MR J. A. KAY FAREWELLED.

Waipa Post, Volume II, Issue 75, 9 January 1912, Page 3

MR J. A. KAY FAREWELLED.

On Saturday evening Mr J. A. Kay, who has been in the local branch of the Bank of New Zealand for the last sVz years was farewelled by his many friends prior to his departure from the district. It was not until Saturday morning that it was made known that Mr Ka3 f was about to leave Tc Awamutu, and considerable surprise was expressed by all at the totally unlooked for announcement. A movement was immediately taken in hand to make a presentation to Mr Kay and to afford an opportunity of saying farewell. Support was quickly forthcoming, and in the evening a most enjoyable smoke concert was held at Jackson’s Sample Rooms, which had been gratuitously placed at the disposal of the promoters. About 80 friends assembled, but doubtless had more notice been given, and his friends from the adjoining districts been advised, the attendance would have been very much larger. Mr J. B. Teasdale presided in a most efficient manner. In proposing the health of the guest Mr Teasdale stated that although all present regretted Mr Kay’s departure, they could not fail to congratulate him on the promotion brought about by his transfer. He had known the guest for many years, and had always found him most willing and obliging. (Applause.) Mr Kay, in a short but appropriate speech, thanked all for their good wishes. He had too many pleasant recollections of Te Awamutu to stay away for long, and hoped to occasionally be back to see his friends (applause). Mr Teasdale, in proposing the health of “ The fellow officers of the Bank of New Zealand,” referred to the great increase in the business of the Bank of New Zealand at Te Awamutu. He spoke most highly of all the officials, and referred to the great value of a bank to any district. Mr von Stunner (manager) replying stated that he much regretted the cause of the meeting, as Mr Kay was the oldest standing officer he had. For this, and many other reasons, he was exceedingly sorry the transfer had been found necessary. He referred to the great changes which had.taken place during the 9 years he had been at Te .Awamutu.

Messrs Archibald and Taylor also replied in similar strains. “Te Awamutu,” coupled with the name of Mr B. Teasdale, was the next toast to be-honoured. In replying, Mr Teasdale thanked all for the honor of replying on behalf of Te Awamutu. It was 35 years since he first came to the township, and during that time he had always endeavoured to take a lively interest in its welfare (applause). For many years he had been a member of the Waipa County Council, and when in 1884 Te Awamutu became a Town District, he was a member of the newly-formed Town Board. It was indeed gratifying to note the progress of the last few years. He was sure that it would be a wise course to borrow £20,000 for water, drainage and street improvement purposes provided of course the money was judiciously expended. Te Awamutu was one of the nicest spots of the Dominion, and there was no place with better prospects. (Prolonged applause). Other toasts to be proposed and duly honoured were “ The Polo Club,” responded to by Messrs W. Kay, O. Kay, E. Potts, and F. Taylor; “The Ladles,” responded to by Messrs E. Walker, Dr Gribben, J. Elliott, D. McLean and A. Taylor; “Sporting Societies ol Te Awamutu,” responded to by Messrs E. Moeller (Town Band and Philharmonic H. F. Edgecumbe and W. J. Phillips (Bowling and Croquet Clubs), S. A. Empson (Tennis Club), and L. Garland (Cricket and Football Clubs); “The Press,” responded to by Mr Warburton. During - the evening Mr Teasdale, on behalf of Mr Kay’s friends at Te Awamutu, presented him with a travelling bag and a very handsome pair of military brushes. In making the presentation, Mr Teasdale said he had known Mr Kay from infancy, and had always respected him. His departure from Te Awamutu meant a decided loss, more especially in matters relating to polo (applause). Mr Kay suitably responded and thanked all for the beautiful presents. He had very pleasant recollections of Te Awamutu, and was extremely sorry to leave the district.

During the evening songs were contributed by Messrs Dalton, Galloway, Marshall, Potts, Edgecumbe, Elliott, and Dr. Gribben. A most enjoyable evening was brought to a close s by singing Auld Lang Syne’” and with many rounds of cheers tor the guest of the evening.