HAIL CALEDONIA!

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 10, Issue 31, 30 September 1946, Page 5

HAIL CALEDONIA!

WHAKATANE SOCIETY INGLESIDE OPOTIKI SCOTS ENTERTAINED Whakatane Caledonians entertained members of the recently formed Opotiki Caledonian Society at their September Ingleside which was held in the King Street-Hall last Friday evening. The event was a singular success and attracted a packed hall of members and their friends, and we can feel sure that the Opotiki Hei’landers will take back with them rosy reports of ‘how Whakatane does it’ on the occasion of brither Scots foregatherin.’

With a background of greenery, the gathering can be honestly described as one of the best promoted by the Society this year. From start to finish the programme went with a real swing. Chief Simons who was piped in early in .the piece, was followed by Chief Croll the Opotiki clan-head, who proudly presented his clansmen and women to the tune of no less than fifty-three. The Opotiki invasion was undoubtedly the largest of its kind seen in this fair centre, and it was to the credit of the Caledonians that they were treated to a first-class entertainment of dancing and Scottish items. As in the past, dancing was strictly old-time and it was again something worthy of remark to note the manner in which the younger generation lost no time in joining in and becoming happy exponents of the steps and enjoyed by their parents and (possibly) grandparents. Modern dancing was strictly taboo. Appropriate music was supplied by the Premier Dance Band who on this occasion excelled themselves. Most of the tunes played were old-time Scottish airs which could be adapted easily to the dances and their popularity was indicated by the spontaneous applause which followed each number. It was pleasing to note the Lancers draw a full floor, and likewise the ‘Destiny Waltz’ find many exponents. Particularly enjoyable items were supplied by a number of local artists, these including Mrs T. W. Burke, Mr Malcolm Black and Mr L. Gage. Each of these provided selected solos which won instant popularity with the crowd. A pipe selection was rendered by Piper Russell Hurst.

The ‘haggis’ ceremonial was duly hoonured, the celebrated Scottish dish being piped round the hall and laid before the Chief. It was then addressed in Burns’ immortal words and served to the assemblage. The visitors as the Society’s especial guests were served supper in the committee room, while the remainder of the large crowd were in the hands of the Society’s capable committee.

In extending ,a cordial greeting to the Opotiki visitors, Chief Simons said he trusted the visit would be the forerunner of many others, and he looked forward to the day when the two Societies would co-operate even more closely for the purpose of fostering Scottish tradition and of cultivating good relationship between Scottish residents in both districts. Replying, Chief Croll expressed his great pleasure and appreciation of the splendid evening and the hospitality which had been extended his Society. He trusted a return visit could be arranged at an early date. A feature of the second half was a marching display by the Band, which won great applause. The evening closed at midnight with the singing of Auld Lang Syne.