PORT WAIKATO CAMP

Waikato Times, Volume 194, Issue 22247, 17 January 1944, Page 2

PORT WAIKATO CAMP

VALUABLE HEALTH SERVICE VISITING PARTY IMPRESSED The second draft of 150 children who entered camp at Port Waikato on Thursday received a visit on the* following day from 3 party which included Mr F. Findlay, M.P. for Hamilton. The children had settlAi down well and were thoroughly enjoying themselves. Many improvements have been carried out at the camp in recent years and the amenities and environment are well-nigh perfect. The farsighted policy of Mr W. H. Paul, the founder of the Waikato Children’s Camp League, in developing a tree and shrub planting scheme at Port Waikato is bearing fruit, and the appearance of the magnificent bush on the hills behind the camp is enhanced by the thick but well-con-trolled growth of trees and shrubs in which the camp is now set. The whole prospect is most picturesque, jMr Paul was indisposed when the party visited the camp, but the secretary, Mrs H. Ross, and Mrs H. D. Cobb showed the visitors over the camp. A concert was held, in which the children showed remarkable talent, both individually and as a group. Mr Findlay addressed the children and paid a tribute to the work of the league. Since it was established 16 years ago 5000 children, he said, had passed through the camp. Many had returned again and again to act as prefects while others had given higher service with the armed forces overseas. Mr Findlay said the camp, with its ordered system and cultural activities, was playing an important part in moulding the lives of the children and providing them with a basis for good .citizenship. The visitors were impressed by the splendid conduct of the children, the system cf training employed, and the regard given to their health and general welfare. Mrs Cobb is playing an important role as a voluntary nurse, and cases of minor injuries, sickness and sunburn are given expert attention. The holiday provided the children is wholly beneficial, and many pounds are added to their weight during their stay in camp.