CLOUDED OUTLOOK.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 28, 2 February 1928, Page 8

CLOUDED OUTLOOK.

HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

REVIEW OF PAST YEAR.

POLICY OF ECONOMY URGED,

The thirtieth annual report of the Auckland Horticultural Society, which will be presented at a meeting of the members this evening, points out that with increasing work too great a share of the actual labour of routine preparation falls on a comparative few. There is a membership of 300. The chief policy e\ents of the past year were the inauguration of subsidiary clubs, and the hold- ?*. five shows to exploit the full possibilities of seasonal flowers. The chrysanthemum, dahlia and narcissus clubs proved very popular, frequent meetings were held, and addresses and discussions assisted to educate new mem. beis. Ihe Chrysanthemum Club secured a number of trophies for competition next April. The dahlias were regarded as better than any previously exhibited, and the chrysanthemums also made an outstanding exhibit. At the rose show the standard was high, with keen competition, and sweet peas and gladioli drew more entries than usual.

Proceeding, the report says that it is distressing to record that a financial loss was experienced in every case, this being attributed to liberality in the granting of complimentary tickets, and the heavy expense of hall hire. The executive intend to recommend the granting of fewer complimentary tickets, and charging members half entry fees. It was further suggested that one day shows should be held in the suburbs, and that prize money should be redmrd. Under the will of the late president, the late Sir Henry Brett, a bequest of £200 was banked. It has been decided to renew the practice of short locturettes at shows, and to encourage novices and yonnar growers. The daffodil raisers will continue distribution of bulbs to any members who wished to show.

Continuing, the report states that there was no competition for several trophies, and that the conditions for the Locler Cup were not ready in time for the 1027 show. Gratitude is expressed to givers of trophies and prizes, and to all who assisted the society.

In conclusion the annual report says: "In reviewing the past year's activities the executive says that while the increased interest of horticulturists and the keenness of exhibitors resulted in an appreciable gain in the standard of excellence, the basis 011 which the society can continue is that of increased revenue. The attendance of members and friends has been admirable, but that of the public very sparse, and it is by public support that financial success, or failure is assured. A policy of ceonomy will have to be enforced, and in the hope that a better condition of affairs may eventuate some means of retrenchment will be submitted to the annual mcet>ng"