Council gives green light for Olympic fresh water pool

One of the most protracted questions in its history was finally resolved by the Municipal Council on Monday  last when it gave the green light for the construction of a fresh water pool of Olympic standard size to proceed within the breakwall area.

The adoption of a baths committee report settled the question of fresh water; empowered the calling of tenders when the engineer has approval of plans he has to submit to the Public Works Department, and authorised the raising of £12,000 by the council to meet the balance required for a £40,000 expenditure.

A substantial amount is already in hand for the project with £15,000 raised by the Carnival of the Pines, a £5000 donation from the RSL Club and a £10,000 grant from the state government.

Ald McLaughlin questioned the decision. He said it may have advantages from a competitive point of view, but people “from the back country” would be looking for salt water.

The engineer, Mr Clark, said the main reasons for the decision were that salt water would create suction-line troubles, and pumping charges would make its use far in excess in cost to fresh water. Ald Kennedy congratulated the baths committee on reaching finality.

He said he had opposed the proposal all the way and no one would convince him the baths were being built in the right place. He seemed to be a lone wolf, however, and a voice in the wilderness.

Ald Kennedy asked were the plans the engineer was drawing up to be within the amount of expenditure stated. Council had no guarantee where any extra money would come from; it would have to take over responsibility for any losses, “so let’s not delude ourselves altogether”. Mr Clark said the actual cost would be just over £40,000, and amenities such as at Wauchope pool would be included in that cost.

Twenty-first Birthday

Popular man about town, Lloyd Eyles, celebrated his 21st birthday on Saturday night. Close to 100 guests enjoyed a very happy party celebration in the Surf Club pavilion, where dancing followed an evening buffet dinner. Chairman of proceedings, Ivan Meldrum, led the expressions of good wishes from all present and Lloyd was the recipient of many lovely gifts. In his “thank yous’ Lloyd particularly mentioned Mrs. May Garrett, Mrs. Hennessey, and the caterers for the success of his party.

High school swimming carnival

Port Macquarie High School’s annual swimming carnival was held at Wauchope baths, and as it was decided to introduce a four House system for sports competitions between the Houses Hastings, Oxley, McLaren and Macquarie, the swimming carnival gave pupils their first opportunity to compete for their new House. Banners, house colours on caps and war cries added to the interest of the day.

Events were keenly contested but rain delayed the program and novelty events could not be held. Final scores were Oxley 308, McLaren 256, Hastings 255, and Macquarie 173. Oxley was therefore the first winner of the Norm Matesich shield donated to the school by the local bus proprietor.