FAREWELL AT PICNIC

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 905, 24 February 1930, Page 14

FAREWELL AT PICNIC

OFFICER OF AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT CARETAKER OF MOTUIHI At the picnic of the staff of the Department of Agriculture on Saturday at Motuihi Island, the opportunity was taken by officers to say good-bye and make a presentation to Mr. and Mrs. Tlercus, prior to their departure from the island. Mr. Here us has been caretaker of the department’s quarantine station there for some years and is relinquishing the position to take up a more lucrative appointment in the South Island. Mr. Keenan made the presentation on behalf of the staff and referred to the many fine qualities of the departing guest. He said Mr. Hercus was an exceptional man for the position and had. made hosts of friends through his thoughtfulness and courtesy. Mr. Keenan expressed regret that the department was losing the services of such a highly efficient and valuable officer, but as Mr. Hercus was leaving for the purpose of bettering himself, he felt sure that he was carrying away with him tho best, wishes of the whole of the staff for success, prosperity and happiness in his new sphere of life. Other officers endorsed Mr. Keenan’s remarks, including Messrs. D. Elliot, Gibson, Talbot and Brown.

The presentation of a handsome clock and barometer was then made. Mr. Hercus responded on behalf of himself and his wife. He thanked the departmental officers for their kindness in making the presentation and said he would never forget the happy time he had spent in the department. Cheers were given for Mr. and Mrs. Hercus and the singing of Auld Lang Syne concluded the function.