Thames

New Zealand Tablet, 1 July 1915, Page 43

Thames

(From an occasional correspondent.) June 24. The half-yearly meeting of the H.A.C.B. Society was held last evening in St. Francis’ Schoolroom, there being a record attendance. The balance sheet, which was read ahd adopted, showed the branch to be in a very sound financial position. The total membership now stands at 45. One candidate was proposed. The following were elected to hold office for the ensuing term : President, Bro. D. Coakley ; vice-president, Bro; W. T. Spelman; secretary, Bro. C. H. Coakley (re-elected); treasurer, Bro. J. Connolly ; warden, Bro. T. Corbett: guardian, Bro. F.. McClair; sick visitors, Bros. E. Kenny and W. T. Spelman. Through the activity of the Thames branch of the Catholic Federation a matter of great importance has been brought to a successful issue. About fourteen children, living at Hikutaia and surrounding district, were unable to attend the Thames Convent School, as they could not obtain free passes on the railway, because Thames is not the ‘ nearest ’ convent school, Paeroa being some miles closer. Representations were made to the Minister of Education, through the member for Hi is district, when it was pointed out that though Paeroa is the ‘nearest - school, it is not the most convenient. The train does not arrive at Paeroa until about 11 a.ra., and leaves at 3.27 p.m., consequently the children lose three hours daily. The train to and from Thames would enable the children to put in the full school hours. The matter has been favorably considered bv the Minister, and passes to the Thames Convent School have been granted.