THE EXHIBITION

Otago Witness, Issue 3765, 11 May 1926, Page 24

THE EXHIBITION

GENESIS AND DEVELOPMENT A RETROSPECTIVE GLANCE. (Sec. Illustrations in this Issue.) To-day, when the wreckers are in command at Logan Park, and the ring of ,• the hammer resounds through the buildings a short resume of Exhibition history will be most appropriate. Shortly after his return from a tour of Canada and the United States Mr Edmund Anscombe, architect, of this city, n&de a proposal in the local press that a comprehensive Exhibition should be held in Dunedin. During his tour he had visited over 50 cities, including St. Louis,' in Missouri, where, in 1904, he was actively engaged in the bui.Jing of the greatest Exposition the world has ever known. He had noted how both Canada and the States were continually holding Expositions to enable all to meet on common ground in friendly rivalry in the fields of art, science, industry, research, invention, and scholarship. The New Zealand Industrial Corporation had instituted a programme for the holding of bi-annual Industrial Exhibitions in one of the four centres, for the purpose of exhibiting New Zealand-made goods, and Dunedin had been selected for the 1924 Exhibition. Mr Anscombe regarded this as an opportunity lo place his proposal before the public, and in the course of his letter, published on January 27, 1923, mentioned that many times since the termination of the Great War he had been on the point of suggesting that Dunedin should hold a big Exhibition, and, as he pointed out, “since the clouds of depression are surely passing, and a feeling of confidence is prevalent that a new era is about to mark the creation erf a foundation upon which will again be built prosperity and expansion not only for Otago, but for all New Zealand,” he strongly urged that in 1925 Dunedin should hold an Exhibition which (to again use his own words) “would be the symbol of New Zealand’s spirit, typifying the resources, enterprise, and progress of the Dominion—an Exhibition covering not only industry and manufactures, but agriculture, horticulture, electricity, the sciences and products of studio, school, office, forest, mine, field, and stream.” The suggestion was enthusiastically and heartily taken up and supported by the city’s leaders in commercial affairs. On February 7, Mr J. S. Douglas (Mayor of the city) invited several prominent citizens to meet in the Town Hall, on February 15 to discuss the proposal, • with a view to taking further action. The favourable interest manifested in the project at that meeting resulted in the unanimous decision to hold an Imperial Exhibition in 1925. Mr H. L. Taplev moved, “That in the opinion of of this meeting an Imperial Exhibition should be held in 1925.” The motion was seconded by Mr C. Todd. It was later decided that the scope should bo widened, and the Exhibition was made International. Various necessary preliminaries having been dealt with, the next step of outstanding interest was the selection of the site. Some rivalry developed between different of the city as to where the Exhibition should be located. The “battle of the sites” was fought with vigour, and l those who favoured Lake Logan held on tenaciously, and won out. The Sites Committee’s fending for Lake Logan was based upon the assumption that Dunedin’s 1925 Exhibition was to be both big and comprehensive. With the necessary information before it outlining in a general way the multitudinous sections which would have to be housed and provided for, the committee approached the problem from every possible angle, even to satisfying itself that Lake Logan would meet, the expectations of the overseas visitor — as no other available site in Dunedin could. It was now generally agreed that Logan Park was the one and only suitable site for an Exhibition cf the magnitude visualised by Mr Anscombe and endorsed by the promoters. And where could a better site be found? Flanked on three sides with hills which shelter the area from cold winds, Lake Logan is a wonderful Exhibition site, combining to a remarkable degree three essential qualities —Deauty, adaptability, and convenience. It is in a natural amphitheatre, the dead level portion being 65 acres. The view facing south is across the sparkling waters of the bay, our land-locked harbour, which looks more like an inland lake than an arm of the sea. Looking north one sees old Mount Cargill towering over all. To those who climb the heights, the glories of the harbour and the wonderful views to be seen at every angle are unrivalled, and well worth coming to Otago to see* In its combination of scenic beauty and practical advantages, as one member of the original Sites Committee proclaimed, Lake Logan “was the finest Exhibition site in the southern hemisphere.” The lake of yesterday is a park to-day, and' everybody appears to be satisfied that the best has been done. The next important step was the appointment of the directors and the Works Committee. The directors elected were— Messrs J. Sutherland Ross (chairman), C. Speight (deputy chairman), A. Barnett, P. Barr, P. L. Halstead, W. R. Hayward, H. F. Sincock, T. Somerville, H. L. Tapley, and C. Todd, the Works Committee comprising Messrs Jas. S. Douglas (chairman), W. R. Hayward, W. H. Naylor, A. Dempster, H. F. Nees, Jas. H. Wilkinson, A. Smellie, and Geo. Simpson. All honour is due to the gentlemen who have given their time and their help, and have assisted in directing and rearing our great Exhibition. The remarkable manner in which the works have progressed is due in no small measure to the splendid way in which members of the Works Committee handled the

practical side, and showed continued in* tereat and enthusiasm in the project. In January, 1924, Mr Anscombe was appointed the official architect, and on May 29, 1924, the first big contract was let to Messrs Fletcher and Love for the exhibit buildings, and an immediate start was made with the construction. Then followed the beautiful and stately Festival Hall, the Art Gallery, the Fernery, and various other buildings, Messrs G. Lawrence and Sons, Limited, being the successful contractors for the Art Gallery. That the architectural appointment was a wise one was exemplified in the general lay-out of the Exhibition as a whole, and in the noble, lofty, and dignified exhibit buildings, Festival Hall, Art Gallery, with its unique method of natural lighting, the impressive entrance gateways and pavilions, and other buildings now at Logan Park. Only those who had seen and .studied the modern exhibition could realise the task involved in setting up an edifice that would meet the expectations of overseas visitors. This, however, was studied to a degree, and the scheme embodying the Exhibition proper with its many adjuncts was a tremendous achievement, and evidence of ability, vision, and resourcefulness. It is of interest to note that the preliminary scheme as laid down by Mr Anscombe was substantial}' the one carried into effect, and which brought forth the highest admiration and unstinted praise from all, not the least being that expressed by distinguished visitors from overseas. Special attention was paid to the aesthetic side, and in the lay-out generally the combination of beauty in outline and simplicity and correct proportioning in design produced a harmonious and attractive whole. Entering through the main entrance gateways one wa° confronted with the imposing Grand Court, around which the exhibit buildings w ere grouped. To the right was the British Pavilion, his Majesty’s Government and British commercial exhibits—39oft by 155 ft. This pavilion also housed the president’s reception rooms; then the machinery pavilion and Otago Provincial Court, 230 ft by 110 ft; than the provincial courts and general exhibits—69oft by 155 ft. This pavilion the entrance gateways were found the British Colonial Pavilion (which housed also the administrative offices), Canadian and Australian Courts, 390 ft by 155 ft; the New Zealand Government Pavilion, 330 ft by 155 ft; the New Zealand Secondary Industries Pavilion, 360 ft by 310 ft. To the left again of the British Colonial Pavilion was a huge motor pavilion, 330 ft by 310 ft. The Education Court was also housed in this pavilion. These seven exhibit buildings alone covered an area of 11 acres. The Festival Hall (seating 2500 people) was at the head of the Grand Court, and was the dominant archictectural feature, with its stately and magnificent dome rising 80ft, and its colonnades. To the right of this beautiful structure was the Art Gallery, especially interesting with its unique method of natural lighting. To the right of the Art Gallery were the sports field and grand stand, with seating accommodation for 3000 people. Each exhibit building was connected with covered ways, enabling visitors, if they wished, at all times to pass from one building to the other under cover. The whole was planned and designed to lead the visitor from “ interest to interest,” and compel a desire to explore. Electric lighting and landscape gardening were special features, particularly in the Grand Court. Halfway down the Grand Court was a central square (obtained by setting back on either side the Machinery Pavilion and the New Zealand Government Pavilion). In this square was the principal band stand, surrounded by an open area of 250 ft square, which provided accommodation for a large concourse of people. Within the Grand Court, on the north and the south side - 1 square was a large lagoon 200 ft by 40ft. Day and night these served as reflecting tanks not only for the low lighting standards with golden lights which surrounded each lagoon, but also for the surrounding buildings, more particularly the crowning feature—the dome of the Festival Hall. These reflections made the Court a veritable fairyland. In the interior, the exhibit buildings were designed on the latest approved Exhibition planning lines, providing for the proper lines, providing circulation of traffic, the maximum of exhibit space, and the most approved system for the display of exhibits. The buildings were lofty, and the natural lighting perfect. A specially interesting building was the fernery, which housed a collection of New Zealand fern and native shrubs. These •were always a source of interest and pleasure, not only to visitors, but continually to our own people Mr J. 0. Turcotte (the Canadian Commissioner), who has been actively and continuously engaged with Exhibitions for the last 27 years, and who was responsible for the setting up of Canada’s wonderful exhibit at Wembley, shortly after his arrival in Dunedin, said: “In my twenty-seven years’ experience of Exhibitions I have never seen one so well advanced two and a-half months before the opening. At Wembley holf of the buildings had no roofs on so early. I think the forwardness wonderful, and I am most agreeably surprised to find the buildings so large, so well lighted, and so wisely planned in every way. Your architect has evidently a close knowledge of Exhibition requirements, specially as to giving opportunities to set out exhibits to advantage. I appreciate the opportunities thus afforded, and I hope that exhibitors will make it a duty to prepare la plenty of time.**

The Amusement Zone was a phase of an Exhibition's activities which was recognised as of equal importance to the Exhibition proper, since it was the lighter side of entertainment that is the constant pulling power to an Exhibition. No matter how complete an educational institution an Exhibition may be, if modern amusement devices are missing the people will be missing also. Recognising that no modern Exhibition is ever opened without a complete Amusement Zone, the directors m March, 1925, entrusted this to the architect, whose practical experience and wide vision proved of the utmost value. The world’s very best amusement devices were included in the original scheme, and the Dunedin Exhibition opened with an Amusement Zone not to be equalled in the southern hemissphere. The devices included the scenic railway, river caves, caterpillar, whip, merry mix-up, and fun factory. Constructional work on this zone commenced in earnest on June 23, just fonr months 23 days before the opening day. What was accomplished was an achievement to be proud of. The huge Exhibition was an undertaking worthy and representative of the Dominion of New Zealand. The citizens had the satisfaction of viewing an edifice which reflected the highest measure of. credit on all concerned And visitors, even those who had seen big. things in other lands, were not disappointed with the achievement at Logan Park.

DEPARTING GLORY A CITY OF FEVERISH TOIL. On tlie 3rd the Exhibition—that fastdisappearing wonderland, where, two days earlier, tens of thousands made rtverry for the last time —passed into the ruthless hands of the carpenters, packers, and carriers. .... There, at the foot of Union street, a once obscure thoroughfare that is now known from Auckland to the Bluff, the holiday throngs of the week-end were no longer to be Been. In their place was a busy fleet of lorries, and a small army of workmen moving about the otherwise deserted grounds, and in the pavilions. In the Amusements Park the gaunt, silent structure of the Scenic Raihva' towered above the side-shows and devices where small knots of people were packing and dismantling. The mechanics in charge of the devices spent the day overhauling the machinery preparatory to its being handed to the new company. Muddy pools, trampled lawns, and the ceaseless rumble of wagons. Mud and stilt more mud—but for the busy contractors the Grand Court would also have been silent and deserted. Despite the bustle it was indeed sombre-apd melancholy, wi bare flagpoles above the echoing pavilions From the interior of each giant white building came the ring of hammers, the tear of splintering wooand the crash and rumble of heavy goods being piled and shifted. In the early morning the workmen arrived and invaded the pavilions in dozens, each hurrying to commence his allotted task. By mid-day the transformation had commenced, and "even though so few hours had passed the work of dismantling was well under way. The Canadian Court was closed to enable the work to proceed without interruption, and commissioners and men with coats off and sleeves rolled up were stripping the court of its contents and packing with feverish energy. The once neat and spacious Australian court was a vast lumber room littered with paper, packing, and rubbish of all descriptions. There, and in every part of the Exhibition, were dozens of crates, cases, boxes, and hampers into which the exhibits disappeared with remarkable rapidity. . Those who owned the displays in the New Zealand Secondary Industries Pavilion had wrought an almost incredible change in the appearance of the interior Stands were dislodged, exhibits were partly demolished, and every inch of floor space was littered with oods and packing material. In the Provincial Courts the same bustle was manifest. The task of packing was commenced with a will, and commissioners carried into execution plans that were made some time ago. QUEEN’S EXHIBIT PURCHASED. “Everything is being carried out according to plan," said Lady Ferguson, who was one of the most energetic workers in the Women’s Section. She paid a compliment to the orderliness of the closing day’s crowds by stating that no exhibits had been interfered with or destroyed in any way. - . The Queen’s shawl has been purchased by Lady Ferguson and the Exhibition directors. It will be handed to the Ross Home for the Aged, the proceeds will be given to the Nurses’ Memorial Fund, and the little embroidered casket which was included in the exhibit will be returned to her Majesty. THE KINEMA SUCCESS. Amongst the many Government officials who have been directly associated with various features at .Logan Park is Mr A. H. Messenger, Government Publi ity Officer. He has been “the man behir.u the gun” as far as the kinema in the Gove.nrnnt Pavilion is concerned, and 'he great success of the publicity work carried out bv the kinema is, in a great measure, due to his enthusiastic work.

Mr Messenger arrived in Dunedin for the close of the Exhibition to superintend the removal of the kinc...a equipment and the photographing of the last Exhibition scenes. Interviweed, he expressed the keen satisfaction felt by his department and the Government as a whole at the success of the kinema venture. “When the kinema at the Exhibition was first mooted we were faced with the fact that American films of high standard had a strong grip of the New Zealand market.” Mr Messenger said. We were told that the public wouh 1 not be interested in New Zealand and Empiie pictures owing to the counter-attraction of films elsewhere, and. it was feared that New Zealand films would never stand the test.

“The success of the ..inema at the Exhibition has proved that the New Zealand public will support and appreciate films made in New Zealand and in other parts of the Empire, while the educational and scenic subjects have satisfied all tastes.” “As far as the quality of the New Zealand film is concerned it is safe to say that the department is producing pictures of a quality equa' to any nor that is shown in the theatres of the Dominion, and in the future New Zealand films will take a prominent place in the publicity work of the country. “I have lately returned from the North Island, where I spent some time with Mr Zane Grey. We filmed the swordfishing near Russell in his company, and he was present at the first screening of the completed > picture before it had been titled or finished. Mr Grey was delighted with the results, and stated that the standard of the production was equal to anything he had seen in the big film houses of the United States. Such results have been brought about in New Zealand by the purchase of the very highc t grad materials. and the best possible equipment.” Mr Messenger concluded by saying that the Exhibition work was merely a prelude to a new and extended overse-’campaign. The pictures screened in the New Zealand Government kinema at Logan Park were to be sent to England and Australia, v. here arrangements were to be made for '.heir screening in prominent theatres. A selection was also to be forwarded to the Toronto Exhibition, while a little would find its way to the United States. The effect of film publicity would well be judged by the results obtained at the CiXinoition—the screening there had already persuaded many New Zealanders, accustomed to spending holidays abroad, to “see New Zealand first.” A SPONTANEOUS TRIBUTE. A supper was tendered by the those representatives of the Dunedin press whose lot it has been to record the progress of the Exhibition from day to day, and the publicity officer, Mr I. G. MTnnes. As all the pressmen present remarked, the gathering was unique in that it was an entirely spontaneous tribute. The. first toast was that of “ Our Guests,” proposed by Mr W. B. Steel, secretary of the Otago Expansion League, who paid a sincere tribute to the part played by the pressmen of Dunedin in presenting to the public every day throughout the long period of the Exhibition a new picture of the course of events, especially of the interests of the provincial courts. The toast was responded to by Messrs G A. Wycherley (Evening Star), E. H. Miller (Daily Times), A. Withey (Evening Star), F. W. G. Miller (Daily Times), and J. M. Stanley (Evening Star). The toast of “The Publicity Officer ” was proposed by Captain M. B. Macdonald, of the Wellington Court. . In his reply Mr I. G. M‘lnnes said that the gathering was unique in his experience for its spontaniety and sincerity. He thanked the commissioners for providing him with one of his happiest memories of the Exhibition. Other toasts honoured were “The City of Dunedin,” proposed by Mr A. T. Brainsby (Auckland) and responded to by Mr G. A. Wycherley in the.absence of the Deputy Mayor (Mr -W. B. Taverner), and “Our Hosts,” proposed by Mr M'lnnes.

SCENES AT LOGAN PARK

GENERAL MANAGER’S PRAISE.

Gangs of busy workmen again peopled Logan Park on Tuesday, and the task of demolishing the Exhibition was continued with even greater energy and speed. The weather was bad, anti throughout the early part of the afternoon drizzling rain quickly transformed the grounds into wet, muddy areas, which were swiftly cut up by the dozens of vans and lorries plying to and fro. “ Everything is going smoothly, and I am pleased to report that we have had no trouble, no complaints, and, so far, no losses.” said the general manager (Mr C. P. Hainsworth) when interviewed. He added that in this respect conditions were almost unique in his experience. With goods of all descriptions lying ready for packing, or half packed in the pavilions, there was always a danger of loss, but just as Logan Park had been particularly free . from such occurrences during the course of the Exhibition, so the exodus and demolition was being carried out in the same excellent fashion. EXHIBITS FOR SCHOOLS. In the morning Mr C. A. Strack, manager of the Education Court, took delivery of the Fijian exhibits and displays of Island products which are to be given to various New Zealand schools. Mr Strack is particularly anxious that all exhibits in other parts of the Exhibition having little or no value except for educational purposes, should be handed to him for distribution to the schools. He has apealed to all the commissioners with excellent results, and in this way many displays that would otherwise be “ scrapped ” or sold at a purely nominal sum will possibly find a valuable place in the community. Mr Strack, too, is delighted with the behaviour of the crowds and the freedom from pilfering which his court enjoyed during the course of the Exhibition. “ We have had 4 remarkable record,” he said. “ Out of 30,000 exhibits in the court we have missed three, and each of these has been an article of little value.” One day Mr Strack discovered the loss of one of these articles. It was a small exhibit on the corner of a stand, and, in a spirit of ironical fun, the Education Court manager pencilled on the empty space. “ Bring this one back and I will give you a better one.” Next day the pilferer had evidently paid another visit, and under Mr Strack’s message he had writteu an equally ironical reply: “ No thanks,” it read, “ I am satisfied with the one I took.” The work of packing in the Education Court is proceeding rapidly, and each day

pupils from the various Dunedin schools represented in the court are arriving in parties to dismantle their displays. The exhibits from all schools oiftside Dunedin are to be packed towards the end of the, week, and they will be forwarded to the various education boards throughout the Dominion. QUEENSLAND’S GIFT. A few weeks after the Exhibition opened Mr H. W. Mobsby, the Queensland Commissioner, was approached by representatives of the Otago University who were anxious that the valuable exhibit comprising excellent samples of all Queensland’s minerals should not be lost to Dunedin. They asked if it were possible to obtain the exhibit as a whole after the Exhibition closed, and their request, was forwarded by the commissioner to the Queensland Government. It is now announced that the Government cannot see its way clear to leave the Exhibition display in Dunedin owing to the necessity of having such samples in its possession, and the difficulty of obtaining other samples. The Queensland Mines Department, however, has generously offered to collect another complete selection of Queensland minerals and forward them to the Otago University. The selection to be sent will be of the same comprehensive nature, but the majority of the samples will be of a more convenient size for the purposes of the University. Wool, timber, and other exhibits in the Queensland section will be disposed of as soon as possible. - FIJI HOUSE FOR MUSEUM. All exhibits in the Fiji Court will soon be packed for shipment, and it is probable that the court will be one of the first to be completely dismantled in the Exhibition. The Fijian house in the centre that has been by all who have entered the court has been presented to the Dunedin Museum, and will be taken over by the museum authorities almost immediately. EXHIBITS FOR TORONTO. “So far as the exhibits for Toronto are concerned, all arrangements are going smoothly, and it is expected that the consignment will leave Dunedin for Canada by the Canadian Explorer about May 18,” said Mr Collins. “Special cases to contain these exhibits have been made by the Pub’’ Wo Department, and these are being collected and housed in the Government kinema ball, xvhere the work of packing will commence at the end of the week. care is being taken to see that all exhibits are of the very best quality, and valuable contributions have been made by each of the provincial courts. These v* Ml be assembled in Pavilion No. 5 during the week and as the provincial displays are being dismantled. Mr Collins added that many of the exhibits to be forwarded were being specially made, particularly in the manufactured lines. The woollen mills were submitting a range of heavy woollen goods specially made for the Toronto Exhibition. That was being done, not because the exhibits in the New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition were Inferior in any way, but because it was desirable that the fashions, styles, and colours of the goods should be absolutely up to date. * Particular care has also been taken with the selection of the pictures showing every phase of New Zealand life as well as the more famous beauty spots. “Wo want to make sure that the American visitors are given a correct impression of the country,” said Mr Collins. “Those who have heard of New Zealand are inclined to have the impression that ’we are solely makers of butter nnd cheese. Well, we are going to show them that we can do and show other things. Toronto won’t get much butter and cheese in the New Zealand display.” That Mr Collins firmly believes In the value of picture publicity is shown by the fact that out of 1000 beautiful photographic enlargements of New Zealand views, he has selected only 20. But they are 20 which should prove one of the features of

the New Zealand display at Toronto, fop the scenic and other studies are really beautiful, and many compare very favourably with the best of the pictures in thq photographic section of the Art Gallery. THE- AFTERMATH / WORK AT LOGAN PARK. Conditions for the workmen at Logan Park on Wednesday were much better than in the early part of the week. A drying wind quickly hardened the surfaces of the roads and paths, and although the number of lorries and motor trucks that moved to and from the city remained undiminished, the grounds of* the Exhibition were at least passable. . The initial work of demolition is being carried out with much greater speed than was at first anticipated, and in every court packing i 3 now well un.der way. None of the constructional work of the main building, has as yet been attacked by the small army of carpenters now employed, but steps are being taken to demolish some of the smaller Exhibition features CANADA’S EFFORTS. The Canadian Commissioners, when interviewed yesterday, expressed the liveliest satisfaction at the results of their labours since the close of the Exhibition. Everything in the court which is not being returned to Canada has already been sold, and all sections of the interior are being removed with the greatest care in order that they will be in perfect condition. “Any loss or damage we have suffered has not been worth considering,” said the Commissioner, Mr D. H. Ross. “We have been dismantling and packing from the moment the Exhibition closed, and just as we were the first to be ready for the opening day so we hope to be the first out of Logan Park.” On Wednesday, in the Early Settlers’ Hal|, the Canadian Commissioner and Mrs Ross gave a pleasant “Au Revoir” At Home to the many friends—official and otherwise—whom they have made since their arrival in Dunedin. The guests, numbered 250 and a very enjoyable evening was spent by all. IN THE GARDENS. The beautiful and extensive gardens throughout the Exhibition are practically the only feature which, up to the present, remains undisturbed. The condition of the beds is as good as when the Exhibition was at its best, and preparations are now being made for the sale of the thousands of plants of all kinds. A few have already t*en sold, but inquiries are coming in thick and fast. When the public is once more allowed to enter Logan Park the flowers may bo examined, and the sales will commence. ' The bulk of the flowers will probably bo sold by the bed, but the manner of selling has not yet been decided upon. “Only the plants and shrubs will be returned to the nofnnical Gardens,” said Mr G. W. Reid yesterday. He added that gardeners and residents eonernlly were tak-< ing a keen interest in the fate of the Exhibition gardens, nnd it was likelv that the demand for plants would be o-ronf. GOVERNMENT PAVILION. In common with the rep’* ~ of all other departments in the New Zealand Government Pavilion, the attendants In charge of th'' military section are busy packing nnd dismantling the displays. Many of the smaller articles have already been packed, but the field guns and aeroplanes will be reserved for transport towards the end. The aeroplane resting on the floor of the section is in excellent condition considering the numbers of visi« tors who have clambered round its during the last six months, gut on its return to Sockburn it will be completely overhauled before being again put in active commisi sion. “We are delighted with the excellent conditton in which we are finding all exhibits,” said the sergeant-major on duty “So far there has been nothing missing, and no exhibits are damaged.” An old soldier is an observant man, and the sergeant tells many delightful talc*

I'novil hi a experiences as nn attendant since lie Exhibition .opened. For instance, there fe the t'-nv.oi human failing of never being Ible to examine an oxhib't without touch.ng it. “It seems impossible for a human being to look at a piece of armour—a breastplate or o h/dr^t—without touching ami tapping it,” be said. “No matter who It was, every person who approached the modern armour exhibits tapped them all with one finger. What for I don’t know. One gets no inspiration, no satisfaction and no information. Tet everybody did Hie same thing.” “The war photograph gallery has proved nn immense success,” he-stated, “and thi last three days of the Exhibition saw the greatest sale of photographs. The sales on the last doy amounted to over £5.” THE GALLIPOLI LANDING. “Next to the gallery, the most popular thing jn the court was the small raised innt> of Gallipoli. Every day ex-soldiers of the Main Body fought their battles over again, and every dny I was called in to be told ' "v 'be landing was effected and v.haf so-and-so did when he got ashore. That little map was the meeting-place Cor the Main Body men. and I have rfeen as many as eleven of them, all casual strangers, drawn by a common interest, nn«l each tolling the tale with the greatest, gur.fcn The map has been called in to settle arguments and explain the positions so frequently that the names “Anzac Cove” and “Suvla Bay” have been entirely obliterated “by finger marks.” FIRST SALE OF BUILDINGS. The first of the Exhibition buildings be sold were submitted to public auction on Wednesday at Messrs James Samson and Co.'e rooms In Dowling treet. The buildings comprised most of the smaller struc-

tures round the amusement area and other parts of Logan Park.

The sale attracted a large number of buyers and interested spectators, about 200 persons attending. There was keen competition for the various lots, and all were sold ac satisfactory prices. A RAPID EXODUS Logan Park has been a place of wonderful surprises and remarkable achievements since November 17, when New Zealand’s gro&test Exhibition opened. It is now dead—but a glorious memory of the past—yet the achievements continue. The latest is the surprising speed at which tho work of demolition is being carried out. Though only jur days have passed, the buildings are practically emptied of all savo the larger stands arid constructional features. The lorries continue to p£;f ceaselessly all day long. hammering and crashing of crates and timbers sounds through the pavilions all dav lonr and as a result of the efforts of the busy army of workmen which made .ts appearance practically at the moment when the Exhibition closed, the buildings will so*- i be as bare as in the days before the opening. One of the chief dangers at Logan Parkone which will be present until the giant task of removing the exhibits is finally completed—fs that of fire. Everywhere in tlie pavilions are piles of light timber and an enormous quantity of paper, packing, and rubbish of all kinds. Commissioners and officials generally fully realise this- 11(6 utmost precautions are being taken, and fire extinguishers are kept handy everywhere. The whole interior fittings of the Canadian Court, including the entrance gates, which were supplied by Messrs G. Lawrence and Sons to the order of the Canadian Govern-

ment have been repurchased by the same firm. EXHIBITION COMPETITIONS. The following list of Exhibition awards was released on Thursday:— AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS. Judge: Mr 11. L. Salmond. Wilson Malt Extract Co. (Ltd.).—Malt extract and bread improver, first order of merit. Sutton and Sons (Ltd.). —Grass, clover, and flower seeds, first order of merit. Fiji Government. —Rice, lirst order of merit. Marlborough Court.—Algerian oats, black barley, Cape barley. Archer barley, first order of merit; wrinkled, Prussian blue, and ,Partridgo peas, first order of merit; white clover and cowgras* seed, first order of merit; Gisborne barley, second order of merit; cow-grass seed and lucerne, second order of merit. Queensland Government.—Cow-pea, linseed, sorghun. tapioca, Canadian Wonder bean, maize, wheat, popcorn, first order of merit; millet, second order of merit; rice, second order of merit. TOBACCO. Judges: Messrs G. E. Withers and C. Dickinson. John Sinclair, (Ltd.). —Old Castle, Punch Bowl, Barney’s tobaccos, first order ol merit; cigarettes (Scottish Field), second order of merit. Teoffani (Ltd.). —Cigarettes, first order of merit. Harold Lightband (Ltd.).—Chesterfield cigarettes, first order of merit; Grainger tonaeco, second order of merit. Ard&th Tobacco Company.—State Express cigarettes, first order of merit; cigars, first order of merit. Fiji Government.—Tobacco leaf, first order of merit.

British-Australasian Tobacco Company.— Tobacco leaf, second order of merit. 11. Halsted.—Young’s Dry-smoker pipe, fir&t order of merit. PAINTS AND VARNISHES. Judge: Mr John Baird. Naylor Bros. (Ltd.).—Varnishes and lacquers, first order of merit. Smith and Smith (Ltd.).—Paints and oils, prepared paints and enamel, first order ot merit; varnishes and lacquers, second order of merit. Farquhar and Gill (Ltd.).—Aluminium paints, first order of merit. Smith and Smith (Ltd.).—Dry colours, first order of merit. STARCHES, OILS, ETC. Analyst: Dr Inglis. W. Gregg and Co. (Ltd.).—Soda crystals, first order of merit; Eagle starch, first order of merit. Union Oil, Soap, and Candle Company.— Sylvia starch, first order of merit. Hayward Bros. (Ltd.). —Dove starch, second order of merit. New Zealand Oil and Cattlecake Company (Ltd.).—Moose linseed oil, first order of merit. Gear Meat Preserving Company (Ltd.).— Neatsfoot oil, second order of merit. Fiji Government. —Candlenut oil and cocoanut oil, first order of merit. M’Leod Bros. (Ltd.). —Oleine cloth oil, first order of merit. W. Gregg and Co. (Ltd.).—Olive oil, first order of merit. Monte (Ltd.). —Olive oil, first order of merit. Fiji Government.—Peanut oil, first order of merit. HATS. Judge: Mr J. Whipp. Ross and Glendining (Ltd.).—Men’s felt hats, first order of merit; ladies’ felt hats, first order of merit; ladies’ straws and boaters, first order of merit. CAR.PETS AND RUGS. - Judge: Mr Peter Matthews. Tattersfield (Ltd.).—Floor rugs, first OTder of merit. T. F. Firth and Sons.—Carpets, first order of merit. MEETING OF DIRECTORS. A meeting of the directors of the New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition was held on Thursday, and was attended by Messrs J. Sutherland Ross (chairman), (J. Speight, W. R. Hayward, T. Somerville, Arthur Barnett, P, L. Halsted, A. H. Sincock, and H. L. Tapley, M.P. The Australian Commissioner wrote stating that, owing to an oversight, the official notification of Mr Mobsby’s appointment as representative of the Queensland Government had not been forwarded to the Exhibition authorities The notification, a copy of which had been sent to the Federal Government, was enclosed. It was decided to express regret at the omission to Mr Mobsby, and to see that the position was fully recognised in the official record. The balance of the business was in committee.

THE WORK OF A WEEK Just as the work of building and stocking the Exhibition was carried out with surprising vigour and a determination to leave nothing undone, so the exodus is being carried out promptly, efficiently, and with a minimum of delay. The work of a week has been a surprise to all, and those in charge of the packing operations in each department are of opinion that the close of this week will see little beyond bare walls and empty buildings at Logan Park. On Saturday the bustle at the Exhibition was, if anything, greater than ever. For the Commissioners there was no thought of a half-holiday, and although most of the workmen departed at mid-day, the staffs of the courts carried on the work of packing until late in the afternoon, when the dusk outdoors and the gathering gloom in the pavilions necessitated a stop. The condition of the grounds was much better than it was earlier in the week—in fact, only a careful examination of Logan Park from the main gatc9 revealed the fact that the Exhibition was really no more, and the white pavilions were merely shells covering the disorder of the interiors. Work in the British Government .Pavilion has been particularly rapid, and the con-, tents of the Imperial court have disappeared into the gaping cases and crates that have appeared as if by magic. The decorations and architectural features which are to return to England have yet to be dismantled, but the Commissioners expect that the work will be finally completed in two weeks’ time. On Saturday. Captain Graham, the British Commissioner, stated that all the attendants in the court were so delighted with New Zealand that they intended to remain in the country, and were even now seeking positions. He paid a high compliment to the work of the men who had accompanied the commission, stating that he could not have wished for a more efficient staff. Most of the exhibits in the court which were sold have now been delivered to the buyers, but there remain a few as yet unclaimed The Commissioners are anxious that delivery should be taken of these as early as possible. The provincial court commissioners anl staffs are untiring in their efforts to complete the packing of all exhibits, ami from the Auckland Court to the Otago Court tho sound of the hammer drowns everything else. Some delay was caused during the week by the fact that the proper cases, crates, and boxes were diffiffieult to obtain owing to the congestion in the Exhibition storeroom. The conditions are now much better, and packing is beiug gone rheac with without interruption. Carriers and transport services of all kinds are greatly in demand, but on the whole the service is adequate, and the goods nro being conveyed out of the Exhibition ns fast as they are packed.

A VALUABLE SERVICE. All who are still employed at Logurf Park appreciate the value of the Exhibition Post and Telegraph Office, which ts being kept open for the benefit of the authorities, commissioners, staffs, and stallholders. The returns showing the amount of work carried out by this busy letter office during the course of the Exhibition are now available, and ore as follow’s : Value of special Exhibition stamps sold, £4438. Telegrams forwarded were to the value of £IBO2, representing 30,107 words.

Two thousand one hundred and fortyseven registered letters were posted anl £3200 worth of money orders were issued, while £782 was paid out in monetary drafts cf various Kinds. NOTES. The winner of the Omega watch oomptition was Mr S. MTntosh, 6 Hereford street, Roslyn. The total weight of the watch was 4991 b. A smoke social, arranged by the large body of men who have been employed as attendants at the Exhibition, was held in the Labour Club rooms a 9 a fitting end to their labours and to further cement the splendid spirit of comradeship that has existed between them during the past six months. Mr A. M’Skimming was chairman. Mr R. Tait, late assistantdirector of amusements, in a brief speech, referred to the fine work carried out by the Exhibition attendants. Mr J. Wilson and several others also spoke briefly. A fine spirit of comradeship prevailed, and a very pleasant evening was spent. An enjoyable musical programme was submitted.