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Hokitika Guardian, 4 September 1929, Page 4

Tiif. annual report of the Westland itaing Club read at last night’s meeting is interesting not only because ol’ the comment apropos the gaming legislation but in particular because of the improved financial position of the Club. Although visited by a very disastroun fire over twelve months ago, whereby valuable buildings were lost, the Club was fortunate in hnving a measure of insurance, and the amount has been so husbanded that not only were appointments provided to meet the ordinary requirements for the conduct of a race meeting, but the Club was able also to reduce its capital debt by a margin which must be a relief to the general-finances in the saving of interest. There is no doubt very economical work was done, and in all the circumstances the Club is to be eon gratulated on coining through what must have been a very difficult year, so satisfactorily. That the Club enjoys a popularity of some mark, is evidenced by the increase of membership and the readiness with which help was preferred when circumstances were so adverse 1 . The right sporting spirit was shown in the Club’s difficulties, and it is evident that the goodwill displays -as been appreciated veiy lhuqh. As a local institution the townspeople may continue to be proud of the Racing Club which has weathered so satisfactorily one of the most trying periods which might befall any such organisation. The annual report makes pointed reference to the opp- sition manifested in Parliament by a section of members to the gaming amendments proposed. These are so simple and the necessity so apparent that it is surprising to find the opposition displayed. There is of course the rather unholy alliance of a section of the churches and evident supporters of illegal betting allied against the measure. While the attitude of the former has to be excused to some extent because of tile failure to see the true reason for the amendment-desired to the law, there is not any excuse for. the latter. It is plainly open hostility because of an infringement on preserves permitted by the weakness of the law as at present laid down. The remedy is obviously necessary so> mat betting should be controlled, and in that control the State finances should receive the benefit it needs and is entitled to, the totalisntor being the local'form of investment. Under legal control as desired the Clubs, too, will enjoy a great measure of income, and as they are responsible for efficient- control of the sport, it is not right that others should have illicit means at their disposal to trench on the legitimate rights of those charged with a special work, and which is being discharged so well in the public interests.