Local & General

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 13, Issue 81, 2 May 1949, Page 4

Local & General

Road Improvements An improvement to the road between Edgecumbe and Te Teko is wanted by the Whakatane Chamber of Commerce and it was decided at last week’s meeting to press the Whakatane County Council for immediate improvements. Edgecumbe Farewell A farewell to Mesdames P. Walton and H. Wollett was held recently at the home of Mrs D. Spence by members of the Edgecumbe Women’s Institute. Mrs R. Burgess was the winner of a musical competition.

May Petrol Coupons Petrol coupons 31, 32 and 33 will be available for May at the full face value. This was announced last week by the Minister of Supply, Mr Nordmeyer. In addition any unused coupons 28, 29 and 30 will be available at the full face value during the same month. Dominion’s Population

New Zealand’s population at the end of last year was 1,186,714, according to the latest issue of the Abstract of Statistics. This figure which includes Maoris, comprises 934,189 men and 927,525 women. The Maori population of 111,627 comprises 57,471 men and 54,156 women.

Taneatua Anzac Day In spite of bad weather there was a large attendance to the Anzac Day ceremony at Taneatua. A parade of returned servicemen and women, Girl Guides, Brownies, Boys’ Brigade and Life Boys was led by the Whakatane Boys’ Band. The Rev Humble presided over the gathering and the address was given by the Rev R. T. Dodds.

Whakatane Flooding Concern at the damage caused by floods at Whakatane was expressed by members of the Whakatane Chamber of Commerce last week. The trouble was said to be caused by the narrow channel taking the Wairere Stream and it was decided to take a petition round to the businessmen concerned to press the authorities, through the Borough. Council, for some improvement to be done. Work to be carried out as soon as possible.

Muttonbird Season The first muttonbirds of the season have now reached the mainland. The birds are in excellent condition, fat and fairly heavy. The birders themselves are experiencing a successful season, and their health generally is good. The weather is not always favourable, and, there has been a great deal of rain in the various islands, but it is expected the return trip by the main parties will be made about May 21.

Famous Pianist Likes - “Swing” Famous South African-born pianist Isador Goodman likes, “swing” music in its proper place. When he arrived in Auckland by flying boat from Sydney he said he would welcome the opportunity to play more golf and looked forward to meeting New Zealand audiences again, and liked swing and jazz. “While I am here I hope to play some golf,” said Mr Goodman. “For - three and a half years I have been working every other day and had had no time for the game.” An enthusiastic, “I love it in its proper place,” was the answer given when he was asked what he thought about “swing” music. Mr Goodman said he could not see anything wrong with it. After a concert he enjoyed hearing nothing better.