Oamaru

New Zealand Tablet, 19 August 1915, Page 29

Oamaru

(From our own correspondent.) August 16. St. Patrick s Club was crowded on Friday night to make a presentation and bid farewell to Mr. John Kennaird, who lias enlisted with the Eighth Reinforcements. Rev. Father Farthing presided, and in making the presentation (a wristlet watch), referred to the long and pleasant relations which had existed between Mr. Kennaird and his fellow members, ijo lauded their guest’s action in enlisting and wished him, on behalf of the club, a safe return. Mr. J. H. Rowe (president of St. Patrick’s Club), also spoke, voicing the kindly wishes of the club and their appreciation of Mr. Keunaird’s action in offering his services to the Empire. The recipient briefly thanked those present for their gift and appreciative expressions. lie trusted that he would uphold the proud reputation of the soldiers of New Zealand. Durum the evening songs were contributed by Misses Magee, Barry, and McMahon, Rev. Father Farthing, and Mr. Rowe. Miss Gilligan was accompanist. After a pleasant hour spent in social harmony the evening wound up with the singing of 4 Auld lang sync.’ A welcome to Mr. W. Curran on his return from England was extended by members of the Athletic Football Club last night. Mr. J. S. Burns presided. The chairman briefly outlined the career of Mr. CurVan. and stated that he had received his first tuition at the able hands of Mr. P. J. Duggan; then he played for the Athletic Club for two or three seasons, finally going to Auckland and playing for the Marist Brothers. lie had then decided to enter the professional ranks, and had toured Australia with the All Black team, where he made a reputation for himself, lie next accepted an offer to go Home and play for Wigan, and for his play there was boomed as ‘ the wonderful W. Curran from New Zealand.’ The usual toast list was honored, harmony being rendered by Messrs. E. P. Curran, T. Nightingale, 11. Nightingale, E. Ilamill, W. Ilamill, and P. James. Mr. Curran congratulated the Athletic. Club on winning the Citizens' Shield for feu years in succession, which is a New Zealand club record.