ROYAL SHOW VISITORS

Southland Times, Issue 22450, 10 December 1934, Page 3

ROYAL SHOW VISITORS

ACCOMMODATION ARRANGEMENTS. Mr H. J. Farrant informed a Southland Times representative that matters in connection with the accommodation of Royal Show visitors were proceeding apace. The usual problems were arising, but the committee had the situation well in hand, and lull preparations were made to meet every emergency. An absurd rumour had got abroad that there was a dearth or accommodation available. This was entirely contrary to fact. Invercargill householders had responded most liberally to the committee’s request for oilers of accommodation, and up till last evening there were nearly 300 beds still available, all in good homes, and suitable in every way, but riot in close proximity to the Show Grounds. Mr Farrant was down to meet the early morning stock train yesterday, and, as he expected, he found a f ev f men who had casually arrived without having made any arrangements; these were all put up satisfactorily. During the day, and up to a late hour last evening Mr Farrant was still receiving enquiries for beds, and each visiting stockman or owner had been accommodated. . The accommodation now available is in the City centre and in the outer area east of Elies Road and south of Tay Street. These localities are quite suitable for the average visitors, but regarded as being too far away for those who have stock to attend. The Accommodation Committee is meeting at eleven o’clock this morning for the purpose of receiving a progress report and to finalize arrangements for the next two days’ activities. The incoming trains to-day, to-mor-row, and Wednesday will be met by members of the Committee, each of whom will wear an identification red ribbon, and visitors will be escorted and introduced to their temporary hostesses. On the arrival of the night expresses the committee will be augmented by a troop of Boy Scouts and a Scoutmaster. These boys gave wonderful assistance at the time of the last Royal Show. When asked if the service being rendered was appreciated by the visitors, Mr Farrant stated without hesitation that nearly all the visitors and those who were coming had remarked personally or by letter how much they appreciated what was being done for their convenience and comfort, and especially the personal touch which made them kin with Southland people generally. There was not only the appreciation that made the effort worth while; there were' other compensating features, and many humorous situations. To be amongst the sheep, cattle, and pigs in the early morning before they were all penned up was a positive delight' to the secretary, who candidly admitted that the pleasure of animal associations almost caused him to forget that he was on the show grounds to see to the wants of humans.