Change In Emphasis In Y.F.C. Movement Seen

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32011, 11 June 1969, Page 14

Change In Emphasis In Y.F.C. Movement Seen

The emphasis of the Young Farmers’ Club movement had altered as conditions in rural areas had changed, Mr W. S. Penno said in his presidential report to the annual meeting of the New Zealand Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs yesterday. Although almost all members were still actively engaged in farming and most of the programmes reflected this interest, there had been an increasing awareness of the need to develop not only the ability for adequate expression and communication but also the individual’s personality and awareness of the community in which he lived, he said. A real effort had been made in the last few years to find out members’ needs and interests and then to fulfil them through adequate programmes, particularly in clubs.

of the movement had dropped by more than 300 to 9750 during the year. This continued a trend that had been occurring for a few years. This had had a quite serious effect on the federation’s financial structure and also presented clubs with a number of[real problems. Two of the most important reasons for the decline were the effects of the so-called baby boom and the decline in population in some rural areas, particularly in the age group of young farmers. “These factors may be beyond our control but let us not rest in our endeavours to attract membership,” said Mr Penno. “The Young Farmers’ Club has something to offer young people today.”

Mr Penno said that the most important work in the federation had been done in clubs throughout the country. Much club work, he believed should be in a demonstration and teaching form rather than competitive.

Although there had been a mature look at programming and activity, the membership