WHITIANGA FAREWELL

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 52, Issue 3256, 28 April 1943, Page 7

WHITIANGA FAREWELL

LIEUT. AND MRS M. A. BROOK

PRESENTATIONS MADE

On Friday, April 9, the residents of Whitianga gathered together in the public hall in order to say farewell to Lieut, and Mrs M. A. Brook, who are leaving the district. The farewell took the form of a dance under the direction of the M.C., Mi’ Hemmings; and the music was provided by Mrs Rose during the first half of the dance, followed by Mrs Matheson for the second half.

The extras were given by several young men, who combined the harmony of ukuleles, guitars and piano to the harmony of their voices, and the melody thus produced was very popular and added zest to dancing.

The winners of the first Monte Carlo were Mr and Mrs W. Robinson. The chairman of the Patriotic Committee, Mr Pooley, called upon the president of the R.S.A., Mr Brophy, to make the presentation to Lieut. Brook. In handing the gift of cash to Lieut. Brook, Mr Brophy stated that lieutenant and Mrs Brook would be greatly missed from all functions in the district, particularly patriotic efforts. Mr Brophy wished the lieutenant well and hoped that wherever he and Mrs Brook were called, they would have only happy memories of Mercury Bay. Mr Brophy concluded his remarks with the motto of the Independent Mounted Rifles, “Geier et Audax.” Mrs Armstrong, on behalf of the ladies of the district, presented Mrs Brook with a bouquet of flowers, then Sergt. Davis, representing the remaining members of the 1.M.R., presented Lieut, and Mrs Brook with • a gift of appreciation. In his words of response Lieut. Brook mentioned that his men’s behaviour had been very good, and that the men had retained the proud standard held by the whole Coromandel Peninsula Mounted Rifles, and stressed the hope that they would continue to do so. He was proud to have been in command of the Troop and extended thanks to the tradespeople of Whitianga, residents, n.c.o.’s and troopers. The lieutenant also expressed the appreciation of Mrs Brook.

After the presentation, dancing continued, the winners of the second Monte Carlo being Mr N. Davis and Mrs A. Robinson. Supper was served and dancing continued until the early hours.