ISLA BANK.

Otago Witness, 14 December 1893, Page 22

ISLA BANK.

December 9.— The stormy weather has retarded out door work. Sheep-shearing is being gone on with slowly, and to the disadvantage of all concerned. Preparing the ground for turnips is being done under difficulties, and farmers are not getting along as could be wished. We may, however, expect better weather shortly to set all right. The high floods doing so much injury in the north have not come this way so far. Stock of all kinds are thriving, grass is in abundance, and the grain crops are generally looking well, except on some low-lying ground not properly drained. Our Show.— The Western District show on Wednesday was a success. The entries were more numerous than in past years, and notwithstanding the stormy day, which kept many away, there there was a very large number on the ground, all taking a keen interest in the day's proceedings. The horses were of a high order in all classes. Draught horses were a feature of this show, comparing favourably with any in New Zealand. Other classes were good, with numerous entries ; and though not all good cattle, there was a fair display, but with much room for improvement in many cases. Sheep were generally good, but very far from representing the high quality of the stock in the district. I wonder if better prizes would induce more to forward their stock ? The pigs were a poor display. Machinery and agricultural implements were good compared with former years. There might have been more entries for cheese. Butter was good and the entries numerous. A few may have kept back exhibits through the show not being held at the same place as formerly, but the results in following years will decide whether the change is for the good of all parts of the district.