NORTH CANTERBURY NEWS

Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22342, 4 March 1938, Page 7

NORTH CANTERBURY NEWS

MORE PUBLICITY

PROPOSED LOAN FOR ROAD PAVING FERNSIDE FARMERS' REQUEST A resolution that more publicity be given to information about the proposed loan of £IO,OOO for road paving in Rangiora County was passed at the monthly meeting of the Fernside branch of the New Zealand Farmers* Union on Tuesday evening. Mr W. Smith presided over a fair attendance.

A motion of sympathy was passed with the relatives of Mr W. V. Guy who has been secretary and treasurer of the branch since its inception more than four years ago. The chairman of the Rangiora County Council (Mr H. Tallott) addressed the meeting on the proposed loan of £lO 000 for road paving, the County Clerk (Mr S. G. Dalley) supplying figures and graphs. A vote of thanks was passed to both speakers. OXFORD A. AND P. ASSOCIATION MEETING OF COMMITTEE The general committee of the Oxford Agricultural and Pastoral Association met recently, when the president, Mr W. A. B. Reed, presided. It was decided that the sideshows at the forthcoming show be in the hands of members of the Courtenay Association, who had offered to assist. No other sideshows would be allowed. Stewards were appointed for the show, on April 7. FEBRUARY WEATHER OXFORD The rainfall in Oxford for February was 2.s2"inches, falling on 12 days, as against 3.87 inches last year, falling on 13 days. The average for the month for the last 28 years is 3.26 inches. For the two months 8.13 inches have been recorded. For the same period last year the fall was 7.78 inches. MAGISTRATE'S COURT AT KAIKOURA FINE FOR INSULTING LANGUAGE Before Messrs Jas. Davidson and Jas. Boyd, Justices of the Peace. Richard Broadhurst, a labourer of Kaikoura. appeared at the Magistrate's Court at Kaikoura, charged with behaving in a threatening manner in Beach road, and with using insulting language in Beach road. Accused. Who pleaded not guiltv. was represented by' Mr J. W. Anderson. Evidence was given by Traffic Inspector Rouse, and accused was convicted and fined £3 on the second charge, and was convicted and ordered to pay costs on the first charge. Joseph Laxton Smith, a labourer, of Oaro, was charged with driving a motor-car in a manner dangerous to the public. He pleaded not guilty. Evidence was given by Traffic Inspector Rouse, and Constable Abbott, and he was fined £l.

CENTENNIAL ROAD TO AKAROA

PROPOSAL TO BE DISCUSSED BY CONFERENCE

The Mayor of Akaroa, Mr F. R. E. DavjS, reported to the Akaroa Centennial Committee on Wednesday evening that Mr P. R. Climie, organiser of the Canterbury Progress League, had agreed to call a conference of local body representatives of the districts through whic.'i the main highway to Akaroa. passes, in Christchurch on March 16. The Akaroa and Wairewa County Councils, which hao. been waited upon by a deputation from the Akaroa Centennial Committee, both wrote favouring the project whicn is to mark the centennial of Akaroa and Canterbury by the constructing of a first-class highway to Akaroa, where the first settlement took place. It is also proposed to plant trees along its route in memory of Ihe early settlers of the whole district

The present proposal is first for the local bodies concerned to meet in conference, and if agreement is reached, then to approach the Government and ask for its support in having the highway completed and ready lor use for the centennial celebrations in 1940. Mr Davis said he had suggested to Mr Climie that the Mayor of Christchurch should be a«ked to preside Archdeacon "Petrie and Mr L. J Vangioni both reported thai they had been in touch with Mr T. 11. MeCombs, M.P., who favoured the proposal although he did not consider it idvisable to ask for the road to bo declared a State highway. He had stated to Archdeacon Petrie that he considered Ihe Peninsula counties should promise assistance. The trees were available free of cost from the State Forests Department, although the cost of planting would have to be borne by residents along the route. The Mayor's action in arranging for the preliminary conference in Christchurch was approved, and Messrs F Davis, L. J. Vangioni and Archdeacon Petrie were appointed to represent the centennial committee. Mr Davis stated that the Progress League would notify all concerned in the proposal of the conference including the Akaroa Borough and Progress Association, the Canterbury Automobile Association, and all the counties along the route. AKAROA GOLF CLUB ANNUAL MEETING Opening day for the 1!)38 season was fixed for Saturday, March 19, at ihe sixteenth annual meeting of the Akaroa Golf Club. The president, Mr F. R. E. Davis, presided at the meeting, which was well attended. The annual report and balancesheet were adopted. The report showed that the year had been enjoyable and successful. The balance-sheet showed a satisfactory credit. Twelve resignations, through removals, were accepted with regret, and five new members were elected.

In reply to a letter from the centennial committee, it was decided to take ! part in the procession en Easter Monday. Mr W. B. Ramsay's ofTer of a lorry to decorate was accepted with thanks. The president, Mr Davis, congratulated the club upon its successful season, and on the good state of its finances. It was decided that it be a suggestion to the incoming committee to the new putting green in order by opening day. Mr R. Powell, the honorary secretary, who had been transferred to New Brighton, wns presented with i travelling rug by the president. Mr Powell had been a most efficient secretary, and his departure was much regretted, said Mr Davis. Members extended good wishes to him for the future. The following officers were elected: —Patron'; Sir R. Heaton Rhodes; president, Mr F. R. E. Davis (Mayor of Akaroa). vice-presidents, Messrs E. X. Le Lievre, W. H. Priest, W. E. M. Jacobson. J. R. Newton, and J. L. Davis: club captain. Mr W. B. Ramsay; vice-captain, Mr W. E. M. Jacobsen - honorary secretary. Mr W. A. Newton (subject to his consent); assistant secretary, Llr L. Narbey; honorary auditor, Mr C W. Leete; committee, Mrs W. B. Ramsay, Miss B. Jacobson, Dr W. J. Edginton, Messrs R. Bruce, and V. Brocherie. AKAROA CROQUET CLUB In the first round of the handicap doubles of the Akaroa Croquet Club Mrs A. V. LeLievre and M'ss M. Kingston beat Mesdames W. Ramsay and J. E. Maxwell 26-11. Mrs W. E. Swainson and Miss M. Jacobson beat Miss Dalbeth and Miss E. Jacobson. 26-22. In the championship senior doubles, Mesdames A. E. Kingston and C W. Newton beat Misses M. and B. Jacobson, 26-19; Miss J. E. Armstrong and Miss E. Jacobson beat Mesdames W. Ramsay and A. V. LeLievre, 26-12. HOT WEATHER IN AKAROA A fortnight's hot weather has been experienced on Banks Peninsula, but a welcome change to south-west and overcast weather occurred yesterday. The highest temperature recorded is 98 degrees in the' shade. fn common with other districts, the white butterfly has appeared in thousands, and concern is expressed at its destructive operations in vegetable gardens especially. The parasites liberated in the district during the last few years, in perhaps less favourabe weather last year, kept their numbers in check. The white butterfly is regarded as a sericus menace, as in *he last few weeks it has attacked vegetation to an alarming extent. HORORATA PERSONAL NOTES Mrs and Miss F. de Burren, of Wanganui, are spending a holiday with Mr and Mrs A. McKenzie, "West End," Hororata. Mrs H. Ballagh is the guest of Mr and Mrs J. T. Nelson, Rangiora. Mr and Mrs S. Locker and family have been visiting Mr and Mrs Pascoe, Halkett. Mr" and Mrs Gibson and Miss N. Gibson are spending a holiday in Christchurch. Mrs R. Felton left for Auckland last night, where she will spend a holiday. Mr and Mrs Sinclaire. of Sandringham, Auckland, who have been spending a holiday with Mr and Mrs R. Felton, Hororata, left last night for Auckland. Miss Jones, of Wellington, is spending a holiday with friends at Hororata. Miss I. Gray, who has been spending a short holiday in Christchurch, has returned home. Mrs Aston, of Waimate, is staying with Mr and Mrs Jewell, "Terrace Station," Hororata. Miss Mary Manson, who has-been staying with M£. an<J Mrs H. Oiiver, "Springhead," Jtias jetum-a i.o aeiton. ——.-'-•

AMURI SHOW

MARSHALS APPOINTED A well-attended meeting of the committee of the Amuri Agricultural and Pastoral Association was presided over by the president, Mr G. Ferguson, The credit balance in the current account was £94 2s 4d. The secretary reported that a good response had been received for donations, more than *jl. 30 being promised in cash, and trophies valued at more than £2O. It was decided to put on a man to repair the hurdles, tables, and trestles of the association before the show. The following officials were appointed for the coming show:—Marshals to appoint their own stewards; draughts, Mr S. Beaven; hackney, Mr A. McMillan; ponies, Mr R. Chaffey; cattle and dogs, Mr M. McDonald, jun. Sheep—Corriedales, Mr T. Belton; merino and halfbreds. Mr R. McDonald; fat sheep, Mr T. J. Capstick; weight steward. Mr C. Higgins; shed supervisor, Mr A. H. Baker; cookery, Mrs C. Derrett; home industries. Mrs F. Beaven; needlework, Mrs W, J- McMillan; photographs and art. Miss N. White; roots and seeds. Mr W. J. McMillan; vegetables, Mr K. Dunbar; fruit, Mr G. Hueston; flowers, Miss Butcher; schoolwork, teachers. Competitions—Messrs T. F. Northcote. H. O. Baker, D. C. Macfarlane. and W. B. McMillan; ring marshal. Mr R. Bethell; entry steward, Mr J. Thomson; measuring steward, Mr G. Loffhagen; baby show. Miss D. Clark; band and Highland dancing. Mr M. McDonald: press steward. Mr H. Knight; refreshments, Messrs G. T. White and H. Sharpe. CHURCH FAREWELL AT KAIKOURA PRESENTATION TO MR AND MRS L. S. SHANNON A pleasant and enjoyable social was held on Wednesday evening in St. Paul's Presbyterian Schoolroom, Kaikour.'j, when the members of the church met to say farewell to Mr and Mrs L. S. Shannon, who are leaving the district to live in Christchurch. Mr Shannon was a member of ihe church committee, and both he and Mrs Shannon were closely identified in the church work. Songs were sung by Mrs Gordon Johnston, the Rev. S. Corney, and Mr J. Carter, and a pianoforte solo was played bv Miss R. Chapman. Mesdames W. D. Sabiston and J. Carter were accompanists. The Rev. W. J. Bevis and the managers of the church assembled on the platform, accompanied by Mr and Mrs Shannon, and their two sons, Neville and Bruce. - Mr Bevis spoke of the good work done for the church in its .various organisations by the auests of the evening, and expressed rorrc-w and regret at their departure. Mr Davidson, who endorsed the remarks oi Mr Bevis, then presented, on behalf of the members of the church. Mr Shannon with a cheque ;;s a mark of the esteem in which he was held in the church. The Rev. S. Carney alsc spoke. OXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL The monthly meeting of the Oxford County Council was held this week, when there were present: Mr P. Fisher (chairman), Crs. L. Watson. F. J. Gorton, T. Doody, W. H. Collings, and C. F. Bassctt. The challenge cup presented to the county in the county competition for the best tree-planted farm by Mr R. B. Owen was on view. A resolution was passed thanking Mr Owen for the cup. and expressing the warmest appreciation of his interest in the competition.. The present holder—the first —is Mr C. F. Bassett. Burnt Hill. The condition of the water-races, particularly near the township, was reported to be giving concern, because the races, although cleared probably once a year, were not kept clean, and therefore the regular flow was retarded, with consequent contamination. It was required that the ratepayers maintain the races throughout the year, the alternative being that the council would have to do the work, with a consequent increase in rates. The View Hill water-race system with the new proposals was considered. Under ordinary circumstances a new weir, costing about £2OOO. would be absolutely necessary to supply the present system. For an additional supply, and to include a larger area, it was suggested that a storage reservoir bo made in the basin of the View Hill creek. Briefly, the proposals were to erect a new weir in the Eyre, as recommended by Mr Beck; to make a race across the terrace to the View Hill creek behind the Airlie homestead; at the old homestead to build an earthwork dam about 30 feet in , height across the View Hill creek, the outlet to come from the bottom of the dam into the present water-race system. The higher level thus obtained would enable an increased area of waterless land to be watered. The proposed reservoir would hold sufficient water to supply a full flow, as at present for a fortnight, or a half flow for a month. The engineer was instructed to provide plans and details for presentation to the Minister. A letter was received from the Commissioner of Crown Lands stating that 70 acres of Crown lands at Bennetts was being vested in the county for afforestation. It was decided to send a letter of thanks to the commissioner.

The spread of noxious weeds and the invasion of new weeds was considered. Many weeds, such as blackberry, were said to be out of control, and the more that could be done was to effect some kind of check. It was therefore decided that ratepayers and occupiers be requested to keep the weed cut back, so as to prevent fruiting. It was further decided that a lookout, should be made for ragwort, burdock, and hemlock, and that occupiers be called upon to destroy them. A careful inspection was to be made of the council's reserves, so that the weeds mentioned would be eradicated. A grant of £2 2s was made to the fund for the extension of the Lady King Karitane Hospital. HORORATA MOTHERS' UNION The annual meeting of the Hororata branch of the Mothers' Union was held in the Parish Hall on Tuesday afternoon. The vicar conducted a short service before the meeting. The balance-sheet was adopted, and the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:—Presiding member, Mrs C. W. I. Maclaverty; vice-presi-dents, Mesdames E. A. Gray and T. B. Jones; correspondent secretary, Mrs Maclaverty; assisting secretary and treasurer, JVTrs H. H. Thorne; and the' previous committee. After business for the coming year had - been discussed, Mrs Maclaverty gave a report of the Mothers' Union festival held recently in Chrislchurch, and mentioned that Mrs Roberts, of Christchurch, would speak at the next meeting. HORORATA WEATHER FIGURES Weather records taken by Mr Jewell, of Station," Hororata, £os P-.jji „.„, »tow that rain fell on 10 da,>. uit max.mum tail b?

points on February 11. The rainfall for February was 2.30 inches as compared with 4.58 inches for February last year. The rainfall for the year to the end of February was 6.75 inches as compared with 8.56 inches for January and February of 1937. February has been a very hot month, which has enabled farmers to push ahead with their harvest, which is now practically finished.