CAMP BREAKS UP

Waikato Independent, Volume XLIII, Issue 3948, 28 January 1944, Page 3

CAMP BREAKS UP

TERRITORIAL HARVESTERS

FARMERS' APPRECIATION

After a period of 28 days the second Territorial camp at the racecourse "broke up" last night and this morning the men remaining, about 30, left for their homes. The original strength of this group was 50 and during their period in camp they were sent to 178 different farms, which is a clear indication of the demand for harvesting assistance, from district farmers. They went out as required in parties ranging from two to eight men. Interviewed by an Independent representative Lieut. C. P. Hnrington, officer in charge, said: "I can truthfully say that of this second group we have not had one complaint. I feel that the men have done a good job of work. They are from all walks of life—a jeweller, j shop assistants, agents, clerks, etc."

To further questions Lieut. Harington said: “Yes the men are going out much litter than when they entered camp. When they were not out in the harvest lields they were kept at training in camp. This side also has not been overlooked. It has even included lectures on various subjects. “It is true that some of the men were very ‘green’ at harvesting when they first arrived, but they soon settled down and I feel that they have earned their money.’’ Thanks From Primary Production Committee. On Wednesday evening the men were assembled and were paraded by Sgt.-Major I\. Atkins. At the invitation of Lieut. Harington the men were addressed by Mr J. Jeans, deputy-chairman of the Cambridge Primary Production Committee. Mr Jeans said that on behalf of the district farmers he wished to thank the officers and men of the second group for their helpful co-operation and valuable assistance in harvesting the district hay crop. Through being in close touch with the camp 4ie had learned that the men had done a “good job of work’’ and there had been few, if any, complaints from the farmers. He hoped that the men had been well treated on the many farms they had visited. The co-operation of the Army authorities had been invaluable and Mr Jeans spoke in'appreciative terms of the ready co-operation at all times of the oflicers of the local camp. He hoped the men had physically bcnelited as a result o£ their slay in the country. The territorial harvesting scheme had been a success in Cambridge, at least, and perhaps they would have the men back again next year. “You can return to your homes feeling that \ou have been of real assistance to the fanners of this district and again. <'n their behalf l thank you, said Mr Jeans in conclusion. The men were then lined up to receive the fruits of their labour—their pay. On Wednesday the camp received a visit from Col. W. Smeeton, of Hamilton. It was mentioned that the racecourse conveniences had been ideal and the authorities appreciated the action of the Cambridge Trotting Club in readily making them available. It is likely that the hot water service and the several showers which were erected by tlie Army will be left in anticipation of them being used again next season.