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New Zealand Tablet, 30 November 1911, Page 2439

AN UP-TO-DATE INSTITUTION.

A representative of the Greymouth Evening Star paid a visit to the rooms of the St. Columba Club last ig week and was agreeably surprised to see the splendidly equipped rooms, the large attendance of members and the enthusiasm displayed by all concerned. He first of all inspected the billiard room, which is large and well lighted and equipped with a first-class table. There are a great many devotees to this fascinating game, and if one may judge by the skill displayed, it will not be long before the club produces a Gray or a Stevenson. Adjoining the billiard room is a spacious hall where all kinds of indoor games are indulged in. A number were last night fighting out a keen game of quoits and others were playing table bowls. The musical taste of the members is also duly catered for, and the club have an excellent piano. Several of the members possess considerable musical abilities and are able to organise a concert programme at very short notice. ' The Hibernian Society is building a lodge room next to the hall, and provision will be made for folding doors, so that when occasion arises the two rooms can be made into one and enable accommodation to be made for a large number. For those who are studiously inclined (continues the Star') full provision has been made. The room set aside for this purpose has been splendidly furnished, chairs and lounges, handsomely upholstered in red velvet, being provided. Stands with the leading Dominion and Home papers are arranged around the room. There is an ample supply of the leading magazines and many books of reference. Several of the Marist Brothers are always in attendance, and they are ever willing to assist and direct the members in their studies. Mr. T. Pollard attends several nights a week to coach a number of ladies and gentlemen, who are rehearsing a comedietta for the forthcoming bazaar. In every way the club is a credit to the town of Greymouth, and is a monument to the enthusiasm of the Catholic young men. They are all fully impressed with the truth of the motto, mens sana in carport sano. Our representative complimented the Rev. Father Finnerty on possessing such a valuable organisation in connection with St. Patrick’s Church. The Rev. Father replied that he was more than satisfied with the work being done. The average attendance was close on thirty, and the club provided healthy amusement and recreation for the young men and kept them off the streets. He considered it a valuable adjunct in Church work.