NORTH OTAGO.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21940, 29 April 1933, Page 14

NORTH OTAGO.

ACTIVITIES OF THE DISTRICT.

(Fbok Qua Sfbci au Csbuifonditnz.)

F.R.E.1.,

WAITAKI COUNTY COUNCIL FINANCES

The county clerk (Mr R. K. Gardiner) submitted a report to the Waitaki County Coundl yesterday on the operations of the council for the ' 12 months ended March 31, stating that the councillors wotlld be pleased to learn that in spite Of many, advehee circumstances the financial position of the County Fund was satisfactory, there being a credit balance 0f...',£2553 7s 4d Oft March 31, compared with £3671 4s 3d at the same date last year. Although the cash surplus was reduced, the riding funds had improved, as the following figures showed, those for the previous year being given in paren-theses:—-Ahuriri cr., £468 18s 7d (£448 fig 6d); Awamoko, dr. £54 2s 7d (cr. £lB6 14s 10d); Incholme, cr. £665 11s 8d (£455 3s 3d); Kakanui, cr, £826 5s 6d (£7lB 7s Id); Moeraki, cr. £984 8s (£973 19s 9d); Otekaike, dr. £235 Is Id (£345 12s sd); Otepopo, dr. £175 5s 9d (£206 19s lid) Papakaio, dr. £ll9 3s 5d (£IOB9 Is lOd); Waiareka, cr. £321 Os 2d: (dr. £l6 17s Id);—totals— surplus cr. £2682 11s Id. (£1144 3s 2d);, improvement cr. £1538 7s lid. As from April 1, 1933, the separate riding balances disappeared, being merged into a common fund. With this in view an endeavour was made during the year just ended to control expenditure in such a way as to equalise as far as possible the respective riding balances. Had it been possible to collect all rates, including arrears, this objective would have been almost accomplished. as would be seen from the following figures of the rates outstanding reSpectively for the past three years:— Ahuriri £289 lie. £404 4 S Cd, £438 2s 8d; —total, £ll3l. 18s 2d, Awamoko £392 17s 7d, £4Bl 12s 9d, £Bl3 2s 5d—£1687 12» 9d. Incholme £ll3 14s sd, £134 11b lid, £253 fs 6d—£sol 13s 9d. Kakanui £76 17s 6d,- £156 7s 4d, £317 13s lid—£s49 18s 9d. Moeraki £36 Is id, £4l lls 7d. £7l 2s 3d—£l4B 14s lid. Otekaike £237 12s lOd, £224 6s 10d, f 403 12s 3d—£B6s lls lid.. Otepopo £lOl 18s 7d, £lls 19s 3d. £192 2s 6d—£4lo 0s 4d. Papakaio £261 2s Bd, £307 12s lid. £612 13g Bd—£l.lßl .3d. Waiareka £240 7« 7d, £432 lls ■ Od,, £685 10s 3d—£1358 9s 7d.. Total, £7835 they added the totals ®f outstanding rates to riding balances the position would he:—Ahuriri. £I6OO 16s £1633 10s 2d; Incholme,- £1167 . sai sd, Kakanui, £1376 14s 3dr Moeraki. £1133 2s lid; Otekaike, £630, 10s 10d; Otepopo, £234 14s Ui Papakaio, £1062 5s lod, Waiareka, £1579 9s 9d;—total, £10,418 10s 6d. In view of the large amount of outstanding rates it was gratifying to know that, through careful administration, the coufidil had bets, able to live within its income. Very few metalling contracts Were let during the year, due in part to the use of the council s own plant, but the time was fast .advancing when the Various rOadS Would require metalling., Tho following were some of the principal items of revenue and expenditure, with the figures for the pteIT* subsidy, 10d (£2500 ; licenses, £2009 14s 8d ( £2 * 33 /foons gs Government- grants, £66 12s 8d (£-990 4d); unemployment scheme No. 5, faow 14s (£2668 3# fld). , . . .. Expenditure—Riding roads and bridges, £5830-10s 5d (£7179 Is_Bd) ; mainland, secondary highways, £6858 5s 2d (£9912 0s 8d) ; grader (£2539 lls 6d); hospital levy,, ~ £ 4198 £4896 9a 2d); Government grants, £6O lls 3d (£4673 16s l9d); unemployment scheme No. 5, £B4OI 14s 6d (£2915 15s 6d In connection with the placing of unemployed labour on farms, the council decided to charge farmers 5 per cent, of the wages paid to relief workers to cover administration .expenses. The, expenses chargeable to tills scheme, covering msur-

auee, postages, and clerical assistance, came to £143 16s, and the amount charged to farmers receiving this benefit was £163 3s Bd, of which £ls 9s was outstanding at March 31, 1933. It would thus be seen that 5 per cent, was a fair charge. It Was pointed out that clerical assistance did not coyer any part of the permanent staffs time, which had not been debited against this scheme. The council received a subsidy of 5s in the potind bit all general rates actually collected during any year, and which were paid by June 30- following. Thus, in so far as the 1932-33 rate was concerned, the subsidy would be paid on all rates actually collected by June 30 next. ■ Tho general rate levied for the half-year ended March 31, 1933, was £13,707 89 Id, of which £9920 0s 9d was paid by March 31. For the purpose of computing the subsidy due, the proportion of rates required to cover the hospital levy tyis subtracted from the total paid. The Sum of £9920 0s 9d Was, therefore, divided as follows:—Rate paid for general purposes, £6BBI 16s 9d; rate paid on account of hospital levy, £3038 4s. Oi the rates outstanding (£3787 7s 4d), £2627 10s 4d represented the rates for general purposes. Therefore, the county fund would lose 5s in the pound for every pound Outstanding after June 30 next. The subsidy payable on £2627 10s 4d was £656 17s 7(1, so that the loss would be very considerable if these rates were not paid. It was probable that many ratepayers did not realise this fact, and, as a large proportion of the rates outstanding in individual cases did not exceed £5 per ratepayer, it was to be hoped that those concerned would make a special effort, to pay. It was of' interest to observe that the ..council had 302 ratepayers owing under £2 each,- the total amount being £197 17s, or an average of 13s Id per ratepayer. The total number pf ratepayers whose rates were outstanding was 638, 401 of whom owed under £5. The council had done all in its power to grant relief by reducing rates, and it should bo pointed out to ratepayers that the power to prevent an increase was within their own hands.—The clerk was commended on the manner in which he had presented the report, and it was decided- to make every effort to collect as much of the rates as possible before Juno 30, in order to obtain .the'subsidy. A discussion followed on the question of re-valuations of land within'the county, the chairman pointing out that through the requests of private individuals the capital value of the county had been reduced by £90,000. Cr Ross pointed out that the ratepayers should know if land values were lowered, the rate would have to be increased. He thought it an opportune time to have a re-valuation of the whole county, and that the council should approach the Government asking for a re-valuatiOn of the whole dOufity Or else stay its hand in making re-valuations at the request of private individuals. ... . The clerk pointed out that the reduction meant a loss of £220 in rates, which Would have to be made up by the other ratepayers. , Cr Meek said the council had to have finance, arid they might have to raise the rates. The ratepayer who was not in a position to obtain a private valuation was being hit, whilst those able to pay for a privaFe valuation, and who were probably # best able to pay theif rates were getting off. Cr Ross suggested that the Government be asked that a general reduction of 20 per cent, be made for the current year as at March 31, in the county valuations, apart from those who had already .received a re-valuation, pending such time as a general re-valuatiOn had been carried out. A motion along these lines was carried out, and the clerk’s report was adopted.

WAITAKI COUNTY COUNCIL The monthly meeting of the Waitaki County Council was held yesterday morning. There were present—The chairman (Mr A. M'lnnes), Grs J. Rodman, D. J. Ross, W. Cooper, D. Rutherford, E. S. Brewster, R. B. Meek, Jl M. Smith, and W. E. Aubrey. The Audit Department returned the balance sheet for the year ended March 31, 1932, duly Certified. —Received. The following Treasury notes were received:—Mining district land occupation rents, £4O 0s 6d; Railways Department, heavy traffic fees, £8 4s 4d. The commissioner of Crown lands advised that the Land Board had decided to rescind the resolutions approving of the sale of sections 78/81 Maerewhenua. and. section -3a Steward Settlement, and allow the temporary licenses to continue at annual rentals of £2 10s and £3 respectively.—Received. The Valuer-general advised that the question of rate subsidy submitted by the county clerk had been referred to the Treasury for determination as requested. —Received. The Oamaru Borough Council advised that the treating of the sides of Severn street with sand, as requested, by the County Coilncil* had: been referred to the foreman for attention. —Received. Mr W. Langlands SCott wrote thanking on behalf of the residents of Frome street, the County Council for erecting a street light in that street.—Received. The Local Government Loans Board acknowledged the receipt of the application for the raising of a loan of £IOOO for the Kurow Water supply, and advised that investigations were being made and the council Would be further commurticated with.—Received. The Minister of Employment (Mr A, Hamilton) requested the co-operation of the council in holding contributions of stores and goods to the Governor-General’s Relief Fund, and the clerk’s reply acceding to the request Was approved. The secretary of the Totara Public Hall Trust wrote protesting against the paying of the license fee of £1 Is owing to the decrease in revenue, and asking for the remission of the fee—The chairman reported that Cr Meek, the clerk, and himself had gone into the question* as requested by the last meeting, and had found that the council could not remit license fees on halls, as there were 26 halls in the county, and if one were remitted all requests would have to he granted.—The request from Totara was declined.

Mr Robert Allan wrote requesting attention to his road at Eia Ora and that the Cape broom on the road be grubbed out.—Referred to Cr Cooper and the engineer for attention. The Bank of New Zealand wrote in connection with the county fund overdraft and the Papakaio water race account overdraft. —The limits as last year were agreed to. The Waitaki Hospital Board forwarded the board’s estimates for the year 1933-34, pointing out that the levy for the year was £4342 19s sd, compared with £4198 last year, an increase of £144 19s sd. Instead of slight increase, wrote the secretary of the board, the reverse would have been the case had it not been for the increase in exchange rate and sales tax, which meant a difference of about £SOO to the board’s expenditure. —Received. The District Highways Council forwarded Gazette notice relative to the declaration of the road between Hakataramea and Kurow ns a main highway. — Received. The Waimate County Council advised that on. the recommendation of Messrs Ball and Laiigbeiu, the District Highway Board's representatives, the council had agreed that the Hakatarmnea-Kurow highway should be maintained as follows:—Waimate County Council, 15 per cent.; Waitaki Coilnty Council, 10 per cent.; Main Highways Board, 75 per cent.; and asking if this met with the approval of the Waitaki County Council. —The proposal was not acceptable to the Waitaki Council, and it was decided to write the Main Highways Board asking that the two councils maintain their own portions of the highway. The Department of Lands advised that the camping reserves at Lake Olmn had been permanently reserved as camping reserves with the control vested in the council.—Received, it being decided to erect notices that campers must not destroy the bus!]. The chairman, engineer, clerk, and Os Aubrey ami Rodman were empowered to draw up regulations governing the area. , . , The New Zealand Railways advised that an improved train service would be commenced between Oamaru and Dunedin on May 8, providing a convenient fast service for passengers. —Received* and appreciation expressed on behalf or Waiareka residents < of the fine new bus service to Tokarahi. .. . The Southland County Council wrote requesting the loan of the council s manometers for a month’s use by the traffic inspector.—lt was decided to lure the loadometers at I.os per week.

The Christchurch Stock Exchange, Ltd., advised that a committee, consisting of Messrs Frank Graham, Henry Kitson, and W. S. Newburgh, had been appointed for the purpose of assisting and advising local bodies on questions arising out of the Interest Reduction and Loans Conversion Act, and on the flotation or renewal of loans, such advice being placed at the disposal of local bodies without charge or obligation.—lt was decided to write thanking the exchange for its offer. The district engineer, Public Works Department, wrote that the department had been carrying out some bordering on several plots for the purpose of investigating the possibilities of irrigation on the Steward Settlement, and that it had been decided to complete the plot alreadystarted on Mr Chapman’s property, and to border two acres and a-half on Mr Maindonald’s property by contract, necessitating the construction of a head race six chains in. length and a siphon across M’Pherson’s road, and asking if the council would grant the proposed water Crossing.—The request was acceded to. The Government Statistician wrote asking for the co-operation of the clerk and engineer in the annual revision of population estimates by reporting on any movement of population in the county during the past year. —The clerk’s action in forwarding the required information was approved. The TaUranga County Council forwarded the following resolution for the council’s support: The Tauranga County, Council, while being appreciative of the measures already taken to reduce interest and costs generally, urges the Government to institute an immediate exhaustive and open inquiry into the question of monetary reform, as a means of assisting in improving the economic conditions of the country.—The resolution was approved. The agenda paper of the executive meeting of the New Zealand- Counties’ Association was received, and it was decided to forward a remit to the annual conference of the association that barbed wire lower than 2ft Oin on fences bordering on the roads be prohibited. The Labour Department wrote that men on relief must work their time on the days allottted to them by the local authority, and nhy time not worked must be deemed to be lost and could not be made up except under exceptional circurnstanceg approved by the local certifying officer.—Received. The Knkanui Beautifying Society wrote asking permission to fence in about seven chains of the river bank opposite the Presbyterian Church, with the intention of planting this area in ornamental trees. —Granted. Permission was granted Mr - G. Simpson,, Kia Ora, to dismantle and re-erect hie private telephone line. General accounts totalling £3040 10e Id and Papakaio water race- accounts £4O Is 3d, total £3OBO 11s 4d, were passed for payment. The total included hospital levy of £IOBS 14s lOd. Three building permits totalling £440 were issued during the month. It wa« decided to request the Public Works Department to open for traffic the new road formed between the Waitaki Hydro Works to Wharekuri, the council to take over the maintenance of the road immediately. The chairman and Or Rutherford were requested to inspect the Livingstone Hill road and report on improving the hill at next meeting.

The clerk reported that the Otago Motor Association had requested _ that the main highway between Waitaki and Oamaru and Shag Point to Hillgrove be exemnt from the speed limit of 40 miles an hour, and it was decided to write to the Otago Motor* Association and the Transport Board protesting against the lifting of the speed limit of 40 miles an hour on the county roads. The engineer was authorised to erect stock fences at bridges where required. ENGINEER'S REPORT.

The engineer (Mr G. L. Cuthberteon) reported for the month as follows; Moeraki Riding: The lorry had been engaged' in putting a light coat or mamtenance gravel from Moeraki on the mam road at Kartigi Beach. A small bridge on Grant's road was found to be in a very bad state of fepair, but as there was very little traffic on the road it could be patched up in the meantime, as a new bridge was not warranted at present. A large stone culvert on the main road near Hampden was found to be badly scoured out and the walls undermined. It had been repaired by filling in With stone and concrete. Otepopo Riding: Some patching had been put on the main road in Herbert and gravel put on some of the streets. Several roads had been trimmed up with the grader. A Government grant was available for gravellingabout three miles of the All Day Bay-Herbert road and Faulkner’s road. He had sent in proposals to the Public Works Office and suggested that tenders be called as soon as the authority comes to hand. About lou yards of gravel was required in the township of Kakanui South on roads that had been recently formed. This could be dealt with at the same time. Incholme Riding: Several roads in the riding had been graded during the month. The mam road from Maheno to the Kauroo River was being cut up by a large amount of gram carting by wagon. It was many years since this road was last gravelled. Kakanui Riding: Some of the by-roads had been patched with the council lorry. He had repaired the planking on the Island Stream bridge on the main highway, and ns they had the material in hand he sealed the surface of the Kakanui, Waiareka, and Awnrnoa bridges and approaches ns it was always difficult to keep them in order owing, to the conceutrated traffic. Papakaio Riding: Several by-roads had been graded during the month, and the stones had been carted off the graded portion of Macpherson’s road, which was now in good order. The corner on Ferry road recently purchased from Mr Gunn would be available as soon as the survey had been approved. A small hut for the use of the grader man had been purchased from Mrs Cunningham, and arrangements made for a small shed for storing petrol in bulk. The Papakaio race man reported that the river had been high for some time and plenty of water available. The race had been shut off for a day or two to repair a bad leak. The public works desired permission to put a syphon under a road in Waitaki township, in connection with its irrigation scheme. Waiareka Riding: The lorry had been engaged in patching various riding roads. When unemployed men were available there were several bad corners on the Crown Hill road that required widening and banking. The plans of the Waiareka bridge on the Ngapara road had not yet been approved by the Highways Board, Awamoko Riding: The grader had been working most of the time trimming up the by-roads. He had not yet surveyed the road crossings required by the Railways Department, but would do, so as soon as he had time. Otekaike Riding: A good deal of grading had been done on riding roads as well as the main highways, Repairs to the approaches of the Maerewhenua bridge on Dansey’s Pass road had been completed and a good job made of them. He had arranged for the two notice boards to be erected on the Kurow-Hakataramca bridge. Ahuriri Riding: He was round most of the roads during the month. The Lindis Pass road was in good order, except the Omarania Flat, which was rough with big stones. The Benmore road near the school had been reformed, and would require some gravel to put it in order. The Lake road was very wet owing to heavy rain, but Was in fair order. He was arranging to bare the two tablets put on the Temple and Maitland bridges. General: The District Highways Council Would meet in Dunedin on May 10, and lie had forwarded the highway estimates for the year, which would be considered at the meeting.—The report was adopted. TRAFFIC INSPECTOR’S REPORT. The traffic inspector (Mr 17, Laughton) reported that through the month Waitaki, Waihemo, and Waikouaiti Counties were patrolled regularly. Two cases of heavy, motor vehicles travelling at excessive speeds were noticed. Races were held at Oamnrn, and sports meetings at' Maheno and Enfield, and all licenses Under the Transport Act were examined and found in order. During the Easter holidays a large amount of traffic was in evidence on the main highways, and, with very few exceptions, the regulations were observed. —The report was adopted. Two traffic signs, which were wantonly damaged at Georgetown, were exhibited at the meeting, and it was decided to place the matter in the hands of the police.

! MAJESTIC PICTURES r / | “ His Wife’s Mother,” a clever and entertaining British comedy, will be shown to-night at the Majestic Theatre. The principal role -is taken by • Gus M'Naughton, who scores one of his greatest triumphs in a part which provides him with almost unlimited opportunities for polished comedy Work. As a resourceful valet who builds up a complicated plot to allay the suspicions of an interfering mother-in-law he is responsible for a performance which produces peals of laughter. The film is packed with delightfully amusing scenes, and there is wit in every line of dialogue. Jimmy Godden is one of a talented cast, all the members of which make generous contributions to the fun, but M'Naughton stands far above them all, and his impersonations are remarkably clever. It is altogether a brilliant comedy. An attractive supporting programme is also shown. Special concessions are available for children attending the matinee to-day, when a special programme is being provided for them. MEN’S HOCKEY Following will represent Rovers today:—Jacobs, Frew, Robbie, Markham, Hodge, Tiddy, Thorpe, Howie, Coker, Hedges, Finder, Brain, M'Donald, Adamson, Scott, Senior. W.E.A. The opening of the Workers’ Educa' tional Association’s winter session is always welcomed by many Oamaru people, amj the programme which has been arranged f<y this year should prove particularly interesting to them. “Experimental Psychology ’’ is the subject chosen for study, and an introductory lecture is announced for Tuesday night, to which past and present students and all who may be interested are cordially invited. RUGBY FOOTBALL The following will represent Excelsior seniors to-day;—Paris, Wray, Grocott, Sutherland, M'lvor, Laney, Easton, Glcverley, M'Calltim, Granger, 'fempero, Harle, Davey, Bryan, Murray; emergen- , cies, Cleland and Fraser. Excelsior Thirds to play St. Kevin’s at 1.15 Will be selected from the following:— M'lntosh, Familton, Harwood, Forbes, Stevenson, Wilton, Roundhill, Paris, Young, Campbell, Berry, Cagney, MTherson, Tempero, Gillespie, Thompson, Brosnahan, Pollock, M'Kay, Middlcmass, Dick, Weller, Barnes, Jones. Southern Fourth Grade Team. —Rapson (2) Henderson, Davis, Cooper (2), Cayford, Forbes, Daniels, Smith (2), Barnett, Ried, Matheson, Duncan, Wilson, and Jones. Georgetown,- v. Ngapara.—Ledinghara (3) Aubrey (2), Strachan (2), o%eill (2) Smith (2), Geddes (2), M'Leod, Keen, Fraser, Gibson, Godsall, M'Phee (3) Hall, Willett (2), Hill. HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICES The annual harvest thanksgiving services, conducted by the vicar, the Rev. A. W. Stace, were held in the Anglican churches throughout the Hampden parish. The Rev. W. A. Curzon-Siggers, of Selwyn College, Dunedin, gave an impressive address at each service, and appropriate hymns were sung. Large congregations were present at the various services, and, as a result of the many and varied harvest gifts, the Anglican orphanages will benefit to the extent of over a ton of produce from the Hampden district; DUNTROON MINIATURE RIFLE CLUB There was a good attendance of members at the annual meeting of the Huntroon Miniattire Rifle Club. The report and balance sheet, which showed the club finances to be in a sound position, were adopted. It was decided to carry on shooting again this season, although it is expected that the membership will be less than last year, owing to the difficult times. The club will commence its cup competition on Monday night, when it is hoped that all members and intending members will be present. CHURCH SERVICES To-morrow afternoon a special combined Bible class gathering will be held at the Church of Christ. In the Morning the communion service will commence at 11 o’clock, and in the evening the usu.al Gospel Service Will take place. The mihifiter Will be Mr Garfield Todd. The Christian Science service Will be held in the Oddfellows’ Hall, CoqUet street, to-morrow evening, the subject being “Everlasting Punishment.” A cordial invitation is extended to all to attend.

In 1729 Wesley’s Holy Club was the virtual beginning in Oxford of the religious revival associated With hie name. A century later, in 1833, to be precise, what is known as the Oxford Movement began under Newman. Once again, after a century has passed, a third religious movement, claiming Oxford as its home, is making itself felt in the religions world. Some hail it as a gift of God, while others are sceptical. A prominent London journalist, Mr A. J. Russell, has published a book on the movement entitled “For Sinners Only.” With this book and the movement generally the Rev, Brian Kilroy will deal at the evening service in St, Paul’s Church to-morrow. The choir will render the anthem “Let God Arise.” WAITAKI RUGBY SUB-UNION

At the annual meeting of the Waitaki Rugby Football Sub-uhion, the delegates present were: Messrs Thomas, Gillett (Georgetown), Dobson, M. Barry (Awakino), Lawlor, Brockett (KuroW), Watson, J. Russell (Ngapara). Laird, Bleach (Tokarahi), S. Wills, S. M. Barclay (Duntroon). Mr Laird occupied the Chair, and commented on the healthy state of the finances, and expressed appreciation for the loyal support given him by the members of the committee during the*past season. He wished the incoming committee every success for the ensuing term. The annual report and balance sheet were adopted. The election of officers resulted as follows:—President, Mr J. Laird j secretary, Mr S. M. Barclay; Emergency Committee—Messrs Laird, Wills, and' Barclay; auditors, Mr J. Fyfe and the Rev. Mr Steele. The appointing of the Selection Committee was held over to a further meeting. Mr S. M. Barclay was appointed the subunion’s representative on the Appointment Board of the Referees’ Association. Mr J. Palmer was elected the sub-union’s representative on the North Otago Rugby Union. The opening day for the Clip competition was fixed for May C. The following is the draw (home teams mentioned first): —Knrow v, Ngapara, Tokarahi v. Duntroon, Awakiuo v. Georgetown. OAMARU MARKETS

Oats.—-This market remains) quiet hut Steady. A Cartons, for prompt delivery, have been quoted at Is lOd to Is lid, South Island ports. A sale for shipment to London is reported on a 35s freight, at Is 9Jd, f.o.b.i s.i., New Zealand. At these prices growers are not prepared to sell, so that very little business can be expected. Wheat. —There is still a hold up of a large quantity of milling wheat in the country awaiting delivery instructions, and there is practically no outlet for further milling wheat in the meantime, and growers are awaiting an announcement by the Wheat Purchase Board as to when they will be taking over the surplus wheat. The fowl wheat market shows a firmer tendency, and there is a good inquiry for all grades of fowl wheat, including seconds. The weather, on the whole, in both Canterbury and North Otago, is too dry to prepare much land for wheat sowing. As the bulk of the Canterbury wheat is sown in autumn and spring, sowing of wheat is not conducive to a irood wheat season, it is hoped that the Wheat Purchase Board Will take these factors into consideration and hold

a fair surplus for a carry-over for next season, as the price for export is exceptionally low. In fact, the price could hardly be lower. Potatoes. —The continued long spell of dry weather in Canterbury and the possibility of trade with Australia have contributed to a hardening of_ prices for prompt delivery to the vicinity of £4 to £4 2s 6d, f.0.b., s.i., for prompt shipment. Seeds.—The markets are very dull, and, owing to the lateness of the season, not much can be expected in the retail trade. Stock. — -The following private stock sales were transacted during the week: —; Corriedale rams, 2gns to 3gns; good wethers, 13s; fat wethers, 14s Od; Corriedale ewes, 8s to 12s; store lambs, 8s; draught mare, £2l; four-year old filly, £37; four-year-old gelding* £l4; Steers, £6. OVERSEAS MAILS Mails close at the Chief Post Office, Oamaru, as under: — Saturday, April 29.—Fiji, Canada, United States of America, Central and Eastern South America, United Kingdom and Continent of Europe, also American air mails, via Vancouver (per Niagara from Auckland), per north express at 2 p.m. Late fee letters 2.20 p.m. Mail due in London about June 1< Monday, May I.—Australian States, via Sydney (per Maunganui from Wellington), by north express at 11.15 a.m. Late fee letters 11.35 a.m. Wednesday, May 3.—Great 'Britain, Ireland, Continent of Europe, also Central and South American Western States (Port Melbourne from Auckland). Correspondence must, be specially addressed. By north express at 2 p.m. Late fee letters 2.20 p.m. Due London June 15. Australian States, South Africa, and the East, via Sydney (per Monowai from Auckland) by north epresft at 2 p.m. Late fee letters 2.20 p.W. Saturday, May 6.—Fiji, Tonga, Apia, Pago Pago, Honolulu, also specially addressed correspondence for Canada. U.S.A., Great Britain, Ireland, and Europe (per Mariposa from Auckland) by north express at 3 p.m. Late fee letters 2.20 p.m. Due London June 6. Wednesday, May 10.—Great Britain, Ireland, Continent of Europe, also Central atld South American Western States (Rangit&ta from Wellington). Correspondence must be specially addressed. By north express at 2 p.m. Late fee letters 2.20, p.m. Due London June 10. INCOMING MAILS. V (Approximate Dates.) April 29.-r-Taranaki: English. May 2. —Maunganui: English and American. Monowai: Australian. May Ruabine: English. OAMARU BEAUTIFYING SOCIETY In view of the difficult times, the Oamaru Beautifying Society is again refraining from making a house-to-ho Use collection this year, as was its usual custom up till last-year. Instead the society invites contributions from supporters of the movement, so that it. may continue to carry out a limited amount of useful work in further beautifying the town and its immediate Mirroundings. Last year a very gratifying response was made to the appeal tor funds, afld it is hoped that this appeal will Meet with similar result. The funds so raised will be utilised in providing work for the unemployed during the coming, winter. Contributions may be handed to Hr Douglas, president of the society, or to the honorary secretary, Mr t>. V. Q. Smith, The Society, also invites gifts of spring bulbs, which it. is proposed to plant in Severn street between the avenues of oak trees on the northern side. COUNTY ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS

The sub-committee set up to investigate the administrative costs of the Waitaki County Council brought down the. following recommendations at the meeting yesterday, which had been arrived at unanimously after a very exhaustive investigation:— 1. “That the engineer’s salary, he reduced to £4OO as from April. 1, 1933.” 2. “ That the car be used exclusively for council business.” 3. “ That a report of mileage done, and the petrol and oil consumed, be supplied at each meeting of the council.” 4. “ That we are of the opinion that when another car is, requited a less costly conveyance would fulfil the council’s fequirerneats.” 5. “ That the chief clerk’s salary be reduced to £4OO per annum as from April 1, 1933.” 6. “That all other salaries remain unaltered at present.” 7. " We find that the office and county work in general is carried out economically and satisfactorily.” 8. “We find that the cost of operating the graders compares more than favourably with that of other counties,” 9. “We recommend the council’s careful consideration, with a view to obtaining our petrol supply in a more eeonomi* cal manner, as we consider the present method too costly.” The committee’s report stated: “Our investigations occupied the' greater part of the day, and we wish to thank the staff fot their readiness to supply any information required. Finally, We are pleased to have had an opportunity of studying the problem of costing and its significance, and, perhaps; the way for still more economical administration. We believe it is our duty to hand on unanimously to the ratepayers every possible saving,” Cr Brewster asked how long ago it was since he and the clerk had brought forward the question of adopting a mOre econbmical manner of obtaining petrol supplies. The clerk replied that it was in August, 1931,

Cr Brewster sOid the petrol question was not a new one, but no notion had been taken. He had obtained a suitable site for a petrol tank and Would have the tank installed as soon as possible. Rodman pointed out that the car had been used exclusively on council business, and the car had dime 50,000 toiler and had been economical in running and had not been expensive, giving excellent feervlcO to the council. He commented on the economy exercised in the office and county work, and pointed out that the economy stunt could be, carried too fan It Would always their idea to be as economical and efficient and possible, Cr Ross said that in bringing forward the report that the work was carried out economically and satisfactorily they admitted that Mr Cuthbertsoii and Mr Gardiner had carried out their jobs. Mr Cuthbertson was a qualified surveyor, and the speaker quoted, by Way of comparison, the present salaries of, engineers of the adjoining counties:—Levels £462 IDS, Geraldine £422 10s and house, Waimate £540 plus £l5O car allowance, and Mackenzie £495. The reduction of the engineer’s salary as suggested would mean less than 6Jd per year to each ratepayer in the county. As far as the ratepayers Were concerned it did hot make much difference. The staff could save the council a lot of money, and in this connection he pointed out the amount saved by Mr Gardiner by collecting license foes from Waitaki Hydro and with obtaining over £9OO from the Highways Board which had been Overlooked some years ago. It should go,out to the ratepayers that they had found out that the engineer and clerk had carried out their work well. He did not believe in carrying out economics at the expense of the staff, who were doing excellent work.

Cr Cooper said he was amazed at Cr Ross’s attitude, as he was a member of the committee, and was unanimous on the recommendations.

Cr Boss said the committee had no chance of making it unanimous when they suggested £350 as the salary, but when it was fixed at £4OO he reserved the right to discuss the matter later. In reply to Cr Aubrey, Cr KoSg admitted that he had made no reservation when they arrived at unanimity, blit his previous reservation still held. They would admit that he would not consent until they raised the figure to £4OO. Cr Cooper said he had no notion of anything secretive when lie brought forward the motion, as he knew the engineer and clerk had been carrying Cult their duties with efficiency and economy, which was endorsed by the sub-cominittee’s report. The one object of the sub-com-mittee was to investigate administrative costs apd effect economies, which might bo carried out with benefit to the ratepayers. There was no suggestion ill any way reflecting on the efficiency and integrity of the engineer and clerk. They agreed that a reduction of salary was in keeping with the prevailing economic position. and it would be easy to go back to the old level if the depression lifted; The chairman stated that the sub-com-mittee had reached a_ deadlock as regards the position of appointing a foreman instead of an engineer, and the only way

unanimity could be reached was by making an offer of £4OO per year to the engineer, instead of his going on as a foreman. Mr MTnnes quoted the appointment of a foreman in the borough aa being a precedent. Cr Meek said clause 7 showed that they found work carried put. economically and satisfactorily, but they were On an economy mission and the only things they could clip were the salaries of the engineer and clerk. The salary of the engineer was at a reasonable figure, and they were indebted to the clerk for the economies and savings effected. Gr Smith said that if the engineer and clerk were satisfied before the slump, then they should be satisfied With the cuts of salary under the depression. Gf Smith, seconded by Or Rutherford* moved that the recommendations of the sub-committee be adopted. As an amendment Cr Rodman moved that in view of the satisfactory position disclosed by the financial report brought down by the clerk that day, the • report of the sub-committee Ho on the table for 12 months. Cr Rodman stated that if the report were adopted the saving would be so small that it could not be passed on to the ratepayers. All of them had been anxious to economise, and their work during the past year was an earnest of that. The amendment was seconded by Cr Meek, and on a division was lost, Orn Rodman, Ross, and Meek voting in favour, and Crs Aubrey, Smith, Brewster* Rutherford, and Cooper voting against. The report of the sub-committee was then adopted. POPPY DAY

The secretary of the Oamaru Returned Soldiers’ Association (Mr N. S. Colqiihoun) has received £4 for the Sale of poppies at Awamoko, the collectors being Misses Morrison, I. King, LedifighaiiJ; Elliot, and Mr R, Poison. WOMEN’S INSTITUTE There was a good attendance of members at a meeting of the AWatrioko-George-town Women’s Institute. The roll call was well responded to, after which Miss Daphne Ludemahii gave, an interesting demonstration on the re-covering of evening shoes. During the social half-hour six school children gave an exhibition folk dance. An enjoyable afternoon tea Wan provided by the hostesses* Mrs T. Kennedy and Miss J. King. MAHENO NOTES

Anzac Day Was observed at Mabeno, as in former years, by 6. service in th» public ball. The chair was occupied by the Key. W. W. French, who also conducted the prayers. The Rev. A. W. Stacs read appropriatepassttges from the Scriptures, and Mr S. Hunter presided aj the organ. The Rev. P. C. Rennie de. livered an impressive address on “ Remembrance/’ and at the close of the address the assembled company adjourned to the monument, where a number of beautiful wreaths Were laid, and after a brief silence the ceremony was concluded by the benediction pronounced by thd Rev. A. C. Stace. The annual meeting of the Maheno l Incholme-Kauru branch of the Women’i! Division of the Farmers’ Union was ,held in the Presbyterian Sunday School Hall, the chair being occupied by the president (Mrs Kelcher). There was a fair attendance Of members. The annual report and balance sheet were adopted. The election of officers for the, current year resulted as foliOwS:—President, Mrs J. NewlandS; vice-persidents—MeSdames Pringle, Keb cher, and Marshall; secretary and treasurer, Miss I. J. SOuness. In vacating the Chair, the retiring president wished the newly-appointed i officers a successful term, and thanked the members for their loyal. support and co-operation,... it wan decided to ask Mrs Tait to" address the branch at a date convenient to herself. It was resolved to hold meetings' on’ the fourth Wednesday of each month as usual. The competition for the, next meeting will be “ Something New from Something Old, 1 ’ the articles to be sent to the Oamatii relief depot. PERSONAL

Advice has been received by Mr A. W. Woodward, secretary of the Royal Academy arid Rriyal College Of Music, that Mias Louise Tonkin has been awarded.a prize valued at £5.55, free entrance fee for licentiate diploma. HisS Tonkin, L.T.C.L., L.A.8., is a pupil of Miss Cartwright, L.T.0.L., L.A.B. At the Waitaki CoUnty Council meeting yesterday Cr Meek referred to the passing of Mr J. R. Mitchell, who was one of the outstanding men of the district. Mf Mitchell Was AS UriftSSUining ffiafl, but bad befen Of great value to North Otago as a stock breeder and A motion .of Sympathy With the relatives was carried in the Usual manner. The chairman of the Waitaki County Council yesterday. expressed pleasure at the election of Mr J. Biteherier ( (M.P. for Waitaki) to the position of Minister of Public Works. Mr Kitchener, said Mr M'lnnes, had gH'cn his services to the ratepayers of the Waitaki electorate over a number of years, arid it W4K a fitting way of acknowledging his long and faithful service. It was, decided to write congratulating Mr BUehenei* ofl his appointment tp the Cabinet., ; ' Queen’s Hotel.—'-Mr H. W. Olathe, Mr C. Hughes,, Mr L. S, Ashton ton), Mr j. 6. Yager, Mr A. L. Alexander, Mr W. Roberto. Mr W. S. Roberts, Mr C. N. Fox, Miss J. Mitchell (Christchufcli). .*■ ’' .. . ' New Club Hotel.—‘Mr G» D. Bell, Mr A. Pearson, Mr T. F, Withers, Mr M. Hannon (Christchurch), Mr A. Brown (Dunedin), Mf A- M’DCnald (Auckland), Mr D. E. SoUthby (Invercargill). M.U.1.0.0.F,

At the fortnightly meeting of the Loyal Oamam Lodge, N.G, Bro. V. Mulligan presided over a good attendance of officers and members, several, sisters of the Loyal Star of the North Lodge also being present. A motion of condolence was passed with E.S. Bro. J, M'Caffery and Mrs M'Caffery in their recent bereavement. One candidate was initiated into the Order. Accounts amounting to f 6 18s were passed for payment. The secretary read out the judge’s remarks at the recent initiation competition held in Dunedin. V.G. Sis, Kidd responded to " The Visitors’ ” toast. It was decided to pay an official visit to the Loyal Oaversham Lodge on July 29. The. subject for the debate against the Loyal Star of the North Lodge was announced to b* “That the Present Government Deserves the Support of the People.” The team to represent the Loyal Oamaru Lodge is a* follows:—R,G. Bros. J. Newson, f. Phillips, G.M. Bro. llcsslyn, find Giiafd Bto. N. Finder. Bro, H. Grater rvas appointed judge, and the Loyal Oamaru Lodge will take the affirmative. During a recess an Anzac Memorial address was fiven by Sergeant-major A. COckerell, ).5.0., to officers and members of the Loyal Oamaru, Star of the North, and Juvenile Lodges. N;G. BrO, Mulligan extended a welcome to the speaker fc>r the evening. The sergeant-major, in his address, gave a detailed account of the New Zealand forces leaving the Dominion, their arrival in Egypt, the Gallipoli attack, and subsequent activities around that Section. He then touched 06 the transference to France, and the subsequent battles of the Somme, Passchendaelo and Messines. In conclusion, he appealed to the juvenile members always to respect and honour the name of “Anzac.” P.G., Bro. W. Couper then thanked Ser-geant-major Cockerell for liis splendid address.

ANZAC DAY AT DUNTROON V The Anzac Day service at Duntroon was held in the Defence Hall, and was well attended by residents of the district. The address was given by 2VIr J. E. Tnllentire, and a talk to the children by Captain Hodge. The Rev. A. gangster read a prayer of confession and thanksgiving, and the Rev. J. T. Steele delivered a sermon. Appropriate hymns were sung during the service. Later Ohildren placed wreaths on the memorial, where two minutes’ silence was observed, followed by the playing of the “Last Post.”