PATROLS ON THE BEACH

Southland Times, Issue 23922, 14 September 1939, Page 2

PATROLS ON THE BEACH

ACTIVITIES OF ORETI SURF CLUB YEAR’S WORK REVIEWED “During the season Oreti beach was efficiently patrolled by members of the club,” states the annual report of the Oreti Surf Club which will be presented at the annual meeting of the club this evening. “Demonstrations and competitions at Oreti beach, Queenstown and Riverton Rocks were given, thus enlightening the public as to the work and efficiency of the club. The club was not called upon to act in an emergency, but the presence of patrols on the beach afforded the bathing public a greater measure of safety." A successful opening day was held on November 19, 1938, the season being started before a big gathering, the report continued. A demonstration of surf life-saving methods was. given. The competition for the Kingsland Memorial Shield was held on March 5, four teams competing. The winning team was: A. Wesney, A. Mair, J. Courtis, E. Gumbley (captain), K. Shaw, A. Brown. The Green Cup trophy was competed for on March 5, the winning team comprising M. Jenkin (captain), A. Inglis, B. Phillips, H. Rowley, I. Mitchell, W. Bath. “The gear steward reports that all gear is in first-class order, the clubhouse having been painted and repaired, while a new reel, belt, and two lines have been procured. A new set of woollen costumes has also been purchased,” states the report. “The Otago surf championships were held at St Clair. Oreti was successful in winning the four-man alarm championship, the senior and junior sixman championship being won by St. Clair. Although the juniors were unsuccessful, they put up a very creditable performance. The club was not represented at the New Zealand championships which were held at Auckland, but it is hoped the club will be fully represented at the centennial championships this coming season. “The membership of the club was further increased by the joining of a big number of junior members and we look forward to a further influx of juniors this season. The club ran a carnival at Oreti beach which proved highly satisfactory.”