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Hokitika Guardian, 28 February 1921, Page 2

In the supplement issue of tlio “Guardian” on Saturday there was an article dealing with the sand dunes and howto turn them to profitable account. Tt occurs to us that this is a subject which mijght receive local attention, as our seafront is in need of both security and greater ornamentation. The article referred to contains particulars of a pamphlet lately issued by the Government Printer. Tho reading matter is a translation of a report from a 1' rench expert on the subject, and the Borough Council should apply for copies for distribution among councillors to give ideas leading up to necessary action in this matter. There is no doubt a great deal can be done in the way of cultivation to arrest drifting sand and present a more agreeable view to the eye than stretching sand dunes. Tn this work a degree of greater security against set-

ious inroads by the ocfeaii can be looked for, for by the consolidation of the sand heaps, and their protection from immediate erosion, serious inroads will be at least arrested. There are, however, in New Zealand, 'examples of what can be done in the way of successful sand planting. The Sumner beach is a case in point where there are a variety of plantations flourishing most satisfactorily, and giving a good example of natural pro tec t ion to pie\ ent sand drift, and thereby avoid damage and risk to adjoining property. No doubt particulars of the plantations could be obtained from the Sumner Borough Council, as, also, useful information in regard to carrying out successfully the work referred to. Mention of the matter in conjunction with the local beach calls to mind tho fact that tlie suggestion thrown out some months ago to place the care and improvement of the sea front in the hands of a special committee, is still without effect. If the Borough Council resolves on .the necessary action in this matter it could not do better than place the responsibility for the work in tho hands of a good energetic committee.

Thk town is losing this week one of its most estimable citizens in the person of Mr P. R. Stewart, transferred to the National Bank management at Hamilton. Mr Stewart has been here a little over four years, and it is not too much to say that within that period lie has in his quiet unassuming manner contrived to give us all a splendid example of what true citizenship should be. In a thought for the times the other day appeared an excerpt from a creed of the open road, wherein the wavfarei iomarked it was desirable “to live to our highest in all tilings that pertain to us, and to lend a hand as best w ( > can to all others for this same end.’’ It appears to us that Air Stewart has lived right up to the broad idea of -true living, and having said that there is vorv little need for more to be said.

We believe, however, that Mr Stewart’s example has been ail inspiration to others. Certainly there are hundreds* of folk here who appreciate ljis worth and work in the common round of life, and we are persuaded his achievements will carry their effect right through the community. What he has acomplished will he ever remembered gratefully. In leaving us Mr Stewart will carry with him the best of good wishes for his future health and happiness,, That he will succeed we are so persuaded, for he has the qualities which will command success. The departure of Mr and Mrs Stewart "'ill leave something of a blank. They were co-workers for the relief and comfort of others and have done great good for the community at large. Pleasant and bright to a degree, they knew how to touch those secret springs which brought happiness and comfort to those whom tliey would assist, and their sojourn amongst us has not been in vain. Sincere regret will he felt on all sides at departure, tempered by the satisfaction that Mr Stewart has won promotion in the profession he adorns so much, and there will be a universal wish that the (lowers he and Mrs Stewart love, so much to cultivate, will always bestrew their pleasant pathway through life.