FAREWELL TO J.CAMERON, ARAHURA.

Hokitika Guardian, 9 June 1920, Page 1

FAREWELL TO J.CAMERON, ARAHURA.

- The Arahura Hall held last night probably the largest, and certainly the heartiest lot of people assembled there since it was built, the occasion being ft farewell social tendered by the settlers to Mr John Cameron, who has been manager of the Dairy Factory since it was built some 15 years ago. A large number of townspeople went out by cars to join their testimony of regard. After a couple of hours of dancing, the secretary of the Dairy, Company seized the occasion to present Air Cameron with two very valuable presents one for himself and one for Airs Cameron, as a token of the esteem and affection in which they were held. Adresses' ' were given by Messrs TV. Houston, Wild, Davidson, Breeze and Bruce, in which the speakers reviewed - their experiences and knowledge of Mr Cameron’s career. It was told how it was almost entirely due to his acumen arid efforts that the Arahura Factory came into being, that while the Government experts had said that no j factory could succeed on the supply of less than 400 cows; this factory had started with only 180, and, owing to AliCameron’s able management economy, that trenched on meanness and outstand ing honesty, the factory had been made such a success that it was quoted all over the Dominion as an example of what could be done. The other two local factories that had sought, and adopted his suggestions, had been very glad of it ever since. Referring to Air Cameron’s public life, it was pointed out that while he had to be forced into taking up public duties, lie not being of the disposition to push, himself forward, lie had showed the same earnest, thorough and fearless outspoken spirit in public affairs that had made a success of his' business and gained him tile friendship and esteem of everyone with whom he hjad dealings. Extreme regret was expressed that he had resolved to resign his position, and move to a fresh field, and it was hoped that'lie would soon-feel the call of th.e Coast to be irresistible, and come back among his old friends again. Mr Cameron, in a very forceful reply, gave the credit for the success and progress of the district since he had come among them to the way the settlers chad pulled together as one with him, and it was only the fear of causing some split in their community that was causing him to move on. He appealed to the people to 'continue to pull wholly together, and to the young men in particular to take a hand and actively help along the Hospital. Songs were contributed by ALisses Shnnd and Davidson and Air Bradley, the last named arousing such enthusiasm with his effort, “ A Wee Dooch and Doris,” that the whole assemblage joined in the chorus, and it was plainly evident that prohibition will never'be supported in the V'allev. .

Dancing was then resumed,' and kept up until alter 2 a.m. The instrumental music was effectively rendered by Airs Louisch, Airs Hnrcourt and Miss Breeze.