Show reflects changes in farming scene

Press, 21 October 1983, Page 24

Show reflects changes in farming scene

The Northern Agricultural and Pastoral Association Show in Rangiora this Saturday promises something for everyone, whether town or country dweller. The show provides a rare opportunity to display and demonstrate the latest techniques and developments in agriculture in the North Canterbury area, bringing urban and rural communities together in a way that is unique. This year the A. and P. Association has included some of the more unusual aspects of farming in its show, pointing out the diversity of land use in the district and the potential for future growth. Along with the traditionally important livestock and machinery displays, the show will feature deer farming exhibits that include yard design, deer management, fencing techniques and electronic weighing apparatus. A display of live deer will provide added interest for spectators. Even more unusual will be the display of fitch farming, a new industry that is exciting a good deal of comment in rural circles. The fitch is a ferret, farmed commercially for its fur, which fetches high prices in overseas markets.

Cottage industry is highlighted at the Rangiora

show, too, with exhibitions of pottery, spinning and weaving, copperware, painting, bone carving and jewellery and related craft displays. Computer technology is also on display. After an absence of some years, poultry will once again be featured in the show. There are 37 classes for all breeds, including ducks and bantams. A new attraction will be provided by the Canterbury Logging Association which is holding its field day in conjunction with the A. and P. Show.

Entries are good in all sections of the livestock competitions, according to the society’s president, and Mr Shearer expects that the standard of stock on show will reflect the favourable spring experienced in North Canterbury this year.

Horse events continue to dominate the show programme, with more than 2000 entries in the various classes. Show jumping, pony classes, harness events and led horses all contribute to the spectator appeal of such a show.

The Rangiora district has many dairy farms and the standard of dairy cattle in the show is always high. This year is expected to be no exception and entries are strong in the cattle section.

Sheep entries are on a par with previous years, with a feature being the prime lamb classes. All iambs will be judged on the hoof before being consigned to the Kaiapoi freezing works the following Tuesday to be judged on the hook for export quality. Changes to the lamb and mutton export grading standards were introduced on October 1 this year, designed to improve the market acceptability of the New Zealand product to overseas consumers who demand lean meat These new standards are expected to provoke considerable interest and the association has arranged for those interested to see the final judging at the N.C.F. works from 10 a.m. on Tuesday. The shearing competition is always popular and the standard of entrants is high, with the Rangiora event forming part of the All Breeds shearing circuit. Competitors must take part in at least six shows and points count for the two best sets of Cross-bred sheep, the two best sets of Corriedales, the two best lambs and the best sets of Half-bred sheep. Other highlights of the show include a display of vintage machinery, dog trials, and a wide variety of trade exhibits. Highland

dancing competitions are also expected to be popular with spectators. The grand parade begins at 2.15 p.m. on Saturday and admission charges for the show are ?2 for adults, 50 cents for children over five, and $1 for cars. The usual side shows, rides and community fundraising attractions will be operating at the show and the association expects a large turn-out from both city and country residents.