Reports

Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 36, September 1992

ANNUAL REPORTS

WAIHI HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The President, Mrs Margaret Wells, in her annual report to the Society stated that during the year a number of long-standing members passed away. In particular, she said, they all mourned the loss of Mrs Nellie Climie B.E.M., the Founder and Patron of the Society.MrsClimie had been a great historian, always delighted to share her knowledge with anyone seeking the history of the District. She expressed thanks for the unselfish life of the "Grand lady of Turner's Hill".

Mrs Wells then spoke of the legacy left to the Waihi Society by the late Bert McAra. When Mr McAra retired back to Waihi, he wrote the book "Gold Mining at Waihi 1878 -1952", published in 1978, and gave it to the Society. Mr and Mrs McAra were granted life membership for this untiring work.

Mr George O'Dell had been a committee member, librarian and tireless worker for the Society. Also Mr E Spence and Mrs Sarah Frendrup had been good attenders at meetings. Sympathy was extended to the families of these members.

Congratulations were extended to Mr O J Morgan, awarded the O.B.E., and Hon A E Kinsella, awarded the Q.S.O. in the New Years Honours List.

Mrs Wells commented that meetings had been well attended and that there had been some interesting speakers. These included talks from Mrs J Marr, Community Advice Bureau; Mr Royce Morgan, China; Mrs A Young, Historical Places Trust and Mr J Higgins, "Sugar Bag Days". Bus trips to Whitianga and Kawerau had also proved popular.

PAEROA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The President, Mr Arthur Reid, reported to the Annual General Meeting in February 1992 that although the past year had not been as busy for the Society as during the 1990 Celebrations, there had been some progress made and new members gained. Foremost in the thoughts of the Committee had been the need to find larger premises for the Museum. Mr Reid outlined the various proposals that the Committee was considering.

During the year the Society was saddened by the passing of Mrs Nell Climie B.E.M., Founder and Patron, and Mr Roy Blair. Sympathy was extended to the families of these people who had both contributed so much to the Society.

Weekly morning walks during the winter months had been organised by Mrs Mona Townshend. These were well supported and, with the assistance of Mr Ian Parlane, the party received an historical summary of the various areas visited.

In response to the strong support there had been to the Annual Luncheons in past years, the Committee decided to move to a more spacious venue in the Memorial Hall. Approximately 80 people attended and enjoyed a talk and demonstration on household and kitchen utensils of past days given byMrs Joyce Lush.

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