PRINCE ALBERT CLUB.

Colonist, Volume XLI, Issue 9143, 12 April 1898, Page 1 (Supplement)

PRINCE ALBERT CLUB.

The annual meeting of this Club was held at the Panama Hotel on March 2Gth, when the President, Mr F. Trask, presided. Vice-President H. Baigent was also present, and there was an excellent attendance of members. Apologies were received for the absence of several officers.

Previous minutes were read and approved, and Mr H. Nalder, the Secretary, read the annual report, which traversed very concisely last season's work. From the report it was noticed the membership roll was similar to previous years. Several prominent members, notably Messrs G. R. Simpson, L. Sigley, and W. Nixon, had left the district, and others had ceased to be active members. Committeemen were urged to take a more vigorous interest in the Club's affairs, and be more punctual in attendance. Regret was expressod at the departure of Mr G. Simpson, who at various times had acted as Secretary, Treasurer, Field, and also Honorary Captain, besides taking a prominent part in the Nelson Eugby Union, and his loss would be felt by the Club. The Club had appropriated the Senior Cup for 1897, scoring 57 points, against 10, put up by the Rival Club. This trophy had now been won five years at intervals. Messrs C. McLeod and J. Higgins, had the misfoitune to sustain broken legs during the season, but were now quite recovered. Of outside matches, Golden Bay were defeated, and a drawn game was played against the Greymouth Club. The members were urged to a better attendance at practice, and strive to improve their style of play. The finances had been reduced by several socials, which were not a financial success, and badges had been provided for the members. Thanks were accorded the ladies who took an interest in the Club's socials. In conclosion, the Committee anticipated keen contests during the coming season, and hoped that all the games would be characterised by good feeling.

The balance sheet showed a substantial credit.

The Chairman said he felt pleased to hear such an elaborate and satisfactory report, although he regretted two very serious accidents to two members. He complimented the Secretary on his report. The record held by the Club was very creditable, and he doubted if another Club could show a similar success for one season. He wished the Club a prosperous season and increased membership.

Mr Baigent also spoke approvingly of the Club's success and the satisfactory report, and was pleased to move its adoption. Seconded by Mr H. Finney, and carried unanimously.

The following new members were elected ; — Messrs J. McLeod, R. McLeod, J. Campbell, G. Page, H. Papps, W. Sowman, J, Louis, F. Nesbitt, R. Weir, H. Bethwaite ; A. Trevella and J. Butler.

The election of officers resulted as follows : — President, Mr F. Trask (re elected) ; Vice-Presidents, Messrs H. Baigent, E. Finney, B. H. Moller, A. W. Tatton, J. G. Restall, W. Lock, S. Jickell, C. Haggitt and T. A. Askew ; Hon Captain, Mr H. Beth--1 waite ; Hon Secretary, Mr J. McLeod. Mr H. Nalder said he was compelled to resign the Secretaryship, owing to other matters requiring his attention, but would still assist the Club otherwise. His resignation was received with great regret, and the members resolved to recognise his three years' service in a substantial way during the season. Hon Treasurer, Mr W. R. Stiles ; Management Committee, Messrs H. Nalder, C. McLeod, J. Lipscombe, W. Frank, R. Ecclesfield, L. De Vere, C. Nesbitt, and officers ex officio ; Match Committee, Messrs R. Stiles, H. Clear, T. Hall; Delegates to Rugby Union, Messrs R. Stiles, H. Bethwaite, L. De Vere, J. Lipscombe and J. McLeod.

A letter was read from the Poneke Club, asking for games at Easter for first and second fifteens. It was resolved not to entertain the proposal, owing to a number of members being absent about that time, and to suggest a later date.

A letter was also read from the Oriental Club (Wellington), asking for a match on May 21st, It was unanimously decided to accept the proposal.

It was resolved to join with the other clubs in opening the season.

The health of the Chairman was then drunk with musical honors, and Mr Trask, in replying, said he would be pleased to do his best for the Club, and hoped for its prosperity.

A very successful meeting then terminated.