MAORI PROGRESSIVE LEAGUE

Western Star, 22 August 1924, Page 3

MAORI PROGRESSIVE LEAGUE

A meeting of natives was held in the Town Hall, Riverton, on. Thursday afternoon with the object- of forming a branch of the Maori Progressive League. Ai r B. J. Stevens presided, and there were sixteen natives in attendance

Mr A. Wixon addressed the gathering, and pointed out the benefits that would accrue by the formation of such a league. He dealt fully with the native lands in Southland, the timber from which was valued at six millions, Those were large areas in Hokonui, Vest Waiau, and Stewart Island. Iu the past some of these areas had been sold for .sawmilling purposes, but the prices obtained had been coniderably loss than the value. What the natives required was co-operation, and if the whole of the Moari timber right were sold to a syndicate or company better prices, would be obtained. Mr Wixon then dealt with the mutton-birding industry. By apoiiuing one agent who would provide steamers and food, -a large saving would be effected and the retail price of the birds could he fixed. A progresspayment of Gd, pier bird could be made to the natives. Aftor traversing the the claims of the natives in Ngaitabu block, and the benefits that would be derived when a comm s? ion had been set up Mr Wixon was heartily thanked for his address, ft was rcolved that a. branch, to be called the Riverton and Colac. be formed. Mr E. J. Stevens was elected chairman and the following committee formed Messrs E : . Howell. W. Leader, Kitia, Jos. Hunter. Mesdames Simon and W. Leaden Miss Kura Hunter was elected Secretary.

The lady canvassers appointd to the various areas are busily engaged collecting for the Paddy’s market on September Otli, in aid of the Band fund?, and are meeting with a gene’rous response. It iis to be hoped that the public will give generously and also patronise the market, which is in aid of such a good came. Hand in ypur gifts ami do not forget to visit the market on Saturday Gth. For Bronchial Coughs, take J Woods’ Great- Peppermint Cure.