CHRISTMAS JOYS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 12 December 1939, Page 6

CHRISTMAS JOYS

• FUN & FROLIC AT W.F.C.A. MAGIC CAVE. HOW JUNGLE ANIMALS AMUSE THEMSELVES. Christmas brings many joys to the children and one of the greatest thrills is provided by a visit to such an exciting place as a Magic Cave. Features of the W.F.C.A. Magic Cave, which is to be opened tomorrow, are the presentation of a series of animated models of animals in the jungle and an excellent miniature electric railway, complete with all accessories. /\mid its picturesque settings of tropical luxuriance the Magic Cave makes an instant appeal to young and old alike. Entry to this wonderland is gained by passing through a native hut from the ironmongery department and winding along a passageway into the cave, where a bright and colourful scene greets the eye. Jungle fun in all its frolicsome gaiety shows how the animals pass their spare hours. Monkeys, probably on account of their natural aptitude for fun, figure prominently. Some enjoy somersaults on a cartwheel operated by a bear, others get plenty of thrills from a ride on a giraffe’s neck, sliding up and down with each movement of the animal's head, a kangaroo and a pelican display the enormous capacity of their pouches. Some of the monkeys find plenty of amusement with crocodiles, elephants and lions, while a new way of killing the king of beasts raises a laugh. Altogether, the presentation of jungle fun is clever and highly amusing and young folk are sure to enjoy much entertainment from the animated exhibits. The model electric railway, in which there are four circuits, on which three or four trains are running at the same time, is a striking example of the realism to be obtained in a layout of this kind. All the trains and points are operated from a control box and when a train passes certain points road signals, double arm crossing bars and signalmen operate to regulate road traffic. Red and green lights show at the various points and the engine whistles before'it reaches a station or road crossing. A tunnel, hillside cutting, two stations, a goods shed, and petrol tanks are among the features of the system, which is set amid a pleasant countryside scene. A model furniture factory in full operation is another interesting exhibit that attracts attention. Even after viewing all these interesting displays the visitor still has a surprise in store, as Father Christmas is "at home” around the corner and hands a present to everyone. The Magic Cave is certainly well worth a visit.