This short documentary was filmed and edited by Joan Bailey and released in 1976. Joan had a wide range of interests including photography and film-making. This documentary contains a montage of footage from St Dominics Gala Day, Manawatu Deaf Club picnics, and fundraising activities, which were “an important part of their activities”. It shows Manawatu members knocking on doors to fundraise and resulting in heavy bags full of donations!
Footage also covers Manawatu Womens Group, which was formed in 1968. They met once-a-month at their homes, with their main purpose being to sew and knit for the Jaycee Annual Market Day held at The Square in Palmerston North. Funds raised were for the Manawatu Deaf Club. Deaf members are shown putting up the stall frame for this fundraising event.
In the documentary Joan states: “Sports keeps Deaf alert, they make good instructors”. Manawatu Deaf people train for the next Deaf Sports Convention, along with hockey and table tennis. “Meetings the Mainspring” – meaning meetings are important for the Deaf community – shows the AGM of the New Zealand Amateur Deaf Sports Association (July 16-17, 1976).
The documentary also covers social events “planned by Club committees who are all Deaf”, and ends, “In quietness and confidence shall be their strength”.
