THE CENTENNIAL MEMORIAL

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26228, 12 August 1946, Page 2

THE CENTENNIAL MEMORIAL

Sir,—Tire appearance of an elaborate scheme for the expansion of the Museum as a centenial memorial is to my mind imposing on paper, but not progressive in outlook. The Centennial Council decided that they could see no way of overcoming the difficulties encountered in erecting an adequate sports centre. This attitude is deplorably lethargic both in mind and body, and typical of the musty attitude taken by ruling bodies in Dunedin towards the facilitation of sport in general. Christchurch citizens have decided that they would like the Empire Games held there in 1950 (their centennial year), but realise that their present swimming baths are not adequate. What is done? Active proposals are being worked out for the erection of baths and a sports centre worthy of the occasion. • This attitude is commendable, but for Dunedin to sit back and allow other cities to advance while she remains smugly satisfied with the Lofan Park tennis courts (such as they are) and her present scattered and inadequate swimming, table tennis and badminton facilities, to mention just a few, is only encouraging a further drift to the north. Of course, if the council prefers the collection of fossils to the expansion of sporting ‘bodies in Dunedin and thus the development and promotion of the health of young Otago men and women, it is to be congratulated on its efforts.—l am, etc., The Fisherman.