from his position until an hour or so later.

NEWS OF THE DAY

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT)

OTAGO EGG CIRCLE ANNUAL MEETING Mr A. Todd presided at the annual mealing of the Otago Egg Circle, w.iich was held in the Coquet Street iui l yesterday afternoon, There was a good attendance of members. Moving the adoption of the annual report and balance sheet, the president said that he was pleased to see that the circle was as strong as ever, both numerically and financially. The price of eggs, with the exception of a short period in February, had been satisfactory. and the winter price was higher tnan for many years. The annual report and balance sheet wore adopted. The election of officers resulted as follows; —President. Mr James McKay: vice-presidents, Messrs D. Y. Gibson and A. Todd: Management Committee —Messrs J. Hutton, G. Cox. C. Grocotl, D. M. Copeland, and A. N. Gibson; secretary and treasurer, Mr F. G. Mounlford; auditdr. Mr N. N. Fraser. Explaining the fluctuation in prices during the last month, Mr J. M. Fraser stated that prices had gone so high that the public were not prepared to pay them. When the public stopped buying it required a considerable reduction in price to entice them to buy again. Mr D, Y, Gibson moved that the selling agent bo instructed to grade and tost all eggs and pool in their respective grades all eggs sent in by members of the Otago Egg Circle, grading to commence as soon as possible. Mr Gibson stated that the Dunedin market was the only one in New Zealand that did not grade, but the time had arrived when they should fall in line with the other centres. Grading was fairer to the buying public, and they should cater for the public. There was a number of producers who did not supply eggs in a clean condition, and they also should be penalised. Mr James Hutton said that those who sent in dirty eggs penalised those who sent them in in a clean condition. Grading had to come, and, if carried out properly, it would increase the consumption of eggs. Mr Fraser explained the weights for the various grades. First grade eggs were about 2oz, and any over 2 l-16oz went into a special grade. Second grade eggs were from Uoz to Igoz, and any below this were classed as pullets’ Todd moved an amendment that a sub-committee be formed to go into the matter of the cost of grading and testing with the agent, and report to a general meeting of members. Mr Gibson withdrew his motion in favour of the amendment, which was passed. The following sub-committee was appointed:—Messrs J. Hutton, A, Todd, A, McKay, F. G. Mountford, and D. Y. Gibson. It was decided to increase the annual subscription to ss. Mr J. M. Fraser was appointed agent for the circle. KINEMA ENTERTAINMENTS MAJESTIC THEATRE In “ Lovers and Luggers," Cinesound’s romance of tropical adventure, showing to-night and Thursday, Lloyd Hughes, the American movie star, .s supported by Shirley Ann Richards and Elaine Hamill in.the leading feminine roles. This is the third film appearance of each girl. Shirley Ann made her film debut in “ It Isn’t Done. ’ During this production she signed a two years’ contract with Cinesound. In "Tall Timbers” she was co-starred with Frank Leighton. In " Lovers and Luggers ’’ she plays the daughter or the captain of a pearling lugger, it is a delightful romantic outdoor role, and the majority of her scenes are played with Lloyd Hughes. Elaine Hamill, who hails from New Zealand, played her first screen role in “ Grandad Rudd.” This was followed by a part in “ Thoroughbred." She then joined J. C. Williamson, and was last seen in “The Shining Hour.” Elaine plays the role of a beautiful English girl in "Lovers and Luggers,” and was specially cast at Cinesound studio for the part. Many well-known players are in the strong cast, which includes James Raglan. Sydney Wheeler, Ronald Whelan. Leslie Victor, and Alec Kellaway r he programme commences at 1.45. Plans arc at the Bristola. OPERA HOUSE THURSDAY AND FRIDAY’S ATTRACTION Blistering speed!—Sizzling action!— Blazing romance! —all makes Columbia’s “The Game That Kills,” showing at the Opera House on Thursday and Friday, a thrilling drama of killers on skates. Charles Quigley and Rita Havworth arc featured in this romance, which mercilessly exposes the murderous mobsters who tried to “ move in " on America’s most bloodlinMing sporting spectacle —icchocke/i J Farrell MacDonald. John Gallaudet, Arthur Loft, and others play prominent roles in support of Mr Quigley and Miss Hayworth. D. Ross Lederman directed from a screen play by Fred Niblo. jum, and Grace Neville, COMING ATTRACTIONS Coming to the Opera House on Saturday and Monday is the picture that manv have been waiting for- ■ Said O’Riley to McNab." starring Will Mahoney and Will FylTc. Wherever it has been screened, people have raved over this hilarious comedy. Also on the programme is Columbia’s “Outlaws of -he Orient, staring Jack Holt and Mae Clark, Thrills run riot through this action-filled story, the locale of which runs from Manhattan to the Gobi Desert. Plans arc now open at the Bristola. DOG TRIALS MEETING AT TOKARAHI (Pen United Ptniss Association) DUNTROON, May 31. The following arc the results of the Tokarahi dug trials:— First Event (open).—T. Mcßaes Glen 1, D. McGimpsey’s Don 2. C. Crutch ley’s June 3. A. Henderson’s Don 4. Maiden Event.—D. McGimpseys Don 1. A. Henderson’s Don 2. J, Rawcliffc’s Don 3. Local Event—A. Hendersons Don 1. W. Simpson's Fan 2. W. McCone’s Glen 3.

VALEDICTORY AT PUKEURI MR AND MRS P. McGETTIGAN There was a large gathering at the Pukeuri Hal! on Monday night to bid farewell to two well-known residents who arc leaving (he district, Mr and Mrs P. McGctiigan. Mr H. Easton occupied the chair. During the evening opportunity was taken by several speakers to eulogise the sterling qualities of the guests. Mrs Parker spoke on behalf of the Women's Division of the Farmers Union, and presented a reading lamp to Mrs McGeltigan. and stainless cutlery to Master Mcrvin McGeltigan. Mr H. Easton presented a rug and trunk to Mr and Mrs McGeltigan. and spoke on behalf of the Welfare Club. Other speakers were Messrs D. Williams (Rifle Club). L, Steel (Hall Committee), and Mitchell (Workers’ Educational Association). The winners of the euchre tournament were Mrs W. Gifl'arcl and Mr S, Craig. Consolation prizes went to Miss N. Craig and Mr L. Hooper. During the evening the opportunity was taken to present bowling and lawn tennis trophies. The bowlma trophies wore presented by Mr H. Easton to the following:—Champlonshln singles, F. Dumblcton; championship pairs, L. Steel and B. Easton: club pairs. B. Easton and Hickey. Lawn tennis trophies were presented by Mr P. McGctiigan as follows; Eagan Cup for women's singles competition, Miss M. Dumbleton; Mr J. Easton’s cup for the most improved player. Miss M. Ingram. A STUPID ACT OBSTRUCTION ON ROAD The weekly sitting of the Oamaru Magistrate’s Court was commenced yesterday afternoon before Mr H. W. Bundle. S.M. Senior Sergeant McGregor conducted the prosecutions for the police. _ ... Lester Arnold Todd pleaded guilty to placing an obstruction on the Wes-ton-Oamaru road, whereby life or limb was likely to bo endangered, and Norman Greig pleaded guilty to a similar charge.—Senior Sergeant McGregor stated that at 9.20 p.m. on May 10 a motorist noticed an obstruction on drums and planks on the road. He slooped and removed the obstruction. Todd and Greig were interviewed by Constable Patterson and admitted that they had placed the obstruction on the road for “ a bit of a lark. ’ On the previous night they had also placed dummy parcels on the road. They now realised it was a serious matter and that it was a foolish act. —Mr Bundle said that if a stranger had not noticed the obstruction and had been killed they would have stood their trial for manslaughter. They were liable to three months’ imprisonment for merely placing an obstruction on the road and, if anyone had been injured. they would have been liable to very serious penalties indeed. The defendants were each fined 20s and costs (10s), the magistrate commenting that he had taken into consideration their circumstances in imposing the small penalties, but, if there was any further act of gross stupidity—and it was an act of gross stupidity—a _ substantial penalty would have to be imposed. On a further charge of riding a bicycle on the footpath, Norman. Greig was convicted and ordered to come up for sentence if called upon within 12 months. John Alexander Tyson appeared on two charges of selling and one of keeping liquor for sale in the no-licence district of Oamaru. Mr J. E. Farrell (instructed by Mr O. G. Stevens, of Dunedin) asked for a month’s adjournment.—The magistrate granted a week's adjournment, subject to the payment of witnesses’ expenses (10s). VALEDICTORY FUNCTIONS AT HAMPDEN Prior to his leaving Hampden, Mr Bruce Leith, an officer of the Hampden Post Office, who has been transferred to Dunedin, was met by the residents in the Hampden Hall, at which the Mayor (Mr W. A. Murcott) px-esented him with a fountain pen and cheque from the residents, and conveyed to him all good wishes for his future success and happiness. Mr E. L. Tyndall and others referred to the efficient manner in which Mr Leith had always carried out his duties, and to his tact and courtesy. A very enjoyable dance followed to music supplied by Mr H. Wylde. The members of the Hampden Defence Rifle Club and friends met Mr A. J. Wright at a valedictory social to bid him farewell before leaving for Palmerston. Mr Wright Ifhd carried out the duties of secretary and treasurer of the club for many years, and the president (Mr W. T. Ford) spoke of the good qualities of the guest, and to the high standard of shooting he had always maintained, and the efficient and capable services he had rendered the club. Mr Murcott (Mayor) supported these remarks, and presented Mr Wright with a dressing case, with all good wishes of the members. The gathering spent an enjoyable time at the dance, which followed, to music supplied by Mr H. Wylde. PERSONAL At the Oamaru Harbour Board meeting yesterday. Mr A. N. Hayes (deputy chairman) referred to the death of Mr John Anderson, “ Bog Roy,” Otcmalata, one of the boards most esteemed tenants, Mr Hayes said he had known Mr Anderson for 40 years, and he was a man New Zealand could ill afford to lose, Ho was a typical high-coun-try sheep man, and knew how to manage a high-country run. Mr Anderson’s endowment had been worked practically and well, and had been kept free of noxious weeds and rabbits, and had not been overstocked.—A motion of sympathy was passed with the relatives, and of the board’s appreciation of Mr Anderson as a tenant and a man, Miramar Hotel.—Mr A. Reeve. Mr T. Richards. Mr J. Hopkins, Mr and Mrs Smith, Mias Crombic. Mr T. Enright, Mrs Woods. Mrs Metcalf, Mr Metcalf, Mr and Mrs Martin. Mr A. Starkey (Christchurch); Mr and Mrs J O'Connor, Mrs and Miss Brogan (Invercargill): Mr and Mrs Clements, Mr J. Millar (Owaka): Mr Scott (Kaiapol); Mr J. Butcher (Balclutha). Queen's Hotel.—Mrs W. Blandford, Mr H, Sinclair (Wellington); Mr F M. Bartlett, Mr S. Adams, Mr M. J. Miller, Mr M. D. Harvey, Mr E. H, Ferguson, Mr J, Godwin Brown. Mr N. McMillan, Mr Cameron (Dunedin); Mr V. Dossolt, Mr J. E. Fraser (Timaru): Mr A. Stevenson (Christchurch). New Club Hold.—Mr M. F. Mernes. Mr M. Staunton. Mr C. O. Mathias, Mr J. C. Paul, Mr E. Amos (Dunedin); Mr R. Moore, Mr G, Smith, Mr A. G. Wood (Christchurch); Mr S. Roberts (Cave); Mr and Mrs Beckingsale (Invercargill); Mr and Mrs J. Roberts (Auckland). PORT OF OAMARU High Water.-June 1: 4.55 a.m. and 5.23 p.m. The Union Company's intercolonial freighter Karetu is duo on Saturday, June 4, to discharge cargo from Australian ports. The Karu is due on Friday. June 3, to load for Nelson and New Plymouth, via Timaru and Lyttelton. The Waipahi will load here on Wednesday, June 8. for Wellington, Napier, and Gisborne, via Timaru and Lyttelton. The Waiana will leave Auckland on Friday for southern ports, including Oamaru. She is due here on Saturday, June 11. The New Zealand Shipping company advises that the m.v. Opawa has been fixed to sail from Liverpool on July 2, taking cargo for Oamaru at direct rates of freight. The m.v. Gale will load at Oamaru to-morrow morning for Wellington and Wanganui, via ports.

RUGBY FOOTBALL GEORGETOWN v. OTEKAIKE A Rugby football match was played in light rain at Georgetown last Saturday, when the local team defeated Otekaike by 19 points to 9, The Georgetown team owed its victory to its batter understanding and combination: in the set scrums the home pack outclassed the visitors, but in the loose forward play Otekaike had much the better of the game. ■ After the kick-off the Georgetown learn was soon in action, its points being scored early. Geddes opened the scoring with a fine try under the posts, Watson converting. A few minutes later Ledingham crossed the line well out, but the kick at goal tailed. From a scrum on Otekaike s line, Winchester, the half-back slipped round the blind side to score a fine try. Watson converting. Georgetown 13.'Otekaike nil. . In the second half E. Slrachan scored for Georgetown in the corner after picking up a dropped pass at Otekaike's twenty-five. Then came the visitors’ first try. # the wing threequarter going across in the corner. A few minutes later Gard kicked a fine penalty. When the visitors were penalised after a spell of even play. Morrison kicked a good goal. The last try of the day came from loose play oti Georgetown’s line, when Ross dived over. Gard's shot at goal failed, the final score being: Georgetown .. .. 19 points. Otekaike .. • ■ 9 points-. Mr J. Laird was the referee. PALMERSTON Borough Council A meeting of the Borough Council was held on Monday evening, the Mayor (Mr'W. B. Galloway) presiding* The following were in attendance:—Crs Earley. Hopkins, Contis, Haggle, Thomas. McCabe, Ross, Rasmussen. and Fastier. Prior to proceeding with the business of the evening, Mr Galloway made reference to the retirement of four members of the previous council— Messrs Riddle. McGregor, Morrison, and Hodgetts—and it was resolved that a minute of appreciation of their services to the borough be recorded. The Neuchatel Asphalte Company, Ltd,, Christchurch, wrote advising that its representative would call upon the council to discuss the question of repairs to the boundary road. It was decided that the Works Committee interview the representative and make arrangements for the work to be done in a satisfactory manner. The pipe band was granted free use of the council’s coloured lighting effects for decorative purposes to the Town Hall, providing that the expense o. extra power consumption caused thereby be paid by the band. The borough foreman submitted his report, recommending that, in view of the damage to the tar-sealed surface of certain class 4 streets caused by traction engines, steps should be taken to have such traffic diverted to class 3 streets.—Resolved that the matter be left to the Works Committee and town clerk to take any action necesThe foreman also recommended that the Public Works Department be notified of the unsatisfactory condition of the two places where the department had made recent excavations to obtain clay for the overhead railway bridge, and that the department be requested to remedy same.—Referred for action. . , . The question of making an extra charge for the cleaning of the supper room after smoke concerts was discussed, it being decided that, in future, a charge of 5s be levied to meet the expense. . _ The chairman of the Water Committee (Cr Ross) commented upon the urgency of having repairs to the reservoir fence carried out, adding that it had been reported to him that mischief had been caused by boys trespassing, and if such were not stopped, serious damage might be caused to the valves, etc.—The committee was instructed to furnish a report at the next meeting as to the extent and cost of the necessary repair work. The chairman of the Health Committee reported that the bi-monthly service of ashes-removal would operate during the months of June, July, and August. Owing to Monday being the King's Birthday, the first removal would be made on June 7 and the second on June 20. The report of the Finance Committee was adopted, and accounts amounting to £169 19,s 7d for borough expenses and £2 2s for the Athenaeum were passed for payment, The Mayor, treasurer, and members of the Finance Committee were authorised to operate upon the banking account of the borough. The mayoral honorarium was fixed at £4O per annum. Railway Social Club There was another large crowd in attendance at the Railway Social Club’s weekly tournament last week, and keen competition resulted. The prizes were won by Mrs Murray and Mr W. Dreaver, and consolation prizes by Mrs McElwee and Mr T. Harrison. WAIMATE Returned Soldiers’ Association Reference to the work of the Returned Soldiers’ Association in endeavouring to remove the anomalies and difficulties under which returned men on the land are stated to be suffering is contained in the annual report of the Waimate branch of the association. At the request of headquarters, a sub-committee was appointed to arrange a meeting of returned soldier settlers to ascertain their peculiar financial difficulties and, after the holding of two well-attended meetings, a comprehensive report was forwarded to headquarters. At the close of last year, the report continued, the financial membership stood at 246. Only 204 were financial at April 30, 1938. The unemployment position was not nearly so acute as in former years. The sum of £63 16s lOd was expended by wav of assistance and the grants which were much needed were appreciated by the recipients. The branch will celebrate its twenlv-flrst anniversary in 1939, and recommends that consideration be given to a manner of fittingly celebrating the occasion.