New Zealand

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 297, 14 December 1914, Page 7

New Zealand

REVIEWED IN WELLINGTON. Per Press Association. Wellington, December 13. The citizens of Wellington had an opportunity yesterday, for the first time, of seeing the whole of the second reinforcements for the main expeditionary force on parade at Newtown Park. The weather, though a fairly high wind was blowing, was fine, and large numbers of citizens took the opportunity of going to the park and seeing the troops of whose physique and splendid appearance they had heard so much. By three o’clock there was a very large attendance of the public, and all the various units of the force had reached the park, where they were inspected by the Governor, accompanied by Colonel Robin and staff officers. After this, the troops were addressed by the Governor, by the Premier, and Hon. Jas. Allen, and by the Mayor, Mr J. P. Luke. The Governor briefly complimented the men on their appearance, and urged upon them the necessity for keeping thoroughly fit, and expressing the hope that they would uphold the traditions of the race and the reputation of New Zealand in particular. The Prime Minister said he was proud of the response made to the Empire’s call by the young men of New Zealand. This war, terrible as it was, in many respects had had the effect of bringing out some of the finest characteristics of our race—a determination to stand by our friends and Allies, and maintain the Empire’s high position among the nations of the world. He had no doubt the troops would do their part when the time came. Hie end of war. was not yet in sight, so they would probably have the privilege of taking part in the final scene, when righteousness, freedom, and liberty would prevail over despotism and tyranny. Mr Massey concluded by expressing the hope that “He who watcheth over Israel, and slumbereth not,’, would watch over every one of them, and in His own good. Time would bring them back safely to these shores. Hon.' .Taffies Allen wished the troops an revoir. He knew they would bear themselves well as soldiers and in mixing with men of other nations he trusted they would maintain the fair fame of New Zealand. He wished them good luck and a safe return with their comrades who had preceded them.

The Mayor said the soldiers on parade would shortly he taking part in the united- sacrifice to bring about as speedy a termination of the present great war as possible. His hope was that soon a lasting peace would be secured, with the British Empire more strongly united than ever. Then came a march past, the excellent soldierly appearance of the troops eliciting warm applause from the onlookers. Rev. Chapman then read the 46th psalm. Chaplain-Major Shirer offered prayer, and Archdeacon Harper pronounced the Benedition. Then followed the singing of the National Anthem. Cheers were given for the Governor as the King’s representative, and the troops formed up for the march back to their quarters, their progress through the streets being marked by much enthusiastic cheering.

RELIEVING PARTY FOR SAMOA.

It having been decided to send 500 officers and men to Samoa to relieve a similar force there which is to proceed to Europe, volunteers will be taken from ex-Regulars, ex-members of the R.N.Z.A., Territorial Force, Rifle Clubs, ex-Contingenters, and ex-volun-teers.

Applicants for enrolment must fulfil the following conditions (a) Be between the ages of 40 and 47. (b) Be above sft 4in in height. (c) Be passed medically fit for service in Samoa.

Those selected will be trained in the concentration camp at Trentham for about six weeks, commencing probably in the second week in January, 1915. Pay at Territorial Force rates will be granted for the first month, and Expeditionary Force rates' thereafter. Enlistment will be optional either for nine months, commencing from date of arrival in Trentham Camp, or for the duration of the war.

Those desirous of volunteering for this force should apply for enrolment immediately to the Defence Office, Stratford, where Sergt-Major Greagor will supply any further information desired.

‘ THE PRODUCE SHIPS.

Wellington, December 13

The Prime Minister has supplied the following information regarding the number of steamers available for carrying New Zealand meat and produce during the month of January and February:— January, estimated number of vessels required, 7; number available, 12, 10 insulated and 2 uninsulated; Orari, Whakatane, Somerset, Waiwera, Mamari, Delphic, Kia Ora, Indrapura’ Ecordobes (?), Dorset (all insulated), Queen Margaret, Mottisfort (both uninsula ter). February, estimated number of vessels required, 11; number available, W, 11 insulated and 2 uninsulated: Ota Id, Remuera, Waimate, Kaikoura, Matatna, Maltarini, Corinthic, Waimana, Athenic, Westmore,. Mimiro (all insulated), Wirral, Daldroch (both uninsulated). BELGIAN RELIEF FUND, On briday a social and dance was hold at Kiore, being organised by Mrs A, G. Stewart, assisted by other ladies. [terns were contributed by Miss Tuson, Mr C. Tod, Mr A. Tod. Mr IV, Stewart, Miss M. .Pearson, Miss I.

Perrott, Mi&s M. Perrott, Mr J. Ross, Mr W. Buchanan, Mr Perrott, junr.,

Mr Perrott and Mrs Tod. The music was supplied by Mr A. Pearson, Mrs Tod, Mrs Stewart and Mr and Mrs J. Stockley. Several competitions were held, the ladies’ nail driving being won by Mrs Stockley; gents’ hat trimming by Mr J. Caldwell, and weight of cake by Miss Taylor. A table presented by Mrs A. Pearson realised £3. The supper by the ladies of Kiore was excellent. Mrs Tod kindly lent the piano. The proceeds to go to the fund amounted to £9 Is 9d.