SEASIDE PICNICS.

Taranaki Daily News, 2 April 1918, Page 3

SEASIDE PICNICS.

EAWAROA PAKE. { Although the 'weather yesterday morning did hot look very favorable from the point of view of those interested in the variou3 outdoor fixtures, and the heavy shower of rain which fell just before noon helped to intensify the forebodings of ill, yet the sun eventually smiled upon the functions, and the afternoon was beautifully bright and fresh. A large crowd gathered at Kawaroa Park for the annual picnic, arranged on behalf of the park funds. The energetic committee, under the direction of Messrs. V. H. Beal and L. H. Honeyfield, as chairman and secretary respectively, had arranged a programme of big attractions in addition to the ordinary facilities for entertainment which are part of the park attractions. The sub-committees and .stallholders, who had cliaTge of the various sections of the fete, all worked enthusiastically, and the result was very gratifying to all concerned. The ladies in charge of the refreshments stall, sweets, ice creams, etc., had a particularly busy time, > 3 natural at such gatherings, sports and entertainment for the children figured largely on the programme, and the committee set out with the evident intention of giving the youngsters a good time. That they succeeded admirably will be reailily conceded by all who were present. Pun and frolic was fast and furious. The specially-engaged artist whu impersonated Charlie Chaplin was the centre of perpetual interest, while.the clowns, strolling minstrels, and the high-wire artists and gymnasts all came in for a full share of attention and appreciation. A number of novelty items were arranged, one that caught tlie interest of the boys (both young and old) being that known as "skying the football." The object was to kick a football up inside a net, which had been erected over a framework standing pbout 20ft high, which narrowed towards the top, where a bell was hung, the task being to make the ball ring the bell. The aerial glide was again a source of continuous [delight to :tljo juveniles, and the hidden treasure attracted crowds of prespectors. There were competitions without number, and all assisted to raise funds for. the general purpo3'e of the picnic. A number of spectacular items were given by children from several of the schools, including Swedish drill, fancy marching and physical drills. One of the most interesting:.of the . schools' items was the tug-of»war, the win of the Wailii boys being very popular, and loudly applauded. The, Citizens' Band was in attendance, and throughout the afternoon played.a programme of music that was thoroughly enjoyed. At night a cuchre party and dance was held in the bungalow, at which there was a large attendance.'

EAST END RESERVE. There can to no doubt that the East End picnic suffered, on 'account of the counter-attraction offered by the Kawaroa Park Committee. Notwithstanding /that, however, the enjoyment of those who gathered at the liast End Reserve was none the less complete The committee, with their energetic officials, set themselves out to give the children a good time, and from all appearances they achieved their object. ■ A good programme of races and competitions was kept going till towards dusk. The afternoon tea, fruit, lollie and soft drinks stalls all contributed to the general enjoyment, and the verdict at the end of the day was that "a jolly good time" had been spent. Subsequently an all-night dance was held, at which there was a good attendance. The music was supplied by Mrs. George's orchestra. Following are details of the results: — Schools' relay race—Boys' High School A team (L. Frethey, E. White, L. Malt and W. Rea). , , Schools' tug-of-war—Waihi team (J. Butler, H. Nuku, D. Baily, T. Petomia, and Richmond). Chain-stepping—W. Wooller. Guessing competitions—Cajnisole (donated by Mrs Coad), Mrs. Coad; catat■solo (donated by Miss Jury), Mr. H. S. Honevfield; camisole (donated by (Mrs. jßailevi Mrs. Beal; number of buttons in ■-bottle' (227), H. S. Honeyfield (228); peggy bag, Miss N. Young; gold wristlet watch, Mr. J. Wood; name of doll, "Au> drey," Audrey 6rr; weight of sheep, N. H. Ward/lGSlbs (exact weight). Details of takings are as follows, the ,figures being approximate amounts: — Gates £SS Gs, donations £l7, competitions £97 13s Cd, park stalls £9O 15a Hi, Total £295.