THE OTAGO A. AND P. ASSOCIATION.

Otago Witness, Issue 3019, 24 January 1912, Page 14

THE OTAGO A. AND P. ASSOCIATION.

In view of the liabilities incurred by the Otago A. and P. Association in replacing the Agricultural Hall and its annexes, the committee finds it desirable to make a further appeal to the patriotism of the citizens and settlers, and invites those who have not yet become members of the Association to do so. With this object in view a sub-committee has been appointed to canvas the city and base its demands on the good work done by the association, and as the material advantage which accrues to the townspeople by having such enormous crowds brought to the city to see the various shows. That live stock exhibitions and winter shows have an exceedingly strong hold on the interest and attention of the public is unquestioned; the attendance roll at the shows and the large sums annually expended in prizes is sufficient proof of that. And the enhanced estimate of their value to the public is further emphasised by the increasing interest taken in them by people of all classes, and at great distances from town, as instanced by the crowds winch come in annually from the remote backblocks to enjoy the week’s holiday and spend their money in the city. Not only that, but the large attendance of townspeople at these exhibitions shows that everyone recognises the desirability' of being informed of the country’s progress as guage-d by these shows. The committee has no hesitation in asking farmers and pastoralists to assist the movement and enable the association to extend its sphere of usefulness. It cannot do so when hampered by heavy charges 'for interest. In the case of * the practical agriculturist, he has no option in the matter. It is his dutv and should be his pleasure also to support an association which does so much for him. He gets good value for his guinea. The privileges of membership amply repay, and more than repay, the amount of his subscription. At the larger shows the farmer meets men who control the market, and an interchange of i-tlens is profitable, resulting in closer connection between these two forces of production. The breeder must know the requirements of the market before he can hope fur success in his work, and at the show he gains that knowledge. But, in addition to that, extensive improvements have been made at Tahuna Park for the housing of stock, and the convenience of visitors has been studied in every way. The best sheep, cattle, and horses in* the country are brought together, and an opportunity is given any buyer to select what he needs after having the chance of comparing it in good company. Free admission is given to members to Summer and Winter shows, and to all the other functions and benefits of the association. No effort is spared by the association to present attractie programmes, but that cannot be continued without the loyal support of the settlers. And, although the committee has always felt that it has the country behind it, and has been nobly supported by many breeders, it also felt that its work is entitled to a more general acknowledgment from every one connected with the farm They, therefore, have no

hesitation in confidently demanding very largely increased membership.