UNDER CANVAS

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVIII, Issue 21850, 31 December 1940, Page 6

UNDER CANVAS

Townships In Miniature

Motor Camps Thronged

In recent years the camping holiday has become increasingly popular, and a visit yesterday to the Timaru motor camp at the Showgrounds, where 2000 people are “in residence,” gives a striking proof of the development of the art of camping whether it is carried out in a tent, which has been more or less "home made” or in a de-luxe caravan.

A “Timaru Herald” reporter who visited the camp yesterday was informed by the caretaker, Mr C. A. Frampton, that between 300 and 400 camping parties were located at the Showgrounds, and he anticipated that more would arrive in order to spend the New Year in Timaru. There were two striking features this year, one was the comparatively few young men in camp, owing to the large number who are serving in the Forces overseas or who are at present enjoying leave, and the other was the large number of families, Including young children, who have made the showgrounds their headquarters for this year's holidays. “We miss the young men,’’ he said, "they certainly liven up the camp, but we look forward to the time when they celebrate their return to civil life by resuming their hobby of motor camping.” With plenty of boiling water available from two huge cylinders, “washing day” yesterday offered no difficulties to those desirous of attending to the family washing before New Year. Ample line space is available, a feature which is greatly appreciated by the womenfolk. Ironing also presents no difficulty with electric points provided, and the family are thus assured of nicely ironed shirts, play suits or shorts. A Friendly Spirit Ample space is available, and a friendly spirit prevails throughout the camp. The handsome caravan is parked “next door" to the humble tent, but the respective owners fraternise and the children greet their new playmates with enthusiasm. Even the Infants are not forgotten, and the sandpit and the swings are centres of attraction.

“Polly put the Kettle On, and We’ll All have Tea” is a popular slogan these warm days, and the huge double camp ovens were doing their job in preparation for morning tea. The range can accommodate 27 kettles at the same time, which gives an idea of the expanse of heating surface. There are also numerous electric points for those who prefer to use electric jugs or kettles. The most is made of the social side of life at the camp, and on week nights dances and concerts are held. The visitors elect their own entertainment committee, several members having served in that capacity for a number of years. Surprising talent is revealed as instrumentalists, vocalists and dancers all contribute to the enjoyment of their fellow campers. On Sunday night a concert by the Timaru Girls’ Harmonica Band was greatly enjoyed. Sports meetings for the children are also popular events at the camp.

The campers represent all parts of the South Island, while some have come from the North Island. Several parties have "booked in” for six weeks, and numerous others are staying for a fortnight or a month. Such is the popularity of Timaru at carnival time that campers who stay only one or two nights are somewhat rare. Once they arrive, they stay as long as their holidays will permit. The new Selwyn motor camp, which has recently commenced operations within the Borough, has also enjoyed a well deserved popularity, and when the reporter paid a visit yesterday there were about 80 parties in camp. Sheltered from the winds, and with large trees providing welcome shade, campers who had signed the visitors’ book were lavish in their praise. One party has already reserved accommodation for next year, which is certainly an unsolicited testimonial.

Mr E. A. Scott, secretary of the Automobile Association (South Canterbury), received advice yesterday that the Christchurch motor camp at the Agricultural and Pastoral Association’s showgrounds will be closed to campers as from Monday, January 6. It is probable that the showgrounds are required for military purposes.