NORTH OTAGO

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22258, 10 May 1934, Page 13

NORTH OTAGO

ACTIVITIES OF THE DISTRICT

(FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.)

YOUNG FARMERS’ SCHOOL A FURTHER INSTRUCTIVE DAY The; school for young farmers was advanced a further stage yesterday, when 'another' series of interesting addresses and; demonstrations was given. The ybung'meh continued to display great interest in the instruction given them, and ; should accrue great benefit from the valuable information imparted by the lecturers. ' ■ ■■ _ ", : :.Dr .’Hilgendorf continued his series of talks on wheat yesterday morning, when be explained to the boys the meaning of A sample of wheat was made up by • the Chamber of .Commerce or the Wheat Purchase Board by going to all the merchants in ’the town and getting samples' of;all their milling lines, which -were- mixed, together.' This sample, was then said to be fair average, quality of the' wheat from the district for the 'season. Any- farmer’s, sample, therefore.

which was as good as f.a.q, was bought by the Wheat Purchase Board at milling price. Such wheat must vieigh 611 b to the bushel, must have less than 4 per cent, of broken or shrivelled grain, and less than 15 per cent, of moisture. Sometimes, however, wheat which did not come up to f.a.q. standard, baked a satisfactory loaf, and much wheat that failed to reach •the standard was sent to the Wheat Research Institute to be milled and baked. Last, year about 2500 lines were milled and over 700 baking tests were made. This 'procedure frequently enabled termers to sell their wheat as milling quality even though it failed to reach La.q. standard. Loaves baked from good anti bad- wheats were displayed by Dr Hilgendorf, and he explained the methods of adjudging the baking score. The object of the miller was to provide an .even quality of flour all the year round, and Dr Hilgendorf explained how keenly millers were working to secure the best quality of flour from wheat grown in New Zealand. Dr Hilgendorf was accorded a hearty vote of thanks. The students then adjourned to hear a lecture and demonstration on the draught horse -by Mr J. Mitchell, who, having .had wide experience with stud horses in Australia and New Zealand, had a great deaf of interest and of value to tell the young men. .Mr Mitchell commenced by outlining the anatomy of the horse, giving each part careful attention. The formation and movement of • the horse were then dealt with by the speaker, who went; on to deal with the common complaints that caused unsoundnesa in the animal. Mr Mitchell showed the'students how to estimate the age of the horse by its teeth. He referred to the different breeds of, draught horses, and stated that, out of all these breeds, the Clydesdale was the horse that had been adopted by the colonies, and that had been found most suitable to the conditions. Mr Mitchell spoke of the efficiency of the horses and their breeding,' He concluded his highly-interesting and instructive address by telling the young men how to; take care of the draught horse. On behalf of the students, Mr Clearwater thanked Mr Mitchell for his address, and he was accorded a vote of thanks. The final lecture by Dr Hilgendorf was introduced with a moving film of Lincoln College and the research laboratories, shown by Mr Blomfield. The pictures were' very interesting, and showed experiments being carried out to determine which flour had the best gluten, the thousands of samples of wheat, the small threshing plants, and other scientific apparatus.. At the conclusion of the film Dr Hilgendorf spoke of experimenting in farm life. He showed that, in carrying out an experiment in one paddock, it was useless to sow one half with one particular kind of wheat and the remainder with another. . It was much, better to make trials with 10 strips of two kinds .of -wheat sown alternately. However, even in this experiment inaccuracy crept 'in, 'and Dr Hilgendorf stressed the necessity for absolute accuracy in all experiments. He also showed how deceptive photographs were in displaying the improvement in grasses through top-dressing. From this the lec-> 'turer went on to snow the value of topdressing. On-poor land a visible increase, due to the use of top-dressing with fertilisers. might or might not pay, and an invisible increase, in the growth of the grass would not pay. However, in good land any! visible increase would- alwayspay, but an ’ invisible increase might or might not pay. It was very difficult for farmers to make successful experiments oh account of this reason, but he stated that thev.-had to go on experimenting always. They had to be very careful in the .interpretation of the result of the experiment,- .and , in this they would -find a great , difficulty. • At Lincoln College 80 plots of grass had been treated with different fertilisers -or groups of fertilisers, and the increase m weight of the hay and also of the increased weight ot the sheep hadibeen taken. Nearly every plot gave an increased yield, but not one of them paid. This did not say fertilising would'not pay in other districts, but manure had to be used in solution, so that the amount of top-dressing used depended almost entirely on the amount, of moisture in the land. In Canterbury and South Canterbury the manuring of wheat crops had' paid handsomely, but the use of manures in this case depended -upon ■ the price being obtained for the wheat on the market. . ~ At the conclusion of Ins address Mr B. B. Blackmore thanked Dr Hilgendorf ■for his valuable information, and, in doing so, Stressed the continued need for experimentation by farmers m the district. Dr Hilgendorf was accorded a very hearty round of In the afternoon Mr- K. W. Gornnge demonstr.ited to the students the various characteristics of the different breeds ot pig. dealing particularly with the Berkshires, and Long Whites. The demonstration proved very interesting and instructive, as Mr Gorringe s knowledge ot. this animal is’very wide. . Later, in the course of a very informative address. Mr Gorringe showed the great possibilities of the pig industry in New Zealand, and stated that anyone with common sense could ■ become asuccessfu breeder and raiser of pigs. The pig industry was of vital importance to .New Zealand, especially when, as at the present time, the price of dairy produce was so low. Mr Gorringe stated .that farmers m the North Island had been able to add 2d a pound to their 'butter-fat ; cheques by raising pigs. Without the addition . of pigs on a farm the farmer was not making full use of his opportunities. He did not mean by this That a farmer should, keep just one or two pigs for his own consumption, but that, farmers should go into the -industry on a large scale. Mr Gorringe gave an instance of a boy making a pront of £340 on' a properly laid-out area of six acres oh his father’s farm. The pig industry was also saving farmers in the North Island from' insolvency, and he quoted examples of farmers paying off their interest by keeping pigs on a large scale. In one case a 10-acre “stunt in pigs had saved the owner from losing a 900-acre Sputh Island was very dilatory in its attitude to the pig industry. It was not even growing enough bacon to supply its own needs, and large quantities had to be eeht from the North Island to satisfy the market. Mr Gorringe went on to speak of the feed necessary for pigs. Grass should be the niain factor in the pig’s diet, and tbp-dressiug and fertilising should be carried out to ensure a four-inch bite. A pig should be a grazer rather than a styled animal, and all filth should be done away with. The pig’s food should be supplemented with skim milk once a day or with other foods. A farmer should start with a five-acre plot in a position sheltered from cold winds, Mr Gorringe then showed by means of a diagram the subdivisions measuring five chains by one of the different foods that should be grown. He was of the opinion that there should be four of clover, two of lucerne, two of good grasses, as well as , winter root crops. Houses made from straw bales were ideal, as they could be erected 1 and dismantled in a very short time, and were warm in. winter, yet cool -in summer. In the South Island there were tons and tons of straw going to waste, which would be ideal for erecting houses. The marketing of pigs', in'the South Island had been greatly improved, and even at 4_d a pound pigs were a far better proposition than buttei-fat at fid. On 10 acres 20 breeding sows could be run, and, allowing six pigs per litter on an average 240 porkers could be produced each year. After allowing for the payment of interest and supplementary food, pigs at 4d & pound would bring in £4 a week clear. Referring to the question of the right type - of pig for New Zealand, Mr Gorringe said that the white-skinned pig was most suitable for porkers for the London market. However, Mr Gorringe was

more concerned with the carcass thaq the colour. He discussed the various breeds in New Zealand, and stated that the ctoss between the Berkshire and the long white, or the Berkshire and the Tamworth was the most suitable. He himself was in favour of the latter cross. New Zealand had the London market in its grasp, and every effort should be made, to keep it there. In conclusion Mr Gorringe said that the pig industry was the best one in New Zealand at the present time, and he expressed the hope that it would increase considerably in the North Otago district and in the South Island. At the conclusion of his address Mr Gorringe answered many questions, and was accorded a hearty vote of thanks on behalf of the youug fanners by Mr J. Mitchell, . The remainder of the afternoon was spent in recreation, and in the evening the students visited the Majestic Theatre. GENERAL NEWS High Water at Oamaru. —May 10: 0.22 p.m. Messrs Mulligan and Forbes have been instructed by Mr B. G-lanitz, of Hampden, to sell by auction on his premises on Wednesday next, commencing at 1 ji.ih., the freehold property, sections, and household furniture. The land comprises one acre, and with this the dwelling will also be offered. The furniture comprises a Hartelow piano, and many other articles in good condition. ./■ The patients of the Oamaru Public Hos-. I pital were entertained to a musical treat • on the occasion of the visit paid by the Oamaru Salvation Army Songster Brigade, under the leadership of Mrs Tonkin. A delightful programme of music was rendered, ard the various items were much appreciated by the patients and staff., Bandmaster Burgess, Bandsmen A. and S. Hill, and W. Richardson greatly assisted with, the programme by rendering instrumental quartets. Owing to the coldness' of the weather bowling has now been abandoned, and it is proposed by the Phoenix Club to hold an evening social to close the season as soon as the additions to the social room at the pavilion have been completed. On Monday. May 21, commencing at noon, Messrs Dalgety and Co., Ltd., will conduct a clearing sale at Hakataramea on behalf of Messrs Weir Bros., who are giving up contracting. The' horses, contracting plant, and equipment will be offered for sale. The horses, which ace an afctive and useful lot, are just out of hard work, and the implements and equipment are in good order. Included in the equipment to be offered will be a five-tou lorry, : ■ . - ' , - ■ An interesting address was given 'at the conclusion of its meeting to the Nursing ■ Division by Miss Hawkes, matron of Norfolk Island Hospital. Miss Hawkes outlined .the history of the present occupants of the island, and, with photographs to illustrate the surroundings, described the life on . the island and thd work being done for the improvement of conditions for the islanders. The address was listened to witli, enjoyment and keen attention, Miss Hawkes bring accorded a very hearty vote of thanks. MINIATURE RIFLE SHOOTING There was a large attendance of members at the annual meeting of the Totara Miniature Rifle Club. The annual report and balance sheet were adopted. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year:—President,, Mr D. Marshall; senior vice-president, Mr W. Smith; junior vice-president, Mr V. M'Donald; secretary and treasurer, Mr M- Sinclair; committee^—Messrs S. Wilson, S, Perry, A. Harper; target checkers—Messrs S. Wilson, W. Smith, and M. Sinclair; handicapper, Mr D. Seaton; range officers—- • Messrs H. Blair, S'. Perry, S. Taylor; S. Wilson, M. Sinclair, W. Smith. A vote of thanks was accorded the donors of trophies during the past year. The scores registered at the weekly shoot of the Totara Club were as follows:—W. Smith 76, D. Marshall 7fi, D. Seaton 76, M. Sinclair 75, K. Morgan 75, A., Harper 75, S. Taylor 74, S. Perry 73, V. M'Donald 72, L. Cooper 71, H. Blair 71, S: Wilson 70, A. .Richardson 70, John Carrig 70, Joe Carrig 70, L. Morgan 67, C. Burgess 66, W. Morrice 60, J. Dean 60. : ■ , ;.v V-'.".- : LADIES* GOLF The following is the draw for the Bogey Match to be played by the North Otago Ladies’ Club at the Awamoa links to-mor-■row:-r- ■■■ .< First Tee.—Miss J. Cuthbertson v. Miss M. Ireland, Mies P. Robins v. Miss H. Sumpter. Miss Mackie v. Mrs Grater, Mrs Barclay v, Mrs Cook, Miss Familton v.'Mrs Seyb, Mrs Burton v. Miss B. Cuthbertson,’Mrs Meek v. Mrs Irving, Mrs Finch v. Miss P. Lane, Miss Stevenson v. Mrs Roll. ; Thirteenth Tee. —Mrs Kilpatrick v. Miss M. F. Hewat, Mrs Ireland v. Mrs Brown, Miss L. Hewat v. Miss WyldeBrowne, Miss Nichols y. Miss C. Nicqlls, Mis« M'Quade a bye. Third Grade (Tenth Tee). —Mrs Johnston v. Miss Robins, Mrs. D. Smith v. Miss Hedges. Mias Simpson y. Mjss Findlay, Mis s -M'Culloch v. Miss M'Donald. Mrs Scott v. Mrs J. M. Wilson, Miss Roll v. Miss K. Familton, Mrs Ewart v. Miss Wood, Miss Bennett : a bye. . ST. LUKE’S CHURCH Oamaru is shortly to have a visit from the Right Rev. W. H. Baddeley, the Bishon of Melanesia. He will speak in St. Luke’s Church this evening at 7.30 on “My Island Diocese,” and this opporof hearing his message should not be missed. The Rev. S. J. Cooper, in writing of the bishop, states that he is a most attractive speaker, and all who had the privilege of hearing him on his last visit to Christchurch were delighted with him. One of St. Luke’s young men, Mr W. L. S. Harbour, is being trained ! at St. John's College, Auckland, for work I in Melanesia, and Sister Estelle Field, who whs trained in the Oamaru Hospital, is already working in his - diocese. That is one reason why the bishop is coming to Oamaru at the present time. Archdeacon Russell appeals to parishioners to be present to-night and give a hearty welcome to the bishop on his first visit to St. Luke’s. SHIPPING NOTES .... ~ . ■ t The Opihi is expected on Tuesday, May 15, to load for Wellington, Nelson, and New Plymouth, via Timani and Lyttelton. The Poolta is due on Wednesday, May -16, to load for Wellington, Napier, and Gisborne, via Titnaru and Lyttelton. The Waimarino is expected on Monday, May 28, to load for Wellington and Auckland, via Tiraaru and Lyttelton. The AVaikouaiti is expected to load at Newcastle to-day, completing for Sydney for despatch on Saturday, May 12, for Bluff, Dunedin, Timaru, and Lyttelton. The Gale is expected to load at TOamaru to-morrow for Wellington, Nelson, Wanganui, and New Plymouth. ■ PAPAKAIO WOMEN’S INSTITUTE I The president (Mrs Aubrey) occupied I the chair at the monthly meeting of the j Papakaio Women’s Institute. Mrs Siither- ! land, delegate to the annual Qtago Feder- | at ion meeting, gave an interesting report ■ on the business transacted, and was accorded a vote of thanks. It was decided not to send a delegate to AVellington. The meeting took the form of an Irish day, the roll call being answered with an Irish saying or story. The competition for the three heaviest potatoes was won by Mrs Aubrey, with Mrs AVilson and Miss Gardiner second (equal). Mrs D. R. Borrie gave an Irish reading, and Misses D. Ludeman and B. Borrie an Irish playette, which were greatly enjoyed. The social half-hour was in the hands of Mesdames Whyte and Patou, and afternoon tea was served by Mrs Gibson and Miss Gardiner,

RUGBY FOOTBALL

LAST SATURDAY’S MATCHES CHAMPIONSHIP TABLE.

, Although ground conditions at the Oval were really splendid for football on Saturday, the game provided by Excelsior and Athletic was far from attractive, aud the second spell in particular was productive of anything but complimentary comments from the spectators. Apart from a brilliant cut through the defence by Donaldson and his two winning kicks at goal, the Excelsior backs were not impressive, and will need to speed up their play and improve their handling before they become an effective combination. Davey, on the wing, was perhaps the best of the backs, putting vigour and determination into bis play, and Wilson; at full-back, generally played soundly and saved his side in difficulty time and again. His fielding and kicking were of a good standard. The forwards worked with a will and held their own against the Maroon pack, though were not as successful at hooking. There is, however, a groat deal of room for improvement in the packing of the scium.- Perhaps the more conspicuous for their consistent play were Paris, MTntosh, and Familton. The Athletic backs started off from the first scrum by staging a nice combined movement, for though a trifle slow in passing through the hands of the inside backs, the ball ,was taken by H. Stichman at top speed, and his effort .down the line gave promise of some sparkling play during the afternoon. This was not fulfilled, for during the remainder of the game the backs as a combination faded completely out of the picture, and in the second spell their tactics of finding touch on every possible occasion when six points down precluded -any hope of the side pulling the game out of the fire. Turvey was unlucky when he lost possession after crossing the line, and A. Stichman also, when he was held up over the line._ Mason’s speed and versatility saved his side on many occasions, but he was the only Athletic back to show good senior form. Had the hard-working packmen been, given a chance in the second spell, by “up and under ” punts, they, might have been able to reach a different conclusion, but aimless kicking and touch-finding when on the attack robbed them of many opportunities. Carrodus, Holland, and Brown were generally in the thick of the frav. There were several instances of late tackling in the Oval game, earning in one •case a caution from the referee. It is to be hoped that referees will pay strict attention to this matter, as the practice is most undesirable and unsportsmanlike. A new departure in North Otago country football is the. attempt by the Southern Club (Kakanui) to form a Fifth Grade team, thus establishing a connecting link between the country primary, schools and the higher grades. Enfield, Weston, Totara, Maheuo, and Kakanui Schools all have teams which receive regular coaching, and travel to play home-and-home games. After leaving school, however, these players face a gap of three or four years before'they are big enough,for the next grade, and as a result the majority lose interest, and fail to take up the game again. There is ample material, 16 years and under, to draw from, so it should be possible to field a strong Fifth Grade team, thoroughly representative of the districts mentioned., A practice game against Athletic Fifth Grade will take place at the Show Grounds on Saturday, May 19. The organisers of the Southern Club are to be commended for their action in stimulating interest in the game arriongst the youths of -the country districts, and their enthusiasm deserves to be well rewarded in the success of the club.

It was not expected that Old Boys would pull the game out of the fire after its poor display in the first half of the game at Maheno on Saturday! However, it was a changed team which took the field in the second spell, and, putting more >vim into their play, Old Boys came off victorious by a margin of two points. Although the game developed into a hard struggle between the forwards, there were a few bright flashes of play in the backs. The ground was. in perfect order, and the spectators were provided with a good exhibition of Rugby. The Old Boys forwards were much smaller and lighter than their opponents, but were not wanting in determination, and, in the second spell, were perhaps 'superior. They packed better, and gave the country forwards few opportunities • to break away in loose rushes, which the Greens indulged in so frequently in the first half. All the Old Boys forwards'can be credited with putting in some solid work both in the tight and loose rushes. Rodgers, M‘Donald, and Ludemann were perhaps the most prominent in the Black pack. G. Newlands had his first game of the season last Saturday, and finned up the, pack considerably, but he is not in training as yet. A. Clark, Dougherty, and Sinclair were always out in front in the loose rushes, and put in some hard work in the tight, being well supported by the remaining vanguard. Although the Maheno forwards hooked the ball consistently, it was slow .in coming out to the halfback, and the Greens should pay more attention to the packing of their scrum in future games. Hunter was fairly slow behind the Black pack, but he did not receive the same opportunities as his vis-a-vis. Of the Old Boys’ backs Calder wa s perhaps the most impressive, and eluded several attempts at, tackling to make some good openings. Frame did not show up, but Kinder made some good runs, and his try was the result of a good piece of work. Easton, at fullback, played with plenty of confidence, and his fielding and line-kicking were a feature of the game. In the Maheno rearguard none of the players were outstanding. Souness has a bad habit of leaving the scrum before sending the ball to his supports. The backs also took the ball flat-footed,, so that the Blacks were able to stop any likely movements. Hoilow was inclined to go too far, Manion did not show up so well as:on the previous, Saturday. M'Gregor and Bruce did not see much of the ball, but were sound on defence. When he received the ball, Colin Clark made good bids for the line, and-on two occasions be almost scored. D. Yorston, as the Maheno custodian, was not at all safe, and he was very slow in getting into position. What is most necessary with the Maheno side is combination, and endeavours should be made for practices during the week.

At a meeting of the North Otago Referees’ Association, Mr M. F. Woodward presided over a large attendance of members. It was decided that the Rugby Union be asked, through the associations delegate, Mr L. Ward, that all clubs be circularised to the effect that execessive talking on the field, the use of bad language, and late tackling would be dealt with sei*ei;ely by the referees in future matches. Club captains were also to be asked not to delay the start by not bringing out a ball. Accounts amounting to 12s were passed for payment, and an interesting discussion on rules was held. RELIEF DEPOT The Mayoress’s Relief Committee acknowledges with thanks the following contributions to the depot:—Misses Murchison, dripping and clothing; Mrs Swindley, clothing; Mr J. Cagney, stationery; Mrs Murray . (Kibble street), knitting; Mrs Watson, clothing: Mrs Lindsay, clothing and quilt; Miss Lindsay, clothing and apples; Mrs W. R. Walker (Luue street), clothing and boots; Mr Milner, clothing, boots and shoes: Mrs 1). M’Crea, clothing: Georgctown-Awamoko Women’s Institute, eggs; Mr Dickie (Herbert), eggs; Miss Newlands (Peebles), clothing; Mr Jackman (Totora). potatoes: Miss Adair, clothing; Mrs W. G. M’Donald, 10s; Mr Sanders, clothing: Mr Giboney, potatoes; Mr G. Elvidge. £3; Mrs Sinclair (Waimatu), eggs; Mrs A,-G. Kemp, clothfng; Windsor Relief Committee, £4 3s; Mr A. Mack ay’s box, two parcels of clothing. An urgent appeal is made for warm clothing, sox, shoes, bedding, and blankets. The depejt will be open on Wednesday. May 16, for the distribution of clothing and groceries to necessitious cases.

WARDEN’S COURT

APPLICATIONS RECOMMENDED A sitting of the Wardeu’s Court was held yesterday morning before Mr H.' W. Bundle, S.M. James J. Elsom applied for a prospecting license at Macrae’s Flat—Recommended for the consent of the Minister, John Rowland Hill applied tor one head of Water from Sandstone Creek.Mr H. J. T. Grater appeared for the applicant, and Mr J. E. Farrell for an objector. The application was adjourned for a fortnight. Thomas Arthur Peddie’s application for a prospecting license at Macrae’s Flat was recommended for consent of the Minister. ’

Mining House (N.Z.), Ltd., applied for permission to enter aud mark out on private land. —Mr C. Zinnnennanu appeared for the applicant company—The application was granted. Mr Bundle referred to the application of Mining House (N.Z.), Ltd., for a water race of 10 heads from the Otekaike River, evidence of objection being given by the Otekaike Drainage Board and others at the last sitting of the court. Mr C. Zimmcrmann appeared for the applicant company, Mr J. H. Main for the Otekaike Drainage Board.—The warden said in this case it, was a difficult matter, as it was proposed to take'the 10 heads considerably higher up than the existing right of 10 heads held by the Drainage Board, It, was evident from the evidence that the main source of supply was in this branch of the river, and he saw no reason to alter the opinion expressed last week that the provisions of section 121 for the protection of the superior right were not sufficient in this case. When it was brought clearly under the notice of the warden that not only might the water be insufficient, but also it might be insufficient to supply the existing right at certain periods; then reasonable arrangements had to be made. What those arrangements should be he was in doubt, because the evidence was not conclusive enough to show at what seasons of the year the supply would be sufficient to supply both the board and the applicant company. The application should either be granted for certain months of the year, or else some condition made to allow a certain number *of heads to flow' past the proposed intake before the supply was touched. The difficulty to his mind was what was reasonable, and possibly the public works engineer, for the board, and' the company’s engineer could discuss the matter. It would be quite improper that the holder of the existing rights for 10 heads should have to exercise rights under section 121 of the Act, and he agreed with the evidence that the'board would have to exercise its rights quite frequently. He would adjourn the application for a fortnight to enable the engineers to discuss the matter on the ground and place their views before, the court. If they could not come to an agreement, then the court might have to consider obtaining further evidence. .

Mr J. E. Farrel! appeared in support of the application of W. J. M'Kinnon for one head of water to be allowed to pass down the Otekaike River for_ public use, which had, in conjunction with the previous application, been held over from last week. Mr Farrell said he had pointed out that the Act afforded inadequate protection to farmers in a mining district, and said he would like to hear the ■warden's comments on .the position. Mr Bundle said that for the warden to grant one head of water in the Otekaike River would be useless. Section 122 was most unsatisfactory. He did not know what -it meant, and nobody else did. What was the meaning of public use? One head of water in that stream would disappear , very quickly, and be declined to.make an order, as the matter was involved in the previous application and there was no urgency. The application was accordingly adjourned for a fortnight. OPERATIC SOCIETY POOR FINANCIAL YEAR The ninth annual report: and balance sheet of the Oamaru Amateur Operatic Society states that a total of 17 committee meetings were' held during the year, and members could themselves gauge the amount of time and energy expended by the number of meetings held during the year. The attendances at the meetings had been fair. The year had been a very trying one as regards the attendance of active members. No doubt this wag largely caused through the society being non-operative for so many years before 1933. There were on the roll CO members—2l men and 39 ladies. . - The committee liad no hesitation in shying that the 1933 production of “San Toy” was a splendid one. The high standard of previous years wag well maintained. The production was in the hands of Major Dampen, of Dunedin, dancing, Miss Roua Bee, and musical director, Mr G. Whale. The society was very fortunate in again obtaining the services of Mrs Bee and her wonderful baud of workers. Most of the props, costumes, etc., were hired from Auckland, and under the guidance of the Wardrobe Committee, these were freshened up, and new costumes, etc., belonging to thtj society had now all been pressed and a full inventory taken. These had all been tabulated and boxed for hire to the general public for parties and dances. They had to thank Mr Allan M Douall for his valuable services in this connection.

From the_ balance sheet members would see that this had been a most disastrous year. The society started off in 1932 with a balance of £l4l I s 6d in the bank. The balance now was £3l 19 s 2d. Had it not been for the fact that the society was successful in hiring props to Christchurch, thanks to Major Dampen, the society would have finished up with a debit balance.

The social side of the society had in no way been neglected. In .the hands of an energetic committee they had had dances during the season, and these wer« very much enjoyed by all. It was with regret that the committee had to report that Mr G. C. L. Diokel would not be seeking re-election as secretary. The committee felt that in organisations such as theirs it was very difficult to individualise in thanking the legion of helpers, and would like all helpers in the last production to accept the thanks of the society. In view of the financial position of the society, it was going to be very difficult to know what to do with reference to the 1934 season. That would be one of the first duties for the ensuing committee. PERSONAL Ensign Hutchins, of the Salvation Army, and missionary officer in India, is visiting Oamaru in connection with the special meetings of the local corps of the_ Salvation Army. She is the guest of Adjutant and Mrs Maliaffie during her stay in Oamaru. Queen’s Hotel. —Mr and Mrs M.' M. Smi'h (Wellington), Mrs M. H. Fookes, Miss Fookes (Taihape), Mr 11. H. Algar, Mr Scrimshaw, Mr R. King. Mr Wood (Christchurch), Mr R. J. Knott (Timaru), Mr Froggath (Invercargill), Mr T. Ti. Reid. Mr J. Popler, Mr W. R. Chapman, Mr D. C. 0. Driscott, Mr P. G. Card, Mr J. D. Nelson, Mr H. W. Bundle, Mr G. C. Wootton, Mr A. J. Justice (Dunedin). New Club Hotel.—Mr and Mrs J. H. Dollaniore (Gore), Mr M. K. Hart (Wellington), Mr A. Richards, Mr G. A. Pollock (Christchurch), Mr F. Waite (Balelutha), Mr R. Donno.van (Dunedin), Mr and Mrs J. S. Roberts (Invercargill), Mr A. T. Little (Temuka). MAJESTIC THEATRE Jean Harlow and Lee Tracy, together for the first time as co-stars, provide a succession of laughs in the hilarious picture, “ Blonde Bombshell,” which heads the programme to-night and Friday. The production is described as a pictorial record of Hollywood laughing at itself, a story woven ’around the myths and rumours that have flown out of the film capital and presented in a composite of humour and laugh-provoking situations for the amusement of the kinema-going public. Miss Harlow, in what she admits to be the most unusual role of her career, is seen as a glamorous screen star whose life is made miserable by the antics of her press agent. Lee Tracy; her liquorloving father, Frank Morgan; her false lover, Franchot Tone; her director, Pat O’Brien; her secretary, Una Merkel; her brother, Ted Healy—and a score or more of other well-known personalities who constitute what is practically an all-star cast. Supports are of the well-known Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer calibre.

MAGISTRATE’S COURT

SLY-GROG CHARGE DISMISSED The weekly sittings of the Oamaru Magistrate’s Court was continued yesterday morning before Mr H. W. Bundle, S.M, . ■ The hearing of the charges against William H. W. Liddicoat of allegedly keeping liquor for sale and carrying on the business of a brewer without a license in the no-license district of Oamaru was proceeded with.—Mr J. H. Main appeared for the collector of Customs (Mr W. J. Stay), Sergeant Fcarfiiey conducted the police prosecution, and Mr R- D. H. Swindley appeared for the defendant, who had pleaded not guilty to both charges.—The defendant, in evidence, denied that he had ever sold .beer or that he kept beer for sale. In giving his decision, Mr Bundle said that there was no evidence of sale or that people frequented the defendant’s place for the purpose of drinking or taking away beer. The suggestion of the police was that the defendant was a brewer of beer, for supplying sly grogsellers, but the court had to deal with the evidence before it. The amount of liquor seized was admittedly a large quantity, but the defendant was going away to employment and had given a reasonable explanation as to his financial position. Considering all the circumstances, he, with some little hesitation, accepted the defendant’s explanation that lie brewed the beer for his own use, and the information would be dismissed. CIVIL CASE. Judgment by default was_ given for the plaintiff in the following civil cases;—C. W. Greig v. W. Hannigan, £5 12s 11<J, costs £1 12s fid. BREACH OF AWARD. The inspector of awards (Mr Adair) proceeded against Frederick G. Taverner, butcher, Oamaru, for wilfully making a false entry in his wages and time book in respect to the wages of Archibald G. Murray. The inspector of awards also preceded civilly against Taverner, claiming £lO penalty for breach of awand, and against Murray, claiming £2 penalty.—Mr R. D., H. Swindley appeared for Taverner, who pleaded guilty to both charges. Murray also pleaded guilty.—Mr Adair said by paying a wage under the award Taverner conducted his business at a big advantage over his competitors,- and the department viewed the breach of the Act seriously. v These breaches were very difficult to, detect, the fnatter coming under the notice of the department through Murray being dismissed and then complaining to the department. Counsel submitted that Murray received the equivalent of the award rate in money and kind, receiving free meat for his wife and family of five children, and Taverner paying the wages tax. Taverner was penalised by the provisions of the award, and had given Murray employment when lie was on relief work —Mr Bundle said he appreciated that the position was difficult, but so long as the award and provisions of the wages book were in, force. they had to be observed. The provisions of the Act had been deliberately broken, and entries in the wages book falsified. For making a false entry Taverner was fined £7 Ids (costs 10s), and on the claim judgment was given for Is. The claim against Murray was adjourned-, sine A l .® pending a settlement of Murray’s civil claim against Taverner. WOMEN’S DIVISION, FARMERS’ UNION NORTH OTAGO PROVINCIAL EXECUTIVE/ : At the annual meeting of. the North Otago Provincial Executive of . theWomen’s Division of the Farmers’ Union, delegates were present from the various branches-in the district. • ; The president (Mrs R. B. Meek), reported that there were now 19 branches in the North Otago district, with a membership of over 420. The - conducting of th* rest tent at the North Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association’s Show was taken oyer from the Oamaru branch, and Mrs Meek thanked all the -members who assisted.' To enable members to dispose of their surplus produce, a market day has been held in the Polytechnic buildings every Friday since Easter. The thanks of the executive were due tb Messrs Brown (Polytechnic), Giffin, and H. Wsl-. Hams (manager of the Majestic Theatre}. the members of the branches for their co-operation, the public, and the press. Mrs Meek, as district organiser, also reported that two new branches had been, formed during the year, and after , interviewing several ladies at Omarama, it’ was hoped to form a branch there. Mrs Meek said that keen interest was being shown • in the work throughout the branches, and that the membership was steadily increasing. . She recommended that any branch desirous of hearing speakers from outside North Otago invite thgm through the executive, so that all' branches would benefit. She was pleased to state that she had been able to place boys and girls taking up duties on farms in comfortable homes. Mrs Meek thanked all,the branches which she had visited for the hospitality extended to her. ' v,."';';", , , ' "

The . report and balance sheet were adopted, and Mrs Meek was thanked'for her work. . . ,■■■ ; ; -j •/

The following officers were elected: — President, Mrs R. B. Meek;, senior vicepresident, Mrs Burand;' junior vice-pre-sident, Mrs C. Hay; secretary and treasurer, Mrs Robertson; official organiser, Mrs R. B. Meek; committee—Mesdames Forbes, J. B. Chapman, Wates, Duncan, Cnrlett, Craig, lan Macpherson, Johnston, Campbell, Marshall, Misses R. Allen and Stephen; delegates to conference, Mesdames Manson (Enfield) and Campbell (Omarama). ' ; -

It was decided to co-operate with the members of the Farmers’ Union in organising a social and dance on the occasion of the first birthday of the executive on June 20. It was decided to close the market at 4 o’clock during the winter, and that members bring their goods in by 1 o’clock. It was agreed to hold the meetings of the executive on Tuesdays,

P. Seniors. W. L. D, Points F. A. Ch Pta. Old Boys 2 1 — 1 17 15 3 Exselsior 2 1 — 1 15 9 3 Maheno ., 2 1 1 — 12 11 2 Athletic .. 2 — 2 — 3 12 —, Athletic .. 2 Juniors. 2 — — 26 14 4 Old Boys 2 2 — — 29 3 37 4 Maheno .. 2 — 2 — 14 Excelsior 1 _ 1 — 3 5 — School 1 — 1 — — 13 — Athletic .. Third Grade. 2 1—1 8 8 3 Southern 2 1 — 1 24 8 3 St. Kevin’s 1 1 — — 32 — 2 Excelsior 1 1 — 48 — Old Boys 2 — 2 — — —