WOMEN’S DIVISION N.Z. FARMERS’ UNION

Otago Witness, Issue 4042, 1 September 1931, Page 17

WOMEN’S DIVISION N.Z. FARMERS’ UNION

OUR NOTICE BOARD. Dominion President— Mrs C. C. Jackson, Kopuaranga, Wairarapa. Dominion Secretary—• Mrs P. Smith, P.O. Box 1601, Wellington. Dominion Correspondent— Mrs O. Benton, Auroa. Otago Provincial President — Mrs J. F. Drake, Berwick. Otago Provincial Secretary— Miss F. V. Finlayson, P.O. Box 643, Dunedin.

TOUR OF CENTRAL OTAGO.

By Eileen Service.

(Special for the Otago Witness.) The tour of Central Otago branches of the W.D.F.U., commenced on August 17 and concluded last Thursday evening, was from every point of view beneficial and satisfactory. There were seven in the party—Airs J. F. Drake, provincial president for Otago Women’s Division N.Z.F.U.; Aliss F. V. Finlayson, Otago provisional organising secretary; Air A. C. Cameron, provincial secretary New Zealand Farmers’ Union, general manager Otago Farmers’ Mutual Fire Insurance Association, manager Producers Ltd., and past president Dunedin Chamber of Commerce; Air A. C. Leary, of Evans Flat, a past president New Zealand Farmers’ Union and a director of South Otago Freezing Company, Ltd-, and Dominion Fertiliser Company, . Ltd.; Miss Eileen Service, of the Otago Witness literary staff; and Airs A. C. Leary and Miss Betty Drake (the last two being present in a non-offieial capacity). Transport was made by means of the ears of Mrs Drake and Air Cameron, hospitality being provided by members of the branches visited.

The weather was delightful for travelling. The country, benefiting from its winter sleep, was beheld to the best advantage for the present time of year; and the variety of scenery witnessed—rolling downs, clean uplands, stretches of fruitlands, snow-covered peaks, and lakes

lying at the feet of mountains—made the trip one of-extreme pleasure. The young grass was beginning to show, and' here and there were budding willow trees and early crocuses, and sometimes new lambs stumbling about on awkward legs. Everywhere were promises of growth and signs of the approach of spring. It was customary to hold two meetings a day—one in the afternoon and one in the evening, the latter being a combined meeting at which both men and women were present, to be addressed jointly for the first part of the evening and later to divide—the women under Airs Drake and Aliss Finlayson and the men under Air Cameron and Mr Leary. In every case views were exchanged and debatable/ points discussed, the result being a profit-* able exchange of opinions.

On the first day there were a ladies’ meeting at Evans Flat in the afternoon and a combined meeting at Beaumont in the evening; on the second, a ladies’ afternoon meeting at Crookston and a combined evening meeting at Tapanui. The W.D.F.U. branches in all these four districts were strong and flourishing, and several very interesting points were discussed, one of them being in regal’d to the raising of the status of domestic work. Woman's place being naturally in the home, it was ooiuted out that housework should be lifted to a higher plane than it now occupies. Suggested ways of accomplishing this were by offering domestic servants regular hours, paying them for overtime, and addressing them as “ Aliss ” instead of by their Christian names, such improvements of attitude being likely to put housework on a much more dignified level than it enjoys at present.

On the third day were an afternoon meeting at Kelso and an evening meeting at Aloa Flat. At the former the advisability of carrying on work at a branch not very strong as regards~fiiembers was discussed, the final decision being that numbers do not really matter as long as the spirit of the members is in accordance with W.D.F.U. ideals At the evening gathering a branch was .formed under those very conditions, for though, owing to various difficulties, it is impossible for a meeting to be held more than once or twice a year at Aloa Flat, there is no reason, why the district should not have a branch of “ silent members ” giving their support to the division and at time enjoying its benefits. New country was visited on the fourth day. In the afternoon a ladies’ meeting was held at Ettrick; in the evening, a combined meeting at Miller’s Flat, where,, the occasion coinciding with the first birthday _ partj- of the branch, a very festive time was spent. Cromwell, on the evening of the fifth day, was also celebrating its birthday party. At both places there were musical and elocutionary items to add variety to a happy evening.

The sixth day saw another change of country. At Tarras in the afternoon a discussion similar to that which had taken place at Kelso was held, the members having wondered whether, when it was so difficult to hold meetings, it was worth while keeping the branch in existence. Mrs Drake put forth the same arguments as before, and urged the branch to give them due consideration. That evening a combined meeting w.as held at Hawea.

The next day being idle the party had an opportunity qf exploring the distric/

in which they found themselves, with the result that Lakes Hawea and Wanaka were visited and their beauty spots found. On the day following—the seventh—Lake Wakatipu was also seen. There was a ladies’ meeting at Queensrtown that afternoon, and in the evening a combined meeting at Arrowtown, where a branch of the W.D.F.U. was formed. The meetings on the eighth day were at Clyde and Alexandra, on the ninth at Omakau, and on the tenth at Oturehua (a combined meeting) and Ranfurly (Maniototo branch). , After the meeting at ‘ Oturehua, the members of the party visited the Golden Progress gold mine as the guests of Alessrs Smith and Becker. The meeting at Ranfurly took the form of a social evening, and provided a fitting ending to a very successful tour. Although it is possible to do much by correspondence, better results are undoubtedly obtained when people can meet face to face. Hence, under this inspiration the tour was organised, it being advisable that branches of the W.D.F.U. — more especially the outlying branches — should be kept in close contact with the work of the Otago and Dominion Executives. and allowed an opportunity for the interchange of helpful suggestions with regard to future work and plans. The fact that Mr Cameron and Mr Leary were in the party added greatly to the value of the tour, for, providing for the combined meetings as it did, it enabled the men in the audience to hear a woman’s point of view and the women.to be equally entertained by the outlook of a man. Not the least instructive part of the meetings took place when, both men and women being in the hall, the speakers were constrained to be amusing, for “ many a true word is spoken in jest.” There is no doubt that the Women’s Division is planned on extremely constructive lines. The first organisation in New Zealand for the benefit of country women, it is doing all it can to multiply such benefits, improve the country woman’s lot, and offer wholesome interests for her and her daughter. It provides an organisation and a common meeting ground; it sends out lecturers and demonstrators to give the members mental stimulus and inspire them to pass on their knowledge to others in the district less fortunate than themselves: and it is the best medium for the work of the Home Science Extension .Service. At the meetings held ing the tour, information was given rC-' garding the visiting housekeeper scheme by which experienced housekeepers are sent at a moment’s notice to take complete charge of country homes; the free Book Club, which sends reading matter to out back districts; the facilities offered by the division for reducing buying costs; the proposed setting up of a W.D.F.U. market in Dunedin, with the aim of providing ready pocket money for those whose produce is bought; the work of the “Use More Wool” campaign in the division; the proposed idea of a visiting sewing woman for isolated country districts; the suggestion that there be an annual camp at which delegates from country districts could undergo a refresher course on various subjects; and similar topics. The whole showed the working of a lively spirit of progress and co-operation. Perhaps it is because they deal less directly witlj. the superficial aspects of life than those of a serious and fundamental nature, that the women in the country seem to possess a wider knowledge of patience, sympathy, and kindness than many of their town sisters. During their tour, the members of the party were given the most genuine hospitality. No amopnt of trouble seemed too much to be made for them, and everywhere they were conscious of an atmosphere of charity and goodwill most delightful to feel. The tour was a vital example of “ give and take,” and it can only be hoped that the party left behind them some small degree of the happiness, hope, and new vision which they themselves brought back with them when the tour was completed, for, if they did, the value of the trip is undoubted. REPORTS OF BRANCHES. TAHATIKA. The monthly meeting of the branch was held in the Tahatika Hall on August 15, Airs Jewell presiding. The competition for the best article knitted or crocheted in wool was well contested, the articles being of a very high standard, and affording much interest. The prize was won by Miss Morris. A box from tlfe Home Science Extension Service on “ Home Dyeing ” was opened, and proved both interesting and instructive. The first anniversary of the establishment of the branch frflls on September 9, and it has been decided to hold a birthday party on that day. Airs Thomson is to be asked to make the birthday cake. The next

branch meeting will take place at Purekireki,, when a competition for articles made 'from old stockings will be held. The hostesses for the evening were Mrs Finlayson, Mrs Jewell, Airs M'Calman, and Mrs Johnston. ... EVANS FLAT. The monthly meeting of the Evans Flat branch of the Women-’s Division of the Farmers’ Union was held at the Evans Flat School on the afternoon of August 17, the attendance being a particularly good one cansidering the inclemency of the weather. The meeting was opened with the reading of the women’s creed. The president (Aliss Brook) introduced Mrs Drake (provincial president), and welcomed her and Aliss Finlayson (provincial secretary) to the meeting. Airs Cotton (vice-president) endorsed Aliss Brooks’s remarks. ’Airs Drake then gave a very entertaining address on her recent visit to the conference held at Wellington, explaining the remits sent in by the Otago branches. Aliss Finlayson also gave a very interesting address on the activities of the various branches in Otago and Southland. Airs Robson moved a hearty vote of thanks to the speakers. Afternoon tea was then dispensed, the hostesses being Alesdames Robson and Fahey. WEST TAIERI. The West Taieri branch of the "Women's Division of the Farmers’ Union celebrated its first birthday party on August 20, when over 200 members and friends assembled in the Oddfellows’ Hall at Outram. Airs T. Grant president), in welcoming the company, expressed regret at the unavoidable absence of Airs Strong (dean of the home science faculty). Air A. 0. Cameron (secretary of the Farmers’ Union), and Aliss F. V. Finlayson (secretary of the Otago Women’s Division). Air A. Y. Hendry (chairman of the Outram Town Board) also welcomed the visitors. Airs Drake (president of the Otago Provincial Council) explained the origin of the Women’s Division in New Zealand, and congratulated the branch on the wonderful success attained in its first year. Airs S. Al. Park also extended birthday congratulations and eulogised the fine example set by the Taieri women pioneers. Delegates from other branches and from the Alen’s Division also spoke. Several excellent double quartets were rendered by Airs Mair, Misses Hamilton, Southgate and Walker, and Alessrs J. H. Bathgate, W. Bathgate, W. Alarshall, and A. Walker. Mr J. H Bathgate contributed a clarinet solo and Aliss Southgate and Air Hamilton vocal solos, all the items being much appreciated by the audience. Miss Wills played the accompaniments. At this stage Hora) tributes were handed to the two chief speakers (Alesdaines Drake and Park) and to Airs T. Howell (secretary), and members of the branch presented a small gift to Airs T. Grant and to Mrs George Bathgate, the first president and first secretary respectively, to whom they felt they owed so much of the success of this first year. A very clever and entertaining play entitled “ The Bathroom Door ” was then presented by Alisses Thompson, Williamson, and Blair and Alessrs Blair, F. Doherty, and J. A. Bathgate. At its conclusion Miss B. Fraser briefly thanked all those who had helped in the evening’s entertainment. Supper was then served. The cake, with its solitary candle, was brought in by Airs' F. Snow and cut by Airs E. APLeod (the oldest member). A very successful and happy function was brought to its ■ close by an hour’s dancing. „¥ ¥ ¥ CLYDE. A special meeting of the branch was held last Tuesday, and was presided over by Airs W. Annan. Alembers assembled for the purpose of hearing addresses delivered by Airs J. F. Drake. Otago president of the Women’s Division, Aliss E. Service, of the literary staff of the Otago Witness, and Aliss F. V. Fin-’ Jayson, organising secretary for the Women’s Division. Airs Drake’s address was a very interesting explanation of the annual conference and what it aimed to do. Miss Service’s address dealt with dancing, ancient and modern, and its scope among peoples of all nations as an expression of joy or sorrow. - Aliss Finlayson spoke briefly upon the activities of the division in general. After yie addresses there was a discussion, and at the conclusion a hearty vote of thanks to the visitor* 'was proposed by the president. * ¥ ¥ * HILLEND. The Hillend branch of the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union enter-

tained the local children, with theii parents, at a party in the hall on Saturday afternoon of August 22. A very pleasant afternoon was spent, adults and children mingling in a number of games which all enjoyed immensely. When afternoon tea had been partaken of the children rendered items. Iris Roulston, on behalf of the children, thanked their hostesses for the enjoyable afternoon. Airs G. Linklater (president of the local branch), in replying, suggested that the party be made an annual function. All then joined in community singing. ¥ ¥ ¥ CROMWELL. A very happy and auspicious event in the history of the Cromwell branch of the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union took place in Roberts’s Hall on the evening of August 21, when the first birthday party of the division was held. The hall had been artistically decorated by Alesdames Webb and Yeoman, who had introduced the division’s colours x of red, blue, white, and green for the purpose. A panel covered the back of the stage, on which had been painte<’ an enlarged copy of the division’s badge, which made an effective background and greatly enhanced the decorative effect. In icr opening remarks the president (Airs J. F. Smith) welcomed those present, and especially those visitors from the Dunedin and neighbouring branches. She then introduced Mrs Drake (provincial president), Miss Finlayson (organising secretary), Air A. C. Cameron (secretary, Farmers’ Union). Air and Airs Leary, and Misses Drake and E. Service, who had journeyed from Dunedin especially to be present. After some excellent musical and elocutionary' items had been rendered, the members of the official party from Dunedin addressed the assemblage on subjects of absorbing interest to the farming community generally. A delicious supper was then served, and the beautiful birthday cake (made by the president) on which was affixed one lighted candle, was cut by Airs Drake, who wished the division every success on its first birthday. During the evening opportunity was taken to present the ladies of the official party with beautiful raffia and cane fruit baskets filled with delicious, rosy apples gathered from some of Cromwell’s sunny orchards, the handles of the baskets being prettily looped with narrow ribbons of red, blue, white, and green. Alesdames Smith (president) and AlacAlillan (secretary) were also the recipients of baskets. An enjoyable evening'was terminated by all joining hands and singing “Auld Lang Syne.” ¥ ¥ ¥ BEAUMONT. On August 17 the members of the Beaumont Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union were addressed at a special meeting by Airs Drake (provincial president of the Women’s Division of the Fanners’ Union), Aliss Finlayson (organising secretary), and Air A. C. Cameron (secretary, Farmers’ Union). The meeting was well attended, and opportunity was taken to discuss many varied topics. The local members of the Farmers’ Union and others were present, and after supper had been partaken of Air Cameron met them privately’, while Airs Drake and Aliss Finlayson had an informal meeting with the women. A concert organised by the branch was given on August 21, and proved a great success. Air Irvine was ' chairman. Songs and recitations occupied the first half of the programme, and after the interval, during which a stall for the sale of goods and for the exhibi tion of work done by members throughout the year was inspected with much interest, a one-act play was presented. Supper and a dance followed. ¥ ¥ ¥ OAAIARU. The monthly meeting of the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union was held on Friday afternoon, and was attended by a fair number of ladies and visitors from ' other branches. The meeting was presided over by the president (Airs Aleek). Correspondence was read in connection with the woollen industry, stating that spinning wheels could be obtained for a small price, and instruction could also be given if there was sufficient demand. A prize was also offered for a suggestion for a new motto to be added to the present one, and also a prize to the member selling the largest number of household guides. The division cookery book letter was received pointing out the advantages of rest homes for the country women in Australia, and the pressing need for such homes in New Zealand.

An interesting and instructive address was given by Airs Tait on “ Poultry Keeping.” The subject was dealt with in a

very practical manner, showing how poul . try keeping could be made a very profit- ' able side line on an - ordinary farm, and | many useful hints were given on the rearing of chickens and the housing and feeding of poultry. In conclusion the speaker mentioned a number of uses for eggs, apart from food. A vote of thanks was accorded the speaker. ¥ ¥ ¥ INGLEWOOD. At the monthly meeting of this branch, despite the inclement weather, there was a fair attendance. Airs Alarsh presided. The president reported having dispatched a box of books to Okoke for distribution among the book club members, also that the junior housekeeper, having completed a lengthy term at Kaimata, was being transferred to Bell Block. The junior had now been replaced by a division housekeeper semi-pernianently. Mrs Alarsh announced that all those junior members who would properly look after their plots and promised to grow with the idea of exhibiting their blooms at the autumn show would be given in October six good exhibition chrysanthemum plants, and Airs Alarsh would from time to time advise the girls regarding staking; disbudding, etc. To create further interest in the gardening movement it was decided to denate a silver vase to the junior exhibitor who gained most points at the chrysanthemum show. Airs Bennett introduced a scheme whereby members could make pocket money, and at the same time help the. division funds —to work for a bazaar to take place at the end of November, whereby 3d for every Is was to be retained by the branch and the other 9d was for the individual member’s realised goods, be they fancywork, arts, home cookery, produce, seedlings, or plants. Airs Alarsh gave a comprehensive report of the Dominion Conference. Airs Alarsh said that while conference week was a strenuous one. there were very many pleasant interludes, and one came baclf with a much broader outlook upon life. Alesdames Bennett and Y"eates had on exhibition two “ wool ” down quilts, examples of their enterprise and handiwork in using teased wool. Members were interested in viewing the samples of raw and washed wool. When teased the wool presented a beautiful silky appearance, and was wonderfully soft. * * ¥ AIANAIA. Airs L. Walters was “at home” to members on August 4, and a very pleasant afternoon was spent. Airs Sutherland presided, and gave an interesting discourse on conference remits. A cooking competition of oven scones was then judged by Airs Donald and Airs Henderson, who awarded first prize to Airs Bloor. Airs J. Alitehell kindly donated the trophy. The next competition is for the best d’oyley. A guessing competition was then drawn, and Air W. Bannerman secured the winning ticket, the prize being a mystery box containing an assortment of useful articles. A dainty afternoon tea was then served. ¥ ¥ ¥ KAUKAPAKAPA. This branch has made and donated a number of articles to a very necessitous local case, and has sent in a large quantity to the community chest. Garments are also cut out for members at a charge of one shilling each. 2k side table for the sale of rose cuttings and plants proved most popular.. Cuttings were sold at Id each, and realised a sum of 8s lOd. The hostesses for the day were Airs Taylor and Airs Von Pein. ¥ ¥ ¥ OAAIARU. At the last meeting, the branch president, Mrs Aleek, reported that much work had been done in the country districts by collecting and distributing clothing and blankets to needy families. A new branch was opened at Enfield with a large membership, and branches are being formed at Waitaki, Afaheno, and Herbert. It was decided that the New Zealand Industries "Week in Oamaru have the approval and support of the Women’s Division. A home science lecture and question box on “ Home Dyeing ” was then opened and demonstrations by Airs Walker proved most interesting. ¥ ¥ ¥ HAWERA. On August 18 members and friends of the W.D.F.U. spent a very pleasant time with Mrs A. P. Rae, Bickleieh, Hawera. Competitions, euchre and elocutionary items made the time pass quickly. The winners of the competitions were Alesdames E. Aieuli, T. Allen, and M. May. Airs Tocker (Ararata) gave some delightful elocutionary items. Many

beautiful knitted articles were exhibited. Amongst those present were Alesdames A. P. Rae, E. Aieuli, T. Allen, W. Carter, W. Nicholas, H. Thrush, Roberts, Tocker, Corkhill. Jones, Veitch, APDonald. M. Mayy E. K. Cameron, Denise, Oliver, Russell, and the Alisses Squire, Allen, thrush, Al'Donald, Alay, and Watts. ¥ ¥ OTAKEHO. There was an attendance of over 40 ladies at the Otakeho Hall, including presidents of the Hawera, Eltham, and Auroa branches, when Airs Cocker, organiser for South Taranaki, formed a branch of the W.D.F.U. at Otakeho. Airs j l . Le Fleming welcomed all present, and introduced Airs Cocker, who enumerated the 17 reasons for forming the W.D.F.U., and then outlined the work of the bush nurse and housekeepers’ schemes, which operate throughout the Dominion, and stated that the Waverley branch possesses a complete outfit, including a tent for an emergency nurse. The operation of the book club and exchange were also detailed by the speaker. The election of officers re--sRl£ed as follows:—President, Airs F. Le Fleming; vice-presidents, Alesdames Putt, Rushin, and E. Burke; secretary, Airs A. Walker; treasurer, Airs C. Nicholls. The Alanaia president, Airs T. C. Sutherland, handed a donation of £2 to the newlyformed branch to start the funds. This practical action of help was warmly applauded. Speeches of congratulation and greeting were conveyed from the presidents of Auroa, Hawera, Alanaia, and Eltham branches, Alesdames Benton, Carter, Sutherland, and Cocker respectively. Airs E. Aieuli, of the Hawera branch, also extended best wishes for the successful work of the Otakeho branch, and Airs Sutherland then explained the method of filling in an application form for a nurse or. a housekeeper. Airs J. Campbell spoke of the amount of work being done by their two nearest neighbour presidents, Airs Sutherland, of Alanaia, and Airs Benton, of Auroa (press correspondent). The president of the Opunake branch, Airs Chambers, forwarded an apology for absence, and sent greetings to the newly-formed-branch, which opened with a large membership and much enthusiasm. Alcetings will be held on the second Friday in each month.. Songs and recitations were contributed by Alesdames Carter and Benton. ¥ ¥ ¥ ARARATA. One of the most pleasant afternoons held for the benefit of the Hawera branch of the AV.D.F.U. took place at Ararata. at the residence of Airs T. Tarrant. Mrs Roberts was the organiser of this function. Community singing, musical and elocutionary items, also a competition, “Jumbled trees ’’—Native and English—added to the interest. Songs were contributed by Alesdames Aloss, Sunderland, Kendall, Robertson, and Foy, Mesdaraes Kendall, Corkill, and Robertson were the accompanistes, and Aliss Alanning played a pianoforte solo. Airs Tocker gave several enjoyable elocutionary items. Airs W. E. Carter was the winner of the competition. Airs Carter also gave an address on Ceylon and Colombo and on the Book Club.