A. AND P. SOCIETY.

Franklin Times, Volume XIX, Issue 93, 12 August 1929, Page 4

A. AND P. SOCIETY.

“FINANCES ON SOUND BASIS.”

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

The president, Mr Ebenezer Allan,

in his report to be presented at the annual meeting of the Franklin A. and

P. Society on Friday next, states: — “I have pleasure in presenting the 44th annual financial statement, a perusal of which will disclose a very successful year. The finances are now on a sound basis, and, given a fair run, another year should see a beginning on mortgage reduction. The consensus of opinion is that the 1929 show was the best the society ever held, all classes of stock being of outstanding quality. Interesting , and comprehensive displays in all classes of hall exhibits were excellent, the schools section being specially noteworthy. One outstanding feature of the whole year’s work has been an almost entire absence of complaints. The running of a show without friction is very desirable, and not easily attainable. Go-operation, and consideration of all interests, officials and exhibitors alike, has resulted in much favourable comment. A new ticket office has been erected which Fills a long-felt wanh.

The Social Side. Society’s Outings: The visit to Hamilton and the Ruakura State Farm, about 60 attended; the outing to the Freezing Works, Moose Nuts factory and Ghallengo Phosphate Works, about 150; the visit to the Glass Works and Sugar Works attracted about 70. All of these outings were thoroughly enjoyed, and much useful information was gathered. Such outings are becoming very popular and there is a wide field yet unexplored. I am of the opinion our Society should do more to attract and retaing the interest of young people in our show-. Some of I the ways by which this could be done are:—"(a) Calf clubs; (b) pet lamo competition; (c) potato growing competitions; (d) judging competitions extending to sheep and produce; (e) essay competition (written in schools). The enthusiasm of the rising generation can be awakened by fostering a love for agricultural pursuits. We were unable to arrange any suitable lectures during the past season. Such however, should be kept in view whenever practicable. Subjects, such as manuring, stock diseases, pig feeding, cull cows, herd testing, bobby calves, etc., would be of great interest. A farmer’s education is never complete and he is only beginning to realise how much there is yet to learn. I consider it is quite possible to organise, in conjunction with the Auckland Show in February next, a big railway trip from Tauranga, Rotorua, Morrinsville, and Hamilton to visit our next show. I am of the opinion the official opening should take place on the first day, and by putting on some horse or other competitions, thereby increase the attendance. In my last year’s report, I predicted that the Franklin show might become the best in the province. It is already one of the best, and it can become the best! We have about 700 members and with a big effort we could reach the 1000! Why not make a determined onslaught! More members, more interest! Franklin first! Stock winning at Franklin, win anywhere! Eureka.

Future Prospects Bright.

Our society enters upon another year’s work with bright prospects.. In order that such may he realised, no effort must ho relaxed, vigilance must be keen, and every avenue explored which may add to the attractiveness of our annual event. It must he gratifying to all interested in the educational advancement of agricultural shows to know that the status of the Franklin A. and P. Society has received a decided move upward during j the past two years, whilst the financial position has improved by over £3OO. I congratulate all who have so splendidly worked to attain these advances, and, in demitting office', desire for niy successor still better results. It only remains for me to put on record the society's very hearty thanks J to all who have helped, viz., a very ; efficient staff of judges and stewards, i donors of cups, special prizes, and j fodder and those who gave good service in building, cleaning up the I grounds, etc.: school teachers and boys for valued assistance: Ihe press 1 for very full ancl accurate reports; the , managers of Ruakura State Farm and of factories and works visited: an i executive who carefully examined all j subjects and worked with a will; our 1

secretary who has done splendid work, gripped his job and with whom it has been a pleasure to work.”

MEETING OF EXECUTIVE. The executive of the Franklin A. and P. Society met on Saturday evening when there were present:—Messrs E. Allan (president), .1. Pollock, R. C. Clark, 11. Horrocks, W. J. A. Moore, H. J. Flay, J. Fulton, W. M. Reynolds, R. Schlaopfcr, J. Reynolds, J. Pollock, C. F. Shepherd, A. Best, A. J. Melville and 11. E. Kissling (secretary). Apologies for absence were received from Messrs A. J. Harris, P. Gal-

lagher and D. R. Hamilton. The Auckland provincial branch of Ihe New Zealand Farmers’ Union wrote regretting that it was not possible to donate a cup to replace the one, which had been won outright, and which had been presented, some - years ago, by

the Pukekohe branch of the union. If the union complied with the society's request it would create a precedent and would undoubtedly lead to a large number of similar requests from societies in other districts.

The South Auckland Rugby Union intimated that the question of arriving at an amicable settlement over an amount of £l2 10s which was due to the union by the society. Mr .T. Pollock suggested that £7 10s be offered to the South Auckland Union in full settlement. This was agreed to. It was stated that the debt was incurred at the last winter show when the union staged a football match.

The meeting then considered the annual report and balance sheet, which are to be presented to the annual meeting on Friday next.