WESTLAND RACING CLUB

Hokitika Guardian, 4 September 1929, Page 3

WESTLAND RACING CLUB

ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the above Club, was held at Mclntosh’s Rooms, Hamilton St. at 8.35 o’clock last even- I ing. There, were present: Messrs W. E. Williams (President), T. W. Bruce, F. McGregor, J. Peake, D. J. Evans, A. W. Yarrall, W. A. Jamieson, R. Win ley, J. Stafford* H. 0. Newman, H. Rutland, T. Lynch, J. J. Breeze, M. H. Houston, H. T. Parry, A. Jamieson and Dr Teichelmann. Apology VjWas made for the absence of Hon H; L Michel, Messrs AY. A. Thompson, C. 'Neville, AA T . Newman, C. J. P. Sellers and J. J. Mcintosh. The minutes’ of the previous annual meeting were confirmed. The report of the Executive, and the balance sheet and statement of accounts were read by the Secretary. EXECUTIVE REPORT. SEASON 1928-1929. Gentlemen,— In presenting the annual report it is possible to indicate an improved financial statement of i>l>o Club’s affairs. It will be-recalled that in August of last year a disastrous fire occurred at the racecourse, de- j straying the commodious main grand stand and the well-equipped steward’s , stand and administrative quarters.] At the time of the last annual meeting proposals were put before . you for. the j rehabilitation of the appointments at the course. The Club was,fortunate in securing the services, of Mr D. Steven-, son, as builder, and upon his advice an economical, and on the whole veiy serviceable scheme was carried out. No. 2 grandstand was removed to the site of the former main stand, and enlarged considerably by extension, which provided also ifor administrative quarters. In addition a commodious tea room and kitchen were built, also ambulance quarters and soft drinks bar while the birdcage was enlarged considerably. The whole of the work was carried through expeditiously and was available for the Christmas meeting, and the general effect was found to be very satisfactory and on the whole convenient. The only convenience lacking was the stewards’ luncheon and this might be possible of arrangement in the near future.

' It is very satisfactory to report that the works above indicated were carried out below the estimated cost, despite the fact that during the process of Removing the stand there was a whiilwind visitation, and some extra damage done. The total building costs for tho large amount of work carried out was in the region of £I,OOO, £BBO of which was carried to debit in the year just closed, and the balance is a liability' outstanding. The economical expenditure referred to, thanks to .-Mr.; Stevenson’s wise direction, enabled other pressing works to be carried out. These included attention to the racing track, whereby the block cutting at.the back of the course was reduced, and so affording a clearer view of the racing, which will be greatly..appreciated by patrons; and also an extension of the track, to give a straight despatch from the six furlong starting post. Hitherto six furlong races were despatched on a turn, and were not satisfactory to owners or backers. The cutting of the hill was accomplished at a very reasonable cost, thanks to the (free assistance given by Mr S. Havill and sins with the tractor-plough in loosening the heavy surface. The caretaker carried out the extension of the track for the six furlong start, as also the widening of the course proper for over half a furlong, making a very satisfactory job. The starting posts for all events, as also the judge’s box, have still to be moved to complete the reorganisation of the track, which has been surveyed by Mr J. C. Madfarlane to correct all distances. Supplementary to this Mr H. Butland is supplying a starting machine to replace the one lost in the fire, and everything will be in order for the Christmas meeting. Despite the large amount of work performed, the year discloses satisfactory financial results. The total receipts under profit and loss weie £6209, and the expenditure £5766, returning an improvement for the year of £143. In addition to the insurance policies receipts of £2,000, membership fees increased substantially, and this permanent increase will be appreciated. On the expenditure side £BBO was spent on buildings and £4OO on course improvements (including work by the caretaker of a permanent character). It is pleasing to be able to record also a reduction of £SOO in the debenture debt, and also £IOO paid off a temporary advance. Arrears of interest paid increased the outgoings under that heading, but there was a reduction in hank interest, due to the overdraft accommodation being at a lower limit. It was possible also by economies to reduce the working expenses for the year. The net result, despite the decrease in totalisator turnover, must be considered very satisfactory in all the circumstances. While the assets show a reduction of £1,780 caused by the loss of building by fire, the liabilities (which are expressed in terms "of actual cash) were reduced from £4963 to £lol9—a gain of over £9OO in the financial position for the year, due in the main to the conservation of the insurance funds for debt liquidation. It is proposed for the coming year to make a fresh departure regarding racing days. The Christmas meeting will consist of one day on Boxing Day, a popular public holiday when a large 1 attendance may be expected. The autumn meeting in Easter Week next year will consist, of two days’ racing.

It is thought this rearrangement will prove of advantage, and the proposal which has been under consideration for some time will be given a practical

try-out. The year’s work ran very smoothly. The officials were all at their posts, and the race meetings passed off pleasantly. The readiness to assist the Club on all sides following the fir visitation was a great encouragement to your Committee, and opportunity is taken to thank one aiid all for all offers of help and ready cO-operation at a time when the assistance was s f much appreciated. The course and appointments are in excellent order. The caretaker’s work is done thorough ly at all times, and the latest im provements ; are all commendable „f° ! the neatness with which the work"was carried out. Only minor expenditure need be incurred for the next twelvi months, so that apart from the liquicla tioii of the liabilities carried over fron last year, lio special outlay appears likely, and any available money can b( devoted to a further reduction of thi funded debt.

During the year through the various sporting organisations the Government has been urged to grant financial relie to the sport, which is burdened b> heavy taxation, the cream of which is collected by the Clubs for the benefr of the State. The present Minister o Internal Affairs is most sympathetic especially for country clubs, and then is a hopeful feeling that when the national finances are in order by the balancing of the Budget, some relief wiT be forthcoming. Meantime legislation to amend ,/tjhe., Gaming Act is befon Parliament, whereby money miry be sent'Clubs-for investment and dividends be published. This will be help l'ul to Clubs( not in increasing betting fbut in’ diverting money which at pres ent passes to*-illicit sources because ol the prohibition against remitting money’ to Clubs. The State is losing an immense amount of money annually through illegal, bet'iffng, and Also ‘a very substantial sum in postal and tel* graphic revenue because of the lack of facilities to forward investments t Clubs. It is difficult to understand- tht attitude of Parliament in this matter. It must be Avell known that the law if being flouted and huge sums lost tc the State thereby. The Clubs suffer ii lesser degree, but their loss is a ser ious one, and remedial legislation would help them also. The considera sub ice of those responsible for the con duct of the sport, gentlemen who havbeen responsible for lifting the spor: to the high level it has obtained, am maintaining it in that reputable position, is altogether in favour of the legi slation. It seems pecular that Par liament declines to accept the advice from so experienced a quarter,, and tli fact that it does not, suggests soim sinister influence is at work'to undermine the good effect of racing control This must he obvious to all who study the position and the fact that Pat’lia ment allows itsejf to be dominated by .the; jnffuencp folsiivexl tQ v ''seems to be ;r .reflection on the good sense and plan understanding of those whom tli people elect to represent them in tli control of national affairs.

Speiiking to the reception and adoption of the report and balance sheet the President referred to the unavoid able absence of Hon Mr ’Michel, an'r Mr W. A. Thompson, both gentlemei over a long term of -years -'hart ing taken a pride and a personal .ntcrest in the affaire of the Club. Ml; Williams said tlie balance sheet thif year had been the, best .'during hi<o*m nection with the Club."' The ‘indebtedness had been reduced by some £9OO. If was very pleasing to see new member? coming forward to support the Club. The Club was one of the best .institu tions the town had in the way of promoting general business, and it deserved the support of the community. was nice to know the. improved financial position of the Club. The meeting would note the intention to change round the days of racing. Instead oi a two-days’ meeting at Christmas, it WcS proposed to hold a .oner-day meeting, and in Easter week; a two days’ gathering-instead of,.one-. They were nopeful this would, be more successful financially. Mr Williams went on to refer to the course improvements and to tlie consistently good work , of the caretaker (Mr O. Fowler) over many

years. They all, also, appreciated the Secretary’s good work.. • ■' ' Dr Teichelmann seconded the Chairman's motion and endorsed the- remarks as to the pleasing improvement in respect to the finances^ Mr McGregor said it was a great pleasure to see the finances improving and the Club being more and more successful.

Mr Houston spoke of the increased membership and thought the members should continue their efforts in that direction.

Mr Bruce referred to the gaming legislation which was considered desirable, and congratulated the Executive on the improved finances. Mr W. A. Jamieson endorsed the remarks- regardilig an enlarged membership and thought more country members could be enrolled if a- spe-ial effort were. made. He hoped tlie future of the Club would continue bright. The motion for tlie adoption of the

report ancl balance sheet was adopted.

Mr H. Qiiane, of Christchurch and Mr J. Monk, of Kokatnhi were elected members of the Club; Messrs Williams, Houston, Jamieson and Dr Teichelmann were appointed a sub-committee in respect to the enrolment of new members. COMMITTEE RE-ELECTED ! Mr Bruce moved that the retiring Committee, namely Messrs R. Adamson, H. Butland, D. J. Evans, M. H. Houston, F. McGregor, J. J. Mclntosh, C. S. Neville, R, Whiley, W. E. Williams, A, \V. Yarrall, be re-elect-

ed. Mr Breeze seconded.—Carried. Before the mating closed Mr Evans referred to : the special assistance given by Mr H. Jones in advice regarding course improvements. Reference was also made to''the ready help by Mr S. Havill and sons in connection with the Cutting down of the crest of the hill, a work which would afford a greatly improved view of the racing at the back of the course. Mr Evans also spoke regarding the finances and the proposals iii respect to the forthcoming race meetings, stating there was the promise of a successful yean -‘ V\

The anhuiil meeting then concluded;

COMMITTEE MEETING. *

INWARD CORRESPONDENCE.

From Sports Protection League with espfect to petitions to support the Naming Bill.—Received and action ap-

proved.

Froni J. O’Brieii, M.P.j replying i,nat petitions had been presented to Parliament and stating he was in favour of the publication of dividends and provision being made to forward money lo Clubs for investment.—Received with thanks.

From N.Z. Racing Conference circular regarding admissions io totalisa* lor house on-’race- days by unofficial iiersons.—Received.

Fi om same reporting earthquake damage to the Westport grand stand and stating an appeal for assistance was being made) —Received and resolved five guineas be voted.

From same;' notifying 'levy for the year, £3l 10s.—Received and passed for payment. From Lands Department, particulars of Public Reserves and Domains Act, .928, as affecting racecourse reserves. —Received.

From New Zealand County Racing. Jlubs’ Association forwarding circulars * and annual report.—Received, the Secretary briefly reporting on the operations and interview with the Government. 1

From New Zealand Racing Conferonce supplying particulars of amendments to the Rules of Racing.—Received with thanks. * ;

From Westport Jockey Club expressing thanks for sympathy ed in earthquake damage to .the Club’s property.—Received. . From Greymouth Metropolitan Club suggesting uniformity of Club prp.J grammes in the circuit, and the publication of same in booklet form.— ceived and'agreed .to. • 'ir?

From J. F. Morris, Marton, and H; E. Connop, Woodville, applying for the position of starters.—Received and filed!

From F. J. Andrews regretting accident to Club’s horse and agreeing to eplace same.—Received with thanks ind horse approved, no further liabil.ty'to be on Mi ,; Andrews! " From Town Clerk and Automobile Association regarding camping ground or motorikts at^ l the v raCecqursA.-^-iRe- 1 •eived and Messrs Williams,' Houston; Evans and Dr Teichelmann appointed i sub-committee to confer with the Automobile Association as to details; BOXING DAY PROGRAMME. The following draft was- agreed tp : -Maiden Handicap, 5£ furlohgs,: .80 soys.; Provincial Handicap, 6 1 100 sovs.; Hack Handicap, 7, furlongs, 110 sovs; Westland Cup, 1£ miles, 2QO rovs; 'Christmas Handicap; 5£ furlongs, L2O sovs; High Weight, 7 furlohgs, 1$) iovs; Electric Handicap, 6/furlongs, -OJ sovs; Goldfields’ Handicap, 7 furongs, 120 sovs. Total stakes £950.

' CLUB OFFICIALS.

Patrons—Hon H. L. Michel, M.L.0., r. E. Y. Seddon, 1 Esq. ■

President—-Mr W. E. Williams Hon Judge—Mr R. Whiley.

Hon. Deputy-Judge—Mr H.T.' Parry Stewards—Messrs W. E. Williams Chairman), F. McGregor (Deputy -liairman), C. S.'Neville, C. J. Pi Sellers, R. Adamson, R. Whiley, Hi {Jutland, J. J. Mclntosh, M. H. Houson, "A. W. Yarrall and D. J.' Evans. ‘ . Secretary and Treasurer—Mr D.iJ. • Evans. Hon Surgeons—l)rs E. Teichelmann, •J. Baird, H. M. "Hayes and 0 L. Mandl. / ' .. ' Hon Starter—Mr G, Reed / tbn). .. . ! . Handicapper—Mr J, Noble (Reefton). Timekeepers—Messrs ,J. J. Mein-, tosh, M. H. Houston and J. Noble. Gate Steward—Mr W. A. Jamieson... Judicial Committee—Messrs Williams, Mclntosh, McGregor, Houston and Will ley. Clerk of Course—Mr F. Fane.

Hon Clerk of Scales—Mr A. W. Yarrall.

• Hon Deputy Clerk of Scales —Mr,C, J. P. .Sellers. . n, . ■-)

Bird Cage Steward—Mr J. J U Breeze. . ‘ k”

Total isator Steward —Mr, J. Peake; o Patrol Stewardsr-Messrs H.. Jones*, Ri. Lyiirt,, H. C.. Newiindn, A. WJ.ii Thompson..and J.. Jy Mclntosh, junr. -..v .• The meeting concluded with a Vote of thanks to, the chair.