No more farming for Ron and Ida

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 2, Issue 38, 12 March 1985, Page 19

No more farming for Ron and Ida

Well known local identities, Ron and Ida McDougall, are in the process of completing legal details which will see their farm in Lakes Road signed over to their son, 24-year-old Kevin. When this is completed, the couple intend to retire to their holiday home in the Kaimanawa Views area, overlooking Lake Taupo. "I've had over thirty years on this farm and I think it's about time that I passed it on to my son," said Mr McDougall with a glint in his eye. Ida is sad to be leaving her home of 30 years with its well kept gardens and tremendous character both inside and out. "I guess 111 just have to work on the new garden which should be quite a challenge." The house was built by Harry Delamare during the First World War for the Delaney family, whose son was subsequently killed in action. Built of rimu and matai with totara poles for the foundation, the house is a striking example of a property that was built to last. Very little has been changed inside the house, although the kitchen has been modernised in past years. Throughout the years, the house has seen its share of

tragedy. Firstly with a suicide and later when the wife of a previous owner had severe mental problems. The McDougalls, however, have had many good times with their children, Rosie, Margaret (now Hall), Dianne (now McCarthy) and Kevin, although another son was killed in a freak accident, which his mother and father survived. Both Ron and Ida have been heavily involved in the community for well over thirty years.

Ron has a long association with the Ohakune-Karioi Rugby Club, which saw him rewarded with life membership. He is once again President at the Club and will travel from Lake Taupo to attend meetings and to watch the senior team in action every Saturday. Ida was made a life member of the Women's Division of Federated Farmers and will continue her association with them whenever possible. Son Kevin, with his wife Natalie, is looking forward to taking over the 900 acres of farm land with its sheep and cattle. He has a few ideas of his own, but is quick to acknowledge the work his father, uncle Allan, grandfather Ancel and great grandfather Bob, put into the farm over the years. He joins a line of successful and well respected farmers who bear the name McDougall.