NORTH OTAGO.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20964, 1 March 1930, Page 20

NORTH OTAGO.

(FfiOU Oca SPKCIAt ConnRIPONDSNT. J

ij MAHENO FLOWER SHOW.

The autumn flower show was held at the Maheno Hall yesterday, and attracted excellent competition in the various classes. _ The quality of the blooms and the artistic arrangement of the exhibits were of - a particularly high standard, and caused a noted horticulturist to express the opinion that this was the premier show of blooms this year in the district. The table decorations were certainly exceptionally good, the winning exhibit of thalectrums and 'scabious by Miss B. Dewar was daintily arranged, the heliotrope effect being particularly pleasing. The decorated mantelpiece shown by Mrs Newlands was also of outstanding beauty, consisting of nasturtiums, grasses, and autumn tints. A feature of the show was found in the bowls of flowers, for which seven very pleasing entries were received. The judge also made special comment on the quality of the phlox drummondi exhibited by Miss M'Donald. The children’s baskets were very artisti cally arranged, and the gladioli, though small in numbers, were very fine specimens. There was good competition in the children's classes, and the array of cakes and scones in the baking section reflected the highest credit on the ladies who so liberally patronised this section. The fancy work was also well represented, and the exhibits in the fruit and vegetables was of excellent quality and condition. Awards:— CUT BLOOMS* Judge: Mr Ewing. Six roses—Mrs Newlands 1, T. H. Hammond 2, Mrs Hunter 3. Three roses—Fraser Barron 1, Mrs J. B. Dewar 2, T. H. Hammond 3. Champion rose—Mrs Dewar 1. Sweet peas, six varieties —Mrs Dewar Six asters—Mrs Dewar 1, Mrs J. B. Dewar 2. Four asters—Mrs Hunter 1. Mrs W. Sonness 2. Six pansies—Mrs Dewar 1. 2, and 3. Six carnations—Mrs Rusesll 1. Mrs Dewar 2 and 3. Six phlox drummondi—Miss M'Donald 1, Mrs Dewar 2 and 3. , D°' V l °f phlox durmmondi—Miss -ol Donald 1, Mrs D&war 2. Verbena, four varieties—Mrs J. B. Dewar 1, Mrs M'Lennon 2, Miss Newlands Six dahlias, cactus —Mrs Dewar 1. Three 10-week stocks—Miss Newlands 1, Mrs French 2. Gladioli—Mrs Dewar 1, Mrs Allan Clark 2.. Two heads lilium—Mrs Hunter 1. - Larkspurs, four double—Mrs Dewar 1, Mrs Newlands 2. Geraniums, four varieties—Mrs Dewar 1, Mrs_ J, Newlands 2. Scabious, four varieties—Mrs Dewar 1. Antirrhinums, four varieties—Mrs Hunter 1. Collection of cut flowers —Mrs Dewar I, Mrs Hunter 2, Miss Newlands 3. DECORATIVE. Judge; Mr Ewing. Bowl or roses—Miss B. Dewar 1, Miss Dewar 2, Miss Hammond 3. Basket of roses—Mrs Yorston 1. Three vases of roses, for effect—Miss Dewar 1, Miss B. Dewar 2. Bowl of sweet peas—Miss B* Dewar 1, Mrs Yoraton 2, Miss Dewar 3. Bowl of cut flowers—Mrs Yorston and Miss Newlands (equal) 1, Miss Newlands 3, Miss Dewar 4. Bowl of cut flowers, bold effect—Miss B. Dewar 1, Miss Dewar 2, Moating howl—Mrs Newlands 1, Mrs J. M- Saville 2, Miss Dewar 3. Basket of flowers—Miss Newlands 1. Decorated mantelpiece—Mrs Newlands 1, Mrs A. G. Clark 2, Miss Dewar 3, Decorated table—Miss B, Dewar 1 Miss Dewar and Mrs A. G. Clark (equal) Vase of flowers—Mrs J. M. Saville 1 and 2, Miss B. Dewar and Miss Dewar (equal) 3. Three vases of' any flowers—Miss B. Dewar 1, Mrs A. G. Clark 2. Decorated hat—Mrs Yorston 1, Miss D. Newlands 2, Mrs A. G. Clark 3. Bridesmand’s posy—Mias Dewar 1. Miss Newlands 2, Mrs Yorston 3.

ACTIVITIES OF THE DISTRICT.

FRUIT. Judge: Mr J. Main,

Twelve apples, cooking—S. Hunter 1, Miss Hammond 2, Connie M'Neill 3. Twelve apples, dessert—Mrs W. Mul* drew, jun„ 1, Miss Neill 2. Six pears, cooking—Mr G. Cox 1 and 2. Six pears, dessert —Connie M'Neill 1. Mr G. Cox 2. Twelve plums, light—-Miss Neill 1, Miss’ Hammond 2. Six apricots—J. Hunter 1. Six peaches—Miss Phyllis Weir I. VEGETABLES. Judge: Mr J. Main. One vegetable marrow—Master Peter Wylie 1. Two cabbages—Mrs D. Paton 1, Master George Paton 2, Willie Mul drew 3. Twelve onions, autumn sown —S, Hunter 1, Miss B. Dewar 2. Twelve onions, spring sown—G. L. Thorby 1. Three carrots, short —Miss B. Dewar I. G. L. Thorby 2, S. Hunter 3. Three carrots, short —G. L. Thorby 1, Jack Cook 2. Three parsnips—G. L. Thorby 1. Three beet, long—Miss B. Dewar 1. Three beet, round —Mrs Burton 1, G. L. Thorby 2, J. Buzan 3. Three table turnips—J. Bunton 1, Mrs Bnnton 2. Two lettuce—Mrs Yorston 1. Six stalks rhubarb, weight—J. Buzan 1 Mrs H. Hunter 2, Mrs Paton 3. Six stalks rhubarb, quality—Mrs Paton 1, J. Buzan 2. Twelve pods peas—Mrs J. Guthrie 1, Miss B. Dewar 2, S. Hunter 3. Six pods beans, broad or long—G. L. Thorby 1, Mrs Yorston 2. Twelve pods butter beans—Mies B. Dewar 1, Mrs T. Spillane 2, Jack Cook 3. ■ Twelve pods scarlet runner —Mrs Spillane I, Miss B. Dewar 2, Master C. Hayes 3 Potatoes, four varieties—J, Wylie 1. BAKING. Judges: Mesdames Kingan and "Walton. Home-made bread—Mrs Richards 2. Sultana loaf—Miss I. Henry 1. . Bermaline loaf —Mrs J. Milne 1, Miss D. Newlands 2. Nut loaf —Miss I. Henry 1, J. Hunter 2, Miss D. Newlands 3.

Six oven scones—Mrs J. Milne 1, Miss D. Newlands 2, Mrs Henry 3. Six girdle scones—Mrs J. Milne 1, Miss Hammond. 2, Mrs Souness 3. Six date scones—Miss D. Newlands I. Plate pikelets—Mrs Cook 1, Miss Hammond 2, Mrs Souness 3. Plate oatcakes —Mrs Saville, sen., 1, Mrs Guthrie 2. Fruit cake, light—Busy Bees 1, J. Hunter 2, Mrs Henry 3., Fruit cake, dark—Mrs W. B. Currie 1, Mrs French 2. Seed cake—Mrs Hayes 1, Mrs J. Milne 2, J. Hunter 3. Ginger cake —Mrs Guthrie 1, Mrs J. Milne 2, Mrs Hayes 3. Marble cake—J. Hunter 1. Chocolate cake—Mrs J. M. Saville 1, Mrs Souness 2, Miss I. Henry 3. Orange cake—Mrs Hayes 2. Coffee cake—Mrs Guthrie 1, Mrs French 2, Mrs Saville ,3. Walnut cake—Mrs Souness 2. Louise cake—Miss Henry 1, Mrs French 2. Sponge sandwich —Mrs J. Milne 1, Mrs Henry 2, Mrs W. B. Currie 3. Sponge roll—Mrs French 1, Miss D. Newlands-2. Shortbread—Mrs Hayes 1, Miss Hammond 2, Mrs French 3. SWEETS. . Judges: Mesdames Kingan and Walton. Plain toffee—Miss Henry 1. Almond toffee—Mis Henry L Coconut ice—Miss Henry 1, Mrs French 2. Turkish delight—Miss Dippie 1, Mrs French 2. Butterscotch—Miss Henry 1. Plain fudge—Miss Henry’ 1, Mrs Frenil 2. Fancy fudge—Miss Dippie 1, Mrs French 2. Collection sweets—Mrs French 1, Miss Henry 2. FANCY WORK. Judges: Mesdames Kingan and Walton. ' Richelieu embroidery—Miss Margaret Burgess 1. Supper or tray cloth, crochet—Mrs Dewar 1, Mrs Rapson 2. Tray cloth—Miss French 1. Coloured embroidery—Miss French 1, Miss Dewar 2, Miss Jones (Herbert) 3. Bedspread—Mrs J. M. Saville 1, Miss Lily Badman (Dunedin) 2, Mrs Galbraith (Gatlins) 3. Apron, coloured embroidery—Mrs Dewar 1 and 3, Miss B. Dewar 2. Supper or tray cloth, coloured embroidery—Miss Henry 1, Mrs Dewar 2, Miss V. Clearwater (Palmerston) 3. Article from material costing not more than Is—Mrs Rapson 1, Mrs W. W. French 2. CHILDREN’S SECTION. POT PLANTS. Judge: Mr J. Main. Border marigold—Dorothy Sinclair 1, Margaret Muldrew 2, Daphne Orr 3. Stocks—Cecil Hayes 1, Fraser Barron 2, Audrey Orr 3. Antirrhinum—Doris Taylor 1, Jim Rapson 2, Dorothy Weir 3. Aster—Willie Muldrew 1, Violet Cameron 2, Jean Muldrew 3. Salpiglossis—Enio Cook 1. Petunia—Bruce French 1, Bert Hayes 2. VEGETABLES. Three carrots, school grown —Jack Muldrew 1, Edward Kelcher 2, Jim Currie 3. Three parsnips, school grown—Harry Stringer 1. Three beet, school grown—Jack Muldrew 1, Harry Stringer 2. One cabbage, school grown—Edward Kelcher 1, Walter Paton 2. Onions—Jack Muldrew 1, Harry Stringer 2. Beans—Edward Kelcher 1, Harry Stringer 2. Peas —Jack Byers 1. Turnip.—Bill Wedderll Stanley Davis DECORATIVE. Buttonhole, girl, 7to 9 years Doris Taylor 1. Joyce Orr 2, Dorgtliy Muldrew Buttonhole, girls, 10 to 12 years— ■ Audrey Orr 1. Jessie Robertson 2, Mill? Petrie and Dorothy Watson (equal) 3. Lady’s spray, senior girls—Doreen Keizer 1, Dorothy Watson 2. Enie Cook 3 Vase of flowers, junior girls—Dorothy •Voir I. Margaret Buzan 2, Jovce Orr 3 v nse of flowers, intermediate girls— Audrey Orr 1, Enio Cook 2, Milly Petrie Basket of flowers, senior girls—Jean Muldrew 1, Doreen Kelcher 2, Connie Davis 3. j Collection of weeds, boys—Bryce Currie Collection of grasses—Jim Currie 1, Lora Newlands 2. Fruit cake, dark—Mrs Falloon 1, Miss Stewart 2, Seed cake—Mrs Laney 1, Mrs Falloon 2, Mias Stewart 3. Ginger cake—Miss Stewart 1, Mrs D Copeland 2, Mrs R. Campbell 3. Sponge cake—Mrs R. Campbell 1, Mrs Lnuey 2, Mrs Aloore 3. Sppngo cake, any filling—Mrs Campbell 1, Aiiss Stewart 2, Mrs Laney 3, Shortbread—Mrs Lanev 1, Mrs Falloon 2, Aiiss Stewart 3. Any other variety cake—Airs Lanev 1. Miss Stewart 2. BAKING. Six oven .scones —Aiiss 11, P;iton 1. Pikelets — Alias E, Cook 1. SWEEIS. Plain loffe —Cecil Hayes j, Walter Kelcher and Audrey On- (equal i i*. Cocoamit ice—Cecil Haves J, Willi'*Aluhlrew 2. .far extracted honey—G. Saville I. Collection jelly—Aiiss Neill 1. Collection iam. four varieties-* — Aiiss Neill 1.

The annual show of the Weston Horticultural Society was held on Thursday in the Weston Hall. There were exceptionally fine blooms in nearly every class in the cut flowers section. The salpiglossis shown were brilliant in colour and in excellent condition, and the gladioli included a very good spike of the New Zealand-raised Hinempa, as well as other varieties. Asters were of outstanding merit, large in size, fresh, and of good colour, and the sweet peas were good considering the lateness of the season. The competition for collection of cut flowers was keenly contested, the first place being taken by a fine collection from Mr Dick’s garden. The exhibits in- the decorative section made a fine show, the decorated table shown by Miss Watson being worthy of special mention; while the buttonholes for the children were particularly good. Fruit and vegetables were well represented, the collection of Mr W J. D, Milne being of exceptional quality. The baking classes attracted good competition, and the exhibits were of the usual high standard, while the _ needlework entries reflected great credit on the skill and artistic taste of the exhibitors. Awards:—

CUT FLOWERS. Judge: Mr F. C. Clapperton

Six sweet peas (distinct) —Mrs Hill 1, D Copland 2, One glass salpiglossis—Mrs Hill 1, D. Copland 2, Jack Mitchell 3.

. Three roses (varieties) —D. Copland 1, Mrs Hill 2.

Champion rose—Mrs Hill 1, D. Copland 2. Four carnations (varieties) —Mrs Hill 1, Jack Mitchell 2, D. Copland 3. Three gladioli (varieties) —Mrs Hill J, A. M'Douall 2.

One head gladiolus—Mr Fox (Oamaru) 1. A. M’Douall 2, Mrs Sawers 3. Head lilium (any variety)—W. M’Evoy 1, Mrs Hill 2. Six pansies (varieties) —D. Copland 1, Mrs Hill 2.

Four asters (varieties) —D. Copland ], Jack Mitchell 2, Mr Fox 3.

Three asters (varieties)—Jack Mitchell 1, D. Copland 2, Mr Fox 3. Three stocks (varieties) —D. Copland 1, Mrs Hill 2, Jack Mitchell 3. Three dahlias (cactus) —Mrs Hill 1, D. Copland 2 Three dahlias (double). —Mrs Hill 1. D. Copland 2. Three dahlias (any other variety) Jack Mitchell 1, Mrs Hill 2, D. Copland 3. ' Three collarette dahlias—Jack Mitchell 1.

Three verbenas—Mrs Hill 1, Jack Mitchell 2, D. Copland 3. Pholx Drummondi—Jack Mitchell 1, Mrs Hill 2, D. Copland 3. Herbaceous phlox—D. Copland 1, Jack Mitchell 2.

Bowl of sweet peas—D. Copland 1, Mrs Hill 2.

Zinna (varieties) —Jack Mitchell 1, D. Copland 2. Cosmos—Mrs Sawers 1, D. Copland 2. Gallardias —Jack Mitchell 1, D. Copland 2. Penstemmon—Jack Mitchell 1. D. Copland 2, Mrs.' Hill 3.

Petunia—Jack Mitchell 1, Mrs Hill 2, D. Copland 3. Cut blooms (six glasses)—Miss Dick 1, D. Copland 2, Mrs Hill 3. Thrde glasses of scabious—Jack Mitchell 1, D. Copland 2, S. Brightwell 3. Viola—Mrs Hill 1, D. Copland 2.

Most points in class —D. Copland (43) I, Mrs Hill (45) 2, Jack Mitchell (37)

DECORATIVE. Judge: Mrs Thomson. Decorated table—Miss Watson 1. Three vases decorative flowers—Miss Watson 1, Molly Matheson 2. Bowl of flowers—Miss Watson 1, Mrs Barnard 2

Decorative hanging basket —Miss Watson 1, Nettie Campbell 2. Basket of flowers —Miss Watson 1. Gentleman’s buttonhole—Miss Watson 1. CHILDREN’S SECTION. Buttonhole, boy or girl (under 10 years)—Max Dick 1, Margaret Dick 2. Hand bouquet— Alice Brown 1, Bell M‘Naughton 2. Collection of grasses—Keith Falloon 1 Basket of flowers—Nettie Campbell 1. Betty Barnard 2, Joy Craig 3. Buttonhole (boys)—Bruce Dick 1, Stewart Dick 2, Ron M‘Naughton and Keith Falloon (equal) 3. Buttonhole (girls)—Beth Falloon 1, Lilian Moore 2. Pot plant—Bruce Dick 1. Beth Falloon 2 FRUITS. Judge: Mr Tait. Dessert apples, three varieties—D. M. Copeland 1. Five dessert apples, one variety—Bella M’Naughton 1, D. Copeland 2. Five cooking apples, one variety—G. Brightwell 1, R. M’Naughton 2, S. Brightwell 3. Five pears, one variety—Ron. M’Naughton 1, Bella M’Naughton 2, Keith Falloon 3. Plums, dark—Ron. M’Naughton 2, Bella M’Naughton 3. Plums, light—Keith Falloon I, Ron. M’Naughton 2, Bella M’Naughton 3. Collection of fruit —D. Copeland 1. Six apricots, one variety—R. Campbell 1, A. J. Kitchen 2, Mrs Copeland 3. Heaviest pear—Keith Falloon 1. VEGETABLES. Judge: Mr Tait.

Six onions, autumn sown—W. West 1, J. Alitchell 2. Six onions, spring sown—J. Alitchell 1, W. West 2, W. Falloon 3. Two table cabbages—W. J. D. Alilne 1, J. Mitchell 2. Two cauliflowers—D. Copeland 1. Three turnips, white—W. J. D. Milne 1, F. Aloore 2, D. Copeland 3. Three swedes—W. R. Laney 1, J. Alatheson 2, W. J. D. Milne 3. Three carrots, short—J. Alitchell 1. Three carrots, intermediate—W. J. D. Alilne I, W. R. Laney 2, W. West 3. Three parsnips—W. West 1, W. R. Laney 2, W. J, D. Mihre 3. Three beetroot, round—Mrs Barnard 1, AV. West 2, W. J. D. Alilne 3. Three heads silver beet—G. Birnie 1, W. J. D. Alilne 2, F. Aloore 3. Six pods French beans—J. Alitchell 1, W. West 2, W. J. D, Milne 3. Six pods runner beans —J. Alitchell 1, F. Moore 2 C. Aloore 3.

Six pods peas—J. Mitchell 1, W. J. D. Milne 2, W West 3. Four leeks —J. Mitchell 1. Potatoes, white—D Copeland 1, W. It. Laney 2, J. Mitchell 3. Potatoes, coloured—J. Mitchell 1, D. Copeland 2, W. West 3. White potatoes, three varieties—D. Copeland 1, W. West 2, F. Moore 3. Coloured potatoes, three varieties —W. West 1, D. Copeland 2. Two marrows, table—W. West 1, Mrs Barnard 2. Shallots—J. Mitchell I. Rhubarb, quality—Brs Barnard 1, W. Falloon 2. W. West 3. Rhubarb, weight—W, Falloon 1, F Moore 2, Three lettuce —C. Moore 1. P. Moore 2. J. Mitchell 3. Collection of vegetables—W. J. D. Milne 1. Most points in class —J. Mitchell (25) 1. W. West (22) 2, W. J. D. Milne (17) PRESERVES. Three pots jellies, varieties —Mrs R. Campbell 1. BREAD AND CAKES. Judge; Messrs Maxwell and Lapslcy. Three oven scones—Mrs Falloon 1, Mrs I. Moore 2, Miss Stewart 3. Three girdle scones—Mrs F. Moore 1, Mis.s Stewart 2, Mrs Falloon 3. Three date scones—Miss Stewart 1. Mrs Moore 2, Mrs R. Campbell 3. Three fancy .scones—Stewart 1 Mrs Falloon 2, Mrs R. Campbelf 3 ’ -three oat cakes—Mrs Campbell 1, Mrs Laney 2. M:ss Stewart 3 1 pikelets—Mrs Binnie 1, Mrs Campbell 2, Miss Lanev 3. Potato scones—Miss Stewart 1. Mrs ralloon 2. Miss I. Lanev 3 Fruit cake, light—MiVs Stewart I, Mra D. M. Copeland 2. . CHILDREN’S CLASSES. Three oven scones—B. M-Xaughton 1, I>. balloon 2, C. Thyno 3. Three pikelets—ii. M'Xanghton 1, Mr Mathieson 2, L. Moure 3. Bermalino loaf—K. Mathieson 1 I!. M'NandiUm 2. M. Mathieson 3. ' -MISCELLANEOUS. One dozen hen eggs. while—Miss Kiliiu i) I. Oolin Moore 2, One dozen duck eggs—Colin Moore 1.

NEEDLEWORK. Judge: Miss L. Campbell. Crocheted articles —Sirs R. Allan 1, Mrs Campbell 2, Mrs Falloon 3. Embroiderd article, eyelet work—Mrs Falloon 1, Mrs Campbell 2. . Coloured embroidery, any article—Mrs A. Watson 1, Mrs Campbell 2, Miss Isa Allan 3. Best collection of fancy work—Mrs Campbell 1, Miss Webber and Miss I. Laney (equal) 2, Mrs R. Allan 3. Pair of knitted socks —Miss Webber 1, Mrs R. Allan 2. Pair of knitted gloves, woollen —Mrs Campbell 1. CHILDREN’S CLASSES. Judge; Mrs Campbell.

Handkerchief, hemstitched —Beth FaL loon 1.

Handkerchief, plain hemmed—Beth Falloon 1, Lilian Moore 2.

Handkerchief, fancy—Beth Falloon 1. Embroidered article —Rena Campbell 1. Kathleen Mathison 2, Beth Falloon 3. Best buttonhole—Beth Falloon 1, Rena Campbell 2, Kathleen Alathicson 3. Best sample darning—Beth Falloon 1, Rena Campbell 2, Nettie Campbell 3. Patch on linen or cotton —Beth Falloon I, Rena Campbell 2, Kathleen Mathicson COUNTY CLERK RESIGNS . At the meeting of the Waitaki County Council yesterday the resignation oi Mr James APLaren as county clerk was received and accepted. Miss Gray was appointeed acting-county clerk. It was decided to invite applications for the position of county clerk. WAITAKI COUNTY COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of the Waitaki County Council was held yesterday morning, there being present Mr W. Gardiner (chairman), Crs T. A. Munro, R. B, Meek, J. M. Smith, A. M'lnnes, J IT Rutherford, D. Clark, J. D. Ross, and D. J. Rodman. Treasury notes were received from Uie Main Highways Board totalling £2351 8s 5d and goldfields revenue totalling £6 3s 3d. It was decided to accede to the request of the Public Works Department to contribute £l6O towards the cost of the Ahuriri deviation, which was being made at an estimated cost of £I6OO.

The district engineer of the Public Works Department acknowledged the grant of £IOO from the council towards the Kartigi improvements, and stated that arrangements were being made with the Railways Department to give an estimated cost of widening the raihv iy bridge. A complaint from Mr J. A. Greer as' to the state of the road in front of the Railway Hotel and temporary post office at Kurow was referred to Cr M'lnnes and the engineer for attention. The dedication of part section 30, block V, Otepopo, forwarded by the Education Department for acceptance by the council was approved.

A complaint from Airs B. Counihan concerning the rubbish nuisance at the end of the Caledonian road was referred to the engineer. Airs Watt applied for a refund of the cost of an electric range and other equipment, totalling £27 10s 6d, installed at the Kurow House.—Cr AlTnnes stated that neither he nor Cr Alunro had given any promise of a refund and that the range had been put in by Dr Watt at his own expenses.—This was endorsed by Cr Alunro, and the council declined to accept any responsibility in the matter. A petition was received from 11 residents in Kelvin street, asking that two street lights be erected, that the road be attended to and the paths cleaned, and that they thought the water rate of £5 excessive—Referred to Cr Clark and the engineer.

The commissioner of Crown lands advised that the partial surrender by Air J. French had not yet been received, and tlm matter was again referred to Cl Smith and the engineer. It was decided to forward the annual returns of heavy traffic fees as requested by the Timaru Borough Council. —Cr Rutherford and the engineer were requested to take action in resnect to two motor lorries from Southland, now carting grain at Djintroon.

The Lands and Survey Department asked for a certificate that the council recognised the road* in part section 13, block I, Oamaru S.D., known as Florav<ne,—The engineer reported that the occupiers of the sections did not want the roads, and that all the sections had access to other roads, and the request was declined.—A similar request in reference to Spike Island, Kakanui, was referred to Cr Rodman and the engineer, with power to act.

Alessrs Lee, Grave, and Grave forwarded the plan pf subdivision and dedication of roads for Casinova Extension No. 1, depositing money required for formation of roads.—Subdivision consented to. ENGINEER’S REPORT. The engineer reported for the month as follows: Aloeraki Riding.—Good progress was being made with the gravelling on the main highway between Hampden and Hillgrove, and tenders had been called for tar-sealing this section of the road. Tenders were let between meetings for the necessary gravel for top-dressing, the tender of T. Al'Cone at 7s per cubic yard being accepted Acting on instructions from the Alain Highways .Board engineer a strip of about 12 chains in length of six different mixtures for first coat sealing work was laid down. From this it will be seen which is the most suitable for that type of road. He made a further examination of the stone arch bridge on Joyce’s road, and was satisfied it was safe for traction engine traffic. A start had been made with the expenditure of the Government vote on Mount Fortune track.

Otepopo Riding.—Alaintenance gravel has been put on some of the by-roads. Tile creek crossing at Waimatu, which was washed out by floods, has been substantially repaired.

, Inchohne Riding.—Better progress was being made this month with the metalling on the Dasher road, though progress was still slow. Contracts of this sort were not satisfactory, as they keep the council men too long from their other work.

Kakanui Riding.—The contractor has finished the gravelling of the Kakanui Beach road, and some maintenance gravel has been put on the Awamoa Central road. He had not yet called tenders for painting the Kakanui bridge on the main highway, but would do so at the next meeting. It would be advisable to treat tbe road surface of the bridge with road oil to get rid of the dust during painting operations. The road drag was doing pood work on the main highway in levelling off the corrugations. A pipe set m concrete has been put in the Waiareka crossing on Needs’s road to take the ordinary (low of water, and the floods will go over the top.

Papakaio Riding.—Good progress was being made with the metalling on the North road. An electrically-driven pump had been installed at Boundary Creek fulfilling the water cart, with very satisfactory results. The rnteman reported chat owing to the low state of the Waitaki he was having difficulty in keeping a rood supply of water in the Papakaio race Tenders would be called next meeting for the approaches to the motor bridge on Poplar road.

Waiareka Riding.—The contractor r.ad made a start with the approaches ci H,.. Waiareka bridge on Eiderslie No. 2 road The lorry had been engaged on rh i Forks highway daring the month Awamoa Hiding.-—Ordinary surfacing had been carried on, and the grader, after being overhauled, had been busy on various roads.

Otckaike Riding.—Tim bbx had been taken out of Mnlvena s Crossing on tie l main load, and considerable iuconcfidence had liccn caused td motorists ft,-,-heavy rain. The bridge over the Sandstone ( reek had been completed at a cost of about £!ti>. The commissioner of

Crown lands met a deputation of Beiders and several councillors at the Kurow Settlement, and went fully into the question of flooding on the settlement, and also the responsibility for the outlet drain from the main road to the river, lie promised to go fully into the matter and report on his return to Dunedin.

Ahuriri Riding.—The contractor Lad just about completed the gravelling of the Lindis Pass road, which would make the road passable at all times of the year except when blocked with heavy snow. As soon as the new cut was put in the Quailburn Creek he would submit plans for the bridge to the Government for approval. Protective work was being corned out at the Ahuriri bridge. Slow progress was being made with" the Ahuriri deviation, as there were very few men engaged on ; the work. The Mackenzie County had | completed the replanking of the Ohau , bridge on the county boundary, the cost to this county being £36 14s ~d The acceptance of T. M'Cone’s tender was confirmed, and the engineer’s report was adopted. i It was decided to call tenders for the erection of a bridge at Mulvena’s crossing. Cr M'lnijes reported that the Railways Department and cleared portion of the watercourse, and it was decided to request Messrs Mulvena Bros, to clear their portion. Accounts amounting to £3389 19s were passed for payment. Four tenders were received for tarsealing three miles and three-quarters of the highway from Hampden to Hillgrove, and were referred to the Main Highways Board. It was decided to purchase on certain conditions tfie tractor now in use at the council’s quarry for £2OO. It was decided to invite tenders for the erection of a bridge over the little Awakino Creek, near the Waitaki hydroelectric works. PALMERSTCT POLICE STATION. In reply to the representations made regarding the necessity for a new police station at Palmerston, the Minister of Justice (Sir Thomas Sidey) has advised Mr. J. A. Macpherson. M.P., that Cabinet has approved of the work being proceeded with, and the Public Works De partment has been requested to take the\ necessary steps to call for tenders for the erection of the building. AMATEUR SWIMMING CLUB. At a special meeting of the Oauiaru Amateur Swimming Club, over which Mr M. K. M'Culloch presided, it was decided to hold a carnival on March 11. The following are th e results of the second night’s events for the president swimming races:—2s Yards: Pollock (4sec) 1, Curie (2sec) 2, Kinder (scr) 3. Time, 15 2-ssec. 220 Yards; Kinder (scr) 1, Curie (scr) 2, Pollock (scr) 3, Time, 4min Bseo. AUCTIONEERS’ LICENSES. At the Waitaki County Council meeting yesterday, the chairman (Mr W. Gardiner), in speaking of auctioneers! licenses, said an endeavour was being made to get all the license fees paid to the borough, and he thought that unfair. The auctioneers’ cars were always on the road, and he thought that unfair. At present the county was receiving fees from only two firms, and he thought they were entitled to the fees from all the mercantile firms. After a short discussion the chairman and Cr ifteek were appointed a deputation to wait on the Auctioneers’ Association on the matter. HIGHWAYS BOARD GROUP. Cl- Ross suggested at the Waitaki County Council meeting yesterday that the council should consider the question of transferring from group 15 to group 16. The suggestion had- come from the board and it appeared a good one to act upon. Mr Laugbein (of Christchurch) had always been very courteous, and was a good man, but they could get in touch with Mr Ball, at Dunedin, much more easily. He thought it would be wise to have a representative who could see and approve of work on the highways while in progress, rather than when that work was finished. He thought they had too much work at the Christchurch end to assist them. He moved that the council take steps to transfer from group 15 to 1 group 16. The engineer stressed that there was no personal feeling in the matter, but tbe council could not get attention from Christchurch. They were starting a new era of road work, and it was handicapping the council’s work. After other councillors spoke in support of the suggestion, the motion was carried i unanimously. j 1 AIRPORT FOR OAMARU. Crs J. M'Diarmid and K. Familtou, of the Oamaru Borough Council, waited on the Waitaki Borough Council yesterday in regard to the establishment of an airport at Oamaru. Cr M'Diarmid stated that about a year ago Mr T. M.'Wilford visited Oamaru, and treated the subject trom a defence point of view, but more particularly _ in connection with commercial and civil aviation. He stressed that any town without an airport would be literally off the map, and urged Oamaru to get an air port. Aviation would pro- i vide a quick transit of mails and light commercial goods. Their object was to seek the co-operation of the County Council, and lie asked that three members 1 be appointed to act on a joint committee. Hie first thing to do was to secure a piece ot ground suitable for the purpose. Cr Familton supplemented Cr M'Diarmid’s remarks, saying he was quite sure they all realised the importance of the matter. He had heard that it could not be understood why Oamaru was not moving in the matter Mr Gardiner agreed with the request, but said that at the same time it must be understood that they would get no money from the county. If - the Government wanted airports they should Pay for them. Crs Meeek, Munro, and m Hpp aPPOiated t 0 th * joint comnnttee to co-operate with the Borough Council on the matter. b PERSONAL. At the meeting of the Waitaki County Council yesterday the chairman (Mr W fee ling reference to the death of Sir Thomas Mackenzie, who had been a valued member of Parliament, and had served his country well. A motion ot sympathy with the relatives was earned in the customary manner. Mrs Selby, of Invercargill, arrived in amuiu yesterday, and will commence her duties as head teacher at the Ardgowan School on Monday. - gnthering of friends assembled in the Bungalow for the purpose of tendering a kitchen evening to Miss Lula Haiu on the eve of her marriage The evening was spent in cards and° danc-iim, the music being supplied bv Messrs Ashton and Goodman. In asking Miss Bain to accept the many and varied articles. Mr linikley conveyed to her the best wishes of those present. Mr Allan Cuthbortson, on behalf of Miss ? in. replied Messrs G. Grenfell and J. Kearns have I been appointed delegates to attend the anmial medai; of the Grand Lodge, U.A.O.D. of Otago and Southland, to be held at Dunedin. , Queen’s Hotel.—Mr and Mrs E W ■Evans (Auckland), Alisa N. Albrecht : (Gisborne). Air C. R. Robinson (Wei-

lington), Miss A. Taylor (Kaikoura), Mr and Mrs G. Fraser (Owaka), Mr S. M'Knight, Mr T. G. M'Knight (Ida Valley), Mr M. M'Knight (Oturehua), Mr N. A. Matthews, Mr J. Duncan, Mr W. J. White (Dunedin), Mr C. Hobbs (Christchurch). New Club Hotel.—Mr J. Grant. Mr J. Small (Dunedin), Mr and Mrs J. R, Lindsay (Temuka). Mr and Mrs J. Corial (Christchurch), Mr and Mrs S. Batey (Palmerston North).

, ART SOCIETY.

At a meeting of tbe committee of the North Otago Art Society Dr Scott presided. The resignation of Mr N. A Glass was accepted with regret, and Mr Andrew Smith was appointed honorary secretary in his place. Mrs Montague and Messrs R. Milligan and F. Milner were appointed vice-presidents. It was decided that an, exhibition of the work of local artists be held in April, to continue for about 10 days, and the arrangements of a suitable ball were left in tbe hands of the president, lecretarwy, and Messrs Luxton and Gallagher. The secretary was instructed to write to the Otago and Canterbury Art Societies for the loan of 20 pictures for the exhibition Tbe rules of the society, with some amendments by the honorary solicitor, were considered, and referred to the sub-committee to report at a further meeting. RUGBY UNION. At a meeting of the North Otago Rugby Union, Mr G. B. Stevensoon presided over a good attendance of members. A letter was received from the A. and P. Association asking the union to share in the cost of levelling up and filling in I various parts of the bank outside the ring at the show grounds. The Caledonian Society had offered to contribute one-third of the cost up to £ls. The secretary was instructed to reply that the union s financial year had ended, but a recommendation would be made to the incoming committee to contribute up to £lO, as £l7 was spent in grounds improvement last year. The chairman. Messrs A, Gilchrist and B, Wbitcombe, were appointed to meet the A. and P, Association in reference to the grounds. ( J -’ ho Weston Pirates Club wrote stating i that it would be unable to enter a team in the competition for the comrng season owing to lack of membership. The annual meeting of the union was fixed for March . 13. It was decided to forward a remit j to V le New Zeala »d Union that for the . combined match, England v. South Canterbury, Ashburton, and North Otago, each union appoint one selector, The matter for suitable grounds for night practice was fully discusmsed, and it was decided to write to the Electric Power Board asking for an estimate for the installation of electric light at the Oval. j HOMING PIGEON CLUB. | The racing season for old birds has now concluded as far as the Oamaru Homing Pigeon Club is concerned. Early in the year there was an accession of active members, and the club’s forward policy resulted in the- season being interesting and successful. Performances have been consistently good, and velocities have attained a high average compared with years. Distance races were entered into with confidence, and results were encouraging, particularly in the 600imle race from Gisborne. Every pigeon berated returned to Oaman, an unusual occurrence even for old birds. Over 20 races covering from 50 to 600 ; miles were flown during the season, and ! ,nL a o ,erag f V6locity for all distances was | 120-.2 yards per minute. The average for : pen races was 1364.8 yards and for flock i-accs 1211,4 yards. These averages are taken from the figures available, and are based upon 11 flock releases and four nen events.

The highest velocity for any one race ouring the season was recorded bv S Brownes Glad Eye and Wung Eye, which fr T Ashburton at the rate of 1012.7 yards per. minute, creating a record tor the club In the same race Messrs r“ Vernor and C. Butcher\ also had birds home at over the 1600 yards mark In l racl “S Forrester and Vernor easily held pride of place, getting three birds from . Chnstchucrh at a speed of 1500.6 yards per minute. Th.s rate was i als o the second highest for the season. | -the competition for the points aggregate aroused great interest, and positions | changed practically every week, Webb MUi u Browne ’ D - Sparks, and J. Meikle being prominent i n the early with only a few points between Hiem Following the second release from WeKK k n \ ?, entl J. race of the series, 1 7 b -?, r ° S - l* ad a break of 10 Points on | J. Meikle, who finally topped the aggre- | gate. From then onward ■ the distance races predominated, and J. Meikle’s birds were always in a position. In the 440miJc race from Dannevirke his renresentative, Perhaps, battled against heavy weather and adverse winds to home several hours ahead of the other 21 birds I participating, only two of which succeeded I in homing m race time.

The Napier release (500 miles) followed a week or two later, and J. Meikle’a Gay Lad staged a remarkable performance, arriving home on the day of liberation in approximately 10 hours, and 24 hours ahead of the next bird. It was mainly to the distance events that the popular president of the club owed his success, and it speaks well for his loft that he can breed and race birds of such speed and stamina.

With the completion of the old bird scries, cup points are as follows:—J. Meikle 69, Webb Bros. 45, S. Browne 39. D. Sparks 33, Forrester and Vernor 19. A H. Rudduek 11, R. Brooker 7, T. Genee 5. H. Day 4, C. Butcher 1, D. Rae 1. With regard to the competition, Mr P. J Couper, of Wellington, an old-time active member of the Oamaru Homing Pigeon Club, has presented a handsome, engraved cup to the club to be allotted the member securing most points in both the old and young bird series. At present J Meikle has a lead of 14 points, and with a few placings in the young bird series should be hard to displace. The point, however, must not be over-* looked that with the new clocks, of timing in 18 birds, the total points for a race may go to one member. The fact also that Mr J. Forrester has presented a cup for the young bird series, will - tend to keep interest at a high pitch, and with this end in view the training of young birds is being vigorously prosecuted. I

VITAL STATISTICS; The vital statistics for Qamaru for February are as follows:—Marriages 7, births 25, deaths 14. BUILDING PERMITS. The total value of building permits issued during February is £1941, including three residences, valued at £IBOS, one addition to a residence worth £4l, and a garage at £OS. BOROUGH COUNCIL VACANCY. Two nominations have been lodged for the vacancy on the Oamarti Borough Council, caused by the retirement of Mr E. A. Fox —those of Messrs G. A. Mitchell and M. J, Hanley. KAKANUI WESLEY CHURCH. A special service in connection with the Kakanui Wesley Bible Class was conducted by the Rev. E. C. Leadley, who gave an able address on “ Conscience,” which was greatly appreciated. Next week a debate will take place on the subject. “Is the World Getting Bettor?”

FIRE BRIGADES’ DEMONSTRATION. .

The fire brigades of Otago and Southland will compete for a big collection of valuable prizes at the fire brigades’ demonstration at Tekaro Park to-day. The local brigade has made very complete arrangements, and the demonstration, which will begin at 9 a.m., should create quite a lot of interest.

BOWLING. * A very enjoyable match was played on the Phoenix green yesterday afternoon between four rinks from the Phoenix and Waimate Ladies’ Clubs. The game was won by Phoenix by a margin of 14 points. A dainty afternoon tea was served by the local ladies and the pleasure of the visitors was expressed by Mrs Turnbull, Mrs J. Reid responding. The flowing are the results (Phoenix names mentioned first)Miss Symington, Mesdames Freebiry, Blacklock, Aitkenhead 17, Mesdames Bray, Travers, Reave, Turnbull 10; Mesdames J. Robertson, Weavers, M'Lean, Glass 22, Mrs Foster, Miss M'Corkindale, Mesdames Paul, Grant 16; Mesdames Grenfell, Adams, Reid, Calder 16, Mesdames Healey, Wilson, Gunn, Nash 12; Mesdames Robertson, Ashton, Berry, Wedderspoon 13, Mesdames Turner, Officer, Christie, Patterson 16. Totals: Phoenix 68, Waimate 54.

SOUTHERN DISTRICTS FIRE BRIGADE ASSOCIATION.

The annual conference of the Southern, Districts’ Fire Brigade Association was held at the Oamaru Fire station last evening, Lieutenant H. G. Wallace (Gore) presiding over a good attendance of delegates.

Before the business of the conference Was proceeded with, Cr W. H. Frith, on behalf of the Mayor, extended a cordial welcome to the visitors, and expressed the hope that their stay in Oamaru would be a very pleasant one. He hoped the conference and demonstration would be tbe forerunner of many similar events in Oamaru in future.

Mr Meldrum was appointed minute secretary.

The annual report and balance sheet, which showed the financial position of the association to be in a very satisfactory were adopted. A notice of motion was carried reverting back to the rule which allowed the dates of demonstrations to be made suitable to the brigade holding the demonstration.

was decided to hand over the £35 subsidy received by the association to the Demonstration Committee.

On the question of drafting new rules being raised, it was decided to adhere to the rules of the United Fire Brigades’ Association.

A Protest Committee was appointed for to-day’s demonstration.

The chairman reported to the executives that a loop in the hose was a crossed hose, but this was questioned by several delegates, who pointed out that the Hokitika ruling should overrule the Christchurch ruling. The chairman refused to take a motion on the matter, and intimated that the executive would meet the judges and examiners and reconsider the ruling.

A hearty vote of thanks was carried to ex-Captain Rusbatch and the Hillside Brigade for the presentation of the Tapley Cup.

The secretary’s honorarium was‘‘ increased to £7 7s for demonstration years. The election of officers resulted as follows:—President, Lieutent J. S. Smeaton (Mosgiel); vice-presidents—Fireman J. W Martin (Gore), Fireman J. Carhne (Alexandra); treasurer, Lieutenant J. Mitchell (Mosgiel); auditor. Fireman L. G. Thomson (Gore); secretary. Superintendent W. Couper (Oamaru). , was left in the hands of the executive toi call for invitations for the n£xt annual conference.

The conference carried a vote of thanks to the executive, and especially to the secretary, for the , manner in -which the affairs of the association had been carried out.