ORDER OF RECHABITES

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24261, 1 April 1940, Page 9

ORDER OF RECHABITES

TRIENNIAL CONFERENCE The Independent Order of Rechabiles, New Zealand Central District, No. 86, held Its triennial conference at Wellington on March 23, 25, and 26, the district chief ruler, Bro. G. Skipworth (Invercargill) presiding. In the course of his presidential address, Bro. Skipworth said that the district officers had given consideration to the question of contributions of soldier members, and pending a decision by the council, had agreed to keep all members going overseas good on the books. Despite assurances to the contrary, the Social Security Act had detrimentally affected membership of the Order, as was the case with all similar organisations. “After 12 years’ experience as a district officer under our present system.” Mr Skipworth continued, " I am convinced that a change in our method of management is desirable. Notwithstanding the shadow of war and the difficulties we are confronted with, it is my desire that during the next three years we will keep before us the noble cause we represent and make every endeavour not only to maintain our membership, but again to bring about an increase in numbers. Healthy fund's are very good, but the true strength of our Order lies in the sisters and brothers who make up our membership." The D.C.R. also reviewed the various funds and accounts of the society, which disclosed a sound financial position, although the membership was on the decrease. It was announced that Riccarton Tent, Christchurch, had won the District Shield for 1939, and also the Sisters’ Banner, while Aorangi Juvenile Tent, Invercargill. claimed the Rash Shield. The Finance Committee brought down reports which were almost unanimously accepted by conference. Special business of interest was the inauguration of a Board of Management to replace the proxy system. Particular attention was given to the assistance of soldier members, with the result that a very willing and helping hand had been extended in a practical form to those who had enlisted for war service. The election of district officers for the ensuing three years took place at the conclusion of the council meeting, and resulted' as follows: —District chief ruler, Bro. A. V., Gain (Dunedin); district deputy ruler. Sis. G. Bunt (Christchurch): district Levite, Bro. W. Jones (New Plymouth); district treasurer, Bro. W. D. Bunt (Christchurch); district superintendent of female members. Sis. A. R. Gain (Dunedin); district superintendent of juvenile tents, Bro. F. B. Clark (Wanganui). The retiring district trustee, Bro. H. B. Kay (Christchurch) was re-elected.