RURAL RECREATION

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26639, 9 December 1947, Page 6

RURAL RECREATION

CASE FOR ENCOURAGEMENT ARREST OF DRIFT TO TOWNS P.A. WELLINGTON, Dec. 8. The value of developing recreational facilities in rural areas as a means of arresting the drift of young people towards towns was stressed to-day to the Royal Commission on sheep farming. The commission heard evidence from two officers of the Physical Welfare branch of the Internal Affairs Department, Mr R. J. Bender and Mr C. L. Cross, who intimated that considerable impetus might be given to such a development as the result of a conference early next year between the department and Federated Farmers. It was recognised, said Mr Bender, that the Dominion’s economy was closely tied up with the retention of youth in the country, and that many people left farming areas because towns offered better social and recreational amenities. Last year the physical welfare branch had paid special attention to the fostering of rural recreation, and it would continue to make every effort in this direction, but it had to be realised that it was incumbent upon country people themselves to make the first move in obtaining the necessary facilities. The Government made grants on a subsidy basis of one to three, and approximately £50.000 could be allocated each year among the 16 physical welfare districts in the Dominion. The grants did not necessarily have to be made to, or administered by, the local authorities. Community groups, provided that there was a reasonable guarantee of permanency, could spend such moneys, and the grants could be used for almost any physical or cultural activity. Most communities, said Mr Cross, wished to build some form of centre as a war memorial. Playing fields, swimming baths and tennis courts, as well as halls for indoor pursuits, were among the - most popular suggestions, and the cost of all memorials approved by the Government would be subsidised by it £ for £. A war memorial scheme which affected many rural areas would be a large step in the encouragement of r.ural recreation, he added. ,