RUATANGATA WEST.

Northern Advocate, 24 September 1919, Page 1

RUATANGATA WEST.

SOCIAL EVENING. The first social evening under the auspices of the newly-elected Entertainment Committee was held in the public hall on the 19th inst when the attendance was good and an enjoyable evening was *»pent. The nett proceeds are being devoted to the hall fund with a view to providing improvements and conveniences to the hall. Mr Rosanoski supplied the dance music efficiently and Mr F. Yates ably discharged the duties of M.C. Master Frank Cotterill sang "Starlight" and responded to an encore with "I've got my eyes on you." Dancjng was kept going with a nice swing until 2 a.m. when the last dance was announced. The committee intend hold the next social evening to fit in with tho coming full moon, and the exact date will be advertised in the "Northern Advocate." FARM NOTES. The equjnoxial gales are over and some beautiful sunny warm days have followed and the pastures in consequence are looking a verdant green. Potato and oaten crops are coming away nicely. With suitable weather during the next month the prospect for a successful early cropping season is practically assured. Fruit trees arc blossoming exceedingly well and now that the equinoxial gales arc over the probability is for a favourable chance of the frpjt setting ere the blossoms are interfered with. Tho main crops of potatoes and peas are now receiving attention, also pumpkins, marrows and the rest of the cucurbitaceous family are. being planted. A. liberal supply of farm yard manure is very essential for satisfactory returns with the vine cropping. The cream supply is steadily on the increase and next few weeks should see a decided improvement in the supply. DRAINAGE SURVEY.

Tiic survey in connection with tho Hikurangi swamp discloses the fact that for about two and a half miles in tho vicinity of the Wairoa bridge that the river is practically level, not an inch fall. The natural draw and force of water alone is responsible for the movement of the stream. Some of the lagoons in the river are 40 feet and 60 feet deep, and it is probable that the spoil from the proposed river straightening canal will be deposited into these lagoons. Should the Hikurangi drainage scheme be undertaken there will be a considerable amount of labour available in the vicinity of this district.