NATIONAL PARTY’S PICNIC

Southland Times, Issue 23741, 13 February 1939, Page 9

NATIONAL PARTY’S PICNIC

BIG CROUD GATHERS AT

RAKAUHAUKA A big crowd of more than 1000 attended the National Party's picnic on the picturesque grounds at Rakauhauka, the home of Mr James Hargest, M.P., on Saturday. Members of the party and supporters were present from all parts of the province. Nearly 200 motor-cars were parked beside the picnic ground. Three special buses took many more supporters from both town and country districts. Two supporters cycled from Invercargill. The afternoon was spent in games for the younger members of the gathering and discussion for the others. Two bands were in attendance and added much to the gaiety. The Winton Silver Band played alternately with the Browns Highland Pipe Band. To add more Scottish atmosphere to the scene, a dancing display was produced by Mr Alex Sutherland. The big crowd appreciated the dancing. Those who took part in the display included: Misses Rosie Tomlins, Nanie McLeod, Dulcie Anderson, Mona Campbell, Reta Troon, Shirley Harvey, Lindsay Campbell, Donna Bowmar, Marion Thompson, Heather Buchanan and Alma McLeod.

One of the main events of the day was the wheelbarrow race. The Leader of the Opposition (the Hon. Adam Hamilton) was seated in the winning barrow, and Mr Hargest was second. This event caused much amusement. A race for men, the National Handicap, was won by L. Gray, of Wallacetown. After an address by Mr Hamilton, Mr Hargest thanked the big crowd for its presence and said it heartened him to see so many (supporters. He endorsed what Mr Hamilton had said about fighting hard for the cause and thanked those who had helped with the election fight. They should not be discouraged, he said, because they had not won. Their turn was coming.