WAIKAIA.

Otago Witness, Issue 3313, 12 September 1917, Page 23

WAIKAIA.

September 10. —We have had very fine sunny and beautiful days during the week. The farmers are getting ploughing well forward, and are getting the ground ready for sowing. The fruit trees are in blossom, and it seems we shall have an early spring. Daily new manager, Mr Taylor, will reopen the dairy factory in the last week in September. Red Cross Funds.—The social of 81st nit, held by the railway staff, was a splendid success. After paying expenses £l7 will be given to the Red Cross Fund. 1 omitted in my report to state that Messrs Robertson and Lagbtfoot made efficient M.C.'s. Temperance.—The Band of Hope was held in the Church Hall on Friday, 7th inst., the Rev. W. Hain presiding. Miss J. Stirling and Mr C. Stirling gave two duets on the piano and clarionet. Readings were given by the Rev. W. Hain, Mrs M'Donald, Miss Stirling; and recitations by Mrs Wilson, Miss M'Dowell (2),. Mr J. M'Kenzie. Miss E. Stewart rendered two pianoforte, solos; and Miss R. Wilson gave a solo. After a short speech by Mr Hain a pleasant evening was closed by the benediction and the National Anthem.

Indian Mission. —On the 19th inst. a gift afternoon, in aid of Miss Henderson's Indian Mission, 13 to be held in the Church Hall. Gifts include money, prints, unbleached calico, wool, knitting needles, sewing needles, reels, 9yd prints for dresses, etc., etc.

Roll of Honour.—On Saturday, Bth inst., Mr Edward Cockburn, of Waikaia, received the sad news by telegram that his eldest son, Rifleman Edward Cockburn, Third Battalion, D Company, Sixteenth Platoon, New Zealand Rifle Brigade, had been killed in Prance. The late soldier was born in Waikaia, and received his education at the Waikaia Public School. About six months after leaving school he entered the Railway Department, and was very highly esteemed by all with whom ho worked, being a most diligent and painstaking officer. He was about 26_ years of age. The flag was hoisted halfmast at the public school on Saturday. Heartfelt sympathy is felt in the district for the sorrowing parents, sisters, and brothers. —Two brave soldiers from this district—Percy Moffitt and Martin F'arrington—have been awarded Military Medals.