New Rink Will be Big Asset to City

Five years of planning and work, and the expenditure of thousands of pounds, had their culmination in a colorful ceremony at Alfred Cox Park in Grey Street last month, when on a perfect late summer evening the new outdoor skating rink, one of the finest in the Dominion, was opened with a display by the country's top skating stars. The occasion was a proud one for members of the Gisborne 30,000 Club, whose untiring efforts over a long period of years have resulted in the presentation of a fine asset to the city's recreational facilities. In officially declaring the rink open, Mr R. A. Keeling M.P., paid a tribute to the work the 30,000 Club had done for the community, and said that the city was fortunate in securing such a valuable amenity as a result of the club's efforts.

The rink, which is 130ft by 65ft, earned high praise from the visiting performers. No expense was spared to provide the best. Lighting is provided by ten 1500 candle-power floodlights, and the sound system, specially designed and built after exhaustive testa, is considered the best in the country. The whole project cost nearly £5000, and receipts from the rink are to be devoted to improvements and the provision of seating accommodation. Weather permitting, sessions are to be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and on Saturday afternoons and evenings.

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Mr Keeling speaking at the opening ceremony. With him on the dais (left to right) are Mr B. S. Bree (secretary). Mr P. W. Bushnell (past president) and Mr E. H. Baker (president), of the 30,000 Club.

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Snapshots on the rink following the opening ceremony.

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Daylight photographs appearing on this and other pages were taken at skating rink on the Sunday afternoon following the official Saturday evening opening. Champions were present to give additional displays, and for "Photo News" pictures.

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Ron Collier in a fast jump turn

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Two beginners

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N.Z. Pairs Champions, Marjorie Davern and Ian Gordon

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Healthy sport for young and old: a Sunday afternoon scene on the rink.