TRAMPING CLUB.

Wairarapa Age, 1 October 1930, Page 5

TRAMPING CLUB.

FORMATION OF WAIRARAPA BODY. ADDRESS BY MR. F. W. VOSSELER. ENTHUSIASTIC MEETING. The formation of a Wairarapa Tramping Club was decided upon at a meeting held in the Lecture Boom of the Municipal Buildings ‘ last night. An address was given by Mr. F. W. Vosseler, of the Tararua Tramping Club, Wellington, who had much of interest to say about tramping in its various phases. There was a good attendance of the public, in spite of the inclement weather. Mr. G. J. Goldsman presided. Mr. Vosseler, who showed a large number of beautiful slides depicting tramping parties and scenery in many of the Dominion's holiday resorts, conducted his audience on a trip over the Tararua Ranges, down the- Wanganui River and on a visit to such well-known localities as Mt. Egmont, Mt. Cook and other places. Mr. Vosseler mentioned the many advantages to be obtained from an organised club in the way of concessions and the cheapness of longdistance trips. A federation of New Zealand tramping clubs was being formed, linking up all the elubs in the Dominion in one big brotherhood and sisterhood. The members of the clubs affiliated to the federation would have the opportunity of taking part in the outings arranged by any of the clubs. Mr. Vosseler stated that the Tararua Tramping Club, since its inception, had spent thousands of pounds in building many of the huta he had shown on his slides that night. The club now received a Government subsidy. The huts could be used by anyone. He expressed the hope that a club would be formed in Masterton, stating that in his opinion it would never be regretted. Mr. Vosseler spoke of the good fellowship which existed between club members. They were one big family and recognised no class distinctions. “It must be remembered," said Mr. Vosseler, “that trampers are very largely trespassing on other people’s property. They have got to- play the game absolutely and take safeguards about fires and be certain that these are entirely extinguished before they are left. Of course, trampers will not do any harm to the birds or plants and will shut all gates.” The speaker stressed the vital importance of -trampers being properly equipped with warm clothing and provided with compasses and matches in waterproof containers. In reply to a suggestion by Mr. W. H. Jolliffe, Mr. Vosseler said he had always urged the use of a distinguishing badge for trampers. Mr. Vosseler was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for his interesting address.

Following on Mr. Vosseler’s address it was decided to form a Wairarapa Tramping Club. It was mentioned that there was a balance of about £6 in the bank lying to the credit of a former tramping club. I The election of officers resulted as follows:—President, Mr. G. J. G'oldsman; vice-presidents. Messrs. A P Whatman, P. W. Jackson, E. W. Payton, H. M. Peacock; secretary and treasurer, Mr. W. Laird; chief guide, MrJP. C. Brockett; committee, Messrs. J. Wallis, F. Allen, T. Lewis, with power to add.

The subscription wa* fixed at 10s for ladies and men, and 5s for juniors (under 18 years). The executive was empowered to frame rales and it was decided to affiliate with the Federation of New Zealand Mountain Tramping Clubs. A total of 35 members were enrolled during the evening.