This photo was taken in the afternoon and shows the tables being set for the evening function.I think about 250 people attended the dinner.A lovely touch on the tables were vases filled with rose buds-a differant colour for every table-tied around every vase was the Cameron Tartan ribbon.
The Centennial Cake which was cut during the evening by Joseph and Olivia Cameron -children of Hugh and Mandy.
The evening started with drinks and nibbles at 6pm and gave everyone a chance to catch up with old friends and workmates.The Otematata Fire Brigade did a marvellous job running the Bar and keeping glasses filled etc
At 7 30 everyone was seated and welcomed by Mike Bayley who was the M C for the evening.
Hugh Cameron then spoke on the History of Otematata Station up to the present day,followed by Walter Cameron from Wainui who spoke on behalf of the other Cameron Family members.Both were amazing, humourous speakers and I found it emotional to hear both Mum and Dad being acknowledged and applauded.How they would have loved to have been there!!!
After the speeches Dinner was served and what a feast it was.
Beef,Mutton,Chicken and Ham-peas,carrots,pumpkin,broccoli,potatoes and salads.The deserts were also amazing-cheese cakes-I have never tasted nicer-fresh fruit salad,pavlova,cream and hot apple shortcake and custard followed by tea and coffee.I have a feeling that I have missed some things out? -please contact me and I will add them on!
Before I go on I must mention the wine-in fact I dont have enough words to describe it!
Anyway it came from The Ostler Vineyards,4626 Kurow-Duntroon Road,Waitaki Valley.
www.ostlerwine.co.nz
It was superb,well worth buying a bottle or two or three,if you want something special from the Waitaki Valley.
Next it was time for Jim Hopkins who was the guest speaker for the evening.He had everyone in fits and I wish now that I had thought to take a small tape recorder with me.Extra special were his references to
Walter Cameron's diary and the quote when he took over Otematata Station in 1908" Rode up to take possession of the property and let the rabbiters loose"
The rest of the evening was spent talking,taking photos, catching up with people and hearing funny stories-some of which I will report here at a later date.
This is a photo of the Cameron Family taken during the evening.
Some of the many musterers who have worked on Otematata Station over the years.
Next time I have some more photos of people taken at the dinner.
Please communicate with me over what I have written.
the sisson@ clear.net.nz.
Thats all for now
Deirdre
