EKETAHUNA

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 August 1940, Page 7

EKETAHUNA

SOLDIER FUNCTIONS SEVERAL PRESENTATIONS. (“Times-Age” Special.) Last night the Eketahuna Public Hall was crowded, the occasion being the entertainment of 'local members of the Third Echelon. Many visitors were present from Carterton, Masterton, Pahiatua and the surrounding districts as web as many soldiers from other districts.

Dancing proved highly enjoyable to excellent music provided by the local orchestra which responded generously to well-merited encores. Much appreciated extras were played by Mrs G. A. Hansen, Miss O. Falkner, Lance-Cor-poral G. Olsen and Mr Prior (pianoaccordion). Messrs H. E. Greathead and B. Dinnan made capable M’s.C. Just prior to the supper dance, the guests of the evening took up their position on the stage and with them was Sister M. Jones, who was presented with a dainty posy by Mrs W. Curry. The Mayor, Mr W. Simpson, in the course of his remarks said that they had met once again to entertain some of the local boys. He assured the men that the residents of the town would watch their progress with pride. It was a recognised fact that the men of Australia and New Zealand were the finest soldiers in the world. He knew the men would play the game not only as soldiers but as gentlemen, thus upholding the high tradition set by the New Zealand.-men in the Great War. “We who are left at home must see to it that when the men return they are treated much better than was the case of the returned soldiers of the last war,” he said. Mr Simpson concluded by wishing the men God-speed and a safe return to Eketahuna. He presented the following with a gold wristlet watch each: Gunner W. Oldham, Lance-Corporal G. Olsen, Driver B. Lobban. Privates D. Thompson and H. Nielson.

All the recipients, as well as Sister Jones, briefly returned thanks, after they had been accorded musical honours.

Supper was provided by members of the Eketahuna Ladies’ Patriotic Committee.

The function terminated with the singing of Auld Lang Syne and 'the National Anthem.

Apologies for absence were received from Privates E. Francois and Dunham. NEWMAN GATHERING. The Newman Hall.was crowded 'on Wednesday night when Privates P. Monaghan and E. Fafeita were guests of honour. Dance music was supplied by Mr Peter Jackson, of Pahiatua, the extras being played by Mrs R. Giles, Messrs Alan Larsen and Prior. The M’s.C. were Messrs R. Kiddie and H. Brookes. Interspersed with dancing were vocal items contributed by Mrs and Miss Curry, Mr Max Smith, Miss M. Smith and Gunner and Mrs Oldham, all of which were much appreciated.

During the supper interval, Mr T. F. Edge, on behalf of Newman residents, asked Privates Monaghan and Fafeita to- accept engraved wristlet watches. In doing so Mr Edge voiced the appreciation of the residents to the recipients for the sacrifice they were making. Both had been born and brought up in the district. They had played their part well in the sporting and social side of the community and he felt sure they would continue to "play the game” in the big job ahead of them. He wished them luck and a quick and safe return to Newman.

Messrs C. Parson and R. Mabey (R.S.A.) spoke in a similar strain. Privates Monaghan and Fafeita suitably replied. After Mr Edge had handed the watches to the guests lie called upon Sister M. Jones to fasten them on. All the visiting soldiers, of which there were 12. and Sister Jones, were then presented with a small gift. Supper was provided and done full justice to. The proceedings which were kept going until a late hour, concluded with the singing of Auld Lang Syne and the National Anthem.

LARGE CROWD AT RONGOMAI. There was a very large crowd present at the Rongomai schoolroom for the social tendered to Second-Lieuten-ant J. Tredray and Corporal B. Reid, members of the Third Echelon. Many visitors were present from Eketahuna and surrounding districts, and a pleasant time was experienced. Music for the dancing was played by Messrs Noel Liadet and D. Thompson. The M’s.C. were Messrs L. Eagle and M Tomlinson.

After supper, provided by a ladies' committee, Mr A. H. Herbert, on behalf of the Rongomai residents, presented Lieutenant Tredray with a handsome travelling companion and Corporal Reid with a Rolls razor and a pair of military brushes. He extended to them the best wishes of all for a safe return.