GUNNER WIXON HONOURED AT BLUFF
There was a large attendance at the Willard Hall, Bluff, last night when the Haere Tonu party extended a traditional Maori welcome to Gunner L. Wixon, M.M., of Colac Bay. As the guest entered the hall the women of the party gave a powhiri (welcome) and led him to the stage. The chairman, Mr T. Spencer, gave a stirring welcome in Maori. The Mayor, Mr N. W. McGorlick, also spoke and congratulated the Maori people on the honour Gunner Wixon had brought to their race and to Southland. Mr Spencer, on behalf of the Haere Tonu party, presented Gunner Wixon with a leather suitcase. "For he’s a jolly good fellow” was sung in Maori, followed by “Kamate” in action, the guest being surrounded by members of the party. The ceremony ended by everybody joining in the singing of the song "Maori Battalion.”
On rising to reply Gunner Wixon was received with cheers. Items were given by Mrs Portnic and Messrs P. Bates, A. and M. West and Gunner Wixon.
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Bibliographic details
Southland Times, Issue 24783, 30 June 1942, Page 2
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174GUNNER WIXON HONOURED AT BLUFF Southland Times, Issue 24783, 30 June 1942, Page 2
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