Weather Did Not Affect Success Of Gala

Chronicle (Levin), 11 October 1949, Page 2

Weather Did Not Affect Success Of Gala

Despite the adverse weather conditions, the. gala function hel'd on Saturday to raise funds for the purchase of a sound projector ana other amenities at the Otaki School was an outstanding success. Headed by the Otaki Brass Band and the local girls' marching teams, a very picturesque procession moved off to time from Main Street to the school, where the fancy dress entrants were joined by many more of pre.school age, who had assembled at the school. Probably the only note of regret that entered the proceedings was the dlsappointing fact that a group parade could not be held to give parents and spectators the chance to viev more ciosely the numerous striking costumes that were featured. Many mothers had obviously done an outstanding job. The wet weather contmgency had been commendably provided for and after following the ban'd to a point in front of the stalls, the fancy dress entrants disperseu and were directed by a loudspeaker to proceed to various classrooms, there to be judged. En^ trants in- the baby show were a^su very numerous and with these being directed to another building, the whole scene was busy and gay, with the task of the judges a most 'difficult one. While judging proceeded, the large crowd freely patronised the weil-stocked stalls, the response from local and district residents, both buyers and donors, having

assured the success of the effort from the time it was first mooted. Generousiy agreeing that '.'the show must go on," the Tuis and Bandoliers marching teams paraded in front of the school f oi - lowing the judging and, to inspiring music by the Otaki Band, comp.eted their intriguing displays in a manner which brought -forth g'enerous applause. Mr. A. G. Kirkwood, apologising for the inability of the chairman of the School Committee, Mr. H. Taylor, to speak, extended a cordial welcome to Mr. J. J. Maher, M.P., and Mrs. Maher. Before calling on Mr. Maher to officially open the gala, ' the speaker tooic the opportunity of expressmg thanks to all who had made the effort possible, with special thanks to the many stallholders, the judges, the Band and the marching teams. He trusted -that,- despite the rain, all woul'd view the many attractive articles on offer and spend freely. Mr. Maher said he was glad to be preeent to help in any1 way, and commended the objects of the function. He also applauded the attempt made to provide the school with facilities which country schools often had to do withou'fc, and in declaring the gala officially open offered a generous cash donation to help the effort. Further selections by the band followed-, with the many stalis and sideshows doiijg an excellent , "turnover" throughout. Following an adjournment, a very pleasing number were again in evidence on Saturday night, when a variety concert was provided. Visiting and loca! artists contributed items, all of which were generousiy applauded. A happy interlude was provided when the ex-pupil cycle race winner, "Buster" Walsh, was presented to the audience and the applause which greeted him could be heard some distance away. Sides'how games and competitions were finalised before the crowd dispersed at a late hour. The complete list of competitions is available at the school, with some winners being as follows: — Colleen Tetau, A. Lumley, B. Free, Wilma Vernon, Mr. Les. Walsh, Peter Davis, H. T. Mould, H. Branch, A. Denton, Mrs. Harrison (Levin), K. Adamson, Sally Kirk and Nurse Watts.