BULLS NOTES

Wanganui Chronicle, 12 April 1948, Page 2

BULLS NOTES

TOWN BOARD SUPPORTS RANGITIKEI AMBULANCE (0.C.) Bulls, April 11. A deputation from the sub-commit* ?c of the Junior Chamber of Commerce formed by Dr. Benson and the Rev. Mr. Gamelin, of Marton, waited on the Bulls Town oßard on Thursday night, seeking to enlist the interest of the board in securing an ambulance for the benefit of Rangitikei district residents. It was explained by Dr. Benson thstime lost in bringing an ambulance from Wanganui—from half to threequarters of an hour—may mean all the difference between unnecessary suffering or even death. Mr. Gamelin intimated that an ambulance was available for £lOOO, and went on to say tiiat the Chamber of Commerce was desirous of ascertaining the nature of support likely to be given to the proposal. No organised drive for funds had been made pending receipt of the views of the various organisations that have been contacted. Questioned by Cmr. McManaway, Dr. Benson intimated that the Wanganui Hospital Board did not consider the proposed ambulance necessary in view of the scheme to build a hospital in Marton. Dr. Benson explained that it was proposed to have drivers made available from Marton garages, under a roster system, and the Marton branch of St. John Ambulance would provide attendants. The chairman said the board was sympathetic toward the scheme and would let them know their decision. Cmr. McManaway thought that if one life was saved in Bulls It would be worth while. Cmr. Stokes thought that with a town the size of Marton the ambulance would be almost fully occupied there. Then there was Hunterville as well. Cmr. Ellery pointed out last the service from the Wanganui ambulance was very satisfactory. Cmr. O’Connell thought it would have been better had the board been able to get a lead from the Marton Borough Council and Hunterville. “We supported the Marton Hospital, so we should support this,” he said. The board agreed that the project was a suitable one. THE LATE MR. R. J. MCDONALD. The death occurred on March 16, at his residence, “Journey's End,” Glencairn, Marton, of Mr. Robert James McDonald (better known as "Bob”), eldest son of the late Mr. and Mrs. James McDonald, of Rangitikei. A returned soldier of the 1914-18 war, on his return from active service he bought part of the well-known Bruce estate, where he resided up to the time of his death. During World War II he was a valued member of the mounted troop of the Turakina Home Guard. Mr. McDonald, who never married, is survived by one sister— Mrs. R. A. Klatt, of Taylor's Line, Sanson, and three brothers, Messrs Allen (well-known Awapuni trainer). Jack (Marton) and Allister, of Turakina. Another brother, Tom, made the supreme sacrifice in the 19X4-18 conflict.

The funeral left from the residence of Mr. D. McLean, Martan Junction, for the Mount View cemetery, the pall-bearers from the house being members of the R.S.A. At the graveside the casket was borne by Messrs Allen, Jack and Allister McDonald, A. W. Trotter and H. and W. McLean.