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The Tanks: An Unofficial History of the Activities of the Third New Zealand Division Tank Squadron in the Pacific

[Recreation and Entertainments]

The biggest asset to the camp was the beautiful swimming pool which was so handy. Its depth was from four to eight feet, and there were two diving boards and a rope hanging from the branch of a tree overlooking the pool. It is impossible to say how much time was spent there, but every opportunity which presented itself was not allowed to pass. Then there were the daily swimming classes and it was not long before all previous non-swimmers were able to keep themselves afloat, and some were on the way to becoming good swimmers. Instead of compulsory physical training, as laid down in pamphlet number so and so, all troops had to parade at the swimming pool, and races were held to maintain the interest. This was certainly the best physical training we had in the army, and it was amazing how quickly the troops became very fit, what with hard work all day and finishing off with the swim.

Sporting activities in the division's competitions were also indulged in, and a good cricket team was in the malting, whilst a soft-ball team was improving with every game. Our team in the swimming sports did not meet with any success, but our athletic team in the first sports meeting achieved quite a measure of success. Leo Shalders, as usual, managed to get a place in two of the sprints, and our tug-of-war team, after two pulls in the final, emerged successfully. The second sports meeting held found a larger team from our small unit, and again Leo Shalders was in the finals. In the 100 yards he was second, in the 220 yards he was third, but in the 440 yards he was an easy winner and returned us a fair dividend from the tote. Our two tug-of-war page 22teams, although neither managed to win, did very well, but it was surprising that it was the B team which covered itself with glory and perspiration. The teams representing the various units took part in a marching competition, although our men did not know until it was over and the result announced, that it was such a competition. Much to their amusement they were awarded second prize. A boxing ring was erected in our area, and quite a few indulged in fisticuffs. Lieutenant Dawson was a keen boxer and could always be found somewhere near the ring, before or after duty.

A committee had been formed to organise the recreation and entertainment of the troops, and a very fine committee it turned out to be. There was always something doing, and members of the committee did not spare their efforts. Each Sunday a truck of men would visit some part of the island. First it was Houailou (pronounced Wahloo) across the other side of the island and about 50 miles from our camp. Then it was Fishennan's Rest (that name was given by us), where a good day was always spent, for generally we would run into some sharks and then Jock Barns Graham would be in his element with a rifle. However, the best of these trips was to the coral reef, the other side of Bourail. It was a thrill to see the different colours and formations of coral, and the clams (not very large) were inspected with interest. None would risk putting his boot into the jaws of the clams, but most managed to find a stick to place between the jaws, and then watch them close. We were able to imagine what would happen if one were unfortunate enough to place his foot in the jaws of a giant clam. Weekends were generally full of activity, now all that remained was to find something to do during the week nights. A bi-weekly visit from the mobile cinema was appreciated, and at first those games of housie were good, but after a few nights they became monotonous. The committee then decided to approach the OC and find out whether a piano could be obtained. We had been warned that pianos were so scarce it was useless for us even to make enquiries, but in a few days Lieutenant Dawson had one for us. Then began those nights of community singing when, with Bert Clout playing anything asked for, officers and men of the three units got together and spent many a cheerful evening.

Then came 16 October, the anniversary of the formation of the First New Zealand Army Tank Brigade. The committee page 23decided to hold a smoke concert, and everybody was asked to save as much beer as he could, as it was impossible to procure anymore. We were fortunate in having quite a few non-drinkers or small drinkers in the unit, and when the night in question rolled along the supply, although not large, was enough to keep the evening going. Songs were written especially for the occasion, and these were sung with gusto. Particularly do we remember the choruses: 'We're for ever building bures' (to the tune of 'I'm forever blowing bubbles') and 'Pack up your troubles in your old Val 5's.' There was no programme laid down, for it was decided to make the whole show impromptu. Amusing stories were told of happenings in the old battalion, plus community singing. It was the first time the new recreation bure had been used and the opening night will be long remembered by all present. The next day a visit from the New Zealand WAACs was arranged. Girls from the Convalescent Depot, the 4th General Hospital at Boguen, and Base Training Depot were collected by trucks and brought back to our camp. Then several trucks went down to Fisherman's Rest for the day. It was a very pleasant picnic and in the evening when the party returned a fancy tea had been arranged, to be followed by a dance. Quite a few nurses, also, were invited to the tea and dance, and we were delighted to have their company. The recreation bure was decorated by the committee, and a splendid supper was arranged. It was an excellent night's entertainment.

Four days after this instructions were received for the unit to proceed north to join up with the remainder of the squadron. They were to leave the camp on 23 October and it was decided to hold a farewell smoke concert on the 22nd and invite the other units in the camp area. This was done, and the evening was enjoyed by all, even although a few days before it had looked as though there would be no beer for the tables. However, by devious means, a supply was obtained which was sufficient to satisfy all. The most disappointing fact was that the bure which we had built was now to be left. It had been a big job thatching it, but at least it was not being wasted for the works company would be remaining in the camp and could find quite a lot of use for it. Eventually electricity was installed, and it became a very fine recreation centre. Our thanks go to the Works Service Company for the assistance they were always ready to give, and as page 24they supplied the electricity for our various functions we can say those evenings would not have been the successes they were without the 'bright lights.'