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Photograph of the Main Staircase.
At present much good work is being done in "hole in the corner" buildings. Constantly working in what can only be called "depressing” conditions takes a big toll of the vitality and enthusiasm of the social worker. The institution of a centre where similar work is being practised on a model basis, to which such workers can return for inspiration, will be a source of vitality upon which they can constantly draw.
Further, much of the work referred to above, by reason of its very situation, passes unnoticed by the public at large. A centre as envisaged must attract considerable attention and support will follow, thus bringing to the forefront the excellent work being carried on at present in less conspicuous and less well equipped premises.
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THE CENTRE
Basically the centre will consist of:
An exercise room or gymnasium, large enough to accom- modate a full size basket ball court, with sufficient seating accommodation to make it a potential source of income for the Association.
Adequate washing and dressing accommodation so ar- ranged that male and female children can use the centre. An eating room.
Kitchen accommodation.
A large reading/instruction room.
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Further Development—a swimming pool.
Offices,
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Extra spaces for boys clubs and other associations.
Quarters for Resident Organiser.
None of these facilities are luxuries. They are essential for the practice of personal hygiene, and the development of
intellect, skill and physique. None of the Children with which this centre will deal are accustomed to a regular or responsible way of life. But they are human, and due to their environ- ment almost certainly will be selfish and probably destructive. To provide space then, without order is useless. The centre will endeavour to unite them into small communities, with their own leaders, some rules and thence some tradition.
The War Memorial Centre was completed and officially opened by Hon. Sir Arthur Morse, C. B. E. on 5th June, 1950; and amongst his remarks on this occasion, he said:- "Your Excellency, Lady Grantham, Ladies and Gentlemen:
My first duty to-day must be to thank Your Excellency for coming here to declare this building open. Not only has your interest in our efforts to revive the Children's Playground Association been a source of encouragement, but your own personal interest in this scheme has played a major part in getting it started.
The Children's Playground Association was founded seventeen years ago, and it is a source of great pleasure to me that certain of its founder members are here with us to-day. The first President was the Hon. Sir W, T. Southorn, and the Chairman of its first Executive Committee was the Hon. Sir Man Kam Lo.
This particular ground was first opened in July 1934, and at that opening Sir Thomas Southorn, after whom it is named, said in part:-
"We look forward to the day when every child in this Colony shall have a space in which to play free from danger to himself and others. If we don't give them playgrounds they will play in the streets, and you well know what that means in these days of fast moving traffic."
When spoken these words were true enough. But how much more pertinent are they to-day.
At that time the Children's Playground Association had six grounds in operation. In 1940 it had seven. To-day it has one.
However I am happy to be able to say that there is every hope in the very near future there will be a very real improve- ment in the playground situation.
Considerable discussion went on in 1948 but the heavy cost of building prevented a great deal being accomplished. Convinced of the benefits to be derived from the scheme an appeal was made early in 1949 to the War Memorial Fund Committee on the grounds that such a centre as this would make a most suitable War Memorial. After the consideration of the arguments put forward the War Memorial Fund Com- mittee unanimously decided to make a grant of $350,000 towards the scheme. I would like now to express my sincere thanks to His Honour Mr. Justice Williams, Chairman of the War Memorial Fund Committee and to all members thereof who, in giving this scheme such generous support, finally made the erection of this centre possible."
Architect: Mr. W. H. Kwan, A.R.I.B.A. General Contractors: Union Construction Co.. Crittall Steel Windows: Dodwell & Co., Ltd.
Plumbing Installation: Tung On Plumbing Co., Ltd.
The Leaders' Common Room
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