MAY FAIR

Hokitika Guardian, 16 May 1929, Page 1

MAY FAIR

AT INVERCARGILL

OPENING DAY

(By Telegraph—Per Press Association.)

INVERCARGILL, May 15.

Invercargill's May Fair was launched with conspicuous success this afternoon in the presence of fifteen thousand people. The sky was overcast, but the weather remained fine A spectacular procession made its way through the principal streets of the town to the Show Grounds, where the official opening ceremony was held.

While the proecssiqn was in progress, plenty of excitement was provided by two aeroplanes from Sockburn, which went through some daring manoeuvres overhead. A. large crowd had assembled at the show grounds to witness the opening ceremony. After Mr AY. Stevenson. Chairman of the Carnival Committee. had spoken, the Prime Minister, Sir Joseph Ward, officially declared the Mav Fair open. 'Hie Prime Minister said that the May Fair gave the people of Invercargill an opportunity of showing in what enterprising directions they were prepared to work for the benefit of the community as a whole. As head of the Government of New Zealand, it gave him great satisfaction to know that there were enterprising business men and women who were prepared to devote their time and energy to bring into being such magnificent trade displays as Were seen in the procession. It was most gratifying to sec that the business people were so ready to co-operate in giviiie the comniounity re’axalion and enjoy incut. Right through the ages the men and women of Southland had felt that tlieir district was destined to lie one of the greatest territories in New Zealand. As far as productive capacity was com-erned, those expectations had been realised, said Sii" Joseph Ward. The Prime Minister expressed his indebtedness to flying men, who had given such a speHacular exhibition that afternoon. 'Pile presence of the aeroplanes was an evidence' of Die growth and development of flying and the people of Invercargill had had, and would have, the opportunity of seeing what could be done with modern machines.

Speeches were also delivered by the Mayor, Mr J. D.. Campbell, and Mi J. C. Thompson.

To-night the streets are thronged with merry makers in fancy dress, and some of the principal buildings and many shops are gaily decorated with coloured electric lights, the whole town presenting a bright and animated appearance. Every one seems to realise that to-day’s magnificent beginning is but the prelude to three recreational days of jollity.