OPENING OF THE BOWLING GREEN MR. B. ROBERTS, M.P., ADDRESSES THE ASSEMBLY.

Upper Hutt Weekly Review, Volume I, Issue 46, 30 October 1936, Page 2

OPENING OF THE BOWLING GREEN MR. B. ROBERTS, M.P., ADDRESSES THE ASSEMBLY.

Saturday afternoon turned out glorious for the opening of the BowlingGreen, and quite a large number was present. Mr. G. Guthi"ie, the president, in a few well chosen words, extended a very hearty welcome to the old and new members present, and wished them a very successful season. The president then introduced Mr. B. Roberts, member for the district, who addressed the assembly. Greeted -with applause upon rising, he wished the club every success in the coming season. Mr. Roberts stated that he was not a bowling enthusiast himself as the life he led had not given him any opportunity of playing such games, but now that the present Government has introduced the 40-hour legislation, it might mean that he will have such an opportunity in the future, providing, of course, that Parliament also comes under the new legislation. "I understand that politics are barred at these kind of functions," continued the speaker, "but I would just like to say that leisure time is pleasure time, and we should teach our children how to spend such time in playing sports of some kind which was nature's way to health." Reference to a certain remark made re wives and the 40 hours, Mr. Roberts said it was a great opportunity

fox- the husbands who "were home on Saturday mornings to assist in the house, so that mother might go out on Saturday afternoons to enjoy her game of croquet or tennis. He thought pleasure would be an important factox - in future. Mr. W. E. Pawson, of Petone, also spoke, stating that he was pleased to know that his appeal last year for more members had been fruitful. It was six years since he was at the opening of his own club further down the valley, but when he was absent he left word where he had gone and they always knew it was to Upper Hutt. He pointed out that the Dominion tournaments are to. be held in Wellington in January and the usual tournament that is held in the valley will be dropped this season, as the greens will have to be closed for a long time preparing for the big events. He concluded by wishing the club every success in 1936-37. Miss M. Guthrie, daughter of the president, threw down the first kitty and bowled the first bowl on the green which was looking in wonderful trim. Afteithis Mr. Roberts declared the green open and bowlers were soon busy -with their games. Mr. Roberts then went over to the tennis courts and aftex - addressing the tennis members, dx-ove the first ball over the net. Miss D. Rob-ex-ts (daughtei- of the member) assisted hex- father in the opening of the croquet green and driving the ball through the hoop, Mi-. Roberts again reminded the ladies that if they wanted to enjoy the leisure hours of Saturday afternoon, they should keep father at home in the morning to assist. A.ftex-noon tea was dispensed by the lady members of the club in the pavilion. The president stated that this was the 26th year of the club's existence and the membership was still inci-easing. He hoped to see the club continue to advance as it had done in the past.