Rodney Agricultural Society.

Rodney and Otamatea Times, Waitemata and Kaipara Gazette, 21 May 1913, Page 5

Rodney Agricultural Society.

The annual meeting of the. above society was held in the Library on Friday afternoon. Mr Hamilton, president, occupying the chair. Mr Att-= wood, the secretary presented the following report:— v Mr President and Gentlemen of the Committee.' It is with much pleasure I have to present to you a short resume of the year's working. The annual, meeting of last year recommended immediate action in reference to clearing up the society's ground. Some little work had already been done by Mr'F. D. Martin, whose hearty interest in the society's welfare, made his work of additional value, the further improvement scheme was taken up in a whole hearted fashion. Tenders were called, and the work let, carried out and paid for at a cost of £15 15s 5d to the* entire satisfaction of the committee. In regard to raising funds to further extend the improvements already referred to, a sum of £50 was thought necessary. A public meeting of all interested was called and and a committee of representatives appointed to confer together as to the best means of raising funds. The various societies have not as yet met although a meeting was called. It appeared to be more an unfortunate night for several than uny want of interest, this joint committee will I believe do useful work.

In connection with this clearing work, at some inconvenience members < turned out to assist the burn and the fact that the whole of the cut scrub was not cleared up was due only to want of time and an adverse wind.

The early revision of schedule proved a step in the right direction, but the waiting for a complete list of subscribers and dona tors of special prizes etc., defers the printing of the schedules too late.

Our president's visit to Auckland was an unqualified success, his genial personality winning many friends and and helpers.

A new and most interesting feature of the society's operations was the cottage garden contest when eight competitors entered. Considering the dryness of the season some very remarkable results were obtained, it is to be hoped the class will be open again this year. I have no comments, to make on the" snow-itself. Members will have formed their own judgment and doubtless will be ripe with suggestions for still further advance. Regarding 'the spring show, the society is committed to this effort, and I believe with the help of the ladies it will be an exceptionally successful enterprise. The avowed object is to raise funds to augment the exchequer, and extend the popularity of the Rodney Agricultural Society.

While our warmest thanks are due to the editor of the R. and 0,,. Times, for notes, comments, reports ~elc., the individual/members should also talk the thing vp r at, every chance.

I have to acknowledge the very cordial assistance received personally from., every member of the committee. .Special mention should be made of the work done by the stewards in the cattle sheep and horse sections, and also thanks due to the donors of speoial prizes." The treasurer, Mr C. H* Goertz, read the record of financial transactions as follows. Balance Sueet. Receipts. Subscriptions and donations £111 3 0 Entry money 20 1 6 Gate takings 38 18 '3Weight guessing 12 4 0 Refreshment booth right 5 6 0 Ground rents 9 0 0 Concert proceeds 31 15 0 Miscellaneous 18 2 11 Bank interest 13 7 £247 4 3 EIiPEKDITTtttE. | Prizes £157 18 6 Secretary's salaries (two years) 20 0 0 Concert expenses 12 2 0 Band hire 7 10 0 Weight guessing 14 it) 0 Clearing ground 15 15 5 Interest on Debentures 3 19 0 Miscellaneous .-. .10 5 5 Balance 5 3 11 £247 . 4 3 The liabilities due are exceeded by amountsowing to the society. At the election of officers, Mr H. B. Moore was appointed President, Mr E. Morrison vice-president, Mr Attwood secretary and treasurer, and a stroiig committee was nominated.