Record entries

Press, 17 January 1986, Page 12

Record entries

The show at Little River is always a popular one and the enthusiasm for this year has been particularly good, according to the secretary of the Banks Peninsula Agricultural and Pastoral Association, Mr Peter Sibley. There have been record entries in most sections and, for the first time, a lamb drafting competition, which has been very popular at other shows, has been introduced. Sheep entries number 394, compared with 368 last year. Both dairy and beef cattle entries are up, with 171 and 32 respectively. The classes include Jersey, Ayrshire, Friesian, Simmental, Charolais, Limousin and Maine-Anjou. Horse entries were slightly down but were considered to be excellent, with all classes well represented, said Mr Sibley.

An unusual feature of the Little River Show is its association with the annual Kennel Club Championship Show.

More than 600 dogs of 76 different breeds will compete in classes that include obedience and field trials. The woodchopping competitions hosted by the Ferrymead Axemen’s Club are another big event. The good prize money attracts axemen from many parts of the South Island.

Several trade exhibits of farm related machinery will be set up for tomorrow’s show. These include trucks, farm utilities and home appliances. Art and photography will also be on display, as well as the large domestic produce section, which includes preserves, jams and cakes. The handcraft section also has a large number of classes. Banks Peninsula school children will have some of their best craft work on display. Children throughout the district have had their handwork judged at their schools, and the best from each school will be on display. Winemaking has become very popular with 147 entries, up from 120 last year.

Classes are for dry red, sweet red, dry white and sweet white grape wines. Wines from other fruits and vegetables are also in this section. Homebrew beer and stout are also popular entries. Sideshows, dodgem cars and a merry-go-round will provide amusement for-all

ages. The local rugby and netball clubs will cater for the show. Luncheon, morning and afternoon teas will be provided as well as bar facilities. The Little River Show has always been known as a picnic show. The Awa Iti Domain is surrounded by shady trees making it an ideal picnic spot. The organisers encourage families to pack a picnic lunch and park under the trees close to the show ring, but only a limited amount of space is available and the early-comers will get the best spaces. Admission for adults is $2, children aged 12 to 16 is for $l, for those under 12, admission is free. A charge of $1 is made for cars.