FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ PICNIC.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 702, 28 December 1909, Page 3

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ PICNIC.

The local Friendly Societies’ picnic held at Paiaka yesterday was most successful. The weather was all that could be desired and there was an attendance of fully 350. The boats and punts left the wharf at about half-past nine and arrived at Paiaka at a quarter to twelve, after a most enjoyable trip up the river. On arrival, the copper was boiled and after the cravings of the inner man had been satisfied a lengthy sports programme was got through. Races were provided for young and old, from children’s races under five to an old man’s race of over 50. The event which caused the most amusement was the married women’s race for which there were no less than 16 starters. Mr F. Woods officiated as haudicapper in this event and was very successful in framing the starts, there being several dead, heats. In the final heat there was a tie and in the run-off Mrs Small was successful by a very meague margin. The committeeman’s raoe for a gentleman’s companion presented by Mr EJ. Ball, was won by Mr W. Nye. In addition to the prizes for the different events, the committee provided a large number of toys and every child that attended received one.

The boats left Paiaka on the home journey at four o’clock, arriving back at the wharf at six, after spending a most enjoyable time. The committee, headed by the energetic secretaries, Messrs Johnstone and Robinson worked hard and it was due to their energies that the outing was such a success.

The committee desire to thank Mr Norman, Messrs Seifert and Co’s, manager, for the use of the grounds and also for mowing and preparing the track on which the races were mu.