Putting Colour in Local Politics!

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 744, 17 August 1929, Page 20

Putting Colour in Local Politics!

Guards for Aldermen

So pronounced is the bitter hostility between the rival factions of Glebe Council (near Sydney), that the faction leaders have bodyguards!

Burly gentlemen with big fists and strong feelings are always close to their leaders in preparation for a possible call to arms, says a Sydney paper.

A recent battle between the proWalsh and anti-Walsh groups was an instance. Mayor Walsh, and Aldermen Carlton, Lahiff and Dwyer were in holts most °f the ni Sht, and pleasant little sallies about “deathadders.” black snakes,” and “knives in the back” set everyone’s nerves quivering.

The bodyguards were ready, straining at the leash, in the back of the hail. When there was any hooting to be done they did it. There was plenty to be done.

“FH fight you one hand.” shouted Alderman Carlton, one arm in a sling to the Mayor, at one stage. „ In „ k ee P you up to your promise ot a fight W'hen your arm is better ” shouted back the Mavor. The bodyguards were agitated and ready to spring into action at any moment. Alderman Carlton was hooted by the gallery when he said to the Mayor: “If I can’t beat you my friends very soon will do it!” Bodyguards stood up, but a sign from their leaders seated them again. I could bash half a dozen of the others,’ one hefty said. “It will be a , to finish when we do start!”