RUATANGATA NEWS

Northern Advocate, 21 August 1929, Page 9

RUATANGATA NEWS

(Frora Our Own Correspondent.)

FARMERS’ UNION MATTERS,

A meeting of file local branch of the N.Z. Farmers ’ Union was held in the Public Hall last Saturday evening, when Mr E. S. Tremaine presided over a representative attendance. Various’ matters concerned with the Farmers’ Union' were discussed.

The organiser of the Auckland province, Mr Blacldbek, was present and addressed the meeting on subjects of interest to the whole farming community. Mr Blaeklock also, dealt with the remarkable growth of the movement in the Auckland province during the past few years, and the great increase in interest that is being evinced by all members. The great increase in members and interest had, of late, enabled the union to successfully handle problems affecting the industry whiclv a. few years ago would have been impossible. Dealing 'with the situation in the Whangarei district, Mr Blacklock said that it was estimated that 90 per cent, of the farmers, who were previously non-members, had now joined up. The branch of Otonga and Mama had doubled their strength, while others had had a remarkable in-, crease. A new branch had been form ed at Whakapara and arrangements made to hold meetings alternately at Puhipuhi and T'anekaha. The settlors had decided to throw in their lot with the Kauri branch, but it appeared that it might be advisable to form a branch at Tanekaha with the assistance of Hiknrangi section. Another branch had been formed at Ngararatunua and everything pointed to its being a vainable asset to the union. Sub-provin-cial meetings are held quarterly in Whangarei and the executive of the sub-provinec consists of the delegates from the various branches of which there were 24.

Mr Blacklock stated, in conclusion, that never in. the history of the farming industry had the need for unity been greater nr the ability to do with|out it been less, and that the history of the union proved that though always engaged in fighting for the whole industry, its policy had always been dictated by a consideration of ail sections. At the conclusion of the meeting it was decided that .members from Mature u link up with Ngararatunua branch and that the formation of a branch at Ruatangata be loft open until the feeling of the Pinna settlers is obtained asHo the most suitable place to centre on.