GIRLS' MOVEMENT

Wairarapa Times-Age, 13 November 1941, Page 6

GIRLS' MOVEMENT

WAIRARAPA INTERHOUSE ASSOCIATION ADDRESS AT ROTARY CLUB. IMPORTANCE OF PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT. The aims and objects of the Wairarapa Interhouse Association, and the work it carried out in providing recreational facilities for young business women, were dealt with in an interesting manner by Mr D. Costello, secretary of the Association, in addressing members of the Masterton Rotary Club today. The president, Mr Norman Lee, presided over a good attendance. Miss P. Cretney, who was champion interhouse team leader for the past two years, and Mr R. Preston, of the Wellington Rotary Club, were present as guests.

In outlining the events leading up to the formation of the Wairarapa Interhouse Association, Mr Costello referred to the endeavours made by a number of business people to assist the Masterton A. and P. Association’s show, resulting in a handsome challenge cup being donated by the Association for competition. In March, 1938, a successful marching • contest, followed by a dance, was held. In January, 1939, the Association, as it is known today, was formed. Table tennis and basketball competitions were held during the winter of 1939. The Association realised the possibilities of the Government’s Keep Fit Campaign, and endeavoured to do all it could to cater for the young people. Following the first field day, at which ten teams paraded, a swimming carnival was held, and in the winter months both men’s and ladies’ indoor basketball

competitions were jointly controlled by the Association and the Y.M.C.A. Mr Costello emphasised that the girls who had taken part in the Association’s activities had been greatly improved in physique. The association had always.'' endeavoured to provide as much re- ( creation as possible for as little cost. . Subsidies had been granted to teams ' entered in the drill competitions. The * speaker referred to the visit paid by a large party of girls and supporters to the Centennial Exhibition. The association had played an important part in raising money for patriotic funds. The ‘ formation of the Interhouse Girls’ Choir and other activities of the association c were dealt with in detail. In conclu- £ sion Mr Costello commented on the way in which indoor basketball had taken on in Masterton, and referred to the health-giving benefits of the association’s activities.

On the motion of Mi’ E. G. Coddington, a hearty vote of thanks was passed to the speaker.