SHEEPFARMERS' EXAMPLE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21516, 13 June 1933, Page 8

SHEEPFARMERS' EXAMPLE

The scheme for wool research and instruction, with a view to the general improvement of the industry in the North Island, has received tho unanimous approval of the sheepfarmers of Poverty Bay. This support from one of the most important wool-producing districts augurs well for the coming conference in Wellington. The aim is to build upon the knowledge already gained at the Massey Agricultural College, and to attack the immediate problems in a practical manner by sending two lecturers on tour to advise as to the best practice in breeding and all cognate subjects. A most important part of the scheme is to eliminate scrub rams by voluntary action. Doubtless the instructors will seek the authority of owners to inspect their flocks, when they will have the opportunity of pointing out defects which arc costing far more than the price of better types. Further details of the plan need not now be discussed. The point of outstanding importance at the moment is that the shecpowners are setting out to solve their problems, and some, at any rate, are willing to tax themselves to pay for the necessary services. It is a line example lo every other group of producers in Hie Dominion. Through the years of prosperity the standard of the Romncy has de-

teriorated. The fault of hairiness has intensified the slump in values. Most pastoralists are producing below cost or on a very narrow margin. But all this is giving new incentive to higher endeavour. It is recognised that in the fight for future markets quality may mean the difference between success and failure, and the sheepfarmers, with a spirit worthy of their pioneer fathers and grandfathers, are out to secure it. Similarly, the dairy interests are engaged in a new offensive for higher quality butter and cheese. In their case Government regulations have been invoked, but actually they were approved in advance by the industry. Thus the two great primary industries have through adversity risen to the challenge. They are determined to help themselves out of their troubles and in doing so they will help every man, woman and child in the Dominion. National interests are bound up in their plans to hold their markets with the weapon of quality. As success comes, as come it must, through the will to achieve it, the rewards will be spread over the whole community.