 
Te Aroha News
14 October 2009
Club celebrates 70 years - Party time at Te Aroha Club
 |
| HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Eric Mace, left, Dave Willetts and Brian Kidd outside Te Aroha Club. |
Te Aroha Club’s long and colourful history will be remembered this weekend at its 70th birthday celebrations.
The club was born in premises in central Whitaker St, next to the Palace Hotel, thanks to the late Dr Dick Lawrence (Senior).
Two long-serving members, Brian Kidd (who joined in 1958) and Eric Mace (1961), said the founder was reportedly pretty persuasive in getting members. "No one turned the doctor down."
In 1957 the club bought the old Gilchrist family home in Centennial Ave, built in 1913, from which it has operated out of ever since.
Mr Kidd and Mr Mace said the heyday of the club was in the 1960s and 1970s, with membership dropping in the 1990s.
Both joined "because of the snooker".
In the mid-1970s the club’s first alteration pushed out its verandah to allow for four billiard tables.
There were two previously, with the club today boasting three snooker and one pool table.
The club continues to be involved in interclub snooker competitions, including the annual Piako championship, plus a charity pool tournament.
A second alteration in the mid-1980s focused on the toilets, chiller and bar area. The old custodian’s flat became a storeroom.
In 1992 a committee room was built upstairs, with the addition of a new kitchen and dining room.
Mr Kidd served on the executive for 20 years, covering every job except treasurer.
The only surviving life member, Mr Mace was on the committee for 30 years, vice-president for 20 and president for three.
Both remember ladies night as a highlight among past club activities, along with hosting a satellite call centre for Telethon.
For more than 20 years the club has staged a highly successful charity fishing contest and recently began hosting motorhome conventions.
New president Dave Willetts said 80-100 people are expected to attend this weekend’s celebrations.
The programme starts with a mix and mingle function on Friday evening.
On Saturday there will be a games afternoon involving pool, darts and bowls, plus guided tours around Te Aroha attractions. A dinner and dance is on in the evening, starting at 7pm. Late registrations will be accepted, phone 884-8949.
By Steve Edwards @ Piako Post |
