PROVINCIAL NEWS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21601, 23 March 1932, Page 10

PROVINCIAL NEWS.

NORTH OTAGO.

(Feck Odb Special Obb.b«opo»dest.3

WAITAKI ELECTRIC POWER BOARD

The monthly meeting of the Waitaki Electric Power Board was held yesterday morning; present—Messrs J. M. Forrester (chairman), R. Milligan, W. H. Frith, A. B. Lang, A. MTnnes, J. D. Rutherford, W. Kinder, D. J. Ross, and R. B. Meek. The chairman extended a cordial welcome to Mr Meek to the board table. Mr Meek took a big interest in public affairs in North Otago, and it was fitting that he should be appointed to the vacancy, and that the central district should be represented. Mr Meek suitably acknowledged the chairman’s remarks. Messrs Ireland and Co., Ltd., wrote acknowledging the board’s letter in reference to power charges, and stating that, owing to the condition of the wheat crop in North Otago, prospects were uncertain, and that they would be glad to discuss the question of power charges with the board when prospects were better known. —Received. ...

The Finance Committee reported the , following balances, the figures for February, 1931, being shown in parentheses: 1 —Power fund, cr„ £1520 3s 7d; receipts, j current £1431 16s lid (£4268 18s sd), fittings £ll7 19s 5d (£lOl 5s 9d), miscellaneous £1 5s (£2 17s), interest £8 15s (nil)total, £1559 16s 4d (£4373 Is 2d); capital account, cr., £984 Os 3d; receipts, ; house wiring £B9 6s lid (£123 17s lid), I service costs £l2 4s 9d (£4l 11s 7d) , interest £226 Os lOd (£216 19s 3d), miscellaneous £l7 7s 7d (£8); —-total,, £345 Os Id (£390 8s 9d). Power fund accounts totalling £673 11s 8d and capital £330 10s 3d; total, £IOO4 Is lid, were passed, for payment.

The Finance Committee reported having leased the travelling hut to Mr S. Dick, the caterer for the men employed on the Steward Settlement water race, at a rental of £1 per month. The committee’s recommendation that certain overdue accounts, totalling £2B 4s 7d, be written off as bad debts, was adopted.^ Speaking on the figures for current revenue for February, compared with the previous year, the chairman pointed out that the £4268 18s 5d for February, 1931, included a payment of £2184 11s 4d by the

ACTIVITIES OF;THE DISTRICT.

Public Works Department on account of the Hydro .Works, and a payment of £350 by the Oamaru Borough Council in February, 1931, which was this year paid in J anuary. The question of payment for country installations was referred to the Finance Committee for consideration and report. The chairman stated that it was pleasing to know that the recent floods did little damage and that the country installations stood up so well. Mr 'Forrester also referred to overdue accounts, and to the difficulty caused to the staff through consumers taking no notice of letters sent to them. This question was left to the staff, it being pointed out that notice of the loss of discount was notified to every consumer affected every month. The sum of £2OO, similar to last year, was appropriated to the board’s insurance fund. Other matters' submitted in the treasurer’s report were referred to the Finance Committee for consideration and report. ENGINEER’S REPORT. ,* The engineer reported on the work of the board for February as follows: — Though things were still quiet the staff had been well occupied with routine work, maintenance, and overhauling, while still taking care of all ordinary developments or new work offering. The floods of some weeks ago fortunately did very little damage. though a few faults were occasioned and were promptly dealt with. Only one pole in the Kakanui River near Maheno was badly affected, and this pole was carefully guyed, to prevent it being washed away. The pole was placed originally on a large island, but the heavy scouring of the river in changing its, course carried away large quantities of the island, including a heavy growth of scrub. Opportunity was awaited for renewing the pole or altering the line. Some little trouble was experienced with a few street lights in one section of the town, owing to the very heavy rain apparently entering one or other of the lamps, necessitating rewiring a few of the lamp fittings. Work on the installation of service fuses in town services was still proceeding, advantage being taken to tighten up the mains and services at the same time, and generally to overhaul pole fittings. In a few cases decayed poles had been replaced. A certain amount of work was also being carried out along with the Post and Telegraph Department, where the board shared lines with that department. In the Kauru Hill and Kuriheka districts further work had been carried out in connection with fitting anti-vibration devices at various points, also replacing rusty binding wires with special aluminium. It might be remarked that a great deal .of information had recently been obtained regarding the effect of vibration on wires under certain conditions, and supply authorities and the Public Works! Department were pooling their experiences in this connection. Special live line tools and other apparatus were being made up, and, when completed, would greatly facilitate the work on live lines with safety, and avoid possible breakdowns, or alterations. The testing of earths was again proceeding, this important work increasing every year, and entailing a considerable amount of expense to maintain the standard required by the regulations. The inspector reported that the first 100 reinspections and testings of country installations had been carried out, and no fewer than 48 of these were found in good order, and required no attention in the way of repairs or adjustments. The other 52 installations required only such small repairs or alterations that the average cost to consumers was only some 7s 6d each, the work being carried out by the board’s staff immediately, as arranged with consumers, thus avoiding un•necessary delay and extra expense, which would have been caused by special visits later on.-' It should be stated that very careful instructions and advice were being given in advance to all consumers concerned, and there was no doubt that this had been very helpful. It was gratifying to have clear demonstration of the wisdom of the strict policy followed by the hoard in requiring a high grade of material and - workmanship 'in the housewiring contracts supervised by the board, and, although country installations were, more recent than many of the town installations, there was a marked difference in the amount of overhauling and repairs required. , During February, seven how installations were connected up, and 37 alterations and extensions carried out, one range and one motor were installed, together with other miscellaneous apparatus, 68 transfers, disconnections, and reconnections were dealt with, and 80_ reinspections and tests of old installations were made. A consderable quantity of apparatus was being discovered and listed, which had been installed since original tests were made, and this was being noted in the returns of installed load. The retesting of meters on consumers’ premises was being carried on whenever possible, and the inspecting and house-wiring staff was finding sufficient work to be kept fully employed at present. During February the board received 400,800 units from the Public Works Department and generated 13,862 units by water and 3452 units by oil engine, making a total of 418,114 units. The highest demand on the Public Works Department supply was 939.2 k.v.a. on February 24, between 1.15 p.m. and 1.45 p.m., while the highest demand on the system was 1233.7 k.v.a., the difference being supplied by the board’s own plant. There were six short of Government supply during February lasting from a few seconds up to two minutes and ahalf, these being due to various causes, between Glenavy and Ashburton. A shutdown on Sunday, February 21, was also carried out by arrangement to enable the department to carry out work on the Weston sub-station, the board’s plant supplying most districts, however, only the country line from Weston to Kurow being without power for some two hours. A considerable amount of trouble was being experineced with late payment of accounts, and a very large number of notices, interviews, and other means were required to prevent accounts getting out of hand. A number of consumers had had to be cut off, while many others were being dealt with specially. It was to bo regretted thfit in many cases repeated notices and even letters failed to bring any response whatever, and the staff was compelled to make special visits in many cases, involving considerable expense. In several cases payment was tendered only when an officer visited premises to cutoff supply, and, in line with the board’s decision, half the cut-off and reconnection fee had to be collected in such cases. In spite of hard times and the undoubted difficulty many consumers found in meeting their accounts, there was a suspicion that in a few eases advantage was being taken of these facts to delay payment quite unnecessarily. /-A large number of accounts for installations or balances were outstanding. and had to be_ placed in the hands of the board’s solicitor’s from time to time. In connection with deposits required for current accounts, it would seem that these might be necessary in the case of new country customers. Deposits were required for all new town consumers, but guarantees were supposed to be sufficient originally for country consumers. As most guarantees had now expired, and were only required in special cases or extensions in the country, it would seem that deposits were necessary for new consumers, on existing lines in the country. In a number of eases the small deposit required was all that could be recovered when consumers default. He had to report having attended the recent conference of civil engineers while on leave, among the matter discussed being a valuable paper on the “Government HydroElectric Developments in the North Island,’’ giving the department’s estimates tor some years ahead. The question was raised as to whether a similar paper could not be prepared of the South Island hydro developments, and it was pointed out that this was only partly possible, owing to the fact that several hyro-electric developments were not in the department’s hands, and could not be controlled by it. He also made inquiries regarding tenders for condensers, and investigated live line operating apparatus. In connection with the installation of static condensers, orders had been placed

as follows: —For a quantity of both low tension and high tension condensers, with Messrs Turnbull and Jones, Ltd., the National Electric and Engineering Company, Ltd., and Tolley and Son, Ltd. A ■few condensers were being obtained immediately from stocks in New Zealand, and would be installed on the system at once, and it was hoped to have the remainder, of the orders delivered before the end of Jupe, so that improvement in the power factor could be effected as soon as possible, and the benefit of decreased charges for Government supply be obtained. —The report was adopted, the acceptance of tenders for the supply of static condensers being confirmed.

SPARROW CAUSES SHORT CIRCUIT

.Mr Dalmcr reported to the Waitaki Electric Power Board yesterday morning that a sparrow was the cause of a peculiar fault on March 1 , cutting off the supply to the southern, district for a short time. On power being restored it was found that a fault still existed in certain districts, and investigation showed that a sparrow had somehow managed to cause a short circuit between the 11,000-volt terminals of the main stop-down transformer at the Herbert sub-station, and ; blown two fuses. SATISFIED CONSUMERS The chairman (Mr J. M. Forrester) expressed gratification yesterday morning at the Waitaki Electric Power Board meeting at the receipt of two letters from country consumers. Mr Forrester said it was very gratifying to receive such letters in view of the criticisms levelled at the board, which had prompted the consumers to write that they found electricity a very great advantage, and that the charges were absolutely satisfactory. A SMART QUIP Some amusement was caused at tiic Waitaki Electric Power Board meeting yesterday morning during a discussion as to the disposal of the board’s gas producer plant, Mr W. H. Frith naively asking if the board could not sell the plant to Messrs Milligan and Co. He thereupon asked Mr Milligan if he was a prospective buyer, and, on receiving a reply in the affirmative, moved that the plant be offered to Messrs Milligan and Co. It was decided, however, to invite offers for the plant or any portion of it.

COMPARISON OF ELECTRICITY CHARGES

Dealing with the results of the operations during part of the current year, Mr I. Dalmer reported to the Waitaki Electric Power Board yesterday morning that it had not been found possible to make any accurate estimate of final results of the year’s working, but the following might be of interest and prove instructive. The revenue for sale of current for the 10 months of the year ended January 31, 1932, were dealt with, and compared with the similar period of the previous year. Revenue this year to January 31, £24,409, last year £28,842; revenue for whole year, probably £30,000, last year £36,167; drop so far this year £4433, for the whole year probably £6OOO. This was for current sales alone, neglecting profits or losses from trading departments, and interest earned, etc. The Waitaki Hydro supply was included in above, amounting to £1946 this year, as against £4234 last year. Expenditure should be somewhat less this year, owing to reduced demand on Government supply and reduction in wages and salaries and other economies, but there would be a heavy loss as allowed for when the 20 per cent, discount was decided upon to meet depression. A few classes of supply might be quoted for the nine months ended December 31 last (three full quarters of the year):—Domestic lighting, heating, and cooking, £10,739, last year £13,303; average unit price, 1.964 d, last year 2.7 d; commercial lighting re J venue, £3298, last year £4337; average units price, 4.17, last year over 6d; power revenue this year £3419, last year £3602, •though a large load was added and units increased this year. The average price obtained was 1.096 d per unit. Bulk supplies, water heating, etc., had not been analysed for the period, but the average price obtained per unit for all supplies had been 1.5 d, os against 1.9 d last year. It thus was quite evident that the supply was well mixed, and. the low average price per unit was the result of a particularly well-balanced load, unit price varying from l-3d penny to 6d (less 20 per cent.). Domestic uses, with water heating, accounted for nearly half the load or demand, and returned more than half the total revenue. Commercial uses (lighting and also other special supplies) imposed a fairly heavy load for short periods, and naturally paid the highest price per unit, returning probably one-quarter of the total revenue. Power supply required at least one-third of the total demand at peak hours, but only returned about one-sixth of the total revenue, and it would seem that if anything power charges should be increased, to maintain any substantial discount in the future. Community or veranda lighting also returned a very small revenue frr the capital invested, and the excellent service given, and the charges for this supply should be increased, or the discount abolished at least. The charge was at present £3 4s net per lamp per annum, .the lamps being 200 watt or 300 to 400 candle power each. Other centres charged from £4 17s 6d to £5 2s 6d per annum payable three or four months in advance, while lighting was not switched on until after peak hours in the evenings, whereas the board’s lighting was on before dusk on top of the evening shop lighting and power peak in the winter. A few comparisons with other supply authorities, taken from Government returns for last year, might be instructive. It was clearly shown that the actual cost of power per unit or per kilowatt per year was only a small part of the total cost of supply, especially when the very heavy distribution costs and capital charges of any extensive country system were concerned. A substantial cost per consumer was involved before any current -was delivered, and whether any current was used or not. Even then the small kilowatt or horsepower minimum charge made was only a fraction of the actual cost of the supply itself.

* South Canterbury supplied Tiinaru, and hence figures of costs were somewhat confused. Bulk costs were given, but the average price obtained per unit was that for retail selling, all uses. From the above it was easily seen that distribution costs and capital charges were far more important in a country system than the actual cost of current per unit or k.v.a. Thus, if they had a supply for nothing, their cost per kilowatt of demand per year, delivered to the consumers, would still be higher than the total cost to Christchurch. In reply to Mr Milligan, Mr Calmer stated that the load factor for Waitaki was particularly good, and much in the board’s favour compared with Timarn. The total working costs included all costs except capital costs. The report was received.

TAGS ON BALANCE SHEET The question of the tags placed on the balance sheet by the Auditor-general came up for discussion at the Waitaki Electric Power Board meeting yesterday morning, the chairman (Mr J. M. Forrester) stating that of the four exceptions noted originally on the balance sheet by the Audit Office, one had bee:-, removed and another had been amended. The first exception, dealing with £3550 10s, merely meant that formal book entries were required to ensure that the full value of “ transmission lines ” as an asset

was shown. The transfer to capital, as already carried out, was not interfered with, and the necessary journal entries had already been made. The second exception, dealing with stocks on hand, required a “ rejoinder ” or reply on the balance sheet. The discrepancies reported by the audit inspector of line material were shown to be incorrect, as no allowance was made by him for items booked out to lorries under temporary issue, before being used on jobs and charged up. The same inspector accepted stock values in previous years, and the method of accounting by values had existed for years with tlie direct sanction, and even the recommendation, of the previous audit officer. As a matter of fact, the value of these stocks on hand was shown as £8 12s lid in excess of book balance. The previous year it was £74 19s Id in excess and no question was raised. A difference of £8 12s lid in value of materials used during the year, including purchases of some £3OOO and balance on hand, was surely excellent. The fittings stocks were shown short by some £lO Is, as recorded in the board’s books. Purchases of fittings for the year were some £3OOO. The net surplus in line materials values and in shortage of fittings was a total shortage of £1 Ss Id, spread over goods valued at nearly £IOOO. The third exception concerned some small discounts allowed board members, in many cases without any arrangement for them. The amount so allowed for the year covered by the balance sheet was 6s.

Mr Milligan said the reference to the Os. was misleading. The Auditor-general’s criticism referred to a number of years. Mr Frith said the tag was on this particular balance sheet. Mr Milligan said they referred to a number of years. Were the amounts paid? Mr Forrester replied that members had received, notice but the amounts had not been paid. The Auditor-general Fad said that the matter was ended so far as he was concerned.

Mr Milligan asked if there were not a letter from the Auditor-general that was received for last meeting, and should be read at this meeting? The exception was for a number of years. Mr Frith asked if an auditor had any right to put an embargo on the balance sheets passed by previous auditors. It was the same auditor in 1930, but there were no tags, but they put them on in 1931.

The letter referred to was produced, in which it was pointed out that there was no authority in law for grants of concessions to board members. Mr Frith said he was one of the delinquents. It was a cash transaction, and if the auditor wanted to find fault with his own work then let him.

Mr M'lnnes said they were dealing only with the one balance sheet. They should not discuss the 1930 balance sheet. Mr Forrester commented that the whole matter was only a “ tu’penny-ha’penny ” thing, and Mr Frith said it was not worth discussing. Mr Milligan, referring to the transfer of £3550 from the revenue to the capital account said ho had pointed out at the time, when there' was some discussion on the matter, that it should have been treated as revenue, in which he was supported by the Auditor-general. He objected to the transfer at the time and the Auditor-general said the amount had to be regarded as revenue. He could not help feeling that the board was wrong in not looking on it as revenue. As regards the statement of the concessions being only 6s, this was misleading. The objection of the Auditor-general was in regard to concessions over a number of years. The accounts were sent out at the instance of the Audit Office, and should be paid, so that the incident could be closed. The chairman said the matter had already been dealt with by the board, -a resolution having been passed that there should be no concessions to members. The payment of the accounts was a matter for the individual members. Mr Milligan; The 6s is misleading. Mr- Forrester: I don’t wish to mislead anyone. Mr Milligan: No. I know that, but it ought to be pointed out a motion has been passed that there will be no concessions to members. Mr Frith: Isn’t it for the purpose of stirring up a bit more mud? Mr Milligan; No. Mr Frith; It looks like it. We should deal with only the one balance sheet. Anything further could be done by correspondence. Mr Milligan; I don’t want to do that. Mr Frith: You’ve done it before. Why not again? Mr Milligan: If you want me to go into the matter I will. Mr Frith: I’m not worrying a bit, Mr Forrester: If I had not mentioned it, it would never have been discovered. Mr Milligan moved as an amendment to the proposed rejoinder that the amount of the concessions allowed to members had been duly debited, and a resolution passed that no further concessions would be allowed. Mr Ross: Why bring that up? Why not leave sleeping dogs lie? Mr Forrester said the previous balance sheets had been passed, and it was only last year that a tag wa.s put on the balance sheet. In respect to the £3550, there was no suggestion by the Auditorgeneral of anything wrong. He had the opinion of another auditor that they were perfectly justified in doing so. Mr Frith said there was a good deal of play on words. It was only a matter of hook entries. Mr Forrester said it was not the first time there had been , a tag. Previously there was a tag for two years. Mr Meek formally seconded Mr Milligan’s amendment, contending there could be no harm in saying the amounts had been debited. Mr MTnues said the consumers should know what the concessions were for. In the case of the late Mr Munro it was for a second-hand range. Mr Meek said that since he had seconded the amendment he had been told how the concessions had eventuated, such as on a second-hand article, which was no concession at all. Mr Forrester stated that the Audit Office had been told in writing that a concession had been made. Mr Milligan: That was a special concession over and above the second-hand price. Mr Dalmer said that they had given a small discount. Mr Frith: Was a discount given to board members and outside consumers. Mr Dalmer: Both. There was a 10 per cent, discount on the range. Mr Meek: That was more a discount than a concession. Mr Dalmer said he had explained it very carefully to the auditor, and a reply had been received from the Auditorgeneral that, having drawn attention to the matter, the recovery of the amounts rested with the board. _ It was the same with the £3550, to which attention had been drawn this year. They had taken no notice of previous amounts. Mr Frith said it so happened that he was a delinquent to the extent of 5s or 6s. He had treated with the board the same as with private firms. He had made inquiries as to the cost of an electric iron, and had gone to the board, telling the salesman that the price was too dear as he could get it cheaper elsewhere. He was thereupon allowed 10 per cent, discount, and he had paid cash on the transaction. That was debited against him as an allowance. The public had been primed that there was something wrong going on by the members of the board, and this was trying to push it home. It was an attempt to discredit members, as if there were something immoral and discreditable.

Mr Forrester said that if he paid the small amount he would be £6O in pocket through the collection of fees. Mr Milligan said the trouble had arisen through the 10 per cent, discount to members and also a small concession on petrol. It was wrong, and they had determined to do away with any concessions.

Mr Forrester: We will now become strictly moral people. The least said the better.

Mr Meek asked Mr Milligan if he would withdraw his amendment, which Mr Milligan declined to do. Mr Meek said he was really misled in regard to the amendment. He had been led to believe that there were tremendous advantages in being a board member. He was like the man on the street until he had been told by board members. He would oppose any concessions, but it was making mountains out of molehills. Although he seconded the amendment, he would not vote for it. That wag pinpricking. On being put to the meeting, the amendment was lost, Mr Milligan’s dissent being recorded.

STEWARD SETTLEMENT CAMP Members of the executive of the Oamaru Relief Workers’ Association paid a visit to the single men’s camp at the Steward Settlement on Monday, where they were shown over the work by the foreman {Mr B, Nicholson). The men were interviewed ,and they spoke in the highest terms of the camp and its management. The food was excellent. The foreman was well pleased with the progress being made in the work. A request was made by the men for a football, and this the executive has undertaken to procure for them. Votes of thanks were accorded Messrs K. Familton, W. Robertson, and F. Simkin for the interest they had shown in the camp. A large tent is needed for dining and social purposes, and also working trousers and boots are urgently required by some of the men. The camp will close down for the Easter holidays. GARDEN FETE The mysterious Zanlo, showing Japanese, Hindu, Chinese, and American magic, who will be in attendance at the Oamaru Gardens on Saturday and Monday on the occasion of the fete to be held by the North Otago Caledonian Society, will no doubt create a good deal of interest, and should draw large gatherings ot the public. A very fine programme of entertainment has been arranged to engender the carnival spirit, and the fete should prove the chief attraction in Oamaru over the Easter holidays. A pleasant hour will also be provided by dancing, music, and abundance of side shows, which, amid the delightful surroundings, should inducement to the public to spend the evenings there. The Oamaru bands will be in attendance to render appropriate selections. The fancy dress and decorated bicycle competitions should provide added attraction. The directors have put in a good deal of work in order that the function might prove an outstanding success, and support has also been forthcoming in the way of contributions ot produce. All that is now necessary is fine weather and the support of the public to make this project an unqualified success.

WORLD WALKING TOUR There arrived in Oamaru two days ago a young Pole, Mr Michel Sladnick, who is at present on a walking tour around the world. Mr Sladnick was the guest of •Mrs J. Orlowski, Pukeuri, during his stay in Oamaru. He loft Warsaw five years ago on his tour, and since then has travelled through Prussia, Germany, France, and South America, including Southern Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuera and British Guiana and the Panama canal zone. Mr Sladnick claims to speak six languages fluently, and states that the English language is the most used. He arrived in- Auckland last January and since then walked through the North Island, visiting Rotorua and the National Park. Mr Sladnick left Oamaru yesterday on his way to Dunedin, where he will arrive in about three or four days’ time. He then intends walking to Bluff, whore he will embark for Melbourne. ROVERS’ HOCKEY CLUB Mr E. Coker presided at the annual meeting of the Rovers’ Hockey Club. The annual report and balance sheet, which showed a satisfactory credit, were adopted. The following officers were elected for the ensuing season: —President, Mr E. Coker; vice-presidents—Messrs A. Kay, S. Robbie and A. H. Markham; secretary and treasurer, Mr S. Robbie; committee —Messrs T. Jacobs, L. Hedges, E. M’Cabe, S. Johnstone; delegates to the North Otago Men’s Hockey Association, Messrs L. Hedges and E. Coker, jun. The secretary was instructed to forward a letter of appreciation to Mrs Barsdell for the valuable services rendered as ambulance nurse. The opening day for practice was fixed for April 2.

PERSONAL Reference was made by the chairman of the Waitaki Electric Power Board (Mr J. M. Forrester) yesterday morning to the passing of Mr E. P. Lee, whose assistance and aid the board had often enlisted, though he was not a member of that body. On many occasions in his parliamentary capacity he had done a great deal of work for the board. A motion of sympathy was carried in the usual manner. Mr A. F. Stock will leave Oamaru for Wellington to-morrow to attend the national conference of the relief workers.

Queen’s Hotel. —Miss J. Eglin (Wellington), Mr E. J. Evans, Mr R. N. Tennent, Mr W. Henderson, Mr J. S. Hoar, Mr A. F. Bruce, Mr J. Mee, Mr D. Gain, Mr C. Jarvis, Mr H. W. Bundle, S.M. (Dunedin), Mr E. D’Arcy (Timaru).

MAHENO ATHLETIC CLUB The following are the handicaps for the Maheno Athletic Club’s sports meeting to be held at the Maheno Domain on Easter Saturday:— RUNNING. Maheno Handicap, 120 Yards.—R. S. Thomson 2 yards, G. P. Steven (Mosgiel) 3A, J. C. Berwick (Darfield) 4, E. M. Burns (Oamaru) 4J, A. M. Grant (Otiake), J. H. Harris (Dunedin) 5, W. H. Jones (Mokereta) SJ, M. Waterhouse (Christchurch) 6, T. M. Gold (Balclutha) 7i, I. B. Camerog (Oamaru), A. C. Kallm (Makaiwa), D. E. Flanagan, (Christchurch), M. Joyce (Waimate), L. Shave (Gore), D. B. Perriara (Heriot), E. D. M'Phail (Pareora) 8, I. D. Scott (Cherteey), G. C. Foster (Dunedin), G. G. Green (St. Andrews) BA, T. Trevathan (Hydro), R. Hunter (Oamaru), J. Falloon (Oamaru) 9J, B. M'Donald (Invercargill), J. Windle (Gore) 10, W. H. Hanna (Palmerston) 10, G. J. Morrison (Palmerston),T.6. Kennedy 10j, C. Diver (Enfield), D. A. Hurst (Pareora), W. Grant (Otiake), J. H. Slater (Petone) 11. 220 Yards Handicap.—R. S. Thomson scr, G. P. Steven 2 yards, J. Senior, J. C. Berwick, E. M. Burns, A. M. Grant 2, M. Waterhouse 3, J. H. Harris 4, L. Shave 6, W. H. Jones, D. E. Flanagan 7, T. M. Gold, G. C. Foster, A. K. Jackson, E. J. Croy 9, J. Falloon, G. G. Green 10, B. M'Donald, T. Trevathan, J. Windle 11, G. J. Morrison 12, J. Hunter, D. A. Hurst, D. Ledingham, J. Purvis, J. H. Slater 14. 100 Yards Maiden Handicap.—W. Grant 1 yard, D Ledingham, G. J. Morrison, M. Sullivan 2, P. Traill, D. Farrant, J. Hunter 2\ , G. Elliott 2, T. A. Dalziell, D. A. Hurst 3, J. W. Cook, R. Cook, S. Cook, E. De Courcey, T. Nelson, R. H. Ralston, A. Pascoe, J. Purvis 3J, D. B. Perriman (ineligible). 75 Yards Handicap.—R. S. Thomson scr, G. P. Steven 1 yard, J. C. Borwick I£, P. Cook, A. M. Grant, J. H. Harris 24, W. H. Jones 3, M. J. Joyce, E. D. M'Phail 4J, D. B. Perrian, E. J. Croy G. G. Green, T. M. Gold, A. C. Kallm, L. Shave, G. C. Foster 5, N. A. Garden, R. Hunter, J, Falloon, B. M'Donald, T. Trevathan, J. Windle SJ, L. Webb, T. G. Kennedy 6, W. Cubitt, W. H. Hanna, A. K. Jackson, H. M. Wilde 6i, R. Cook, S. Cook, C. Diver, R. De Courcey, G. Elliott, W. Grant, T. Nelson, A. Pascoe, J. H. Slater, P. Traill 7.

440 Yards Handicap.—J. Senior sor, N. A. Garden 2 yards, M. Waterhouse 3, J. G. Newlands 6. R. E. Hermann 7, E. M. Burns 6, J. C. Berwick 6, J. H. Harris 8, A. M. Grant 10, R. A. Drury 11, R. B. Shellock 13, I. D. Scott 14, D. E. Flanagan 15, J. May, P. Cook 18, A, C. Kallm, T. M. Gold 20, D. Wilson 21. T. Trevathan, A. K. Jackson, L. D. Ludemau 26, T. A. Dalziell, C. Diver 27, E. Bain 28, G. J. Morrison 28, D. Hurst, J. Hunter, G. Newlands, W. Smylie, M, Sullivan 30.

880 Yards Handicap.—J. G. Newlands, R. E. Hermann, J. Bourke scr, R. B. Shellock 8 yards, I. D. Scott 12, R. A. Drury 13, R. J. Olliver 10, J. Senior 12, M. Waterhouse 15, N. A. Garden 17, D. Wilson 26, J. J. Keenan 35, J. Scott 30, L, D. Ludemann 45, E. Bain, J. Beattie, J. Borthwick. J. W. Cook 60, H. Corson 55. F. A. Dalziell. H. M. Wilde, W. Carson 55, W. Diver, T. L. Isitt, E. Latta, A. Newlands, W. Smylie, J. H. Smith 60.

One-mile Handicap.—R. J. Oliver scr, L. A. Wood 10 yards, J. May 15. D. Wilson 30, R. A. Drury 40, J. Scott, J. J. Keenan. L. D. Ludeman 80. G. G. Green 95, R. H. Ralston 100, E. Bain. J. Beattie. J. Borthwick, H. Corson, F. A. Dalziell, E. Latta, A. M'Neil, T. Nelson 105. J. W. Cook, T. L. List, L. Isitt, A. Newlands. W. Smylie, J. H, Smith 110. One Mile New Zealand Championship. —J, Bourke (Blenheim), R. A. Drury (Christchurch), R. E. Hormann (Invercargill), J. G. Newlands (Ineholme), R. J. Oliver (Heript), J. Scott .(Gore), .W,

Smylie (Oamaru), D. Wilson (Enfield), L. A. Wood (Dunedin), J. May (Oamaru). CYCLING.

LADIES’ HOCKEY ASSOCIATION

The annual meeting of the North Otago Ladies’ Hockey Association was held last night. Mr A. C. Kay presided over a good attendance of delegates. The chairman thanked the delegates for their hearty support during the past 12 months. The association had experienced a very active season. The representative games proved very successful, as also had the seven-a-side tournament. The season had been a busy one, and all the delegates had assisted in every possible way. The annual report and balance sheet, which showed a credit, were adopted. The following officers were elected for the ensuing season: —Patron, Mr I*. Milner; president, Mr A. Barsdell; senior vice-president, Mr H. Thomas; vice-pre-sidents —Messrs A. C. Kay, W. Kinder, F. Chase, J. Leslie, J. W. Rush ton J. H. Carrodus, J. H. Mushett, L. B. Mushett, J. Cagney, H. B. Burton, H. Benson, and Aikcnhead; secretary, Mr I. Blair; treasurer, Mr W. J. Chappell; delegates to the New Zealand Ladies’ Hockey Association, Messrs H. Thomas and L. hett as proxy; selector, Mr W. J. Lnappell; auditor, Mr J. W. Rushton. ; The election of the Management Committee was left over until a further meeting. - It was decided to make application to the Oamaru Borough Council for the use of King George’s Park for the ensuing season. , _ Messrs A. Barsdell and H. Thomas were authorised to approach the Reserves Committee for a reduction in the rental of the park and also for lighting to be installed. It was decided to apply for the use of Takaro Park for Monday and Wednesday nights, commencing on April 4

The Union Cricket Club was granted permission to store its gear in the pavilion at King George’s Park. One ground at the park was allotted to the North Otago Men’s Hockey Sub-association. Messrs H. Benson and A. Barsdell were elected trustees. The president expressed appreciation of the services rendered by the retiring president (Mr A. C. Kay) during the past season. Mr Kay had done his best for the association, and as he was severing his connection with hockey his loss would be greatly felt. _ , , A minute of appreciation of Mr Kays assistance to hockey in past years was recorded. , ~ It was decided to hold the next meeting on April 5.

OAMARU JOCKEY CLUB A meeting of the committee of the Oamaru Jockey Club was held yesterday afternoon. Dr Butler occupied the phair. The offer of the Municipal Band to attend the races was accepted. . The secretary’s action in ordering a black-and-white semaphore balloon for closing and clearing the totalisator was confirmed. , ~ The Racing Conference notified the club of the appointment of Mr J. M. Samson to fill the vacancy on the Dunedin District Committee. The committee adjourned to the racecourse to witness a demonstration of the new starting barrier to be used at the race meeting on April 9. MAGISTRATE’S COURT The weekly sitting of the Oamaru Magistrate’s Court was commenced yesterday morning before Mr H. W. Bundle, S.M. ' Sergeant Hall conducted the police prosecutions. George Alexander Morns was fined 20s, and costs (10s), for riding a motor cycle without a light or a license. A young man pleaded guilty, and elected to be dealt with summarily on a charge of stealing a wallet valued at 255, and £2 10s in money, the property of Leslie Brant. Constable Tretherey gave evidence, stating that accused made a statement admitting the offence. Sergeant Hall informed the court that the accused had. been on a drunken spree. The magistrate took this into consideration, and also the fact that it was accused’s first appearance in court. He prohibited publication of the accused’s name, admitting the accused to probation for 12 months, conditionally on his taking out a prohibition order.

STAINER’S “ CRUCIFIXION ” A rendering of Stainer’s “ Crucifixion by the St. Luke’s Choir was deeply impressive, the voices being well balanced and tuneful. The spirit of reverence and devotion required by the sacred composition was very marked. The soloists were Messrs P. L. Hodge, H. E. Williamson, A. W. Woodward, W. Oaten, Mrs A. Hodge, Misses F. Russell, Doris Taylor, G. Glover. A double quartet was an especially fine number. Mr F. C. Burry presided at the organ, the service being conducted by Archdeacon Russell.

OAMARU OPERATIC SOCIETY A meeting of the committee of the Oamaru Amateur Operatic Society was held last night. Mr C. Brown occupied the chair. A discussion ensued as to proposed activities of the society during the coming season, success depending on the support forthcoming at the annual meeting of members on March 30, when the committee hoped keen and enthusiastic members would come forward to assist the society. There is every likelihood of the society’s producing an opera for some worthy cause, but this can only be achieved by co-operation and the assistance of old and enthusiastic members. NORTH SCHOOL A meeting of the committee of the Oamaru North School was held last night, Mr W. Gillies presiding over a full attendance of members. The Visiting Committee reported that the school and grounds were in excellent order, great improvements having been effected as the result of the committee’s work. The balance sheet submitted by the secretary disclosed a credit balance on the year's working, which, in view of the large sum spent on the grounds, was regarded as very satisfactory indeed. WAIAREKA SALE There "-as a record yarding of store sheep at the Waiareka sale yesterday, all the available space being filled at the yards. Extra good two-tooth Romney owes brought 20s 6d to 21s 6d; good, 18s 6d to 20s; medium, 15s 6d to 17s fid; goof] four-tooth ewes, 20s to 20s 6d; six and eight-tooth ewes, 12s 6d to 14s 6d; guaranteed sound-mouth ewes, 9s to 10s; full-mouth ewes, 3s to 4s 8d; cull ewes, 6d; extra good lambs, 12s to 12s 8d; good, 9s 6d to 10s fid: medium, 6s 2d to 8s; small, 3s to 4s 0d; pen of four and six-tooth wethers, Us. A few pens of ewes were passed, but, taken all over, a,

good sale resulted. There was a medium yarding of fat sheep, and prime fat ewes sold at from 9s to 11s 6d; - medium, 7s 6d to 8s 9d; light, 5s to 6s 6d; light wethers, 10s to 12s 6d; prime lambs, 16s to 17s 6d; medium, 13s 3d to 15s; light, 12e to 13s. Light fat steers realised £5 15s to £6; light cows, £2 10s to £2 15s. ’ One aged dairy cow just at profit brought £5 12s 6d, and a second calver £5 10s. There was a good yarding of pigs. Best slips sold at 19s to 21s; medium slips, 15s to 16s 6d; best weaners, 12s to 13s; medium weaners, 14s to 11s; small weaners, 8s 6d.

REFEREES’ ASSOCIATION The annual meeting of the North Otago Referees’ Association was held last night, and was fully attended, Mr A. Keith’presiding. The annual report and balance sheet were adopted. Two new members were elected to the association. The election - of officers resulted as follows: —President, Mr H. Cross; executive —Messrs Hinkley, Crone, Ward, Stewart; delegate to the Rugby Union, Mr L. Ward; Appointment Board— Messrs Knowles, Cross, Mollison: Social Committee—Messrs Rowe, Crone, Cross; secretary and treasurer, Mr G. Knowles. The delegate was instructed to draw the attention of the' New Zealand Association to the non-arrival of an order paper for the conference, pointing out that an order paper should be in the hands of the association at least a week before the conference.

Messrs Hinkley, Crone, Ward, Stewart, and Knowles were empowered to consider the order paper and instruct the delegate on the remits to the conference. It was decided to apply to the Rugby Union for the usual grant. Appreciation was expressed of the services rendered to the association by the retiring delegate to the Rugby Union (Mr J. Palmer), to whom was accorded a hearty vote of thanks. A recommendation was carried to the incoming executive to appoint an examining board and grading board. The delegate to the conference was authorised to inquire into the issuing of certificates for interprovincial matches.

o s 3 V, o?S Authority. " '2 DO §<0 oq gjl Dunedin .. tT" dT~ .30 (1. .38 a. .74 £ 11.5 d. .08 Chrlstchureh .38 .73 .10 .89 11.28 1.14 Waitakl .. .415 .78 .41 1.22. 21.08 1.33 South Canterbury .. .358 .CO .40 1.12 18.04 •1.07 North Canterbury ,. Timaru .51 .0 .85 1.07 .51 1.30 1.50 22.30 18,33 1.51 1.02 Southland ? .1! 1.68 2.20 2li,91 1.57 Otago .4-10 1.2G 1.03 2.29 27.23 1.83 Ashburton .5 1.05 1.18 2.23 2S.27 2.15

A. E. Fraiisden (Christchurch) scr scr scr scr T. H. Brosnan (Duneclin) 15 20 25 30 L. W. Hill ( Christchurch) 20 25 30 35 W. K. Weir (Christchurch) 35 40 45 50 T. D; Griffiths (Christchurch) , 55 65 75 90 P. L. Hansen (Waimatc) 65 70 80 95 G. W. Brett (Christchurch) 100 125 145 170 T. M. Lohrey (Christchurch) 00 115 135 150 F. Poole (Oamaru) no 135 165 190 K. Sparks (Oamaru) .. no 135 165 190 D. Robertson (Oamaru) 120 145 ISO 210 K. Mather (Alma) 130 160 200 230 A. Wilson (Oamaru) 130 160 200 230 E. G. Wilson (Oamaru) 130 — — 240 J. Elliott (Georgetown) 150 175 220 250 H, , Kearney (Dunedin) 150 175 220 250 R. Barnes (Pukeuri) .. 150 175 220 250 A. C. E. Wills (Dunedin) ICO 185 235 265 L. M. Hartigan (Christchurch) 165 190 240 270 J. Brosnan (Dunedin) 165 190 240 270 A. J. Longman 165 190 240 270 M. Mulhern (Oamaru) 165 190 240 270 E. M. Brosnan (Dunedin) 170 210 250 300 T. B. Church (Oamaru) 180 — — R. Anderson (Pukeuri) 180 210 260 310 B. R. Hoad (Alma) 180 210 260 310 T. Young (Temuka) .. 180 210 260 310 C. Bearman (Christchurch) Withheld. A. H. Brown (Dunedin) 180 210 260 310 A. J. Brown (Dunedin Withheld.