STOCK MARKETS.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVII, 4 June 1928, Page 9

STOCK MARKETS.

AN INTERESTING TIME

GOOD ALL-ROUND BUSINESS

The touch of winter lias reminded farmers that stock need extra care, anti tout preparations must be completed for tooiiing after their welfare curing the next lour months. Practically every farmer has been alive to the position for some years past, and tnere are very tew who do not now lay in ample stores of winter feed so as to bring the cows into profit in July and August in great condition, unaffected by the coJcl and wet of winter. This season tnere have been unusual conditions which had* to be taken into consideration. The long spell of dry, hot weatiier drew to some extent on the supplies of supplementary fodder, those farmers who Jiad good areas of lucerne being most fortunately situated, and some will find themselves probably a bit short later on in Die season. As against that, however, the grass is still showing strong growth, markedly so during the past few weelas, and pastures are looking wonderfully well. This will undoubtedly help the situation. In addition root crops are still growing, and have, done' well since they recovered from the drought, especially where cultivation was thorough. These features have all operated to make the present a good time' for holders of stock of all kinds where condition and quality are evident. In all such cases' there lias been shown a keen and continuing demand, which shows that much stock will be required to fill up the requirements of farmers. At the clearing sales so far there have been very good prices for good young dairy cattle. It is noticeable that, with few exceptions, all offered have, been in great condition. 'Reports to this effect come from, all over the district, and one farmer from the Rawhitiroa, district states that- a visitor to his farm vvas amazed at the _ size and condition of his calves. This is more or less typical, and young stock generally show the benefit of the wonderful grass season. Store* cattle, too, are being eagerly sought for because" of the heavy feed that i,s general through the district. Farmers are naturally optimism and able to winter more stock than usual. Pi gs are selling well, and show a. continued good level of prices. Most dairy farmers hold a fair number, and are alike inclined to secure more than usual. The prospects in the pig markets look quite good. The daily produce market is still steady at a good level, and this, too. is a mo mi simr feature.

The position all round is bright, and promises well for the coming season.