ISLA BANK (SOUTHLAND).

Otago Witness, Issue 2116, 13 September 1894, Page 22

ISLA BANK (SOUTHLAND).

September B.— We have had all kinds of weather of late. There were some 10 days of fine weather for ploughing and drying the ground preparatory to sowing, but scarcely any sowing had been done in the dist ict when thesnow came, lying on the ground some 36 hours to the depth of 2in. and drifting into sheltered corners. Being followed by frost, it is lying on fence sides up to date on the low-lying ground. The mountain ranges are completely enveloped in a white mantle, and will be for a long time if extra hot fresh winds do not follow at an early date. The ground is drying npw { however, and some sowing has been done Avithin the last few days. There was some growth at the end of last month, but the frost has now almost blighted it, and stock of all kinds are suffering where they are not receiving a liberal supply of artificial food and shelter. It is the lambing season with many, and there must have been heavy losses where the flocks were not well sheltered. Cattle also are looking poor where exposed to the weather, and horses are looking miserable when in the fields and not well cared for. There are too many who have stock in this part of the country who should not have them. Having ill-kept stock is an unprofitable game, and indeed it is nearly approaching cruelty to animals. It would be quite justifiable to expose the owners of such stock to part of the hardships their stock suffer. Many in this district are looking after their stock well, and they will reap the benefit. Prices are low, and the farmers require to tura their farm to the best account. There is, however, evidence of many of the farmers doing well. One good sign is the many si acks to thresh yet ; but price* for grain are not looking very bright. So far sheep are not paying so well as many could wish. Many were giving their best a ten tion to sheep ; but those who expect to succeed must go in for mixed farming, as one part failing, another may succeed. Of course we need not look for all branches to prosper. Dairy Factory. — The Fairfax Dairy Factory is apparently not of much profit to many of those concerned. The directors arc not letting their doings have the light of the day ; and I may hazard an opinion that they will not come out of the affair with much credit for theiv good management. We shall no doubt Ret at the root of the matter some day, but it seems that our be&t men will not come foiward as they ought to do for their own good, or for the good of their country. A. and P. Show.— Seveial meetings have been called re the Western dutriot cattle show, but few turned up and nothiug was done. I suppose, hpwtver, a show will be held in the Western district at about the usual season this j-ear. Last year's was a good show, and this year way turn out as well.