Waiouru plans gala to counter eruption blues

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 619, 16 January 1996, Page 2

Waiouru plans gala to counter eruption blues

The annual Waiouru Desert Gala this year aims to raise funds to allow Waiouru Primary School and the Community Clubs to continue to operate and to purchase new equipment to cope with the trying conditions suffered as a result of the eruption of Mt Ruapehu. The volcanic eruption has caused considerable disrup-

tion to activities in the surrounding areas during the past few months. One of its victims was the Army's 25th Around The Mountain Relay which had to be cancelled for the first time in it's history due to the possibility of the course being affected by ash and by gases in the air. Many of the activities of W aiouru children have been curtailed and although each

child was issued with a face mask there were numerous occasions when it was recommended they not play outside. Similarly affected were

several promotions by clubs in the area and at times an easy jog around the streets was not on. This year the gala will be held on Saturday 9 March

at Waiouru School. Thebiggest event in the region this summer will host several celebrities and a myriad of entertainment and family activities are planned, said

promotions officer Ken Morton. There will also be a range of stalls as diverse as craftware and clothing to books, food and plants. Several units of the New Zealand Army will provide displays of vehicles and equipment. Rides on horses, motorbikes and sideshow attractions will all be available for those people needing

someaction. . The "Desert Gala '96" site also provides a panoramic view of Mt Ruapehu, a magnificent sight on a fine day when volcanic activity has it emitting smoke. Applications are now being accepted for stall sites and interested persons or community organisations should write to "Desert Gala" Committee, 25 Wakefield St, Waiouru.