GIFT TO THE COUNTRY.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 220, 13 July 1917, Page 6

GIFT TO THE COUNTRY.

RESIDENCE AT ROTORUA. HOME FOR DISABLED SOLDIERS, WELLINGTON, July 11 The gift of a valuable property at Rotorua, as a home for disabled soldiers, was announced by the Prime Minister in the House of Representatives this afternoon. The donor is Mrs Arthur Gillies and the property which is known as "Kawaha Point,” is situated on Lake Rotorua, three miles from the town, and consists of seven acres, mostly garden, which goes down to the water’s edge. In a letter to Mr Massey Mrs Gillies says:—"The bathing and fishing would be much appreciated by the invalids. The house is rough cast and consists of 15 rooms with a fine billiard room and married couple’s quarters, and garage etc. outside. A launch which goes over to Rotorua in nine minutes and which holds 20 persons is included in the gift. I thought the launch would be a convenient means for the invalids going over to Rotorua for treatment. There is a road to town as well —of a sort. We are not living in our home at present as my husband is working with the National Efficiency Board here and intends doing so long as his services are required, so that it would make mo very happy to think that some of our brave soldiers were enjoying and receiving the benefit from our lovely home. The soil there is very good—not poor, as in some parts of Rotorua—and we grow splendid vegetables and flowers, and have an extensive orchard just coming into bearing. It struck me that if you accept the offer the soldiers could make the place partially, if not wholly, selfsupporting by growing vegetables, fruit, and flowers. Rotorua -would be an excellent market, as it consists chiefly of hotels and boarding-houses. We have no son to send to the war, and feel we would like to make some personal sacrifice to the great cause.”

The announcement w r as received with applause. Mr Massey said he was sure the House -would appreciate the generosity displayed by Mrs Gillies. He was informed that the property was most suitable for the purposes for which it had been given.