Six Week Road opened
The scenic road to the summit of North Brother Mountain, which was hewn from virgin bushland in six weeks, was officially opened yesterday by the Forestry Commissioner, Mr. Muir.
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Hastings Shire president, Cr. Joe Andrews, in welcoming Mr. Muir, told of the Commissioner's response to his deputation from the shire, regarding the building of the road.
Mr. Muir said: "Would $15,000 help?" We are here today because $15,000 did help, Cr. Andrews said.
He said the road had first been visualised many years before, but lack of finance prevented the project from going ahead.
He criticised the Government Bi-Centenary Committee for their lack of interest in the historical significance of the mountain road.
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This mountain goes back to the beginnings of Australia's history and the road will be here forever, he said.
Cr. Andrews praised shire engineer, Mr. Bill Russell, and his workers, who had pushed the road through in such a short time.
The last load of gravel was poured on the road only half an hour before the opening ceremonies began, making good Cr. Andrews' repeated pledge that the road would be ready by April 29.
You won't find a better look-out in Australia than this one, he said.
"I am more adept at building roads than at opening them", Mr. Muir said.
He cut the ribbon across the road, declaring it open.
The official party and locals then drove to the summit where Mr. Muir unveiled a plaque.
Now you are up here, you will understand why we were so keen to build the road, Cr. Andrews said.
They did.
Packed auditorium for Anzac dinner
The Port Macquarie R.S.L. Club auditorium was packed to capacity when Diggers of two world wars held their Anzac day re-union.
There were over 400 three-course meals served by the women's auxiliary of the R.S.L. in a magnificent effort; as well as the large number of meals served in the club rooms.
A special detail of Diggers took meals to fellow Diggers, sick - in the hospital and to their homes.
Sub-branch president, Mr. Edgar Bernasconi presided, and amongst the guests he welcomed was club patron Mr. Joe Mannix, who was attending his 26th Anzac re-union at Port Macquarie.
In contrast with past dinners the toast list was reduced to only two.
Dr. Harry Hodgson proposed the toast to the R.S.L. to include all those men and women who served their county in time of war.
In proposing the toast to the to the Women's Auxiliary, Mr. Bernasconi said over the years, this auxiliary works very hard for the sub-branch; they provide us with our suppers, which they do unfailingly and unflinchingly every month.
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We appreciate them immensely.
In addition they have their financial arrangements, whereby they raise funds and make a presentation to the sub-branch every year, without fail.
Their devotion to their duty and obligation is one which we should honour very strongly, and it is with great pleasure that I commend them today on the menu they have prepared for us.
President of the Women's Auxiliary, Mrs Vera Jackson responded with a thank you for the generous remarks.
