ROSS NEWS.

Hokitika Guardian, 1 June 1928, Page 1

ROSS NEWS.

(From Our Own Correspondent)

Mr H. E. Holland (Leader of the Opposition) addressed a well-attended meeting ill the Totara Hall on Wednesday, upwards of 100 adults being present.

In the absence of the Mayor through illness the Deputy-Mayor (Mr H. Osmers) occupied the chair and introduced the speakers, including Air Jas, O’Brien, who accompanied Air Holland. Air Jas. O’Brien spoke first, giving a short address of about 10 minutes. He stated his main reason for speaking was to contradict a statement that had got around to the effect that he would not be contesting the Westland seat at the forthcoming general election. He assured the audience that he would again be a candidate and that ho would be starting his campaign at an early date.

Air Holland then delivered his address, which lasted over an hour, in which lie outlined the policy of the Labour Party. He dwelt at some length on their land policy, promising many improvements in the existing land policy if his party is returned. He also referred to the timber and coal industries at considerable length, bis -party being strongly adverse to the importance of these commodities.

He promised increases in all pensi ms iml improvements in many other dii.-c-

llis address was attentively listened to throughout and at the concl't-.ion after several questions -had been a.-Keu and satisfactorily answered a vote of thanks moved by Mr 11. Osmers aud seconded by Air J. Sbarkev was wed unanimously.

AVliilo proceeding from Ross to Kokntalii yesterday morning, the ear in which Messrs H. E. Holland and Jas. O’Brien were travelling collided wth

the County lorry, with the result tout Air O’Brien’s car was considerably damaged, one of the front wheels being torn off and the axle broken, damage also was done to the guard and run-

ning board. The lorry suflered only slight damage. The ear had to be abandoned in the meantime and another procured from Hokitika to enable- the travellers to proceed to their destination. None of the occupants of cither vehicle was hurt.

Another car accident occurred oil the south road on A\ ednesday evening

when a car driven by Air A. A! all. when returning home from the Kokatahi Show, got off the road. One of the

front wheels were smashed to pieces and other minor damage done.

Tlio Ladies’ Hockey Club are making preparation for the iancy dress ball whirl) is to be held this evening ill the Totara Hall. The ball is being decorated with streamers and greenery and nothing is being left undone to make the function one of the most successful yet held.

The farmers’ train to Dunedin, which leaves Ross next Monday morning promises to be well patronised. Quito a number both from Ross and South Westland have signified tlieir intention of making this trip. The local footballers are at present in bard training and should give a good account of themselves on the seven-aside day in Hokitika next Monday.

Air Irwin, Schools Inspector, lias for the past week been busy making bis annual inspection of all the schools in this district.