“ Swarms of Visitors ”

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 409, 18 July 1928, Page 13

“ Swarms of Visitors ”

WINTER SHOW PATRONAGE

Passing the 100,000 Mark

TO-DAY'S attendance at the Auckland Winter Exhibition will bring the total number of visitors since the opening, well above the 100,000 mark. With a swarm of over 12,000 visitors yesterday, the 93,000 point was easily passed. “Attendance figures, gate-takings and public interest have all been records,” show officials told THE SUN to-day.

This afternoon the visit of Miss Elsie Prince, now appearing in “Sunny” at St. James Theatre, was a notable event. An expectant crowd awaited Miss Prince’s arrival. She was welcomed by officials, and afterwards made an inspection of the exhibits. MORE ENTRANTS WANTED “There is one very important line in which the committee would like to see more entrants.” Mr. J. Findlay, exhibition manager and secretary to the Manufacturers’ Association, said. “That is in the district courts competition. This year Poverty Bay won with 423 points, and Franklin, 4025 points, was next. But they were the only entrants. Next year we hope to see competition from North Auckland. Bay of Plenty, and Thames Valley.” Mr. Findlay said a move was being made to form a district courts association. Interest is to be aroused in dormant districts, and if four entrants are provided for, results will be satisfactory. Provision was made for five entrants in Sydney.

A conference on the subject will probably be held this afternoon. Such a step is considered necessary in view of the rich districts which do not figure in any displays. SEEKING NEW QUARTERS Realising that it will not always be convenient for the Auckland Harbour Board to permit the exhibition to be held in wharf sheds, officials are discussing the question of a new site and buildings. They want an area within easy distance of the city, and intend to make a serious quest for new quarters. Guided by 100 teachers, over 2,500 children thronged the show yesterday. Last evening Miss dancing pupils provided a bright entertainment.

This morning, a demonstration of Jersey and Friesian cattle attracted attention. Increasing interest is being shown by farmers in the advice and the information issued by the expert demo n st rat or s.

Sturdy pupils of the St. Stephen’s Maori Boys’ College will give a gymnastic display this evennig.