LAKE WANAKA.

Otago Witness, Issue 3399, 7 May 1919, Page 23

LAKE WANAKA.

May I.—We have experienced very pleasant weather in this district for sorao time past, and although we have heard reports of bad weather from other districts it has, so far, not reached here. Last week we had a slight touch of frost on two or three nights, and any tomatoes which happened to be uncovered suffered. Potato shaws also were cut down, but as the potatoes are about ripe they will be dug at once. . . . - - Farming.—Thrashing is now finished, and the grain is being got to the market as quickly as possible. The field has been above the average here this year. One farmer, Mr Geo. Balantyne, thrashed 140 bushel of oats to the acre, whifih is probably a record yield for the Upper Clutha Valley. Although the grain grown has mainly been barley, yet enough wheat has been grown to supply the local mill. The farmers are getting 6s 6d per bushel for barley, on trucks, Cromwell, and the same price for wheat at Dunedin. They complain that farmers near Dunedin get the same \3rice for wheat, and the up-country farmers have to pay railage and cartage, which costs about Is 6d per bushel to land the wheat in Dunedin. They ask, Is this fair? There is also tho„ commission on wheat, and it is very hard to see why the farmers should have to pay this. These matters need looking into. Oats have changed hands at about 3s 9d per bushel, and although a drop took place, the price will probably be much higher at the end of the winter. Turnips took the blight in a good many paddocks early in the vcar. but seem to have made a recovery. Some fairly good crops are to bo seen Harvest Thanksgiving.—A thanksgiving service was held in the Presbyterian Church last Sunday, when a fine display of com and vegetables was seen; the same to be sold, and" the proceeds to be sent to > the Orphanage, Dunedin. A large number of worshippers attended. The Rev. John Jtyley was the preacher, and gave one of hi 3 splendid sermons. Very appropriate hymns were rendered, and th» anthem "Beautiful Golden Grain" was sung bythe choir, led by Mrs Ironsido, who presided at the organ in her usual efficient manner. Personal.—lt is whispered that a wellknown young sporting gentleman of this

district is to join the ranks of the Benedicts early next month. The young lady of hia choice is also well -known and highly respected here.