FOXTON

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 3282, 27 February 1926, Page 3

FOXTON

RABBIT ERADICATION. [From Our Own Correspondent.] The best method of rabbit eradication was the subject of a full discussion at the annual ' meeting of the Manawatu Rabbit Board on Thursday February 22. Mr. Poster, of Taikorea, in reporting to the Board the result of cyanide fumigation on his property recently, stated 'that an area was netted in and fumigated, after which all the holes were filled in. When th e area was inspected the following day. only two holes had been opened up and these had been opened from outside. Mr. Foster said he noticed a newly-trapped rabbit in the enclosure on inspecting, the area afterwards and was of the opinion that this rabbit and probably others had been placed In the enclosure overnight by someone opposed to the Board. The demonstration, however, was entirely satisfactory and no holes had since been opened. The only drawback was that cyanide fumigation was expensive. Trustee Gloyn considered poisoning twice a year the beet method of eradicating the pest . Trustee McKelvie: “Every man to his own property." Mr. McKelvie said that different methods were necessary for different properties. On his property, tile rabbits did not frequent burrows, but lived in the cover. He recommended strychnine poisoning. Fumigating was successful in sandy country. Mr. Foster said tha|t he had tried every poison known on his property, but without success.

Mr. R. D. Barron (the Board’s inspector), said the. winter was the best lime for poisoning around Taikorea. He considered the farmers should assist the trappers by subsidising them.

Mr. Poster was accorded a vote of thanks for his report. Farewell Social.

On Thursday evening, Mr. G. W. Parker, who has been temporary assistant in the secondary department of the Foxton, District High School was tendered a farewell social by the secondary pupils. The gathering took place in All Saints’ schoolroom, Mrs. C M. Price being the hostess. Musical items, games and competitions were indulged in, and at the conclusion, Mr. Parker thanked those present for the enjoyable [time he had had while in Foxton. He was accorded rau'sical honours. Supper was provided by the pupils .after which three hearty cheea were given for Mrs Price. ( ' Mr. Parker left onj Friday for St John’s College, Auckland, where he will continue his studies for the Anglican ministry. Battery “At Home,” The Fifth Field Battery. N.Z.A., extended an invitation to the public of Foxton to be present at an “at home” at the camp yesterday afternoon. The lawns In front of the grandstand presented a gay appearance. Seats and tables were placed at convenient intervals. Various military sports and manoeuvres were staged-; in the enclosure. and proved very Interesting and amusing, particularly as they were entirely different from what has been attempted hitherto. A display of guns in action was given, 20 rounds blank being fired. Delightful afternoon tea was served on the lawn, the boys in khaki carrying out this duty admirably. ; ■

At the- conclusion of the sporis, Mr. M. E. Perreau (Mayor), in thanking the officers and men for their hospitality, made special mention of Major G. Lyon, M.C., who, previous to the Great War, was a resident of Foxton. Major Lyon rose to his present rank through his distinguished ability. Foxton was proud of him aftd pleased to. welcome him and Mrsj Lyon. f

The camp breaks up to-day and leaves via Levin at mid-day. This is the last camp of the territorial year to be held at Foxton.

Military Dance,

The United Sports’ Association and military dance, held in the town hall on Thursday evening, was an unqualified success, there being a large attendance both from the military camp and surrounding district. Mr. M. E. Perreau (Mayor), on behalf of the Association, welcomed the officers and men from the camp and other /visitors. Dancing was kept up till an early hour to excellent music by Horl George's orchestra. The M.C.’s were Messrs. W. T. Jewell. W. E. Barber, and M. E. Perreau.