"DO YOU REMEMBER?"

Chronicle (Levin), 16 November 1946, Page 2

"DO YOU REMEMBER?"

RIFLE BRIGADE CONVENTION Some 900 "Dinks" meet in Christchurch. A marvellous scene was portrayed at Wentworth when 900 "Dinks" from the 1914-18 war met in Christchurch. At 10.30 on November 7, the Mayor tendered a civic reception and "the freedom of the city." In fact if it had not been granted, the. "Dinks" would doubtless have taken it. At 2.30 p.m. a bus drive over the Cashmere Hills was arranged, and many of the boys took advantage of this wonderful drive, which was greatly appreciated. At eight o'clock in the evening a banquet was held and this proved to be an unforgettable aifair, especially as 900 "Dinks" met, many of whom had not been together since the first Somme or Messines. All over the huge building there was a "buzz in the air," and it was "Do you remember?" The toast of "The King" was proposed by Mr. J. K. Maloney, and the toast of "The Rifle Brigade" by Canon Parr, a gallant padre of the R.B. This was responded to by Col. St. Beere. Among those present were men from the North Cape to the Bluff, while even Stewart Island was represented. It was claimed to be the most enjoyable evening ever held by the brigade, and thanks are due to the wonderful organisation of Mr. Pat Maloney and his great team of workers, who for the past four months had been organising the convention, arranging accommodation, food supplies, tours, shows, trots and many other matters connected with such a large undertaking. A letter was received from the widow of Brigadier Fulton, expressing regret that she could not be present, but wishing the convention every success. A conference followed next morning when it was decided to form a Rifle Brigade Federation. A very strong committee was set up and arranged that the first meeting be held in Wellington. Mr. Con. M. O'Sullivan, who was at the convention, will represent Manawatu. A five o'clock party was held at the residence of an old "Dink," Mr. Davies, who has a beautiful home in a lovely setting. In the^rounds is the oldest copper beech tree in Christchurch— eighty years old. The party was for visiting "Dinks"

and their wives, and needless to say a most enjoyable ■ time was spent.