The Country Show

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 60, 12 March 1938, Page 9

The Country Show

The country agricultural and pastoral show is a more important institution than most townspeople realise. Throughout the summer months shows are constantly being held in rural centres. Their organisation represents a great deal of honorary work by men and women who do not seek publicity. They are inspired by a local patriotism and often, without knowing it, they achieve a national purpose, because the effect of the exhibition of the.best stock and produce, to say nothing of the important industry of the housewife, makes ‘for better averages in the long run. The farmer in general is an enterprising man. He studies his business constantly and is always eager to learn. His problem is to apply the lessons he learns at shows and sales and elsewhere to his land. Finance is often a difficulty, but it is surprising how frequently he is able to achieve his aim. An important aid and impetus comes from the local show. Visiting judges play their part and even more might be done if the rural New Zealander, taking him by and large, were more articulate and less reserved. Usually be looks and forms his judgment, but waits until he meets an intimate before lie discusses. Nothing, however, will alter this characteristic, which after all, has its virtue. One may recall the fact, that the New Zealanders in France gained the title of the “silent Division,” though the silence did not handicap them in being classed as first-class troops. It is iu the rural districts more than in the towns that the New Zealander preserves the chief character-

istics that give him his individuality. Thus country shows arc well run, but the knowledge they give is applied quietly, here

and there, afterwards. The show also is ail entertainment. One regret is that more farmers do not have horses for the ringevents. Utility horses will prove a great investment if ever supplies of petrol are interrupted.