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Salient. An Organ of Student Opinion at Victoria College, Wellington, N.Z. Vol. 17, No. 11. June 24, 1953

A King is Crowned — McCaw Unopposed

A King is Crowned

McCaw Unopposed

For the first time in many years (if not the first time ever), the President of the Students Association has been elected unopposed. This happening is no doubt caused by many differing factors, but among the most important are the outstanding qualities of President Malcolm McCaw.

Many people will have heard of him as Wellington's Plunket Shield Opening batsman, but he is well known at Victoria for his many useful activities since he arrived in 1948. His main interests he with the cricket and Rugby clubs and he has served on the committees of both. A resident of Weir House for some years, he became President of that institution in 1952 and successfully carried out the difficult task of coordinating the activities of a large group of students, many of whom were new to the traditions of the House and the University. As Treasurer of the Students' Association last year, Malcolm soon mustered the complications of the Association's finance, and earned the full confidence of his colleagues. His ability soon made it obvious that here was a future President. This appreciation was heightened by the excellent job he made of running the stationery scheme.

P. M. McCaw

P. M. McCaw

—Courtesy "Evening Post"

Malcolm has had administrative experience in Extrav and in Tournament organisation. He was also Treasurer of last year's Congress. His sporting ability is not confined to cricket as he plays a useful five-eighths game in the 2nd XV. Malcolm has not played an active part in many of the cultural activities of the Association but he is always to be seen among the audience at a play or debate and has played an important part in the cultural life of Weir House.

Election Results

As usual Salient's reporter was on the spot when news was to be found, and takes pride in bringing you this scoop, only twenty-four hours (or less) after it has become public. This is the news that 780 voters have been waiting for: the poll was, by comparison with recent years a reasonably heavy one: the best in fact, since April, 1948.

No Surprises

There were no real surprises in the results: according to an unofficial survey carried out beforehand, the favourites in most cases, headed the field home, though it seemed to be felt that in both the men's and women's committees there were Ave possibles. The exceptions, if any to the rule, were in the positions of Treasurer and Secretary. As far as the contest for treasurer went, neither candidate was very well known, and as a consequence the survey did not prove accurate. Suggestions that Ian Free would split his own vole did not eventuate.

Vice Presidents

Elaine Foote, who was unopposed and has already served one term on the exec, goes back this year for another period, as does Peter Chatwin, who was successful at the polls against Ian Free. Peter has been one of the most fruitful sources of inspiration on the executive over the past year, but it has alas, been a marathon task to keep his enthusiasm within bounds. That dispenser of cold water. Maurice O'Brien, could temper the idealism with common sense, but Malcolm McCaw. a little has experienced in the art of convincing people of the errors of others, may find it a trifle difficult.

Secretary

For Secretary, Bernie Galvin defeated Bill Sheat in what is thought to have been a close contest. Figures are never made public but I do not think there would be much to spare between the two of them. My only regret is that it was necessary to choose between them; both are excellent men and both would have graced the executive. However, that is the tragedy of politics.

Treasurer

With two relatively dark horses galloping in this contest, either of them could have won. (A masterful summary.—Ed.). Cliff Terry got the judges" approval.

Men's Committee

All those elected to the men's committee were men. Moreover they are all sportsmen: perhaps it is not surprising in a year when Varsity sports clubs are doing rather well. Tim Beaglehole is embarking on a second period of office, but the others. Ian Free (see above ), Denis McLean, and Trevor Turner are all newcomers to office.

Women's Committee

"Salient" is pleased to note that Peggy Thorn, one of the two assistant editors, has now been elevated to the Peerage (? ? ? ). together with Mary Williment and Pam Beck. The other successful candidate was Diana Lescher. who has been on the exec, since early this year.

All in all, a colourful and talented array.

Wot: No O'Briens?

Wot: No O'Briens?

Good Luck

Under President McCaw. the Association can undoubtedly look forward to the sound administration of its affairs. Those who know him well have come to be impressed by his ability and his unassuming nature to him and his colleagues, "Salient" extends its best wishes and its warning that it will continue its duty of criticising whatever it believes to be a wrong Executive decision.