THE ANNIVERSARY

Hokitika Guardian, 17 June 1930, Page 2

THE ANNIVERSARY

OF THE EARTHQUAKE

(By Telegraph—Per Press Association.!

WELINGTON, Juno 10

Mr G. 0. Black. Member for Motueltn, on the anniverary of the disastrous earthquake shock which visited the Nelson Province in June of 1929. has made the following statement: — Twelve months ago, we, the settlers of the Motueka Electorate, were called upon to face the untimely earthquake of June 17th. Let us look hack jn retrospect, and give due appreciation to the deeds of our friends in the hour of need. First, let me say that we must all say “Thank you” to those men of the Pioneer—cum—Anzac spirit who have done so much to restore order out of chaos, and to keep the lines of communication open immediately following the disaster. Then must we bsteem the ready help tendered 'by the many subscribers throughout the Dominion to the Earthquake Relief Fund, and pay our tribute to the wonderful spirit of independence of those Old-timers who. from motives of independence and personal pride, would not tolerate any application for assistance being moved on th'eir behalf. Such a spirit made New Zealand in the past, and that spirit will be its only future salvation; Let me now say that to-day- is the meet time to acknowledge to the officers of the Post and Telegraph Department, the of the Public Works Department, and to the men working for the Public Works Department—oft times at personal life risk —the keen appreciation we have for their labours to help the good old province and the Coast to get on its feet again. Truly, we know the pioneer days, we salute Anzao, and are happy to be camp mates, with the real men, the workers in the dark and sometimes dull days of June. 1929. Finally must we express gratitude to the many who have served on the District Relief Committees. We appreciate their spirit of New Zealand first. G. C. BLACK.