CENTENNIAL ROYAL SHOW OPENS AT ADDINGTON

Press, Volume LXXXVI, Issue 26265, 9 November 1950, Page 8

CENTENNIAL ROYAL SHOW OPENS AT ADDINGTON

RECORD ENTRY

Corriedale Display Outstanding

CATTLE CLASSES IMPRESSIVE

More than 5000 entries, a record, were received for the Canterbury Agicultural and Pastoral Association’s Centennial Royal Show, which opened at Addington Show Grounds yesterday. It was the fifth Royal Show held in Christchurch the eighty-eighth held by the association. The total entry, 5155. was a record both for a metropolitan show and for a Royal Show. Last year the entries totalled 4103. and when a Royal Show was last held in Christchurch, in 1936. the total w as 4190. Details of the entries are as fellows:—

It was the best sheep shew ever seen at Addington, and probably the best at any show ever staged in New ZealandThirteen breeds of sheep were represented. In view of the Cerriedale World Type Conference to be held in Christchurch next week, Corriedaie breeders had made a special effort and they brought out a penning of sheep which was bigger and better than anything seen in previous shows, although Christchurch shows are regarded as the premier Corriedale shows of the world.

Another feature of the sheep entry which was pleasing 4o many sheepfarmere was the large and exceptionally choice selection of Merinos. The fat lamb and longwool breeds were well, represented, as usual, and entries from all over the South Island were included, as well as a number from the North Island. '

SPECIAL CATTLE PARADE TO-DAY

The oattle claciei came out in great order. A favourable teaaon. somewhat better opportuni tier tor preparation, and a revival of interest m breeding ad contributed to a fine show of finality. Larger teams of stock from Pei >nd Canterbury wqre expected for a Royal show, and although there were exhibits from »« far away as Southland and Hawke’s Pay most classes were predominantly of local origin-s---and these afiimal, had a good run of sueeegs against high-grade outsiders. Cattle were the centre of interest in the main oval tor a great part of the day toj the judging rings covered more than half the area. Bold number boards and regular progress reports on results enabled judging in all these sections io be followed closely from the stynds.

Spectators will have another opportunity to see the best eattle in a special parade to-day. It is planned mainjy to give the animals exercise during their three-day stay, but it should also be popular with visitors giving a better view than in the stalls. The prize-winning cattle will also be out iq the grand parade on Friday. The pig section was a success in al! respecta The over-all standard was very high and prominent breeders from many parts of New Zealand exhibited. some with imported animals. New Zealanders had reago-i to be proud of themselves at the quality of their pigs, was the comment of one nl the judges. Mr R. W Strugnell, of Thuranga. Although gome af the horse classes

FLOWER SHOW HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY’S , AWARDS At the Canterbury Horticultural So- , eietys annual show day floral display entriea were about the same as usual, but the general standard of the flowers was not Is good because of adverse seasonal conditions. Special awards were :-* Blue ribbon for best rose: J. Watling (EtoUe d ’HoUanflei. Horticultural Society's bronze medal: G. W. Skellerup (display of rhododendrons and ahpubf). Award cf merit: Jas Deans t rhododendronsj. Certificate of merit: Walter Moore and Son (iriaeg): Carhipere Garden Club (resat and rhododendrons j. Canterbury Centennial bronze medal for most outstanding exhibit in decorative section: Mrs W. K. Blow. Results were:— 'Judge: Mr W. J. Hurnm.) Twelve, not leas than nine distinct varieties (31: J. Watling 1, Sir R Heaton Rhodes 2. Miss E. P. Morrison v h c. Six distinct varieties (4>: J. Watling 1, Miss E. P. Morrison 2. Sir R Heaton Rhodes v h €. Three distinct varieties (6): J. Watlmg 1, Miss E. Morrison 2. Sir R. Heaton Rhodes 3. One (fl: J. Watling 1, N. E. Taylor 2, Miss E. P Morrison v h c. Vase of six decorative (3): Sir R. Heaton Rhode* 1. Miss E. P. Morrison 2 and v h e.

were not particularly well filled. the trotters and pacers section, in particular, was notable for the quality of the entry. The stallions exhibited were particularly fine types. Most of the young atoefc exhibited, the three year-olds and under, showed excellent breeding, good ring deportment, and first-class condition. Another remarkable feature of the shew was the space devoted to farm machinery The usual arsa behind the association.'s offices was devoted to implements, but there was also another section containing firm machinery nearer Lincoln road, an indication o’f the increasing tendency towards mechanisation on farm|. Since the last show further improvements have been made to the grounds. The association found it necessary to cover, for the show. 7?0 sheep pens, bringing the total sheep penning covered to two acres and a half. It also provided a further SO horse boxes, but even then the accomniodatian was insuffiejent to cope with the extraordinarily large number of entries in the horse sections. TTie appearance of the grounds was much improved by the painting programme which had been carried out. and the garden plots were at their heal. The crowd at the show yesterdav was remarkably small, but to-dav when the judging js completed and the horse events taka a prominent place in the programme, there should be more spectators and to-morrow, People’s Day, may well attract a record crowd. k

I Cut Flow er.«i i (Judge: Mr H William#.) i ffteek (linfifrs F. H Griffiths J. Six , vases of aquil«oits (1): Sir R. Heaton : Rhodes 1. Three vyei of gquilegias (1): ! Sir R. Heaton Rhodes 1. Three vases of i blue or blue-mauve flowers (2): Mrs W. Mossmgn 1, Mrs H. F. Griffiths 2. Vasfe of sweet p#as, any on# colour <2): Mrs J. Cox 2. Vasa of Iceland poppies (5). Mrs W. R. Toon 1, Mrs A. H. Pearec. 2. Mrs J. R. Voice. v h c. Vase of pyrethrums. one variety (|): Mrs W. R. Toon 1. Mrs J. W Mossman a Three vases of pyrethrums dfclmct (D; W. R. Toon 1. Any flower not in schedule (8): Miss GP. Morrison 1, J. Byfield 2. Mrs W. J. Messman v h c. Twelve kinds of outeoerwirewn eut flowers (D: Mrs J. W Mosiman 1. Six kinds of nutdoor-grown cut flowers <3): Mrs J. W. Mossman 1. Mrs A- H Pearce 3. (Judge: Dr. J. E. Saville.) Six vases of Iri* Gwmgnlca (flag) distinct II): Mrs J. Watling 1. Three vases, I distinct (3): Mrs J. Watling 1. Mrs G. L. Price v h c. One stem Iris Germanies (5): Mrs 3. Watling 1, Mrs J. W. I Moaaman 2, Mrs G. L- Price 3. Spanish | trig. five stems (1): Mrs J, W. Messman 1. Nine vases flowering shrubs and/or trees (2): Mrs J. Watling i. Sir R. Heaton Rhodas 2. Six vases flowering shrubs and/or trees (1): Mrs J Watling 1. Sir R. Heate© Rhodes 2. One named vage of flowering shrubs, one stem <8): J. Bvfleld 1, Mrs J. W. Mosiman 2. Miss E. P. Mor- ! risen v h c. DECORATIVE (Judge: Mrs M. Beihell.) Bowl of mixed flower? (8): Mrs F. W. ; Cgve I and 2, Mrs A. G. Berry v h c. Trough of flowers (8): Mrs W. K. Blow 1. Miss P. Barton 2. L. Nicholls 3. Bowl of blue or blue-mauve flowers <2): Mrs O. S Webb 1. Mrs A. G. Berry 2. Bowl of yellow flowers (3): Mrs G. S. Webb 1. Mrs F W. Cave 3. Mrs W. M. Forrester v h c. Jug or vase of flowers, judged for front view (?>: Miss E. BoWron 1. Mr« F. M. Warren 2. Arrangement of irises (1): Mrs F. W. Cave 1. Presentation box of flowers (5): P Barton 1, L Nicholls 2. Mrs F. M. Warren v h c. Posv bow! (8): Mrs A. G. Berry 1 and J. Mrs W. K. Blow v b c. Miniature container of flowers <8): Mrs W K. Blow L Mrs F. W. Cave 2. Mrs M M- Forrester V h c. CWfMMtEN-g CLASSES (Judge: Mrs M. Bethel! ) Bowl of flowers and foliagg <?). Valerie ; McGrath 1, Brian Denham ?. Sand saucer I <3): Htl«n Farrow L Valerie McGrath 3. 1 Brian Denham X i

CATTLE Show-ring finish not seen at a metropolitan show since prp-wgr years appeared in the cattle section yesterday. The season has been nearer norma) than for some years, and stock came out showing neither the signs of minor spring droughts nor of un- | due flush of feed which has upset condition for some time. Mild , weather and the slightly easier situ? ! ation for preparation—and, of course. ’ the inducement of a Royal Show—en- , abled grooming to be brought to per- j fection, so that all judges remarked i on the superb display or bloom, quite ; apart from pure quality. This year's entry was widespread in its origins. Southland, Marlborough, and many points in between, as well as some North Island provinces sent cattle, besides big numbers from Canterbury itself. Satisfaction was felt at the good showing in results made by local breedeM. Judges this year, as befits a Royal Show, were all experts in their breed, some coming from as far away as Australia and Scotland. This fresh ! approach was appreciated by exhibi- i tors. who. generally, seemed'well satisfied with the placing? made. Those who visit the show to-day | and to-morrow will find huge classes ; for their inspection—from such popu- ! lar breeds as the Jersey. Milking j Shorthorn, and Friesian to the novel- ; ties of Galloways. They. too. will appreciate the opportunity to compare the product of familiar breeders I with stud names known previously only from national and breed periodi- ' cals. SHORTHORN Shorthorns were judged at short . notice by Mr J. A. McLeod, of Mar- ! tinborough. He found pleasing quality, I particularly among the younger cattle ! which, he said, indicated that breeders were moving in the right direction. The handling and fleshing of these junior classes were commendable. Mr McLeod congratulated exhibitors on i the way tl> stock was brought out ■ (nr the show.

classes wore not large tout they j had added interest by the entries of D. J. Holden, of Hawkes Ray. including a Canadian bull, and James S. | Anderson, of Southland. ABERDEEN ANGUS Aberdeen Angus, the stocky little ! ; black breed, attracted a lot of atten- | ' Hon yesterday morning. They had s : favourable position right in front of ; the main stand where a large crowd j . followed judging with interest. Exhi- ; Vitors were not numerous, four well- ! known breeders filling most of the I classes. • The judge was Mr L. T. Sanderson, of Narrabri, New South Wales. Com- ‘ parisons became invidious, he thought, j unless the cattle under discussion were i side by side and so he deelined to : comment on matching of quality in : Australia or the United Kingdom. One suggestion, however, was that breeders here should pay more atten- j 1 Hop to legs and feet. Leg faults j i 'turned or unshapely) were particu- ' I larly noticeable in some of his classes.; . As a whole Mr Sanderson rated the ! entry as fair. The general standard of the females was higher than that of the bulls, looking right through the section: but the champion bull was outstanding ; above all the Aberdeen Angus present.; Euclid of Incheoch. an imported bull shown by Roberts and Co.. Middle-, march, showed grand quality, very: think and deep, with a good-sized head ! and good muzzle and specially good i legs. The same exhibitors’ champion cow, i Primcil of Gladbrook, was classed bv , the judge as a heifer with great scale, plenty of substance, and an attractive j . head. Generally she had al) the indi- I I cations of becoming a good breeder. ■ Robert Fraser, of Pleasant Point, took ; • the reserve championship with Jewel i > of Heathfield. a smaller animal but of i lovely quality with a very good skin ; i and coat. She just did not parade sio ; , well. Mr Sanderson said. The first among the yearling heifers i had great depth, a good breedy head.-1 and a level and smooth top line; but • the younger classes were not so well j filled and this disappointed th* judge i HEREFORD , | The Hereford' entry was composed entirely of North Island cattle, a disappointment for their owners who had hoped that Southland, at least, would send up some competition. Ttiey were at a loss to understand why their breed has failed to maintain standing in the South Island and looped that their visit would do something to stimulate interest. F. Humphreys and R. F Hutchinson cam* from Gisborne and C. O. Cooper from Masterton. They were surprised at the lack j of interest compared with North j Island ahowines of Herefords. The judge. Mr E. E. Short, of Fei!ding. was well satisfied with the cham-: pinna,. both shown by Mr Humphreys who breeds distinctive polled Hitfo-1 fords. The bull. Atlantic Gem. had i good constitution and all the signa of I j a successful sire. The ccw. Amethyst I CLem 4th, Was aho awarded the supreme championship of the breed, i the judge remarking on her easy handling. GALLOWAY Galloways made their first appearance in competition in Christchurch. Last year an exhibition entry was made. Mr W. R. Hewitt, of Palmerston North, who judged the section, said a big, rugged type was looked for and found in both champions. The public seemed to think of the Galloway as a small breed. TTiey might be compact, but they must have scale and substance. Mr Jlewitt said. Muriaytown Arrogant and Aspiring of Fork Farm, the champion and reserve among the bulls, were both ex- : hibited by Miss Leslie Hunt, of Wanaka. R. J. Law and Sons, of Shannon, took both female awards with Trimly 3rd of Birkwood and Lawton Perfect. The whole of the entry was black ; except for one young dun bull which i attracted a good deal of attention, j Noel McGregor, of Southland, had the > only Belted Galloway; Mount Linton | No. 2. which took the championship., This bull was on display in Christ-' church last year. FRIESIAN Friesian judging occupied practically i the whole day, the last tickets being distributed after 5 p.m. The classes were very well filled throughout, with | a good .distribution of exhibitors and' [of awards. Mr M J- Parker, of Carterton, said j 1 that as a judge he was gratified by ; the way stock had. been brought bei fore him. A large number would hold ' their own in any company. The type he wanted was found in all classes. ; and he had no hesitation on making ' awards of Royal show standard. C. W. Humm and Son’s well-known , Waikuku stud provided the champion ' cow, Glenhope R. M. May. She was i immediately prominent for both type i and dairy quality, said Mr Parker.* i This cow has completed a record of i 7331 b of fat on twice-daily milking and j •at Rangiora recently was chosen as i l champion dairy cow of all breeds on i type and production. The same ex-I hibitor took the bull championship with Springvale Regina Keystone.! whom the judge classed as very even j alt through. Proof of his ability as a sire was seen in prize-winning I progeny in the younger classes. It is ' his second consecutive* win in Christ-' church. Both champions come from a j

sire who was three times Canterbury champion and twice South Island champion, with an unbeaten record. ■ The reserve champion bull, W. Y. Dickie’s Tarata Royal Lad. from Mataura, has twice been Royal show winner and is still good despite his years. The reserve champion cow J.! H. Thomas's Peveril K. O. Dusky, i from Springaton. appealed to the judge I as an attractive three-year-old. The senior yearling heifers were; rated as the strongest class in the section. with remarkably even standards ! 1 throughout . ’•

MILKING SHORTHORN Good cattle, true to type in larger proportions and without the usual tailenders, were found in the Milking Shorthorns by Mr J. Bgtemap, of Invercargill. The breed was obviously making great strides in Canterbury, and the owners would welcome the opportunity to compare their animals with the sizeable entry from further afield, the judge said. Senior and junior yearling heifers came out in great numbers to make probably the best display of the section. The cows in milk made a big entry and were notable as a grand line-up of sound breed types. The champion cow. A. W. Hurtord’s Greystone Nectarine 7th, from Irwell. had a great frame “but showed too much daylight underneath," Mr Bateman said, .although a nice udder and very clean lines compensated for this defect. W. M. Skevjngton's reserve. Wheatstone Heather, from Longbeach. had better depth, but her udder was failing through age. D. Murphy and Son's champion bull. Sefton Seaman, from Invercargill, could have had a better head, but he had a good top line, length, and depth. W- M. Skevington’s reserve. Wheatstone Soldier flth. was only four years old and so his depth would let down later to make a bull who should figure prominently in coming shows. RED POLL The Otahuna strain appeared directly or in pedigrees throughout the Red Poll section, and Sir R. Heaton Rhodes again provided the bulk of the entry. Sometimes, he has not had strong competition in Christuhureh; but against allcomers he scooped the pool with championships and reserves for both cows and bulls. Mr H McEachern, of Nundi. New South Wales, made a glowing assessment of the champion cow, Otahuna Madeline 18fh. “This is a particularly good example of what a dual-purpose cow should be.” he said. ,r She has a magnificently-shaped udder, beautiful colour, and nice conformation. I don’t think I have ever seen a better-pro-portioned cow in any Australian show

—and that's saying a lot because we think we have some good ones. She’s a real humdinger," was the Australian judge’s characteristic summary. The champion' bull. Otahuna Jonathon, was well-fleshed and typical, eclipsing his younger rival in the development to be expected in a more mature bull.

In each class there were one or more animals of merit. Mr McEachern said; but there was a great deal of room for imDrovement. Some were weak around the tail, and smutty nose? caused him to put others down. “I do think these cattle could have been shown to advantage if they were taught to stand better." he added Parade appearance did count. It seemed that improvement could best be obtained by mere importations “You want a good infusion of better strains to maintain progress," the judge continued. This was a sore point, he knew, because New Zealanders were not allowed to import from Australia for fear of pleuropneumonia. Great Britain seemed the only alternative.

f JERSEY i Jerseys were one of the biggest [ cattle sections and held a large gallery round the southern end of the main ! ring most of the day. They came out ’i in exceptionally attractive condition. | In quality the showing wks uniformly ;; good, and Mr H. J. Lancaster, of I*evin. ' | remarked op the striking improvement I since he was last judging here before ' i the war. The leaders would hpld their own anywhere, Mr Lancaster continued, i and it was to be regretted that the exoected North Island entry had not eventuated The sea journey had ap- ; parently discouraged owners of prin- > cipal studs, even against the attraction of a Royal show. Yearling classes continued to be the strongest classes both in humbers and type. The in-milk classes had tops in good order, but in general there was an inclination to faulty udders—- ' improper placement of teats and catches in the vessel. The bulls were . mostly good typical specimens of their : breed which could be depended op to I perpetuate the best characteristics in : evidence at the show. 1 J. H. Jones’s Highfield Naomi. from j Leeaton. was a champion cow of outj standing quality and very stylish. She j had confirmed her earlier successes. : Her vessel was a strong point. E. W. ■ King’s reserve champion, from Nelson, ; was a heifer of apparent breeding. ; good bone, and had a splendid vessel. A. E. Brown and Son’s champion bull. Viewbell Emperor, from Leeston. had i great conformation, depth of body, ; and general finish. The reserve. R. W. ' Frost’s Silverlea Viscount, from Balj cgim, was younger; but he also lacked I the depth and general evenness found I in his opponent. i S. W. Jordan’s junior champion bull. ! Willowhaugh Commander, was worthy i of note as an outstanding youngster ' who shoud have a great show-ring I future, Mr Lancaster said. i Most of the Jerseys came from North 1 Canterbury exhibitors. AYRSHIRE Ayrshires had a native judge, Mr j I Alexander Cochrane, of Kilmarnock. I I Ayrshire, Scotland. The aged cow class was good, he, said, the first three being eminentlyj i suitable dairv animals. The three-' 1 year-old heifers had an outstanding I

I leader in the reserve champion, J. i Legg's Lakeside Isabel. She was a i lovely red and white with a finely-1 balanced udder and the teats of an ideal i {iairy cow. The two-year-old heifers were a remarkably good lot, the first two standing out. The winner and champion, James W. Morton’s Ingleside Sunbeam, from Edendale, Southland, was the outstanding Ayrshire seen so far in Mr Cochrane's visit to New Zealand. He I was asked if it was unusual for him to award the championship to a two-year- , old. “There is no risk in giving the I ribbon to orte of such promise.” he rej plied. Apart from a little lack of finj ish at the top of the vessel she would j compare with any of the best he knew ; at home. ! The yearling heifer class was pos- ; sibjy the best in his whole section. I •’With such youngsters coming on the j breed here has nothing to fear in the future.’’ Mr Cochrane said. 1 The aged bull champion, R. J. Boag’s; 1 Lakeside Superb, from Leeston, was an j exceedingly fine stamp of animal, of lovely colour, and was shown in per- j feet bloom. M. F. Butcher, of Springs- i ton. won the reserve championship with Ardgowan Makbar. He had to i give way to a younger opponent, said j Mr Cochrane, lor while he was of! splendid breeding type, he was showing his 10 years of age. The two-year-; old bulls were good: but in the open classes three-year-olds were preferred. ■ • GUERNSEY One exhibitor, J. Schimanski, practically filled the Guernsey section in! which there were onhs three cows and: four heifers. He took the champion-! ship with Molly, "a good sort,” said • the judge. Mr J. R. D. Johns, of Belfast. It was regrettable that poor support detracted’ from the contest, he I added. HORSES Big entries were received for most j of tne sections set apart for light horses, the first of which were on par-: ade yesterday. Most of the competi-; tions, however, will be decided to-day : and to-morrow. JUMPING EVENTS In the hunting section three events ‘ were decided and although the per-1 formances varied greatly in merit, several first-class efforts showed outstand-? ing ability by horses and riders. In j the class for maiden hunters the first j horse to compete. Miss Falaise Deans's ■ Blue Flame, gave a first-class exhibition of quick clever jumping, and scored a well-deserved and popular win. and a young rider in Robert Gudsell. Showed fine horsemanship on Wee Andrew, which was very highly commended by the judge. Mrs M. W. Coop, on The Raider, gave : a finished exhibition to win the light-1 weight hunters* division from D. F. i O’Connell’s Viking and M. G. Winsloe s Paddy. The handy hunter competition pro-i vided a true test and numerous pit- : tails for horses and riders, and run-1 ning-off and baulking put a good num-1 ber out of the contest early in the test. 1 A first-class performance was given by I M. W. Coop’s Rajah, a neatly built

i gelding which, with good jumping and I ability to handle a tricky course, scored a clear-cut win. Competitions to be decided to-day include the heavy-weight hunters’ competition, the Renown Challenge Cup for qualified hunters, and pony jumping events. * The first dressage test for the Scandal Cup held in New Zealand drew 26 entries, and most of those carded were on parade. The object of the competition, which is open to all members of pony clubs, is to make the horse keen and tractable and the rider is called on to memorise a series of movements which are carried out in a small arena, 44 yards by 22 yards. “This was just an elementary test and all round the standard was very good. Perhaps some of the ponies did not give of their best and were put off by the distractions of the cattle being judged nearby. It is the first ever tried in New Zealand and I am satisfied the Dressage test will become a feature of shows in New Zealand,” said the judge. Mr R. S. Pilmer. PACERS AND TROTTERS Mr S. G. Lemon, who judged the trotting and pacing horses, said he was well satisfied with the quality of the stock which came under his notice. The classes were numerically small, but the entries were select and well up to the average of horses of this class seen in a show ring. Almost without exception the entries were well-bred, of excellent type, and in good condition, and although several were restless in unaccustomed surroundings, the good behaviour of the majority showed that exhibitors had gone to some pains in educating young horses. First award for/ stallions went to J. W. Gottier’s 10-year-old Paraider by the American-bred Raider with F. Holmes’s Direct Heir by Louis Direct —The Heiress in' second place. The four, two and three-year-olds paraded represented a splendid type of the breed, first award going to a shapely brown two-year-old filly by Sir Michael —Jill, nominated by A. H. Gourlay. A well-grown colt of Gold* Bar—lsis, entered by Mrs John East, dwarfed the three opposed to him in the yearling colt section, and a quality looking filly by U Seott—Francis Worthy, nominated by H. M. Sunderland. shaded a fhapely yearling by Red Emperor—Certioy m the nomination of J. P. Duigan, jun.

PIGS • i The standard of pigs exhibited in all i i classes was very high and more than (equal to that of other Royal shows. I ’ Many overseas-bred pigs were entered I I by exhibitors from the North Island, J 1 and from many parts ■of the South , Island. The total entry was 155. 71 i more than the entry al the show at I Addington last year, but five fewer than the last Royal show held in Christchurch in 1936. The pork and bacon sections were of an especially high quality and the pedigree stock came forward in excellent condition. Breeder? "had evidently taken great care in the preparation of their stock. The supreme champion pig of all • breeds was J. H. Jones's Berkshire ■ boar, Kahikatea Prince. This pig. I also judged the champion Berk- ! shire, ana champion boar, i was the Royal champion at Invercargill in 1948. It has now won five championship?. According ty the judge of the Berkshire section, Mr R. W. ! Strugnell, Tauranga. the breed charger ' teristips of this pig were 100 per cent. ; Its conformation could not be faulted, and its head, hams, and body were par- . ticulariy good. BERKSHIRES The quality of the Berkshire* was particularly good, Mr Strugnell said. • in the senior classes any pig would > have held its own. in other ordinary ; shows. The champion Berkshire sow, ! bred and exhibited by D. R. Petrie ! (Rangiora). and the reserve champion sow. exhibited by G. A. Lindsay, are both descended from the Rotomariu strain. The reserve champion boar is ' an imported animal from New South i Wales. TTiis animal wa? in excellent commercial condition, but according to Mr Strugnell, the champion was a little better in the head. i TAMWORTHS It was a common saying in the North Island that if you want to see a good Tamworth, go to the South Island. That i was borne out by the quality of the i pigs he had judged said Mr I Strugnell, who judged the Tamworth : section. The prominent Southbridge breeders, , James Simpson and Son. bred and exi hibited the supreme champion of the f Tamworth section, the sow, Milltown I Kathleen's Lady. This pig showed she had been doing her job as a breeder, iMr Strugnell said. Her shoulder, ham . and head were above the ordinary, and I she had a nice length. This pig was I also judged the champion Tamworth ■ sow. The champion Tamworth boar i was Lincoln Esquire, bred and ex- : hibited by Canterbury Agricultural I College, Lincoln. The pig is a previj ous winner. It showed good breeding qualities and a rather, finer type than ; the reserve champion, but it was beginning to show signs of age, Mr I Strugnell said. The class for 12 to 15- : month sows in the Tamworth section .: was particularly strong and attracted’ good entries. LARGE WHITES Large Whites are gaining in popularity with breeders and the entries yesterday were a bi» increase on last year. The overall quality was good, but one or two pigs were carrying a little too much condition. The pigs would be hard to beat anywhere. said the judge. Mr G. W. Hickey. Waiuku. The three placed aged boars and the first two aged sow, were particularly good. The champion boar, Histon East laid 74th. exhibited by G. M. Whitetock (Palmerston North), is an imported animal from England. This animal was judged the supreme champion of its breed Mr Hickey said it wa, good shouldered with a marvellous flank. The animal was one of the best flanked pigs he had seen. Its biggest fault was at the neck, and it could carry a shade more length. The champion Large White sow, Tir Owen Tattykeeran, was bred and exhibited by W. T. Hamilton (OamaruL who also bred and exhibited the reserve champion sow. The sow was bred by a boar which wu a champion at the show two years ago. Its dam was also the dam of the 1640 Royal champion and the "Royal champion gt Palmerston North last year. The reserve champion was by the same sow. I Tir Owen Trixie. According to Mr I Hicjcey the champion sow had a good strong head and nice shoulders. It had . strong feet and was not carrying too - much jowl It was not showing exces- , sive condition. Small faults had put ■ many of the pigs out. Mr Hickey said. The pig pavilion was one of the best . he had seen, Mr Hickey said. How- , ever, one thing he would like to see I was an opening outside the pavilion . for judging. j SMOOTH TRAFFIC ; ARRANGEMENTS i, ! NO WORK FOR ST. JOHN •: NURSES Two sections of people who usually > l have a lot of work to do bn Show Days ’ i —traffic inspector, and St. John Ambulance nurses--.yesterday found they had much less to do than on a normal , judging day at Addington. However. ; their busy times will come to-day and . to-morrow. . Arrangement, made tar the control . of traffic worked smoothly and at no . time did an inspector have the oneri ous task which is usually his lot when . coping with increased traffic. Special . trams were dispatched quickly from I the Show Grounds as soon as they were fully loaded, and did not disturb the general flow of traffic.

Two detachments of St. John nurses were on the grounds—one near the ring to cater for any injuries received during the ring events, and the other in the midst of the agricultural machinery exhibits. There was only one accident during the ring events, and the rider was able to walk off the ground unassisted. The nurses in the machinery section expected that they would get at least one or two patients who had put their fingers in the wrong parts of machines, but their only patient was a woman who wanted a cure for a headache. Another caller wanted some sticking plaster to put on a cow.

A “haven of rest” for -old people was provided in a tent run by* the Salvation Army. There many old people, and algo children, had a rest and a cup of tea.

SHEEP The exhibition of sheep was the , largest ever put before the Judges either at a Ro. val or a C ®" l f rb t “' y Show, and was of uniformly high standard. Some of the 13 breeds, such W the Dorset Horns, Ijncolns. an Cheviots, were not represented by large numbers, but the Merinos. Corriedales, and Southdowns were very big sections. In most breeds competition was very strong, and particularly so among the Corriedales. where most of the important flocks in the country were represented. There was | a fair showing of North Island sheep , throughout the sections, and the | usual very strong representation from . Marlborough, Otago, and Southland, In quality, numbers, and diversity of 1 breeds, there are very few sheep shows I in the world which could eclipse this > Royal Show exhibition. MERINO It is many years since so large a representation of the Merino breed was seen at a Christchurch show. The total was 210 entries, and with very few ! exceptions the sheep were fully up to Royal Show standard. As « expected, a large contingent came from Marlborough, but the mam canterbury studs were also there in force. . The breed has lately received a good , deal of encouragement from the high i wool prices, and there are signs that Merino numbers in New Zealand have | begun recovery from their low point. ( The judges, Mr D- A. Manson, who took the fine and medium combing | sections, and Mr C. Cran, who took the strong combing section, were very I much impressed with the ewes sent , forward. Thev were generally better ■ than the ranis, and the young ewes . were particularly good, which is a , sound augury tor the future. In all i sections, the display of maiden ewes was outstanding. Miss Lucy Will". Snowdon, was the major prizewinner in the fine combing section with a large team of excellent sheep. She took both the ewe championships and the ram championship. Robt. Jopp and Son. Chatto Creek, who were again well represented. won the reserve ram championship. ~ ... Competition in the medium combing classes was widely spread, and tickets were well distributed. Robt. Jopp and Son won the ram championship, and the reserve went to Mrs M- S. le Cren, of Snowdon. The champion ewe in this section, from the estate of Jas. Stevenson, Flaxton, was awarded the grand championship as well. She was an aged ewe of high quality with an exceptionally good lamb at foot. The reserve champion was from Norman Rutherford, Mendip Hills, and was particularly impressive for her frame. The strong combing champion was from Miss M- I Goulter, Hawkeebury. and ha was also made grand champion. He was a ram or the highest quality. The reserve ehampion eame from J. Morton Samson. Lansdowne. The estate of Jas. Stevenson took the ewe championship, and Norman Rutherford the reserve. HALFBRED As usual. •Marlborough bread er • were prominently represented in the halfbred section, where there were 43 entries. The judge. Mr E. M. Ralph, of Christchurch, described the entry as being very good, but z not up to the standard of the Blenheim show last year. The rams entered, he said, inl eluded a number of excellent sheep, i among which the champion and reserve champion, both from J. Pr Rivers, I Culverden, were outstanding. The I older ewes were not strong, as a whole, and the entry was small. The ewe hoggets were particularly good, and took a great deal of separating. The champion and reserve champion ewes bpth came from F. Busch, Medbury. CORRIEDALE In view of the presence at the show of a number of distinguished overseas breeders who are in New Zealand for the Corriedale World Type Conference, Corriedale breeders made a special effort, and the showing of sheep forward was larger than it has ever been before by a comfortable margin, and, by general consent, of higher quality. | All the classes were well filled, and ' entries in individual classes went as high as 40. It was a magnificent diaI play of the breed, and tor general quality and evenness could not be 'I equalled at any show in the world. More than usual interest attached | this year to the judging of the Pedro I trophy, formerly the Monson Heber . trophy, for the best-headed ram. because the judge was Dr. A. Gallinal Heber, of Uruguay, who originated the' . award. I The display of Corriedale was alto- ! gether of exceptional quality, and there ! was an entire absence of the diversity of type which would certainly have been found in an entry of comparable size 20 years ago. It was an imposing display of the breed, and did great credit to the exhibitors. All the major studs were represented. and no less than 18 breeders appeared in the list of winners of awards In every class competition was strong, in both numbers and quality, and it took very good sheep to secure even minor awards. L. J. Iverach. of Stroma. Waiau. whose small flock has not appeared very frequently among winners at major shows, secured the ram championship with the winner of the big 18 to 30 months class, against very strong competition. The rajn was a 'magnificent carcase animal, and carried a very nearly perfect head. The Hui Hui stud of tne estate of the late H. T. Little, which had a team of I lOO sheep forward, took the reserve ram championship with a sheep well toward the ideal of a dual purpose breed. He was a bold, upstanding rant from the aged class, and carried all the marks of a great sire. The Bushey Park Estate had a particularly good team forward, and won the ewe championship with an aged sheep of outstanding quality. She was a big ewe. but perfectly proportioned, with a splendid outlook, and a generous fleece of true Corriedale wool. The reserve champion came from another of the leading studa, that of Douglas Johnston, Craigielea, Mayfield, and was found in the same class. She was a ewe of outstandingly choice quality. The largest class in the show was the ram hogget class, in which tHere were 40 sheep. Canterbury Agricultural College took the first two places with two excellent rams, K. V. Hood of Chertsey, took the third prize, and Hut Hui, D. S. Johns (Culveraen Downs', and Cdr. S. Crltchley <Kekerangui divided the minor placings The ewe hogget class attracted the large entry of J 7. A. J. Blakely. Clifton, Waikari, whose sheep performed well throughout the day. took first glace and two minor tickets. Cgnterury Agricultural College took second, the estate of James Reid, Riversleigh. . Darfiejd, third, and M. K. Orchard (Seddon) a minor place. The shorn sections were all very well conteated. and in the ahorn ram hogget claaa. 38 entries were made. Douqlas Johnston took first prize and Hui Hui second and third. H. C. A. Sidev. Glenovis. Hawarden, whose usual good team won three firsts, three thirds, and several minor placings, took two placlnga in this class. H. C. Barton. Kairanga, Seddon. won a very highly commended. ENGLISH LEICESTER "It is a wonderful section—the best 1 have seen in Christchurch over many years," said Mr J. B. Laidlaw (Blen- | heimi, who judged the English Leicester section, which this year attracted 83 entries against 54 last year Mr Laidlaw said that the ehampion ewe and ram. both exhibited by the estate of James Reid iDarfield'. would be hard to improve on. Thev were ; strong and even-woolled and well ■ brought out. The reserve ram title ! also went to the Reid Estate, and Sir R. Heaton Rhodes <Otahuna> sent forward the reserve champion ewe , "It is a pity that there are not more breeders," added Mr Laidlaw, ‘for I

think there is a very real plan, } — English in both Canterburr and Marlborough. They are ideaUv suited to the climate and for the breed, ing of lambs." BORDER LEICESTER There was a creditable showing of Border Leicesters which numbered 87 —l5 ahead of last show. The chant, pion ram, exhibited by A Quigley (Timarui. was an aged sheep—born u 1947. In the opinion of the judge Mr P. .Campbell (Wyndham?, it had serious faults. It was a good stahdiae sheep, but could, if anything, have had a slightly heavier fleece. The re. serve champion ram. from A. W. Bar. nett (Morven? was another good standing sheep with an excellent fleece, but it was not all it might have.been.about the shoulders

The be.«l ewes were fully up to the standard of the rams, and the chantpion, sent in by R 8 Gunn 'Racecourse Hill). and the reserve champion. from Wilfred Adams 'Greendale'. were high-class ewes with plenty of substance though they were aged. While competition was keen and the section as a whole made a creditable display. Mr Campbell said, an impor. lant weakness in some of the sheen was that they stood too close behind. LINCOLN Though the Lincoln section attracted only a small entry. 18. it contained sheep that were good representatives of the breed. Mr David Walker <Mastertoni awarded the ram championship to Miss Mary E. Goultef- (Bien, heimi. and the ewe title io J 1 Dysart. ROMNEY MARSH "Though the prize-takers were up to the best standards, for a Royal show I should have liked to see more competition." said Mr J. R. Matthews (Featherston i. commenting on the open ewe section ot the Romney Marsh breed. Both the champion and reserve champion, exhibited by 0. S. Giddings iFairliei, were very . good type Romneys excelling in wont. An outstanding class was that tor *we hoggets, which comprised a fine sdeetion of woll-wooiled sheep. Standards were well maintained in the open ram section, where Mr Matthews said all the prize-takers were Srst-class specimens of the breed, joth the championship and reserve championship went to Raymond Oakley i Ashburton I. G. 8. Giddings 'Fair lie) exhibited both the champion and reserve champion ewes in the natimnl eeadltton classes, but. generally speaking, Mr Matthews said that the sheep in thl* category were not quite up to thg level of the open ewes In the natural condition ram section another of Raymond Oakley 1 ! rams took pride of place, with one of H. B L. Jobnstone’i (Waimatei rams in the reserve position Mr J. A. McLeod ' Martinboroughi. who judged* the section, said the champion was a rgaliy good specimen of the breed and the reserve was pot far behind it in quality Mr McLeod had some criticism to offer of the shorn rams in the section. He said he did not think they camo up to standard, taking intb consideration the quality of the sires he had previously judged. There were a few good types, he said, but a rather big tail. There were 111 entries in ths Mellon. SOUTHDOWN In keeping with its important place in the fat lamb industry in Canterbury the .Southdown breed was well represented by 310 entries against last yean tally of 136. The sheep came forward in excellent condition, and in the wellAiled classes there was keen competition. The ewe judge, Mr G. S. McLeod 'Martinborough' said that the standard of competition was so good that prize-winners could feel some satisfaction at coming to the top hi such company. In the rem classes. Mr N. Illstne 'Marton) said the quality of the sheep was generally high, but In some cases the wool showed a tendency to be a little open. In the open section the champion ram came from R Dysart and mm 'Seddont, with the reserve from H. u Petrie 'Woodendl. and the champing ewe from J. D. Galpin <Southbridle), with James Petrie and Sons (SWgnnanoal filling the reserve position. Is the natural condition section Joseph Brooks (Brookside) exhibited the champion ram and J. D. Galpin the reserve, while the champion ewe was from W. E. Moorhead 'Southbridgal, with the reserve the exhibit of James Petrie and Sons. DOREST HORN The judge of the Dorset Hom Motion, Mr David Walker (Maiterto*), was pleased with the showing in the section. With 37 entries, well in ex* cess of last year, he said there wet plenty of competition and standards were high. Of the champion ram from T. F Lowe (Eiffelton). Mr Walker laid it was beautifully-fleshed, carried a great fleece of true Dorset Horn wool, stood well and was an excellent mover. The reserve champion from the same breeder was only a little interior. The ram hogget class gave Mr Walker considerable pleasure and he gave high praise to the entry of J. B Laidlaw (Blenheim), which he said had a very good true-to-type head £ In the ewe el ass W. W. Lowe (Eifflfltop) came to the top with a sheep with a fine back and a good fleece. The reserve champion, a young sheep exhibited by T. P. Lowe, would go a long way in the show ring, Mr Walker predicted. In the ewe hogget section Mr Laidlaw won a special prize with an excellent exhibit. SUFFOLK In the Suffolk section the judge. W John Linton (Riccarton), wid he saw sheep as goad and better as be had ever seen in Christchurch or elsewhere. TM section was supported bv an entry of 36. In the ewe classes G. S. Campbell ‘Rokeby* had a double success winning both the championship and reserve title. The two sheep had length, good wool, and all the good characteristics of the breed, said Mr Linton. The main faults he had seen, said the judge, were slack behind Ihe shoulder. defects in the mouth, and some short tender the jpw. The ram classes were also a good lot, with Joseph Webb (Taihape* taking the title and Mrs Elsie Brooks (Brookside) runner-up. RYELAND "The best Ryeland I have ever seen." was how the judge, Mr H. C Hewlett <Whangarei‘. described the champion Ryeland ewe, which was exhibited by A. C. Greenwood (Southbridgeh Mr Hewlett has been breeding Ryelanas for 25 years The Greenwood ewe had a particularly good head and was • fine all-round sheep that would bt very hard to fault, said the judge. The reserve champion from H. C. BWithell (Ashburton*. Mr Hewlett said, wag a younger sheep but a very nice one. Exhibits in the ram sections were also of a high quality. Here the championship went to a good sheep from H. C.‘B. Withell and the estate of T. A. Stephens drwell) was next in line. SOUTH-SUFFOLK I "This type of sheep has been de- ! veloped by a few enthusiastic Canterbury breeders,’’ said Mr J. Webb hope*, the judge in the South-SuffoiK section, "and they have certaW brought them up to a high standanjr The 56 entries were well spread over the various, classes and the judge sara that the best sheep had been hard 10 separate. . . The champion ram was exhibited ay G. D. Neave drwell) and the reserve champion by J. L. and L. G Smeine (Hawarden); and the champion •"J was sent forward by S H Gardiner (Amberley* with G. D. Neave also hibiting the reserve. CHEVIOT In the Cheviot section »U. entires <ame from the one exhtmwe H. L. Johnstone 'Otaio). The cha» pion ram was bred in Scotland.

mt*n? vi tin Royal as ioiiowm; — Metropolitan Royal Show Show Show 1936 1949 1950 sheen 1237 989 1403 Horses 1067 1209 1448 Cattle 551 821 829 Pigs 161 84 155 Dog trials . . - 38 57 Poultry 348 375 Produce 310 415 Art & handcraft 459 391 Wool 45 49 Implements Ac machinery 23 Wheat 10 Totals (all sec- — ■ tions) 4190 4103 5155.