KIO KIO DEFENCE RIFLE CLUB.

King Country Chronicle, Volume II, Issue 80, 1 May 1908, Page 3

KIO KIO DEFENCE RIFLE CLUB.

A few months ago an enthusiastic meeting was held at the creamery, Kio Kio, to consider the advisability of forming a Rifle Club in the district, which was ultimately decided upon, subject to the Club being accepted by the Government as a Defence Rifle Club. The necessary application was made, and all formalities being observed, the services of the Club were accepted. Upon receipt of the pleasing information the members were enrolled, and the preparation of the range was then proceeded with, and everything was in readiness for inspection and approval by the Defence authorities. This auspicious event took place last Thursday, the 23rd ult. (St. George's Day), when Staff-Sergeant-Major Coleman inspected and approved the range, which he considered very safe. After the range was approved, the Club " fell in " for their initial parade, conducted by the Staff-Sergeant-Major, who gave the Club members a general idea of the necessary drill required, as well as grounding them thoroughly in the initial stages of the musketry course., After the parade was over the luncheon adjournment was taken, when preparations were made for the ceremony of firing the first shot, which was to take place at two o'clock. The Club had issued a general invitation to all who were interested in the Club, or desired to be present. At two o'clock, the day being very fine, there was a large assembly of friends and well-wishers from far and near, the Club "fell in" at the 500 yds mound. The President, on behalf of the Club, gave all the visitors a hearty welcome to the ground, and expressed the hope that their visit would be the forerunner of many other occasions on which they would be present, and in a few words pointed out the necessity of being a trained shot in time of need, as against the man who was willing to serve, but untrained, and, therefore, less valuable. Staff-Ser-geant-Major Coleman also addressed the Company, and pointed out how necessary it was to be ready for all emergencies. He then asked Mrs Worthington to fire the first shot, which she did, a " bull " being registered amidst hearty cheers. The range was then thrown open for shooting, a match being fired by teams chosen from all present on the ground by the President (Mr Worthington), and the Vice-President (MiBertram), being eventually won by the President's team by 9 points, the respective scores being 112 and 103. Afternoon tea was dispensed by the ladies, a good many of whom were present, and was very much appreciated b}" visitors and shooters alike. An enjoyable social was held at the schoolhouse in the evening, the proceeds of which went towards the funds of the Club. The school was filled, and dancing was kept up with vigour to the " wee sma' hours," when the party dispersed after a very enjoyable day and night.