A FAREWELL GATHERING

Hokitika Guardian, 8 September 1926, Page 4

A FAREWELL GATHERING

(From a Correspondent) A number of the Wataroa- settlers gathered at Matainui on the eve of September 4th to bid farewell to Mr Jack Tonkin of Dalgety and Co., Greymouth, who is tinder transfer to the Christchurch Office. Mr T. Mcßride, on behalf of those present outlined the loss Westland was under and this district felt at the departure of such a sterling, able and trustworthy officer. Since Mr Tonkin find come amongst the settlors his energy and tact had placed his firm well to the front and the settlers felt his departure very much. He welcomed his successor, Mr X. McQueen, who was taking Mr Tonkin’s position. Mr T. Mcßride, on behalf of those present, presented Mr Tonkin with a C’.F. Co pipe and a box of handkerchiefs as a small token if esteem and goodfellowship.

Mr Tonkin returned thanks and said be felt honored at the remarks of ihe residents of the district and appreciated their substantial present. He trusted and assured his successor he would find the people of Westland a good class of settlers and hoped that some day he would have the pleasure of renewing old acquaintances and again visiting the district lie had represented for over two years.

Several others sneakers outlined Mr Tonkin's good qualities and the singing of “ He’s A Jolly Good Fellow ” terminated a very pleasant function.