Army Schools' celebrations at Waiouru

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 3, Issue 2, 4 June 1985, Page 1

Army Schools' celebrations at Waiouru

In what will probably be his last official visit to the Waiouru Military Camp during his term, the Governor General, Sir David Beattie, was guest of honour at the Army Schools' Centenary celebrations on Saturday.

His Excellency and Lady Norma Beattie were welcomed to the camp by Colonel Bruce Meldrum and Mrs Meldrum. They were then taken to the old Waiouru Homestead to freshen-up before attending a buffet luncheon in the new Officers' Mess. Accompanied by the Chief of General Staff, • Major General J. A. Mace O.B.E., His Excellency inspected the Army Schools and the Army Band before handing over a ceremonial scroll to schools' commandant, Lt. Col. Neil Bradley. Following afternoon tea, the viceregal couple unveiled a specially commissioned oil painting by Auckland artist, Graham Braddock, which depicts a soldier waiting at

Waiouru Railway Station with the ghosts of soldiers' past. Mount Ruapehu Can be seen in the background. One hundred prints have been made of the painting and will sell at $100 each, with the plates having been destroyed. The original will hang in Waiouru Headquarters Army Training Group. On Saturday evening, His Excellency and Lady Beattie attended a formal dinner which completed the centenary celebrations. The Army Schools consist of a Headquarters and nine schools, staffed by 30 officers and 209 other ranks. In 1984, the Schools conducted 224 courses for 3,179 students.