OPUNAKE.

Taranaki Daily News, 26 January 1921, Page 5

OPUNAKE.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) It is about ten years ago since the Seaside Society was inaugurated. For some years previous to that period visitors and local residents praised the beauty of the Gpunake beach, but nothing practical was done until the inception of the Seaside Society, who have pushed the seaside resort ahead. In the first four years excellent progress was made, and all conveniences were provided to make the beach attractive. Last Wednesday the annual fete was held, and a revival of the old spirit and interest was shown. The best of luck regarding the weather was a big asset towards enabling the committee to raise £lB7. This amount is gross, and it is safe to say the society will have a substantial sum for improvements. The buildings were decorated with bunting, the people on the sand were actively engaged in games, the children bare-legged were racing up and down on the fringe of the sea shore, heads were bobbing up and down in the surf, and peals of merry laughter were heard. Altogether an enjoyable day was spent. The first prize for decorated vehicles was won by Mr. A. E. Brunette. Miss Campbell won the decorated cars competition. Miss Winnie Mouri was awarded first prize for best decorated bicycle. Amongst those noticeable m carrying out the arrangements were: The president (Mr. A. Cook), secretary (Mr. T. S. Hickey), Messrs. Pease, Burton Sinclair, Windelburn, Brunette, A. J. Brennan, T. P. Hughson, Leslie. Mr. E. J. Dudley and Miss Dudley, who have been in charge of the sheep-guess-ing competition since the inception of the society, were again in evidence. The ladies, who have always been prominently associated with the welfare of the society, had charge of the catering and the various stalls. Many willing helpers assisted. The principals in charge were: Mesdames Pease, Burton, Whittington. Rogers, and Goody. Mrs. Nightingale is to be complimented for her energy in connection with the pror moting of the treasure hunt. In this event there were a large number of entrants, who searched the sand, only one prize of £1 being found by Bert Brunette. Other event? were won as follows: Tug-of-war (three teams), Federal Band team; chain-stepping, E. Wallis; weight of cake, A. Mitchell; beans m bottle, J. Kirk. z A successful concert was held m the evening, when there was a large attend4UBM.