One Happy Night in New Guinea

New Guinea

Finschhafen, July 16.

STAGED primarily as a combined valedictory to RAAF, the Bannigans and the Whites, it was coincidental that New Guinea’s largest and most suc cessful post-war social function at the Finschhafen Hall should take place the same day as the arrival of HMAS “Kanimbla” with occupational troops for Japan.

Aboard was distinguished Australian Dr. Evatt (Minister for External Affairs) en route to Japan; and he joined in the conviviality of the occasion.

Efficiently organised by Mrs. J. R.

Keenan, attractive wife of the Assistant- District Officer, the “Evening” was unique for its variety of entertainment, galaxy of display and the abundance of refreshment.

Gaily adorned with bunting and bril liant tropical flowers, the hall was greatly admired by “Kanimbla’s” passengers, especially the Army sisters, who not be fore had experienced the delights of such a tropical night.

Long-frocked women danced to the rhythm of excellent music with high ranking, gold-braided naval officers, dignatories of the RAAF, and civilians In immaculate evening attire.

Nearby was the palm-fringed coral shore, with gentle breezes rippling the shimmering waters. A myriad of tasty delicacies had been skilfully prepared by “Tarangau’s” famous chef. Smart, dapper, well-trained, pre-war natives, clad in short, well-starched lava-lavas, revelled in their masters* hilarity. Fleet of foot, they dashed hither and thither, holding aloft great trays of sparkling beer. Breezy American officers from the US War Graves Registration unit paid tribute to the occasion. All Finschhafen turned out to welcome the revival of those happy pre-war New Guinea nights that must surely come again.