The Country

Otago Witness, Issue 3869, 8 May 1928, Page 35

The Country

LAKE COUNTY. May 3.—The weather continues changeable, and a good deal of rain has fallen during the week. The total rainfall in the district for the month of April was G. 05 in. Householders’ Meetings.—The following additional district school committees were elected on the 23rd ult. :—Lower ohotover — Messrs R. N. Grant (chairman), C. Hausen (secretary), J. A. Bagrie, J. T. Gray, and A. Grant. Arthur’s Point—Messrs James M'Millan (chairman and secretary), C. Macdonald, A. Atley, W. Gordon, and W. Saunders. Glenorchy—Messrs G. Reid (chairman), S. Knowles (secretary), J. Forbes, W. Northcoat, and G. M’Meeking. Rees Valiev— Messrs C. H. Koch (chairman), A. W. Scott (secretary), J. Cronin, H. Adams, and J. B. Aitken. Kingston—Messrs R. L. Bennison (chairman), A. M’Caughan (secretary), N. Wilkison, M. Phelan, and R. A. Carruthers. Coronation Ceremony.—The coronation ceremony in connection with the Queenstown Catholic Presbytery Queen Carnival took place in the Garrison Hall, Queensfptvn, on Thursday evening last, when Miss Catherine M’Caughan (country princess) was crowned queen of the carnival. There was a very large attendance, and everything in connection with the function passed off successfully. Football.—There was a large attendance of members at the annual meeting of the Queenstown Football Club, held on Fridayevening last. Mr James M’Mullan was reelected president, and Messrs J. J. M’Neill and M’Mullan delegates to the Wakatipu sub-union. Mr Arthur Farrant was appointed captain, Mr G. Muir deputy captain of the senior team, and Mr R. Robins captain of the second 15. Father Ardagh was appointed coach. Death.—The death occurred in Dunedin on Saturday last of a former resident of the district in the person of Mrs Austin, relict of Mr James Austin, Cardrona. Deceased, who was 77 years of age, was a native of Glasgow, and came to New Zealand with her parents in 1863. She resided at Oamaru for a time, and, with her late husband, subsequently settled at Cardrona, where she resided for upwards of half a century. Five years ago the late Mrs Austin made her home in Arrowtown, and in November last she left for Dunedin for medical treatment. Of a quiet and retiring disposition, the late Mrs Austin was respected by all who knew her. Her husband died in 1917, .and she leaves a family of four sons—Donald (Dunedin), William (Wanganui), Andrew (Waihi), and Alan (Arrowtown) —and six daughters—Mesdames G. Dudley and V. Baker (Arrowtown), Fraser (Auckland), Farrell (Onehunga), Chalmers (Port Chal.mers), and Howejohns (Dunedin). The funeral took place at the Anderson's Bay cemetery on Tuesday. Wakatipu Collie Club.—A meeting of members of the Wakatipu Collie Club was held in Arrowtown on Saturday evening last, Mr D. Jardine (president) presiding over a good attendance. The interim balance sheet showed the total receipts to be £l4l 19s Cd, and expenditure £l2B 5s Cd. showing a surplus of £l3 14s, which, with last year's balance of £lO, make £23 14s with which to commence next season. General.—Poppy Day in Queenstown and district realised £2s.—Messrs H. Adams and Sons have disposed of Mount Earnslaw station, Glenorchy, to Mr Charles Sloper, formerly hotelkeeper of Roxburgh. It is understood that Mr W. J. Love, of Tarras, will act as manager of the station. ALEXANDRA May 4.—Very cold and boisterous weather has of late been experienced, and it seems as if a sudden change to winter has now come, though up to t>-day exceptionally warm weather has been the lot of Alexandra and its surrounding districts. Compared with last year, conditions are much more favourable, and it is to be hoped that a repetition of last year’s severity will not be encountered this season. Sports.—Already all winter sports are in full swing, and football, hockey, and golf are being played by the various clubs. The Golf Club is hoping to erect a veranda round its pavilion on the links. This wlil be of material benefit to those players who would like a spell and a smoke, which they will be able to some extent to enjoy in comparative safety, for instead of being embarrassed by a fusilade of golf balls rattling about their ears, they will be able to smoke unconcernedly while the said balls rattle harmlessly on the roof above them. “ Fore! ” will be the only warning now required for them.—A new gun club has started in Alexandra, and members are very keen and have already had some splendid practices. Last Saturday was opening day, when there was a very good turn out and some capital sport indulged in. Church Jubilee.—The Presbyterian Church held its sixtieth jubilee celebrations on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday of last week. During the morning of Sunday the Rev. Alex. Watson, a former minister of the church, conducted divine service in the presence of a very large congregation, and preached an eloquent aad impressive sermon. Then, in the afternoon. Professor Hewitsori addressed the Sunday school scholars. The church was again crowded in the evening, when Professor Howitson addressed those present. Services were also held in otlmr parts of the parish, such as in Earnsc eugh and Clyde. On Monday a reunion soc’n’ was held in the town hall, which was tastefully decorated for the occasion. The Rev. sames Robertson, 8.A., minister of the parish, occupied the chair, and was ably supported by Revs. Watson, Don, Crockett, Collie, and Messrs Smart and Terry, all of whom gave some very interesting addresses, most of which were of a reminiscent nature. A number of musical items rendered by various members of the choir added variety to a really splendid entertainment, at the close of which tea was served by the ladies of the congregation. At the close of the function Mr Ashworth, session clerk, moved a hearty vote of thanks to all who had made the evening a success.—Tuesday evening was devoted to a children’s treat, wht’i about 150 youngsters sat down to a glorious spread, for which they had evidently prepared by religiously fasting, for it took but little time before all plates were clean and empty. Those that could move about with a degree of comfort after the onslaught on the tables had taken place,- indulged in games until about 9 o’clock in the evening. OPHIR. May 4.—The last month of autumn puts the finishing touch to the wonderful picture of poplar and willow and the trees of the orchard. A trip to Central Otago at this time, either by wav of Roxburgh with miles of orchards, or via Middlemarch, and the long lines of Lombardy poplar, is well worth while. The balsam poplar was first to lose

its leaves several weeks ago, and just now the Lombardy poplar and the water willow are a wonderful sight. The weeping willow is still bright green, for its leaves are first to shoot and last to fall.

Electrical Extension.—By this time next year it is expected that this part of the Manuherikia Valley as far as Lauder will be enjoying the advantages of electric light and power by being linked up with the Earnscleugh converting station, to which the supply comes from Roxburgh. On March 26 there was a good meeting in the Peace Memorial Hall to meet seven (out of nine) members of the Central Otago Electric Power Board. Mr John M’Knight presided, and addresses were given by Messrs W. Bringans (Alexandra), J. R. Webb (Lowburn), C. Weaver (Earnscleugh), S. A. Stevens and W’. .M. Lopdell (Clyde), and C. Sanders and G. wishart (Cromwell), all of whom, from personal experience, recommended the proposi- \* on * A.. E. Ellis, engineer-manager for the board, supplied information leaarding the places which it is proposed to link up, a.nd the cost of thorough reticulation, viz., £24.000, which requires an annual revenue ot about £2500. Within a fortnight after, the meeting the local committee—Messrs S. Leask, J. M’Knight, and A. Secular—canvassed the Matakanui, Lauder, and Ophir .J, B*' 8 *' an( l obtained guarantees totalling .1:2000. As a result the E.P. Board met on the Ist inst., and decided to apply to the Loans Board for permission to borrow up to £30,000 to finance the scheme. Agricultural and Pastoral.—The Central Otago A., and P. Association held its annual meeting in Ophir on April 13, the president, Mr A. Armstrong, being in the chair. The balance sheet showed a satisfactory credit balance of nearly £lO6. A bonus of 7gns was voted to the secretary, Mr E. Duggan. Mr Armstrong was re-elected president without opposition ; Messrs Clare, Butcher, T. Read, and Jopp vice-presidents ; Mr James Horn, M.P.. patron: and Mr H. E. Stevens, auditor. Finance and Grounds Committees were set up, and it was decided to hold the annual show at the Omakau grounds on December 5. Farewell Socials. —Ophir Hall was the scene of two very successful farewell socials last month. The first was tendered to Mr John Leamy on April 3. Mr Leamy came to Central Otago from Ireland about 45 years ago, and after mining for some years at Tinkers (now Matakanui) he took up land not far from Omakau. where he has since lived. He is now going on a visit to his old home in Ireland. Mr John Clare presided, and on behalf of the community presented Mr Leamy "with a case of pipes and an umbrella. Messrs B. Flannery. J. M’Knight, Fathers O'Connell and . Spillane, Messrs G. Alexander, W. A. Bodkin, and T. Donnelly all paid tributes to the worth of Mr Leamy.—The last was on April 18. given to Mrs J. Guildford, who Is a native of Ida Valley, and who had carried on business in Ophir for nine years. Mr John M’Knight presented Mrs Guildford with a handsome chiming clock, and her young son with a volume of the Boy's Own Annual. When making the presentation Mr M’Knight enumerated a long list of services rendered to the community by the guest. Mr John Clare and the Rev. A. Don also spoke briefly—the former on behalf of the Memorial Hall Committee, and the latter for the local Presbyterian Church members. Mrs Guildford replied very feelingly, and said that as long as she lived she would never forget the kindness of the people of Ophir and Poolburn. She intends going to Timaru to reside. Mr W. L. Martin, recently of Mataura, has taken over Mrs Guildford's general store business. Clearing Sale.—On April 20 the house and land, with some stock, implements, and hay, owned by the late Mr Edward Kearney, was sold at public auction by Mr John Rivers, of Alexandra. A considerable number of people attended the sale, and the bidding over several lots was very brisk. A total of nearly £4OO was realised. The land (20 acres) with residence and outhouses bought £3lO, and a stack of hay £3O. The farm was bought by a local resident through an agent. As the title is that of a “ miscellaneous license,” the price of about £l5 an acre is generally considered fairly high. This selection is only a few chains away from the site of the original homestead of Mr B'ack, after whom the township of Ophir got its old name of Blacks. Presbyterian Church. —On the evening of Saturday, April 21, a meeting was held in the Ophir Presbyterian Church to meet the Rev. Alan Whitelaw, travelling secretary of the Young Men's Bible Class Union of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand. Mr O. C. Austing, church secretary, received only several hours’ notice of Mr W’hitelaw's wish to visit Ophir, yet there was a fair attendance. The Rev. G. H. Crockett presided. After an excellent address by Mr Whitelaw on the objects and practical working of the Bible classes it was decided unanimously to form a mixed Bib 1 e class in connection with the union, and the Rev. Mr Crockett was chosen as leader of the class, which will meet every Thursday evening. Blacks School Committee.—Unusual interest was this year shown in the annual meeting of householders for the election of a school committee. For some years past the number of householders has been so small that much difficulty was experienced in forming a full committee of five persons. On April 30, however, nearly 20 persons were present, and seven nominations wer received. Three of the old committee were balloted out. The present committee Is Mr R. Craisr (chairman). Mr c. Caldwell fsecretary and treasurer). Mrs S. Leask, Mrs R Craig, and Mr R, Morgan. Rugby Football.—The Matakanui footballers onen their s»i>son to-morrow with their senior team meeting Q.lyde at Clyde and the B team playing Moa Creek at Omakau. Two preliminary encounters have token nlace. On Anrll 7 Duned I-n Pirates Club sent up a team of five First Grade and 10 lower grades to Omakau.-when Matakanui won bv 11 points (penalty goal. try. and goaled try) to 3 points fan une-m’—-1--’ '. The afternoon was rather warm for vigorous play in the first half, which was som

ragged on both sides. During the second spell the play improved greatlv and -mns marked bv a great effort to score on the part of the Pirates, who for nearly 10 minutes pressed their nnonents within the’r twenty-five, but the defence of Matakanui was too pood. Mr GllUcV f Alhambra) refereed.—On Anrll 21 Wanaka came to Omakau. and were beaten by 5 points (converted try) to Matakanul’s 11 (penalty goal and two tries—one converted). The ground was in first-class order, and the teams played a good game, though somewhat “ willing ” towards the end. Matakanui could not get Its full senior strength, and had to play several Junior Grade. Mr Campbell, of Alexandra, was referee. Tho Weather.—The month of April was remarkable for a heavy rainfall and mild temperature. Rain fell upon 12 days, total-

ling 3.29 in, which is more than double the usual fall in April. Tho average shade temP era ture (day and night) was nearly 52deg ; th e sun the average maximum was nearly 90deg ; on the ground, nearly 37deg. The ground temperature fell below 32.0 deg (freezing point) on only 10 mornings, compared with 20 mornings in April, 1927. The copious rainfall, combined with the mild atmosphere, have produced extraordinary growth, so that the sunny slopes and open flats are covered with grass as i.i spring During the last four days the barometer has been extremely unsteady, with many signs of more rain, but only 8 points has fallen. The mountain ranges'are perfectly free from snow, and the streams are again running strong. OTAUTAU. May 3.—The annual meeting of the Otautau Golf Club was held on Monday evening, Mr R. Buchan (president) presiding. The annual report showed that a successful year had been experienced, and the balance sheet revealed a credit balance of £8 2s lOd. The following officers were elected :—Patron, Mr R. Buchanan; president, Mr Mroie; vicepresident, Mr James M’Gill ; secretary and treasurer, Mr A. Fisher ; committee —Mrs Ireland, Misses M'Dougall and Renowden, Messrs Mills, H. O. Williams, and G. 11. Hodges ; Grounds Committee —president, vicepresident, and secretary ; club captain, Mr James M’Gill ; selector and handicapper, Mr Moore. The subscription was fixed a’ £1 Is for gentlemen, and 10s 6d for ladies. The fixing of the opening day was left in the hands of the president and secretary, an I it was decided to invite sister clubs. It was left in the hands of the president and secretary to make a pr. sontation to Mr W. Fraser for the use of his property. Mr M’Gill offered trophies for the championship events, and Messrs Fisher and Moore also donated trophies, these being accepted with thanks.

Public Library.—A meeting of subscribers was held last Friday evening, when Mr G. B. Burns piesided over a i a tendance of 14. The balance sheet was presented, showin a credit of £1.4 17s 6:1. The following officers were elected :—President, Dr W. if. Reekie; s cretary and trea urer, Mr G. B. Burns ; committee—Mesdames Blaikie, Porteous, and Saxelby, Messrs Rowan, Ballam, Booth, M’Crostie. and Baker. A vote ol appreciation of the serv’ces of the librarian (Miss Gould) was passed. Birchwood Hunt.—The opening meet for the 192 S season took place at the utautau racecourse on Wednesday, when there was a fair attendance. The hounds ran well tor the opening run. The following tcok part: The master (Mr 11. O. Williams), on I’unjaub ; deputy master (Mr J. S. Hazlett), on Salisbury; huntsman (Mr M. O Brien), on Silvery; whip (Mr J. Langford), on Lady Chicken : Miss Pears, on Fleetham-Monica ; Messrs A. M’Kay,-on Ramanawhiri; F. Langford, on Soldier's Dream; 11. D. Irving, on Aeroplane; V. Langford, oa Wairio ; John Looney, on Windermere; W. Humphries, on Tonj’ ; and O. Boult, on Chinaman. Afternoon tea was dispensed, and at a convenient interval Mr A. C. Mills (president) thanked the property owners (Messrs Pears, Lindsay, and the Otautau Racing Club) and the public for their attendance. A jumping competition was won by Punjaub (Mr H. O. Williams), Lady Chicken (Mr J. Langford) being second, and Aeroplane (Mr H. D. Irving) third. MANDEVILLE. May 3.—The weather of late has been of a moist nature, making up for the long spell without .rain. The sun has been hidden for just on three weeks, save at short intervals, and rain has fallen on most days, at times very heavily. All the local streams have been very fuxl. overflowing ,*,•; lying country. However, the weather kept up to enable harvest work to be completed under the best of conditions, and rain was wanted to soften the ground to enable the plough to commence work. The year has been a profitable one from the farmer's point of view. Prices have been good for almost all lines of produce. The farmer is a much more contented man than he was 12 months ago, and his banker is also putting in less sleepless nights. School Committee. —The local School Committee election again created a good amount of interest, those rejected 12 months ago seeking re-election, and the present members offering their services for a further term. The result after close voting returned about half and half. Those holding the reins during the past year have carried out many improvements to the s hool grounds, and evidently* the present committee intends carrying on in the same progressive manner. The members have starred euchre parties in tho Public Hall to raise the necessary funds. The first night was last Friday, and the attendance was very good, which augurs well for the season. Shooting.—The shooting season opened on the Ist of the month. Local sports, with a good sprinkling of visitors, were in evidence along the banks of all the rivers, in the swamps, on th" lagoons—in fact, in a’l plants where the ducks settle or may settle —with varied success. Some bagged the limit in a short time; others waited in vain hour after hour, going home without seeing a duck within range. WAIKAIA. May 3.—The weather his been more or less stormy for the past week or more, and is still unsettled. Shooting.—The Rifle Club held a Qualification Match 03 Sa’urday, April 28, and despite the unfavourable weather conditions all qualified. Personal. —Mr Hugh Martin has sold his Wendonside property to Mr William Johnson. It is Mr Martin's intention to visit his parents in Ireland.—Mr and Mrs Colin Robertson, Freshford, have gone on a visit to Dr and Mrs Malcolm Robertson, of Christchurch. P.W.M.U.—At the last meeting of the P. Mrs Beattie, of Gore, gave a very interestmg address on mission work. Afterwards the ladies provided an excellent afternoon tea, and a pleasant time was spent and enjoyed by all present. Improvements.—The Coronation Hall Wendonside, has been lined, and other Improvements added, bringing it right up to date. The hall will be reopened wth a grand dance on Thursday. May 10. Duck Shooting.—The season opened in favourable weather on May 1. Of the large number who went only two secured the limit bagt while others met with fair success. OUTRAN May s.—Wet weather has prevailed for the past week, culminating on Friday evening in a severe storm, with driving wind Anzac Day.—The Anzac Day service was conducted in the Oddfellows’ Hall. Mr A J Stewart being in the chair. Mr G. P Curtiss was the chief speaker, and gave a stirring address, making a strong plea for the wearing of war decorations on Anzac Day. He was supported on the platform by the Rov. Mr Mitchell, ot South Taiorl, and Mr Keane, of West Taieri. After the service many beautiful wreaths were placed at the foot of the cenotaph by Mrs Sprott, who lost three sons at the war. Accident.—On Tuesday morning a distressing accident occurred to Mr J. Hall junr., of Maungatua. While he was duck shooting his gun accidentally discharged and severely damaged his left hand and’ forearm. He was attended by Dr Wylie, and was removed to the Public Hospital, where

torily ntlerStan<1 ’ 110 18 pr °B res sing satisfacMay Day.—The first of Mav was ushered in with the usual booming of guns, but so tar we have not heard of any big bags being taken, the ducks being hard to get Householders.—The annual meeting of householders was held on Monday night and was poorly attended. Dr Wylie was voted to the chair, last year’s committee being reelected, namely, Messrs F. Docherty (chairI °°” ) * D ' M ‘ Lar »n (secretary), W. Koefed, J. Bathgate, and Owen Hughes. As this was the last meeting of householders at which Mr Harrison, the head master, would be present, it was decided unanimously to place on record in the minutes a deep appreciation o< the services he had rendered to the s ’hnol. , Farewell.—On Thursday afternoon the wi,h their parents, assembled at the school to make a presentation to their teacher, Mr Harrison, who is retiring. In a neat and happy speech Miss June Titchener, On “ e half of the children, handed him a walking stick and silver fruit knife. Afternoon tea was dispensed and the gathering dispersed with hearty cheers for Mr and Mrs Harrison.—On Friday evening, in spite ot stermy conditions, a large and representative* gathering of Taieri people assembled in the Oddfellows' Hall to bid farewell to Mr Karr,son and family. Mr Docherty senr. (chaiiman of the Outram Town Board) presided. A short musical programme was enjoyed, and in an interval Dr Wylie presented Mr and Mrs Ilarrison with a wellfilled wallet of notes, wishing them long years of veil-earned rest and happiness in their new home at Anderson’s Bay. Mi«s B Harrison was presented with a crystal gob'et set and vase, and Miss D. Harrison with a e auicure set and a paper knife. Re-le-ence;, to Mr Harrison’s work in the disti”c-. were made by Mr A. Walker, bowling club ;. Mr A. Grant. Piesbvterian Church ; Nichol, Library Committee ; Mr J. I.aniu :man, Mt.le Choir; Mr F. Docherty junr., School Committee: Mr O. Hughes, Anglican Church, and Mr James Blair, cha:;mr:*.i of the Taieri County Council. Mr Harrison replied in a few well-chosen words, ami after supper had been handed CV( ming closed with the singing of Auld Lung Syne,” Mr Searle, the lewly appemted teacher, takes up his duties after the term holidays. VVILLOWBRIDGE. May 5.-—The weather broke here last week. Much rain fell in three or four davs. and stopped threshing and potato digging. Although most of the threshing has been done round here, there is still a large number of stacks to thresh. Farmers are holding their wheat in the hope of a better price than is now offering. The average yields have been very satisfactory, and in some have exceeded expectations. Bennett Bros, had a paddock of Dreadnought wheat which gave tho handsome return of 80 bushels per acre, which should somewhat repay them for their work in growing this cereal. Potato digging was only starting when rain brought it to a standstill for the last week. The tubers are turning out fairly well, but i' would be hard to say how they will yield until general digging starts, which should be when the ground is dry enough to get tho diggers going. Blight is prevalent, but some crops on lighter land have been fortunate enough to escape it. Frost has not been bad so far, and potato growers will be anxious to get their digging finished before the hard frosts set in. Manj* of tho local farmers took advantage of the farmers' trip to Invercargill, and returned much impressed with Southland and its hosp-hable people.