YEAR IN REVIEW

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 76, 21 June 1927, Page 7

YEAR IN REVIEW

BURDEN OF TAXATION AVONDALE JOCKEY CLUB’S REPORT The annual report, to be presented at the general meeting of members of the Avondale Jockey Club on July 5, states: “In submitting the statement of accounts for the financial year which closed on May 31, 1927, your committee has much pleasure in again congratulating members on the continued prosperity and progress of the club. The racing at the spring meeting was particularly highclass, the classic event, the Avondale Guineas, providing one of the most interesting races yet witnessed in Auckland, the dead-heat between Lysander and Commendation creating intense excitement. The autumn meeting was held under most adverse conditions, and although , the recing was exceptionally good throughout, the fixture was not the financial success anticipated. In connection with the racing, your committee wish to express their thanks to the Auckland Racing Club for permission allowing the club to hold its meetings at Ellerslie during the formation of the new course at Avondale.

“As will be seen from the balance-sheet the club is in a sound financial position. Despite the adverse conditions under which the autumn meeting was held both meetings showed a profit, and it will be noticed that the stakes distributed totalled £14,070, a slight increase on the previous year. Government taxation is still very heavy, the amount contributed for the season totalling £17,037 12s 4d. nearly £3,000 more than given away in stakes. Rates and taxes are increasing, partly due to higher valuations and the extra property purchased. Conference levies continue to increase, and are a heavy drain on clubs' finances. The new course is practically completed and has been railed on the inside, and the railing on the outside is now proceeding. The grass gallop on the inside of the course is finished, and the grass has come away well, while the plough gallop will be available early in the coming season. The racecourse has been thoroughly drained, and when the grass and plough are ready for training on, this should be equal to all requirements. “In connection with the proposed new stands, plans for which have been approved of by the committee, the club’s

architects, Messrs. Wade and Bartley, are well forward with the working plans, and it is anticipated tenders for the buildings will be called for at an early date, and if acceptable, the completion of the stands should be w'ell forward for the autumn meeting. “Although the club has a strong membership and the hearty support of owners and the racing public, nevertheless, your committee realise the fact that, owing to the pronounced general reduction in the totalisator turnover, it will be their duty to curtail expenses where possible. At the same time it Is hoped they will be able to avoid a reduction in stakes. “Messrs. Bonald McLeod and A. Davis are the only nominees for the respective offices of president and vice-president, and are therefore elected unopposed. For the five vacancies on the committee the retiring members, Messrs. G. Baildon, A. Hanna, T. F. Jeffries, J. Paterson, and .1. Raynes have been nominated, and as they do not exceed the number required, no election will be necessary.”