THE AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION

Southland Times, Issue 23001, 22 September 1936, Page 3

THE AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS ROAD SERVICE SCHEME Both the big membership and the gratifying financial position of the Automobile Association (Southland) were stressed by the president (Mr J, R. Haigh) when addressing a large attendance of members at the annual meeting last night. In moving the adoption of the annual report (already published), the chairman emphasized the very happy relations which existed between the public bodies and the association. Reviewing the activities of the association during the past 15 years, he said he could safely say that it had justified its existence. In the old days motoring was an adventure. Apart from the many peculiarities of the early cars motorists had to contend with old roads and with a lack of direction and danger signs. Now, however, through the voluntary organization of motorists, co-operative effort was responsible for a service that early motorists could not have thought possible. From Bluff to the North Cape roads were sign-posted. Continuing, the chairman said that the free road service scheme, commonly known as the “Get you home” service, had proved a most valuable addition to the many members of the association. Indeed, it was now general throughout the Dominion so that any member of the Automobile Association could get service in any part of New Zealand. Considerable publicity, he said, was now being given to the subject of safety first. Mr Haigh stressed the importance of sign-posting activities and referred to various other directions in which the organization was fostering the interests of motorists.

The motion was seconded by Dr S. Brown and carried unanimously. Referring to the balance-sheet, the chairman expressed gratification that not only was the membership greatly increased, but the association was giving extended facilities to members. It was worthy of mention that during the year 712 road signs had been erected on roads in the district.

After speakers had congratulated the executive on the healthy state of the finances, the balance-sheet was adopted. The election of officers resulted as follows: President, Mr J. R. Haigh (reelected); vice-presidents, Mr W. A. Stout and Dr Stanley Brown; general committee, Messrs Sydney Smith, A, J. Campbell, A. E. Smith, C. Campbell, G. Tapper, M. M. Macdonald, J. D. Campbell, F. G. O’Beirne, W. J. Dolamore, D. Dunn, J. D. Gilmore, Ivon Wilson, J. Pickard, P. A. Pearce, A. E. Lea and R. H. Parker; auditors, Messrs Cuthbertson and Osborne.

The chairman said it was felt that some better service should be given to the Eastern District members. The outgoing committee had recommended the appointment in Gore of an authorized agent to give all necessary information and, as the representative of the association, act for the benefit of the motorists. It was also intended to set up an advisory committee in Gore to act in conjunction with the general committee.