MANAWATU COUNTY STAFF PICNIC

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 38, 15 February 1939, Page 10

MANAWATU COUNTY STAFF PICNIC

VISIT TO TOTARA RESERVE j (Own Correspondent.) SANDON, Feb. 13. Favoured with a perfect summer’-'! day the annual picnic held by the staff of the Manawatu County Council at the picturesque Totara Reserve on Saturday, proved a great success. Altogether a party of 140 left Sanson early in the morning and had a pleasant trip up the Pohangina Valley. The party picnicked under the shade! of the bush on the riverside. Numerous races were held for ail. and several competitions added to theenjoyment. Bathing was one of the I most popular attractions, and after-, noon tea, ice creams, soft drinks,; fruit and the ever-popular lolliej scramble were again provided. I Throughout the day the picknickers I were kept in constant touch with i events by means of a loud speaker■ equipment operated by the secretary of the committee, Mr. S. L. Kent.

Following the tug-of-war contests, the chairman of the council, Mr. W. E. Barber, said it was his pleasure and privilege to present the trophy known as the “Bone of Contention” to the winners. Mr. Barber then presented the shield to Mr. D. G. Hammond, the captain of the crushingplant team. Mr. Barber then called on Mr. A. Hopwood ot Palmerston North, to accept a framed photograph taken of himself at the last picnic, as a small token of recognition of his services each picnic day in keeping the “billy” boiling. In replying, Mr. Hopwood stated that he appreciated the kind gesture behind the presentation and assured all that he was always pleased to attend the social functions of the staff.

Much of the success of the day was due to the untiring efforts of the committee, Messrs. H. V. Bond, E. J. Davey, W. George, L. A. Sadler, and the secretary, Mr. S. L. Kent.