TOPICS OF THE WEEK

Press, Volume XCV, Issue 28268, 4 May 1957, Page 9

TOPICS OF THE WEEK

HIGH WOOL PRICES Merino wool from the Emu Creek Estate, Walcha, New England district, New South Wales, has a reputation Xor making high prices. At the Sydney wool exchange early this year five bales created a new world record price of 475 d. Last season the top line of five bales was bought by Italy for 251 d, and this price stood as a record for some time before it was bettered by a one-bale lot at 285 d, which remained the highest price of the season. When Australian wool prices rose to record levels a few years ago the G.R.C. in diamond clip was the first to reach the 300 d mark, a ■, five-bale line selling at 302 d in January, 1951. Since then the clip has enjoyed a long run of high prices—l9so-51, 302 d; 1951-52, 195 d; 1952-53, 222 d; 1953-54, 218 d; 1954-55, 216. (a mainland record); 1955-56, 251 d; 1956-57, 475 d (world’s record)The property consists of 20,000 acres and carries between 18,000 and 20,000 sheep.

PROLIFIC SOW

Writing to the British journal, “Farmer and Stock Breeder,” Mr James Ridley, a pigman in Surrey. England, reports that a Large White sow. which has farrowed for the sixth time, has produced 108 piglets. The journal says that its year book shows that 98 pigs in six litters was previously the best effort and it asked its readers if they could report a better figure than 108.

PRESERVING MILK

Experiments conducted by the Department of Agriculture, New South Wales, show that separated milk may be kept for a fortnight by adding small quantities of formalin. In normal weather two tablespoons of commercial formalin (40 per cent, formaldehyde) are added to every 10 gallons of fresh separated milk and mixed thoroughly. In very hot weather three tablespoonfuls are necessary. The milk should be stored in a cool place, and it is important to use the correct quantity of formalin. Otherwise the milk wil] be unpalatable, and may even be harmful.

BLOOD POISONING IN HOGGETS

Blood poisoning in hoggets grazing on turnips is becoming an increasingly important problem, says the Department of Agriculture. Deaths occur from infection with the blackleg organism, which probably gains entry through the mouth. An excellent vaccine, which confers very good immunity, can be purchased in New Zealand. On properties where losses have previously been experienced hoggets should be vaccinated at least a fortnight before they are placed on turnips. The nearest Veterinarian or Livestock Instructor of the Department should be consulted about the method of vaccination.