WOMEN'S RESERVE.

Otago Witness, Issue 3338, 6 March 1918, Page 45

WOMEN'S RESERVE.

The annual meeting of the Otago branch of the Women's National Reserve was held on the 27th. Mrs Statham presided. The second annual xeport stated that it was "a matter for regret that the service* of the reserve had not been utilised to any groat extent. In fact, it was felt that the reserve was not carrying put the duties for which it. was formed. Miss Woodhouee found it necessary to relinquish her position as secretary, and Miss Morris was elecled in her place. , The reserve has' inaugurated a series of " mothers' teas," to be given to mothers of all men on active service. The first of these was- held in December; some 250 mothers responding to the committee's invitation. _ Correspondence was received in re forming a local branch of. the National Council of Women. The committee took the matter in hand, arranged meetings of delegates from the different women's organisations in Dunedin, and a committee was formed from these delegates. At present steps are being taken to-form a live branch of the council. It is hoped that reserve members will give this movement, the support it deserves. The Rifle Club had another -successful season, and shows every sign of becoming a permanent institution in Dunedin. Colonel Smith, Sergeant-major Dickel, and Mr Dean, again devoted much time and attention to coaching the members in * ne use °£ their rifles. The committee has assisted in various street collections _ and other patriotic movements. \ and has used every opportunity afforded for national service. It was decided that the present officebearers retain office in' the meantime, as ■ there did not seem to be any chance of active work in connection with the reserve. It was decided to ask permission to place boxes in prominent street positions to assist in collecting books for' the use of soldiers. . -