Origin Of Polynesian Club

Letter to the Editor DOUBTLESS others beside myself were surprised to read Mr. L. Moran’s attempt, in your November issue, to belittle the association of Mrs. Alfred Page and myself, in connection with the origin of the Polynesian Club in Sydney.

The “valedictory article,” to which Mr.

Moran referred, was written without my knowledge. Nor do I know the writer.

But, if for no other reason than in the interests of historical accuracy, I do not think that Mr. Moran’s letter should go unchallenged.

Mrs. Page and I were associated with the management of the Club (as mem bers of the Council) from its formation, and until we disagreed with its policy; and then, with others, we withdrew. We then formed the flourishing Pacific Islands Society, which has done so much to enhance the prestige of the Pacific peoples and to maintain interest in its cultural affairs. It was because those objects (which we had in mind when the Club was formed) were neglected, that we disassociated ourselves from the Poly nesian Club.

It is true, as Mr. Moran says, that the inaugural meeting took place in his home, and that people of Polynesian blood had been gathering there for many years, and I know that Mr. Moran and his family extended much hospitality and kindness to Polynesian visitors over that period. But this inaugural meeting took place at my suggestion; and, if he will look at the records of that first meet ing, he will find that I occupied the chair (though Mr. Moran was subse

quently elected president). Therefore, his memory must be seriously at fault.

Others who were present can bear wit ness to my statement. If Mr. Moran’s memory is still not suffering from a momentary lapse, he will also recall that it was at my suggestion that Mrs.

Waikainga Tipene was elected chief tainess, on the same occasion.

What I do resent is the reflection (and it is a very cheap one) upon Mrs. Page, a lady who, during the period she acted as chieftainess and hostess of the Club, brought to that office the traditional dignity which is a heritage from her Polynesian forebears, and characteristics that have also been generously acknow ledged since she has occupied the same post with the Pacific Islands Society one that she still holds with distinction.

Despite what Mr. Moran may say, the old Maori adage still holds good: “E kore e ngaro, he takere waka-nui”! (The hull of a great canoe cannot be hidden.) Heoi ano —enough.

I am, etc.,

Eric Ramsden

Christchurch, NZ. 15/12/1942.

The “Fiji Times” reports that there has been a marked increase in thefts of motor tyres and spare wheels in Fiji. This is, no doubt, due to the controlled sales of tyres, and in view of the position it is a crime that is likely to increase rather than decrease. Fiji motor-car owners are advised to keep the serial numbers of their tyres, and note any peculiarities by which they may identify them if they are stolen.