AWATUNA.

Opunake Times, Volume V, Issue 195, 17 July 1896, Page 2

AWATUNA.

(Our Own Correspondent.) Canvassers are busy in this locality collecting subscriptions and eatables for the coming jetty ball, on the 24th inst. It is to be hoped settlers will, one and all, join bands in supporting the undertaking, as all will undoubtedly benefit from the re-establishing of the jetty. The last two entertainments here were partial failures owing to the weather, but nothing daunted the promoters are again in the field, and another is to come off this month, which will include a drama of considerable merit—to judge by the preparations. Mr Sawers, Government Dairy Expert, visited Awatuna to advise the directors of the Co-operative Dairy Company re butter-plant, and one result of his visit will be the introduction of a separator of quite a new pattern, viz., “ Sharpies ‘ Russian ’ Steam Separator,” of 400 gallons per hour capacity. One of its chief merits is that it requires no engine to drive it, as the motion is imparted to the machine direct from the boiler by means of a large steam pipe which tapers to a nozzle, the steam from which is concentrated into numerous small cups attached to the outer part of the revolving bowl. This arrangement leaves the engine free to pump water, churn, &c., whilst separating, which could not otherwise be done simultaneously with the ordinary machine. Its construction is very simple. It is self regulating and only requires 12 lbs of steam to drive it. It separates the cream without froth on account of separating at a much shorter radius than other machines, aa well as aerating and cooling the cream in a very satisfactory manner. Altogether it is pronounced to be a very decided improvement on all other separators yet introduced into the colonies. The only one as yet in New Zealand is a sample one at the Dairy School, aud experts are agreed as to its superiority. Mr Scott’s sale on the 6th instant was a brisk 'one, cattle passing the hammer at prices much in advance of former sales.