Nelson Evening Mail THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1922 LESSONS FROM THE SHOW

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LVI, 23 November 1922, Page 4

Nelson Evening Mail THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 1922 LESSONS FROM THE SHOW

IT was a hn.ppy crowd at the Show yesterday. The numbers wore Urge, probably larger than on any previous occasion, but there was particularly noticeable, a definite buoyancy of spirits that seemed to indicate the gradual recovery from the depressing times of the last few years. Crowds are always interesting, and none more so than a Show crowd. And while there are many people who would not like to admit it, it is nevertheless true, (and the facts can be seen if observations arc made), that the behaviour of everyone is conspicuous in a crowd. Unconsciously everyone becomes, in spirit, as well as in body, part of the crowd, and the manner in -which the individual walks about, differs essentially from the movements at other times. It is good for The district that the crowd should bo encouraged 011 Show Day, apart altogether from the financial considerations of the Association, or the more important obicctives it has in view. Each year secs greater interest taken in the Jersey breed of cattle, and on this occasion the visit of the noted New Zealand judge, Mr H. E. B. Watson, marks the most important step forward to date. For it may bo taken for granted that his services would not have been available to judge a collection of scrubbers. He had a fine lot of beasts to adjudicate upon, and be was impressed by the fact of good quality, throughout. He reminded the people that it was unnecessary for him to state that the stock was capable of taking a leading place at the best Shows in New Zealand, for it had already done so. Nelson has splendid opportunity for further development in this direction, and it requires only enterprise and enthusiasm, for this district to become one of the ,best stock breeding

areas in the Dominion. The Jersey breeders are working on.sound lines, and if full advantage is taken of the practical freedom from disease to ensure absolute, guaranteed freedom, as emphasised by the President of the Association f Dr. Washbourn), the future will be bright with promise.

A most important feature is that the Jersey breeders are working in harmony with the A. and P. Association. By such means one helps 'the other and both benefit. Tin's year the Friesians have come into their own, and the appointment of a special Friesian judge is a step in the right direction. We trust breeders of the black and whites will take the necessary steps to form an association and encourage the proper breeding of those animals. It will bo necessary for the Association to take further stops to encourage larger entries in most classes next year. The sheep, particularly, require more attention from those interested. If half a dozen people took I lie same trouble as Mr Fairoy to fill the pens, the Show would be lifted or. to a much higher plane. We would like to take this opportunity of congratulating the General Committee of the Association on the success of their labours. All have given freely of their time, and are deserving of the thanks of the community. The President, Mr J. A. Haycock, has made an efficient chairman, while what the secretary (Mr W. Dickson Darkness) does not know about the Nelson A. and P. Association, from its formation to the present day, is not worth remembering.