MANGAHAO HYDRO NOTES.

Shannon News, 31 October 1922, Page 3

MANGAHAO HYDRO NOTES.

COMINGS AND GOINGS. A GOOD COMRADE PASSES. A full week’s entertainment was enjoyed in the ,Y.M.C.A. by the camp community. Wednesday night was the big event, and was arranged by the Pierrot Troupe to commemorate the opening of the school, the opening of the billiard room, and also served as a welcome to Assistant-En-gineer and family. The Pierrots gave a good programme. The District Engineer (Mr Dinnie) gave a neat little speech appropriate to- the occasion. A very closely contested game of billiards between the engineers, a good dance and a wholesome supper made a very happy and successful gathering.

Quite a few boxing and punch-ball artists have come to light and the gymnasium equipment at the Hut is receiving good patronage. Billiards and snooker are very popular, and a tournament, is in view. The local school is in good going order,, and the daily clanging of the school bell is welcomed by the parents and children alike. Pictures are a great attraction,

and a. full - house greets the programmes shown twice weekly. Genuine regret is expressed at the forthcoming departure of Mr and Mrs West from the camp. Mr West has been chef at the big cookhouse, and in addition to these strenuous duties

has donei much for the social welfare of the community. The local Pierrot Troupe owe their formation to him, and many a good Saturday night dance has been run under his M.C.ship. Mrs West has also proved herself a “real sport,” and has never grown weary of utilising her talents for Ihe entertainment of the camp. Their departure will be a distinct loss in this direction. The work in both tunnels is proceeding satisfactorily, and the space between the workings is being steadily shortened. In both tunnels it is now possible: to hear the other end firing. Work on the dam is proceeding apace, and it is fully expected to start, concreting early in January. The late David Marshall “went West” during the week, in Palmerston North Hospital, and was buried on Thursday. Quite a. number of his work-mates went through for the funeral. “Dave” was one of the oldest hands in the camp, and was well respected—he also had a creditable record of war service. He was of unselfish character, and on more than one occasion when engaged in dangerous work has requested a married man to> Work in a place more secure whilst Dave would take his place at the danger point.