AERO CLUB

Wairarapa Times-Age, 12 June 1940, Page 3

AERO CLUB

ANNUAL MEETING LOAN TO GOVERNMENT. IMPORTANCE OF AIRCRAFT IN WAR. The president, Mr A. McDonald, presided over the annual meeting of the Wairarapa and Ruahine Aero Club held in the club house at the Hood Aerodrome, last night. Prior to the commencement of business those present stood in silence as a mark of respect to airmen who had died since the last meeting. On the motion of Mr P. F. Fagan, seconded by Mr N. G. Whiteman, it was unanimously decided to lend the Government £5OO as an interest free loan for the duration of the war. Subscriptions were fixed at 10s 6d for the duration of the war.

‘Since addressing you at the last an-

nual meeting," stated Mr McDonald “many dramatic events have taken place. Foremost in our thoughts today is the war with Germany and Italy, a war more ruthless, more atrocious, and waged on a greater scale than the Great War. The battle now proceeding is the largest in the world's history and

history will, I am confident, record it as a triumph for the Allies. Every day one reads of the exploits of the Air Forces engaged by the Great Powers and it is apparent that aircraft play a predominant part in waging war. In the early stages, particularly in Norway, and later in Belgium it was seen that though the Allied planes were superior and ou.r airmen had proved themselves time and time again to be more skilful. we sadly lacked the numbers essential to gain mastery of the air. Lat-1 est reports indicates that the position is rapidly improving and there is little | reason to doubt that as soon as we have sufficient planes to gain control over the enemy, the tide of the battle will turn and lead to victory. “I would like to pay a tribute to our gallant airmen overseas. They have performed their duties with courage, skill and determination. No sacrifice has proved too great —some have paid the supreme sacrifice. We all remember the late Squadron Leader Lennox

Lamb. Flying Officer Kain, victim of a recent accident, and Pilot Officer F. L. Long—herd of an epic flight. Their heroism, pluck and bravery and their exploits brilliantly executed will always live in our memories and will be an inspiration to others. Since last September, 26 of our members have joined up with the Defence Forces of the Dominion, most of them as pilots in the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Several are carrying out the important work of instructional training, others are occupied on ground staff duties. A number’ of our pilots are overseas and still more are being trained for overseas service. The importance of the

aero club movement in New Zealand was clearly demonstrated when on the outbreak of the war, the Government was able to take over a large number of trained personnel, many aircraft, as well as stocks of materials, and spare parts. This formed the nucleus of the training scheme in this country and resulted in a saving of many months of valuable ’ time which would have otherwise been spent in organising and establishing training centres. The amount due to each club was left with the Government as a free of interest loan for the duration of the war. The total for New Zealand amounted £23,707. of which our proportion was £1193. Unfortunately we had to suspend activities when the busy summer flying' season was starting. Our revenue consequently showed a heavy decline, and if it were not for the assistance given by Local Bodies and members the loss for the year would have been more than the figure of £298 16s 2d. The support, received was very much appreciated. The assets of the club will require to be maintained in good condition. It is understood that the Public Works Department will look after the aerodrome surface but we will have to keep the buildings and other assets in order. A certain amount of revenue will be required annually and it is hoped that members will rally around and continue to assist their club.

“Air Force Relations:—The ladies’ organisation under the capable leadership of Mrs H. J. W. Lord have done Wonderful work in providing comforts for the airmen. To date they have forwarded the following: 48 pullovers, 49 pairs mittens, 44- balaclavas, 44 scarves, 17 pairs gloves. 9 pairs socks, 38 tins sweets, 94 tins biscuits and shortbread, as well as tinned meats, cakes, etc. Their work is worthy of our utmost support.. Gifts of money or foodstuffs will be welcomed. Books and playing cards are also wanted. If you have any spare books, send them in as soon as possible. “For the duration of the war the club will assist the Dominion's war effort in every possible way. The aerodrome and facilities are available to the Air Department for use by the R.N.Z.A.F. whenever necessary. The day will come, and it is hoped that it is not far away, when we will be able to resume club flying. It is imperative therefore to keep the club spirit alive in the meantime, to maintain our assets and to have our organisation and membership intact so that flying activities can be resumed with as little delay as possible when the time arrives.”

Mr G. W. A. Mills, of Dannevirke; brought up the matter of forming a glider club at the aerodrome, dnd after brief discussion it was decided that before any action could be taken in the matter an advertisement be placed in the “Times-Age" asking all members and others interested in the proposal to communicate with the secretaries. Messrs L. F. Gray and H. A. R. Dunderdale.

As there were only the required number of officers nominated no election was necessary, and the following were re-elected to office: Patron. Mr J. W. Buchanan; president. Mr A. McDonald: vice-presidents. Messrs P. F. Fagan. E. A. Heyder, H. J. W. Lord; club captain. Mr J. V. A. Reid; committee. Messrs A. W. Buchanan. W. A. Wardoil. N. G. Whiteman, A. C. Talton and N. R. Cunningham.

Apologies for absence were received from Messrs W. Kemp and A. C. Tatton. ■