Radio Digest Episode 275
Part 1.
The recording opens with orchestral theme music. The announcer then introduces the programme items: a short visit to the Cook Islands; an interview with the Director of the National Archives in Washington DC; Competition Festivals; Miss New Zealand, Moana Manly, returns home; and the Queen launches a new passenger liner.
The New Zealand Minister of Territories, Mr Webb had a week-long tour of the Cook Islands. He was investigating the Cook Island people's problems and considering what could be done. He was met by the resident Commissioner of the Islands, Mr G. Neville. Mr Webb and his party flew over Rarotonga in a Hastings aircraft. On the aircraft was broadcaster Ulrich Williams who describes the view of the islands below. The party then visited Avarua School at Rarotonga where a group of school children presented an 'ute' - a traditional chant with modern words of welcome to the party. This is followed by actuality of the performance.
Dr T. R. Schellenberg, the Director of the National Archives in Washington DC, is interviewed about the Archive Unit. Doctor Schellenberg had been invited to Australia where he had been involved with the establishment of the Australian National Archive. He describes the work involved with the establishment of the archive, and gives a description of how the unit processes accessions material.
Part 2.
The 34th Annual Festival Concert of the Wellington Competition Society is to be held on the 28 August 1954. The Chairman of the Wellington Society, Mr E. J. Matthews, talks of the activities in the capital city. The Society has for one of its aims, "The promotion and fostering of the cultural arts and... [the society] endeavours to provide a point for competition and adjudication under a selected panel of judges." One of these judges, Mr H. Temple White, gives an indication of what should be looked for in a competitor's performance.
The New Zealand "Beauty Queen", Miss Moana Manly returned home to Auckland from the recent Miss Universe Competition in America. She is interviewed by Cynthia Dale.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth launched a new passenger liner, the "Southern Cross" from the ship yards in Belfast four day previously. The BBC commentator, Audrey Russell, reports from the dock yards. She describes the mechanics of the launching of the 20,000 tonne ship, capable of carrying 1,200 passengers.