W.A.A.C.’S CAMP

Evening Star, Issue 24328, 17 October 1942, Page 8

W.A.A.C.’S CAMP

THE GIRLS MOVE IN For the first time in Dunedin women arc actually living in a military camp. Since Monday 35 members of the W.A.A.C. nave been in camp with a local anti-aircraft regiment. These W.A.A.C.s have, nh’eady had six weeks’ recruit training in Christchurch, where lliev were introduced to Army drill, signalling, map reading, and attended lectures on anti-gas and identification of aircraft. Now, full of enthusiasm, they have come back to begin the job m earnest. Most of the girls aim at instrument work, but to be chosen for that, they' must have exceptionally good eyesight, a good education, and be able to pass an intelligence test. Unfortunately, many of the girls have shown themselves unfitted for such specialist work, and the Army authorities are hoping for more recruits who will bfivo the necessary qualifications. How'ever, some of this first batch have begun training- on the predictor and heightfinder, and in telescope identification. A Star ’ reporter watched them one beautiful afternoon recently form up, march briskly, over to the instruments, and under the somewhat embarrassed tuition of a young officer, try to master the intricate

-workings of these delicate instruments. The girls arc keen to learn, but just at lirst are finding it somewhat bewildering. Olliers are acting as mess orderlies, cooks in training, cook-house fatigues, and one is in charge of the R.A.P. (regimental aid post). Generally speaking, the idea is to train these women to release able-bodied men for other duties.

The quarters, which are still in the course of construction, are most comfortable and convenient. Huts hold four beds, and later there will be proper wardrobes and chests of drawers. But as the uniform so far issued consists only of battledrcs.s, a drill frock, and a greatcoat, the lack of accommodation is not worrying the girls. The beds look comfortable. In fact, one recruit was overheard saying: “I’ve never slept so well as I have in the Army.” And all the girls were enthusiastic about their enjoyment of the new life. Certainly on a line'afternoon the camp was a pleasant place to be in, and “ community life is fun,’’ as they said. A mess room, rest room, and later a recreation hall, arc all part of the W.A.A.C. quarters, which are quite separate from the men’s. Shower rooms and wash rooms with a plentiful supply of hot water, a. laundry, and drying room, are all well fitted and arranged. Altogether, life in the Army for the W.A.A.C.s in such well-planned quarters should be full of interest; and in addition, recruits are certain that they are serving their country in the way that it requires.