THE WINTER SHOW

Southland Times, Issue 17679, 17 June 1914, Page 8

THE WINTER SHOW

Well Filled Classes.

la mas's Hill yesterday the Winter Show- of I*l4 was opened under favourable conditions —a mild sunny winter’s day. Last year’s Winter Show Was believed to be distinguished by the circumstance that It would bo the last ■how held la King's Ball, and even the doubters acknowledged the time had arrived for the housing of the exhibits In a more commodious hall. But the Association was prevented from giving effect to its progressive policy by the wreck of the steamer Tyrone at Otago Heads. The Tyrone’s cargo included a great deal of material for the new building, and as soon as it was definitely ascertained that there wag no ground fbr hope that the material would be recovered the orders were repeated at Home. In dne course the material came to hand, but the delay had been fatal to the prospect of holding this year’s Winter Show in the new hall. It now appears to be certain that the aim of the Association to leave behind it the cramped quarters which have served for the Winter Show for some years will be realised ere the pendulum of the year swings back. The effect of the delay upon the show is not apparent to those who judge only by the standards attained by former shows, but it will be .abundantly clear to farmers generally that increased accommodation will permit of the Association widening the scope of the Winter Show. In fact certain limitations with which it was hoped to dispense had to be imposed again this ▼ear as the result of the decision which was forced upon the executive to use King’s Hall once more. But the near future holds infinite promise of great development, and some members of the executive, doubtless, are already ali\e to the prospect of future winter shows embracing live stock and machinery. Great as the interest in the show undoubtedly is. it could be greater, and the time will come when every member of the rural community who is resting from the labours of the year will be drawn to the show centre as the pilgrims are ■drawn to Mecca Glancing round the hall the observer Is impressed chiefly bv the extent of the activities Included lii the phrase “the tilling of the soil, ■nje rows of great turnips, swedes and mangolds, which bo'ge as though they •would burst their jackets: the sacks of grain, the cheese and the butter contribute as much to this impression as the wonderful varietv of goods displayed In the farmer’s bays. The last mentioned arc in themselves tributes to the almost unbounded industry of those who are responsible for them. Nothing could Illustrate more strongly the enormous fruits which may be coaxed from the soil bv means of labour and applied science. The Government Agricultural Department’s exhibit at the other end of the hall emphasises more strongly the value of scientific knowledge of the properties of the soil, but It does so In a different fashion and one which is likely to be more potent in the eyes of a termer. The farmers’ bays nevertheless remain the cynosure upon which the eyes of townspeople centre and linger. .\ s for the other departments of the show it is sufficient to state here that they are numerous and varied. The arts of the housewife and the orchardist are fully exemplified, while the competitions and other features are likely to create an enormous interest. The weather for the first day was very pleasant, and today. “People’s Day.’’ the Winter Show should be a great and unmistakeabie •access.

to-day was the question of a better milk supply. The impurities too often prevalent in milk were the despair of the majority of managers No matter how perfect the process of manufacture, the cheese and butter would not be of fine quality If the milk was of a poor standard. The cheesemaker might do his best to eliminate taints and fermentations by the use of pure starters, but it was impossible to overcome them. There was but one way by which milk quality might be improved, and that could be brought about by educating the farmer in the care of the milk, and in having an improvement with to the purity of the raw material. With the exception of Impurity due to disease of the cow. In almost all cases milk was infected by impurities during milking or within the first few hours thereafter. It was true that Impure water, the eating of rape turnips or weeds were causes of infection before the milk was drawn, but during the principal part of the manufacturing season for export these were not of frequent occurrence. The main cause of impure milk was uncleanlinoss, due either to a lack of knowledge or to carelessness. Dirt, in any form, and pure milk were irreconcilable. Pure milk must be clean milk. Dirt and harmful bacteria were inseparably associated, and therefore dirt and disagreeable odours generally went together. This being known it was easy for the farmer to get a grip of how to handle milk so a*= to insure a pure product. In the handling of milk the supplier must always bear in mind its susceptibility to taints and disagreeable adours, and the connection between harmful bacteria and dirt. Then, the importance of cleanliness would be appreciated in the milking and the handling of milk. But how were suppliers generally to be made to appreciate these facts? So far as he could see the only way was as suggested by Mr Cuddie. viz., by payment according to quality. He knew that each factory in the province received some I splendid milk, some suppliers delivering milk every clay in a really pure condition. and it was annoying to see such laudable efforts nullified by others who were careless. He believed that if those who supplied good milk knew how greatly were they handicapped in this respect, and how long they had borne this burden, they would insist of Mr Cuddle’s suggested system of payment being brought into operation forthwith. He would indeed like to see that attitude taken up by the farmers who supplied good milk, as it would mean an almost revolutionary and certainly a lasting benefit to the industry. If the payment of milk according to its purity was universally adopted in the dominion, it would forthwith put the quality and uniformity of the cheese and butter of this country far ahead of anything in the world, possibly with the single exception of Denmark. He sincerely hoped that factories would initiate the scheme without delay, and that was his ardent wish. The fight for a pure milk supply was of tremendous importance to the dairying industry of the dominion. CHEESE HOF, EXPORT. Mr Sawers referred to Canada's decreasing export trade, and the almost corresponding increase from New Zealand, and said that if New Zealand cheese is to capture the position held by Canadian cheese in the markets of the world, there were two principles affecting our manufacture and handling’ that were cs- ' sentini to success, and which required immediate attention and readjustment. The first was th© present practice of shipping cheese in a green or immature condition. It was reprehensible from ©very-standpoint and was a serious menace to the industry. This was an important business on the future of which depended the success and prosperity of many producers. Further, it had been demonstrated beyond contradiction that such methods seriously injures the trade, and affects the reputation of the dominion as the manufacturer of an article, with which the greater portion of the population of the United Kingdom come into touch. The second principle of vital importance was the delivery of cheese for shipment to ocean steamers at a much reduced temperature to that which now prevails. Such temperature must entail deterioration in quality, undue shrinkage and eventually serious financial loss. Much capital had been spent in buildings and plant, good wages were being paid to employees, and considerable care was being taken to produce a good article. Immediately it left the factory and was on its way to finally compete with the best the world could make, that attention and supervision was lacking that the very nature of the article demanded to enable it successfully to meet that competition. It was a recognised axiom in the making and control of cheese that high temperatures are destructive to flavours. and render cheese open in body. Defects In flavour from a marketing standpoint were very serious, and it was well known that retailers on the English market did not want an open-bodied cheese. They demanded a close meaty cheese, even in texture, which could be produced only bv maintaining the cheese environment in all stages at proper conditions. The cheese Industry had now developed to such dimensions that it had outgrown the past and present system of handling and needed to be readjusted on up-to-date methods. THE FUTURE. Asked for his opinion regarding the future of the industry, Mr Sawers assured the Times representative that despite the foregoing strictures he was entirely optimistic regarding it. The future of the industry so far as the dominion was concerned was assured, and the markets showed a buoyancy that was refreshing to dwell upon. During the past year five now butter factories and twenty-seven new cheese factories had been erected in the dominion, including five new cheese factories in Southland. It rested with the farmers to work shoulder to shoulder with the manufacturers in order that an article of the very highest quality might be turned out. If this were done, the present bright prospects would be greatly enhanced, and the future could bo looked forward to with confidence and cheery optimism.

THE OFFICIAL. OPENING. SPEECH BY THE MAYOR. The official opening of the show took place in the presence of a fairly large number of people early in the afternoon. The President of the Association, Mr *W. D. Hunt, called upon the Mayor. Mr D. McFarlane, to perform the opening ceremony, saying that Mr McFarlane ■was so well known that it was unnecessary to introduce him. Mr McFarlane said that It afforded "bipa very great pleasure to be invited to open the show. He had had a look TOttnd and was satisfied from what he had seen that for roots at any rate there was no place like Southland. As an old haker he was very favourably impressed with the ladies' tables, which were the hest he had seen for a leng time. He had always thought that the Southland Association was too late with its show, and that more satisfactory results would ha obtained if it were held earlier in the year, but this matter could be easily ■remedied. They were a little cramped for room, but he was sure that something better would be seen next year.. The Association would then be in the new hall, and there would be ample room ffor side shows and other additional attractions. However, the greatest attractions to visitors were the goods displayed. and as they left nothing to be idesired in respect to quality it gave him great pleasure to open the show. THE DAIRYING INDUSTRY. MILK QUALITY. MR JOHN SAWIRSTS VIEWS. The dairying Industry' in this dominion la each year becoming increasingly important, and no better indication can he mentioned in support of this contention than that the exports for the naason Just closed are seven hundred and fifty per cent, greater than they were !ten years ago. There is perhaps no knan in the dominion more entitled to •peak authoritatively on matters connected with this great and growing industry than Mr John Sawers, of Edendale. From his very childhood he has Been associated with dairying in some Jorm or other, and bis connection with the industry since his arrival in this country is too well known to render it necessary to again mention it at this juncture. THE PAST SEASON. Mr Sawers was approached by a Bonthland Times representative, and in answer to enquiries stated that the seaeon Just ended had, all things considered. I>een the most successful season, insofar M the dairying industry was concerned, Ja the history of New Zealand, both In the matter of supply and with regard to prices. With very few exceptions in Southland the quality of the cheese turned out last season was better than that of the previous year He attributed this improvement to the fact that more care w«s being taken by suppliers in the preparation of milk for the factories. There were less big faults to be found than in some previous years, and more particularly than was the case last year. There was, however, still room for material Improvement in this respect, and the manufacturers of the cheese were keenly alive to the importance of suppliers cooperating with them in order that an article second to none other might be available for export. MILK QUALITY. Mr Sawers is keenly appreciative of Mr Cuddle’s scheme for payment for milk on quality, and is ardent In his hopes that all factories will give effect to the proposal. Hr. said that as first director of the dairy produce division of the Department of Agriculture, apart from the position he at present held In the dairying world, the proposition appealed to him strongly, and he had been an advocate of It for many years. Mr Cuddle was deserving of congratulation on his effort to have the payment of milk at factories placed on a sound com. mercial basis. Every manager of experience knew that the standard of purity was not as high to-day as It was rears ago; Indeed one of the most seri•as problems confronting the industry

CHAMBER OK COMMERCE. AX INTERESTING REVIEW. The president of the Invercargill Chamber of Commerce, Mr C. _J. RonaldBon. consented to give a review of the work undertaken by the Chamber daring the past few months. Such a review should be of interest to all engaged in commercial pursuits end particularly the farming community. •‘The functions of a Chamber of Commerce are numerous.'* said Mr RonaldSO n. “The power of numbers is universally acknowledged, and the value of combined effort fully appreciated by all in search of individual or collective benefit. It hardly necessary to apologise for the existence of the Chamber because we have not been able to settle the suffragette question. It Is a truism to say that ‘men court trouble when they start fooling with women,’ and the Lords of Westminster will be much richer in experience before they arrive at any common sense solution of the difficulty. WILL CO-OPERATE WITH THE LEAGUE. “We have had proposals for railway extensions submitted for our endorsement by Ihe Tokonul. Orawia-Tuatapere and Moa Flat Railway Leagues and other matters which have come before us Include the question of direct telephone communication with Queenstown: improved steamer communication between Bluff and Stewart Island: weights and sizes

AN EXCELLENT EXHIBITION.

HIGHLY ATTRACTIVE TABLES.

of bags; the provision of a new goods' shed: universal arbitration in trade: and so on. To all of these proposals the Chamber cf Commerce has listened with patience, interviewed the powers that be. declining to take no for an answer when it has deemed the object worthy of its support. In fact,” said Mr Ronaldson. "the only limit to the usefulness of Chambers of Commerce and kindred institutions is that their members occasionally have their own businesses to look after. The Chamber is keenly alive to the requirements of Southland as a whole and it will co-operate and act in harmony with the newly-formed Southland League in promoting the welfare of this province. THE OUTLOOK. "It is p’easant to watch the spirit of cheery optimism that is now developing in Southland.” said Mr Ronaldson. “The pessimist with his perpetual grey sky outlook is only useful as a reminder that the barometer is not always at set fair. The present outlook is distinctly favourable. but care must ho taken in building up our prosperity—t) boom is the neighbour to burst. Chief amongst tho various matters for congratulation is the position of the Bluff .Harbour Board. Its management is excelled nowhere in tho dominion. The port of Bluff could easily he converted into a free port, and with a good port and a free port Southland’s position in the dominion would be unassailable. We would commend this matter to the attention of our Harbour Board authorities. The straightening of the railway line to Bluff would followin due course. MONEY MARKET. “In closing it may not be out of place to offer an opinion an to the reason for scarcity of money throughout the dominion in spite of the excellent prices ruling for stock and produce. The reason I refer to is the excessive importation of motor cars that has been going on for some years. H is estimated that there are at least fifteen thousand motor cars in New Zealand. The upkeep of each of these cars may safely be put down at fifty pounds per annum exclusive of any allowance for depreciation. Need more be said? The drain on the cash resources of a country with a population of. say. one million one hundred thousand people is tremendous. The worst feature is that the bulk of the money leaves the country. This state of, affairs will apparently continue until the tariff is readjusted to create a local industry in tho manufacture of out own cars. municipal management. “ Another important matter that is engaging the attention of our public men is the question of reform of municipal government. Corporations nowadays arc simply huge trading concerns and should be run on strictly business lines. This statement is not intended to reflect in any way on our own councillors who are without doubt too good for the system, or want of system, they are called, upon to administer. Now, in conclusion. lest we should be misunderstood, we wish to sta - e that tho Chamber of Commerce does not set itself up as the advisor in chief to the community, hut it is only one of the channels through which the public matters referred to are dealt with.” FROZEN MEAT. THE PRESENT SEASON. AND FUTURE PROSPECTS. MR JOHN MCQUEEN’S VIEWS. The frozen meat industry in this dominion is one of great magnitude and importance, and Southland’s quota to the aggregate output is one of imposing dimensions. When spoken ,to by a Southland Times reporter. Mr John McQueen, managing director of the Southland Frozen Meat Co., kindly consented to give ills views on matters concerning the industry in Southland. The present season, said Mr McQueen, will be a late one, but it is difficult to say what THE TOTAL OUTPUT will be. Prices this year had been the highest on record, and. so far as prices are concerned, prospects are particularly rosy. The question that arises, however, is the keeping up of the supply. The tendency is in tho direction of tempting farmers to sell their ewe lambs. Sheep cannot be expected to grow the same as oats, ami without breeding ewes the question may be asked as to where the supplies in the future arc to come from. The demand for lamb and mutton, judging by tho prices on offer, cannot be supplied, and howfarmers can be induced to refuse to sell their ewe lambs in the face of the tempting prices that are ruling is a problem which requires solving. There is an old saying that every man has his price, and in the great majority of cases it would scorn to be true as far as the farmers’ ewe lambs are concerned, and few farmers seem to bo able to resist the blandishments of the wily buyer. Some farmers make up their minds that they will keep Iheir ewe lambs, but when big prices are offered they cannot resist tho temptation, and a sale results. It may be that the high prices ruling for meat may check the consumption, but so far the demand has not lessened. From that point of view. Mr McQueen said he liked the look of things, but ho did not like to see farmers parting with their ewe lambs. He believed that the man who could RESIST THE TEMPTATION to sell would score in tho long run Often the price paid to tho farmer for his culls rendered them more profitable than the fats, although the former had been held back for want of feed. Another point was that tho selling of the fat ewe lambs year after year must have a bad effect on the general character of the flocks. The earliest and those with tho greatest tendency to fatten easily were those which were disposed of, and in a few years such practice must have a detrimental effect on tho flocks. That was perhaps a pessimistic view to take, but he honestly felt that ho was justified In taking it. In regard to the quality of the animals that had passed through the works this season, Mr McQueen said that there was an old and consoling saying that “ A good deal of breeding goes in at the mouth,” and but for that fact the position in regard to quality might have been a serious one. As a matter of fact, the quality of the stuff this year had been better than had been tho case the previous year, the sheep being better fattened. That was owing to A BETTER SEASON having been experienced, although it had not been an ideal one. Wool had kept well up in price also, and. the skin being the fifth “quarter” of a sheep, that made things even more pleasant in regard to prices. Pelts had also Improved in price, although they had not reached the high level which was in evidence before the American money crisis of about five years ago. Dairying, said Mr McQueen, is now a serious competitor against the frozen meat Industry’. and a considerable portion of land which was at one time used for the raising of sheep is now used for dairying purposes. When this fact is taken into consideration, the number of sheep put through the works in Southland indicate that land Is now better farmed than was formerly the case. At present Southland lias perhaps never been so understocked, and the prices ruling for store sheep amply bear out that contention. ‘Yes.’’ said Mr McQueen in conclusion, “a better system of farming is now being followed, thereby en-

surlng tho carrying of more stock, but the difficulty is to get the stock to stock up with."

THE IMPORTER’S TEAS* A BUSINESS MAN’S VIEWS. A prominent member of the Southland Importers' Association had some interesting remarks to make upon tho trade of the past year to a Southland Times reporter. He opened by saying that from an importer’s polot of view tho past 12 months will long be remembered as ,a period of many difficulties, owing to the dislocation of trade duo to tho strike. It Is true that Bluff worked cargo right throqgh where possible, but so much of our imports unfortunately comes by transhipment through northern or Australian ports that large quantities of merchandise of all descriptions was held up at all' points. This caused a general dislocation of trade, and subsequent late arrival of many’ lines of goods that had missed th© ordinary seasonable demand. All this resulted in many traders being overstocked after the New Year demand had passed and created surplus stocks that have hardly yet been reduced to normal. Apart from the delays above referred to, shipping facilities have remained about the same as in the former year, except, for a tendency for all shipments to be rather late in coming forward. It is satisfactory to be able to record very considerable proprogress in tho erection of the new import shed in tho Invercargill railway yard. This building, the necessity, for which has so long been advocated by the Southland Importers’ Association, is now rapidly nearing completion, and will be of great benefit to traders generally throughout the whole of the district, os it will relieve the congestion that has always been liable to occur in the goods shed when large shipments from overseas have to bo handled. The Auckland - Bluff steamer service is still very irregular, despite the fact that a ten days’ sailing was promised. The recent announcement that the N.D.L. and German - Australian lines intend carrying out a service of direct steamers to Now Zealand ports lias been received with a good deal of satisfaction. The new service will be inaugurated almost at once and the first steamer is timed to leave the Continent during the month of July. It is understood that Bluff is to be the first port of. call, from which point the steamers will call at the other loading ports of the dominion. The advent of this new competitor for Now Zealand cargo may infuse Into the carrying trade a healthy spirit of rivalry that has been absent of late years. At Ml events it must prove of benefit to Importers and exporters alike, and further developments are full of interest.

GOVERNMENT EXHIBIT. That New Zealand is not backward in the intelligent study of agriculture is shown by the remarkable exhibit of the Agricultural Department. Besides being very comprehensive, it is remarkably well set up, and the placards which illustrate and explain it are graphic and lucid, it occupies a large room to itself, and the floor and wall space is entirely covered with exhibits, arranged in such a way that it is impossible to walk around them with any exorcise of observation without assimilating valuable information. The principal feature is made up of examples of the co-opera-tive Held experiments conducted by the farmers in conjunction with the department. The method of operation of this scheme of co-operative experiment is now too well known to require explanation. All round the walls of the room devoted to the exhibition are specimens and, in connection with these, the results of experiments are graphically demonstrated. Of late years lucerne, better known to some as alfalfa, has come into prominence as a fodder, and amazing stories are told of its enormous yield, and of its value as a fattencr of stock. For tho past three years the Government has encouraged the farmers to grow lucerne, by supplying them, free of cost, with lime, seed, and inoculated soil, in order to ascertain tho suitability of the fodder for growth in New Zealand. The figures in connection with this offer are instructive, and are evidence that the plant is finding favour. In the year 3 911-12, the number of farmers who took advantage of the offer was 150. In 1912-13 there was a big increase, no fewer than 43 2 taking up tho new fodder, and in 191311 there were 545. Excellent samples of lucerne grown in New Zealand are shown by (he department. They look hardy and well grown. Its annual value in the United States of America is said to be £20.000,000, so that there is good reason for the encouragement of its growth. An exhibit which instantly takes the eye in a tour of the room is that of silver beet, of which several enormous heads are on view. This hardy biennial was introduced six years ago, and its yield, in some cases, has been over 200 tons to the acre. It is claimed to be particularly valuable in inducing a plentiful flow of milk in the case of cattle, and stock of all kinds arc extremely fond of it, and eat it with avidity. The huge size and healthy appearance of the specimens exhibited by the department are such that they should fill the eye of the farmer in search of a fodder with a big yield over a small area. A more interesting exhibition than these, however, with a similar object, is that which gives examples of experimental work done in the direction of reclaiming sand areas. Throughout New Zealand there are immense areas of land, whicli are unproductive, because of the fact that they are sandy. At New Brighton, near Christchurch, there is such an area, many square miles in extent, most of it not more than five or six miles from the city. At the To Oranga Home valuable work has been done in the reclamation of these lands, on a small experimental scale, of course. By an elaborate process of growing lupins and other plants, and ploughing them in. a soil has been obtained upon which quantities of excellent roots have been grown, and specimens of these arc shown together witli samples of tho grasses and plants suitable for growing for reclamation purposes Another splendid specimen of a plant somewhat similar to the succulent and rapidly - growing silver beet is shown in tho chon moellier. This was introduced six years ago. and its rapidly - growing finalities can he seen from the fact that the stems grow to from four to seven feet in height, sending out succulent loaves. A magnificent collection of cereals, tastefully arranged in pyramids, grown In the South Island is shown, and also a fine lot of roots grown at the farm at Moiimahaki. An instructive exhibit is that of hemp, in every stage, from the raw material to the finished twine, and rope, and examples of the had as well as the good fibre are given by way of providing a contrast. Tho efforts of the agricultural class arc shown on a table, neatly arranged, and Included in the collection are fine, healthy specimens of Chou Moellier, Thousand-Headed Kali. Kohl Rabl. earrots.' pumpkins, and marrow. These provide an object lesson to teachers and scholars who intend embarking on similar ventures. Other exhibits of interest, more particularly to Southlanders. are turnips grown on the Southland Frozen Meat Co.’s experimental plot at Makarowa, and on Messrs Peter Campbell and Sons’ experimental plot. at Wyndham, also Chou Moellier grown at Lome Farm. Samples of Bluck Hulless barley, grown by Mr F. G. Duncan, at Heriot, two lots of maize grown by tho Canterbury Frozen Meat Co. at Belfast, the weed-tables, the splendid soft cheese manufactured by Miss Davies at the Wereroa Experimental these in turn catch the eye, and cause the’ passer-by to pause and inspect. Another table is devoted to the Journal of the Department of Agriculture, and information concerning this fine publication la readily forthcoming from the willing officers in attendance. Yesterday a large number of subscribers were in consequence booked. Altogether the exhibit, which la presided over by Mr R. SVlcGlllivray, Field Inspector, assisted by Inspectors Whyborn and McLachlan and Mr Middlemiss, Is one which will repay a visit, and no necessarily short notice such as this is can by any means do it justice.

CHEESE AND EXPORT BUTTER. Judges: Government experts. Stewards: Messrs Wm. Menzies and R. W. Mitchell. The quality of the cheese in this class was, in the opinion of the judges, very good, the fault that was noticeable being that the body was not close enough. The get-up and finish were absolutely perfect, but the staging of the exhibits suffered ip comparison to the (arrangement at the Dunedin Show. The pity is that competition in this class is-not better. Southland cheese makes the Dunedin Show as far as that class of exhibit is concerned.

For instance there are no exhibits from Stirling, Woodlands, and Wyndham, each of which contributed largely to the sue-, cess of tho cheese section at the Dunedin Show. At the latter show the special prizes may act as an inducement, but after all it is not the prizes that should be considered in an exhibition such as. is now being held, and Southland dairy factories should be loyal to their own province, At present the matter of exhibiting is left entirely to the discretion of the managers of the factories, and it might effect a good purpose, in view of next year’s big show, if the Association circularised the various dairy factory companies throughout Southland, and asked them to support the show. Certainly, the display of cheese at the present show is very meagre, considering what a great cheese-producing province Southland is, and that Invercargill is its capital. The export butter a high class, the quality delighting the judges, who were emphatic in their, collective opinion that from a quality point of view the exhibits were equal to’the best that was shown at the Dunedin Show. ‘ FARM BUTTER AND CHEESE. Judge: Mr John Sawers (Edendale). Stewards: Messrs Geo. Young, A. S. Gilkison, and A. Hawke, jun. Mr John Sawers has been a judge of this section at Invercargill shows for a number of years .and he stated yesterday that on the whole the butter was of a higher quality than at any of the shows which he had previously judged. Still, he said, there was a sad lack of uniformity. Tho exhibits of Miss K. Belcher, Waitaki, and Miss Eleanor E. Mcßride. Charlton, in separator fresh hutter were of outstanding quality. All round the exhibits were quite equal to those shown at Dunedin. The fancy butter made a most attractive display, the winning exhibit of Miss Belcher being excellently designed. There were only three exhibits of farm-made cheese, and these were of fairly good quality. POTATOES. Judge: Mr H. Edgington (Invercargill). Stewards: Messrs H. S. Irving and Geo. Bennie. Some very good potatoes were shown. •The champions!)ip was awarded to Mr O. E. F. Anderson, of Caroline, for his Southern Cross e.xhiblt. This variety cannot he said to be particularly well known in Southland, but it has been here for four or five years, and has not yet become so well known as the Up-to-Date variety. It is reported to be a good cropper, and yesterday’s champion lot consisted of a collection of fine, smooth potatoes with a miniumum of "eyes.” The two exhibits of Up-to-Dates belonging to Mr John Cahill, of Winton. were very little inferior to the champion lot; in fact tho Up-to-dates were very good all round as also were Sutton’s Supreme. Old friends were present in tho shape of four exhibits of Dcrwents. and revived memories of by-gone days, when that variety of potato was supreme. It remained in that proud position, until the dreaded Irish blight lowered its prestige. Many ot tho varieties shown were faulty from a housewives’ view-point in that their “eyes” were too frequent and too big. When the peeling process has been undergone, there is a good deal of flesh wasted when such potatoes are dealt with. Mr Edgington said that the display was quite as good as any he had previously seen in Invercargill. There wore, perhaps not so many exhibits as ho had seen in some other years, hut the quality was exceptionally good indeed. The section containing collections of garden potatoes was a very fine one. Included in the potato exhibits was a collection of three varieties from the Dipton school, which was awarded a prize.

TURNIPS. ETC. Judge: Mr D. Marshall. Stewards: Messrs John Calder, W. F. Scandrett, and .las. Young. Speaking of the turnip exhibits Socially, Mr Marshall said he did not consider them as being as good as those shown last year. They were not inferior in size or in looks, but they were much more difficult to judge. This was owing to the fact that on examining them and after they were cut through, they were found to be of inferior quality and decisions were difficult to arrive at. From appearances they generally seemed to be all right, but when opened out the appearance outside proved to have been deceitful. He attributed this to tire drvness experienced during the early part of the season, which was succeeded by excessive moisture. Swedes were better than the heavy turnips, but in the purple tops in some instances the lighter sorts proved to be of much better quality than the heavier* ones. In any other variety of four swede turnips except purple or green lop, only three prizes were awarded, the judge, after taking into consideration the number of entries and the quality of the exhibits, considering tiiat sufficient. The purple top Aberdeen yellow provided good competition, lr.it the quality was poor. The winning exhibits of Messrs Geo. Young, R. Lang and R. Hitchcock were, however, fairly sound. The class for four Aberdeen yellow, green top, was of better class than the one just mentioned, but some of the exhibits appeared to be hybrid, and not true to type. The winning exhibits of Messrs R. Lang and Geo. Simpson in purple top yellow flesh hybrids were very good. In green top yellow flesh hybrids, Mr Geo. Simpson was first with a Fosterton hybrid exhibit, and Mr .1. W. Stevens was second with a Dales hybrid collection. There was a fine aggregate exhibit in green top early white field turnip, but many of the exhibits were faulty. All the prizetakers, however, w r ere sound. Neither the purple top nor the red early white field turnips were of good quality, although many of the exhibits were of nice sizes and shapes. In four turnips, any variety except Swedes. Mr H. Knowlor was first with a green globe exhibit, and Mr Gen. Simpson was second with a similar collection, while Mr John W. Stevens secured third place with Dales hybrids. The exhibits in six swedes, any variety, wore probably the best swedes in the show, the winners, especially being hotii heavy and good. The collections of field turnips were uniformly very large, and they made a magnificent display. The fact that each variety was named provided an education for those who are concerned in turnip growing. For the collection of turnips and swedes there was keen competition, but for the third time Mr H. Knowler, of To Wae Wae. secured first honours from his old and doughty opponent, Mr Geo. Simpson of West Plains. This victory secure 1 ; for Mr Knowler outright Sharpe’s Warwick vase, valued at £6O, whicli had to he won three times, not encessarily in succession. It is Interesting to note tint -Messrs Knowler , and Simpson caeli exhibited about 45 varieties. -Mr R. Lang, of Wright's Bush, the other competitor, had only about half that number, hi t Ills turnips were perhaps the best quality of the throe collections. There were only two school collections of swedes, viz., Dipton and Springhills. and the former was placed first on account of its swedes being larger in size than the other. The winning exhibit- however, was served up in anything but an attractive condition, and the swedes bore a very rough appearance. School exhibitors would do well to note the condition in which other swedes and turnips are benched..

MANGOLDS, ETC. Judge: Mr John Lennie (Waikiwi). Stewards: Messrs John McKerchar, Thos. Fraser, and A. Lowrie. Mr Lennie said that he was agreeably surprised at the splendid appearance and conditions of the exhibits in this class. Tho mangolds were of good quality, and the dry summer had evidently had no deleterious effect. They were fully up to previous years, and in some respects tetter. The entries also were gratlfyIngly numerous. The carrots were better than last year, the quality being really good, and there being an absence of roughness. The long- red beet were very good, but some of them were on the big side, and tending towards the mangold. From tho excellence of the sugar beet exhibits It is evident that it is now being fairly largely cultivated, and this year it is of special quality, being better than has ever been the case previously. The four winning onions exhibits were described by the judge as being perfection. The drumhead cabbage exhibits were also of a very good class. The second and third exhibits were younger and fresher than the winning one, but were lighter. The quality, however, was extremely good.

GRAIN. Judges: Messrs F. J. Unscott (Thornbury), and Baxter Wilson (Dunedin). Stewards: Messrs G. T. Stevens and L. Wilson. There were only four samples of wheat shown and were-good samples of Southland wheat. The oats was a splendid

lot.' and ejected the enthusiasm, of Mr Wilson; who mentioned that the number of entries was less than at the Dunedin show, but the quality was much better. Northern samples were much lighter, x'he good season experienced w«s no doubt accountable for this. Some of the exhibits were thrown out owing to overdressing, and had therefore to give way to inferior samples. The Dun classes were very fine. Different types of black oats were shown, and this gave trouble to the judges. The Gartons shown were a beautiful class, the winning sample going sl%jb to the bushel. Its excellence in this respect may be guaged by the fact that the standard Is 401bs to the bushel'. This sample was shown by Mr J. R. Keown. of Cattle Flat, and Mr Wilson mentioned that it is the kind of oat that is finding a market in England this year. The farmers’ classes were poorly represented, but the quality was uniformly good. In any other variety Mr Geo. Simpson's Carton’s white abundance was first and second. Sparrowbills were another fine lot, but here again overdressing caused the disqualification of one exhibit. The Duns were also good as were the black oats, in which a case of over-dressing was notedi SEEDS. Judges: Messrs F. J. Llnscott (Thornbury) and "feaxter Wilson (Dunedin). The perennial ryegrass was on the whole real good stuff, but some was rather light. Hr John Searle’s, Wrey’s Bush, winning sample went 341bs to the bushel. Some of last year’s seed was exhibited and detected In this and other classes, thus earning , the. scathing condemnation of the judges. The Italian ryegrass and Timothy were good, and Mr Geo. Simpson's cocksfoot was admitted by Mr Wilson to be surprisingly good for a southern-grown seed; in fact almost equal to the best Akaroa seed in colour and appearance. It averaged 15%1bs to the bushel. Messrs P. Campbell and Son’s, Wyndham, crested dogstail exhibits were particularly fine samples, Mr Linscott describing them as beautiful, and the beat he had ever seen. FLEECE WOOL. Judge: Mr J. McGregor (MosgieJ). In 44’s to 46’s Mr A. McKay, Pomahaka, was first with 38 points, and Mr D. Marshall, Waianiwa, second with 35 points. In 50’s to 56's Mr D. Marshall was first with 37 points, and Mr J. D. Shepherd, Gorge Road, second, with 29 points. Mr McGregor said that it was surprising that previously no such competition had been provided for the staple product of the dominion, and the Southland Association was to be congratulated In having Instituted the competition. The bulk of the wool forward showed excellent breeding, and characteristics. In order to make the competition of the greatest educational value, Mr McGregor awarded points under the following headings; Character 12. evenness 10, density 3 0, colour 8, —total, 40. FARMERS’ TABLE. Judges; Mrs Poattie and Messrs J. Carmichael and John Gilkison. There were only two exhibits in this section, Messrs H. Knowler and Geo. Simpson being again to the fore, but they certainly provided the feature of the show. Almost everything conceivable that could be produced on a farm primary and secondary products appears in one or other of the collections. Mr Knowler's exhibit is more compactly arranged than is Mr Simpson’s, and benefits materially in appearance on that account. Mr Simpson's table would appear to better advantage in a smaller space. The decorative effects in each instance have been admirably attended to, and the tables are a dstinct credit to the province, and to Messrs Knowler and Simpson, The judges bad considerable difficulty in arriving at a decision, bnt eventually awarded the prize to Mr Knowler, the points allotted being as follow: Best general design, including decorations such a flowers, ferns, shrubs"! plants, etc., maximum points. 25: Simpson, 15: Knowler. 22. Poultry, bacon, meats, etc., maximum points. 25: Simpson 20; Knowler. 10. Fruits, maximum points, 25: Simpson, 7; Knowler. 12. Roots, maximum points, 25: Simpson, 12; Knowler. 20. Grain, sheaves, seeds, grass, straw, hay etc, maximum points, 25: Simpson, 17: Knowler, 14, Vegetables, maximum points, 25: Simpson, IS: Knowler, 20. Preserves and cookery, maximum points. 30: Simpson, 23: Knowler, 20. Sundries not otherwise enumerated, such as wool, timber, etc.. maximum points, 20; Simpson, 14; Knowler, 10. Totals, maximum points, 200; Simpson, 126; Knowler, 128. CAKES, ETC. Judge; Mrs Peattie, Milton. Stewards: Messrs .las. Drain, Angus Campbell, Fid. Edle, and Thos. Raining. This was one of the principal sections of the show with the womenfolk and. as has been the happening at all past shows the tables were eagerly scanned. Today will bring along its hundreds of country admirers of the sponge cakes, the sandwich, the fruit cakes, the plum pudding. and all the rest. Some are competent to pass an opinion on quality, and do not refrain from doing so. But it must all come from an outward view; wire netting assists mainly where a wise management has decreed that only the judge must touch, taste and handle; and Mrs Peattie's task in this connection has been no light one. For the full period of the morning hours of yesterday she was on her rounds of tire tables selecting the exhibits for first, second, and third awards. in all she had ten classes to deal with in competition that was keener numerically and from a quality point of view than has been experienced at a Winter Show for many years past. All parts of the Southland district were represented in the housewife’s handiwork in this connection, and entries came from even as far north as Hindon and Waitaki. Mrs Wadsworth (Woodlands). Mrs Pyper (Richmond Grove). Miss J. Macdonald (Hindoo), Miss Belcher (Wailaki), Mrs Jas. Sawers (Invercargill). Mrs J. Nisbet (Invercargill). Mrs P. Mason (Balclutha), Mrs G. Faris (Invercargill), Miss R. Wilson (Woodlands), and Mrs G. Willis, senr. (Gummio’s Bush), were all represented with success in one or other of the classes. HAMS. BACON, ETC. Judge: Mrs Jas. Gordon (Fairfax). Stetvards; Messrs Walter Clark and Thos. Brown. Whatever is the direct cause attributable to the state of affairs as they at present exist the porker has not of late years been cultivated to any extent in Southland, in common with other portions of New Zealand. Consequently one finds that show after show for some time past now has been noted for the paucity of exhibits in hams and bacon classes. For the 3 914 show the local firm of Lindsap and Co., were practically the only exhibitors in (he six classes of the open sections, and a walk over resulted. However. what was lacking in quantity was made up in the quality of the exhibits, which the judge spoke highly of. In the farmers’ classes Messrs J. McCullough (Ryal Bush) and Geo. Simpson (West Plains) had the field to themselves, and the honours were very evenly shared. The classes for dressed poultry suffered from lack of competition, while again quality was of the very best. For one dozen fresh hen eggs Mr W. S. Fleming (Enwood). Mrs A. Ball (Georgetown). and Miss E. Lawrence (Invercargill) gained the award in that order from among eight exhibitors. FRUIT. Judge: Mr H. Edgington (Invercargill). Steward : Mr James Taylor. The entries'in the fruit section showed a surprisingly large increase over those of the past, year, and, after allotting his points in the various classes, Mr Edginton said that the collection was the best he had ever seen in Southland. This opinion comes from a very high authority, as Mr Edginton has had considerable experience as a grower and also as a judge. His work in the latter connection extends away back as far as 38 years, when he adjudicated at a horticultural show. Referring directly to the apples placed for inspection yesterday, Mr Edgington said that they were better coloured than he had over seen them previously, and the samples were very fine ones. The Renette de Canada was a good table variety that was shown by several exhibitors, while King of Tompkins' County was another favourite class from certain directions. Mr Edgington pointed to the fact that a Central Otago exhibitor sent forward a small collection that well earned a prize in point of quality, but it was too small a lot to gain dlstinctiqh ten or twelve different collections wore arranged fori

judicial award. , There was too much l of a sameness about the lot he had referred to, which did not permit of full merit being gained. Rymer and Alfreston (Yorkshire Greening) were gcod samples of what Southland could produce in apples, while Blenham Orange was a noted example of one of the best apples of .England, with Cornish Aromatic gaining honours in a collection by consistently successful exhibitors in Hammond Bros., of Llmehills. Prince Albert was another prominent variety shown yesterday. It was closely related to the Prince Alfred variety, and was distinguishable from the latter by a more prominent colouring. In the one class in which, competition came forward in pears there was plenty of size about the exhibits, but in some instances flavour was lacking. and the fruit had passed, its usefulness for table purposes. BREAD, SCONES, ETGL , Judge : Miss Charters (MosgieL) Stewards : Messrs .Tno. McCrostlo, John Gllkison, Alex. Oerrard, and W. K. Ronald. As compared with the show of twelve ; months ago, the entries over the eight classes for bread, scones, etc., showed an increase of exactly 90. In one class thirty-three and in a second thirty-one exhibits were placed upon the tables, and. with- a corresponding advance oyer the majority of the classes the task of awarding pink, blue, and green ticket holders was not as easy one. In reviewing the exhibits later. Miss Charters passed a very high compliment on what she had judged in the oven scones and oat cakes classes. The oven scones were ahead of those she had judged at the recent Dunedin Show, where the entries were certainly numerous but in quality could not equal yesterday’s display. In the bread section there was nothing of really outstanding merit and, in her opinion, there was roomfor improvement. Quite an interesting feature, Miss Charters said, of the work she had to do was in connection with the domestic art table, which she commended as being a very valuable portion of the housewifery section of the show. To emphasise the very keen interest in the competition it has only to be mentioned that as many as .fourteen exhibits were arrayed in lots as follows : Six oven and six girdle scones, one Madeira cake, six pikelets. lIS fresh butter, and six potatoes boiled !r. their skins. As a whole the judge f «»'•••«* efforts here to be very good, particularly those of the first and second prizetakers. The honey which Miss Charters adjudicated upon in two classes was very creditable, while she had special mention to make of the pickles, which were of high-class quality for amateurs. The jams and jellies also showed evidence of the housewife s taste but could not be described as anything? above the ordinary. PRIZE LIST: •The following is the prize list;

HAMS AND BACON. First prize. £1; second, 10s; third, h.c. Special for most points. —Open Classes. — Fitch Bacon, unsmoked —Lindsay and Co.. 1 and 2; only entries. Flitch bacon, smoked —Lindsay ana 1 and 2; only entries. Rolled Bacon, unsmoked —Lindsay ana Co., 1 and 2, J. McCullough 3; only enRolled Bacon, smoked —Lindsay and Co., 1 and 2, J. McCullough 3; only enPork Ham, smoked —Lindsay and Co., 1 and 2; three entries. S Pork Ham, unsmoked —Lindsay ana Co., 1 and 2; three entries. Farmers’ Class. — Flitch Bacon, unsmoked Geo. Simpson 1, J. McCullough 2; only entries. Flitch Bacon, smoked —Geo. Simpson 1, .1. McCullough 2; only entries. Rolled Bacon, unsmoked —J. McCullough. Geo. Simpson 2: only entries. Rolled Bacon, smoked —Geo. Simpson 1 .1. McCullough 2; only entries. ’ Pork Ham, unsmoked —.1. McCullough 1. Geo. Simpson 2; only entries. Pork Ham, smoked —J. McCullough, I, Geo. Simpson 2; only entries. DRESSED POULTRY. Etc. —To be trussed and ready for cooking, but unstuffed. First prize 10s; second, ss; third, certificate. Pair Fowls, breed to be stated Linasay and Co—1; only entry. T • , Pair Ducks, breed to be stated Lmdsa v and Co.. 1; three entries. , Goose —Mrs J. H. Thomson 1, Miss .Jessie Thomson 2; three entries. Turkev—Mrs D. C. McKerchar 1. , One Dozen Hen Eggs, fresh.—First nrize ss: second. 2s 6d: third, certificate —XV. S. Fleming 1. Mrs A. Ball 2, Miss E. Lawrence 3; eight entries. CHEESE AND EXPORT BUTTER. All exhibits must be untasted, and declaration as to age made if required. Entries to be made and cheese stored by 20th April. No factory will be awarded more than one prize in any one class. CHEESE. Five cwt factory-made, large, coloured. Cheddar shaped (suitable for export). First £5; second £2: third £1 10s. Maximum points; Flavour 50. body and texture 30, colour 15, and finish 5,

BUTTER. Salt butter for export, two boxes; 561b. First £3; second £3; third £1 Taieri and Peninsula Milk Supply Co.. Ltd. 1 and 2, Murrays Ltd., Invercargill 3. FARM BUTTER AND CHEESE. Fresh Butter, separator, not factorymade, 11b rolls, no prints to be used. First prize 10s and special value 21s. second special value 21s: third 10s fourth ss—Miss K- Belcher 1. Miss E. Mcßride 2 Mrs W. Sadller 3. Mrs H. McLeod 4; 17 entries. Fresh Butter, non-separator. 21b rolls, no prints to be used. First prize, 10s and special value 21s; second, special value 21s; third, special value 10s 6d; fourth, Cs—Miss K. Belcher 1, Mrs .T. J. Cunningham 2. Mrs H. McDonald 3, Mrs R. S. Brown 4; nine entries. Fresh Butter, non-separator. 21b in lib rolls, no prints to be used. Open only to exhibitors who have never won a first prize. First, special value 21s; second, special value 10s 6d; third. 5s Mrs .1. .T. Cunningham I, Mrs W. Sadller ■2, Mrs R. S. Brown 3; eight entries. Fresh Butter, separator or factorymade, 21b in 11b rolls, no prints to be used. First prize, £1 and special value 21s; second, special value 21s; third, special value 10s Gd; fourth, ss—Miss E. E. Mcßride 1, Mrs 11. McLeod 2, Mrs .7. J. Cunningham 3, Murrays Ltd. 4 eight, entries. Powdered Butter, 21b in lib rolls, no prints to be used. First prize, £1 and special value 20s; second, 15s and special value 10s 6d: third, special value 10s 0d; fourth, 6s—Mrs Jas. Bawers 1, Miss B, E. Mcßride 2, Mrs H. McDonald 3, Mrs J. J. Cunningham 4; 14 entries-

Salt Butter, 51b in jar, not factory or separator - made. First prize. £1 and special value 21s; second, special value 265; third, special value 10s 6d —Mrs W. .R. Ronald 3. • Mrs H. McDonald 2. Mrs D. D. McDonald 3; nine entries. i' ancy butter, to be decided Jjy quality as well as design. Any decoration allowed in making up, but no foreign matter allowed in composition of butter. First prize. 10s and special 31s; second, special value 31s; third, special- value 10s 6d—Miss K. Belcher 1, Mrs JosCooper 2, Miss Mary Callander 3; five entries. Fancy Butter, made up for table use. No decorations whatever allowed and no foreign matter In composition of butter. First, 30s; second, 20s; third. 10s —Miss K. Belcher I. Mrs Jos. Cooper 2, Mrs H. McLeod 3;-. five entries. Two Farm-made Cheese, new. First, £2; second. £1; third, h.c. —Mrs H. Macdonald 1, Robt. Dawson 2, Robt. Dawson 3; only entries. Honey. First prize. 10s; second. ss; third, h.c.—Sib. granulated—Lawrence Gardiner, 1 and 2, A. C. Toshach 3; eight entries. 51bs, comb-honey, in squares—Lawrence Gardiner 1 and XA. Lyon 3; five entries. BOTTLED FRUITS, JAMS AND PICKLES (home made). Not more than twelve varieties in each class. Collection of Bottled Preserved Fruits. First prize, 15s; second, 10s; third, Ss.—• Miss M. Watson 1; only entry. Jams and Jellies, best collection. First prize, 1.55: second, 10s; third. 6s —Miss Rebecca Wilson 1, Miss A, Steel 2; only entries. Pickles and Condiments, best collection. First prize, Xss;'second, 10s; third. ss—Mrs Amy E. Gifford 1 and 2, Miss Rebecca Wilson 3; only entries. BREAD, SCONES, Etc. Most be-home made. White Bread, two loaves —Mias J. Macdonald 1. Mrs D. Wadsworth 2, Mrs M. A, Raeburn 3, Miss J. Macdooald 4; ten entries. Brown Bread, whole flour, two loaves — Miss J. Macdonald 1. Mrs Guise, sear 2, Miss IC. Belcher 3; four entries. • One Camp Oven. T,oaf—Mrs w- Sadlier 1 and 2, Mrs Simmonds 3; Blx entrios. Six Scones —Mrs Simmonds 1, Mr* R. Ross 2, • Miss Jessie Anderson 3. Mrs G. Faris 4, Mrs D. D. Macdonald h.c.; 34 entries. Six Scones, girdle—Mrs Ja«. Sawers 1, and 2. Miss M. B. Sinclair *. Mrs Geo. F aris 4, Mrs Simmonds 5; 33 entries. Six Oven Scones; all former first prizetakers excluded from competition—Mrs Walter Clarke 1, Mrs D. D. Macdonald X Mrs Simmonds 3, Miss E. Farquharson 4, Miss E. Sommerville 5; 18 entries. Six Oven and Six Girdle Scones. Open only to exhibitors under 20 years of ago who have never won a first prize. First special value 21s; second, special value, 10s; third, h.c, —Miss M. Ross X Miss E. Farquh arson 2, Miss M. Sadller 3; six entries. Six Oatmeal Cakes —Mrs Hugh Mair X Mrs R. Ross 2, Miss M. Ross X Miss K. Belcher 4; 11 entries. Six Potato Scones —Miss Rebecca Wilson 1, Mrs T. A. Shaw 2, Mrs Oeo—Raiaage 3; seven entries. CAKES, ETC Sponge Sanwich —Mrs D. Wadsworth X, Miss J. McDonald 2. Miss Jessie Anderson 3, Mrs R. Ross h.c.; 14 entries. Seed Cake —Mrs Pyper 1 and X Mr* Jas. Sawers 3, Mrs Geo. Ramago-b-c.; 14 entries. Fruit Cake —Mrs D. Wadsworth 1, Mrs Jas. Sawers 2, Airs W. Sadlier 3. Miss K, Belcher h.c.; 12 entries. Madeira Cake—Miss K. Belcher X. Mrs D. Wadsworth 2, Mrs Jas. Sawers X Mrs Pyper 4; 22 entries. Plum Pudding—Miss K. BelcherT. Mrs Thos. Hughes 2, Mrs D. Wadsworth 3; 10 entries. Six Squares Shortbread —Mrs James Sawers 1. Miss Annie Anderson 2, Miss Rebecca Wilson 3, Miss Marion Sadlier h.c.: 24 entries. Six Pikelets —Mrs J. Nisbct 1. Moss Annie Hayes 2, Miss Rebecca Wilson 3, MigfffMaud Blakie 4; 32 entries. Collection Pastry—Mrs P. Mason L Miss R. Wilson 2, Mrs Jas. Hunter o; five entries. _ . , Collection Cakes —Mrs G. Faris 1, Miss R. Wilson 2; only entries. Collection Biscuits —Miss R. Wilson X Mrs Pyper 2; only entries. Six Potatoes, of any variety, boiled m their skins —Mrs G. Willis 1. O. E. F. Anderson 2, Miss O. Findlay 17 entries. DOMESTIC ART TABLE. The exhibits in this Class are to consist of the following: Six oven scones, six girdle scones, one Madeira cake, six pikelets, 11b fresh butter, and_ six potatoes in their skins. First £5 ss; second. £3 3s; third, £1 Is. Mrs Jas. Sawers 1, Miss K. Belcher X Mrs D. D. Macdonald 3. Miss Maud Blakie 4; 14 entries. FRUIT. First six classes: Fir.pt, 20a; second, 10s; third. ss. Two remaining classes; First prize, 10a; second. ’ss; third, 2s 6d. Apples, cooking, best collection, open class —Flint, Fenn and Co. 1 and 2, Thos. F' Richards 3; three entries. Apples, dessert, best collection, open class —Flint F’enn and Co. 1 and 2. Trustees late W. J- Tonkin 3 and h.c.; six entries. ~ _ „ Apples, cooking, best collection, amajteur class—Mrs Beaven 1. Mrs Willis X Hy. Knowler 3, Hy. Hammond h.c.; fiva entries. ~ .. Apples, dessert, best collection, amateur class —Mrs Beaven 1. Hy Hammond 2; only entries. Apples, cooking (Southland grown), not more than four varieties —Hammond Bros , 1 and 2 and h.c., J. Gordon w>: seven entries. ' Apples, dessert ' (Southland grown), not more than four varieties—Hammond Bros 1 and 2 and h.c.. J. Gordon 3; seven. entries. . Pears, best collection, open class—— Flint Fenn and Co. 1 and 2. Tbos. • Pilchards 3; only entries. boots ETC. First prize, 13s; second, 10s’; third, ss; fourth, 2s «d; unless otherwise specified. POTATOES. Potatoes, field (First, Early White) Hy. Knowler 1 and 3, R. Lang 2, Geo. Simpson 4 ; six entries. Potatoes, field. First Early, any other colour— Hy. Knowler J, 2. and 3; O. E. F Anderson 4; eight entries. Potatoes, field. White (except kidney) q Anderson X. R. Lang 2 and L llv Knowler *.*: six entries. Potatoes, field, Derwent—R. Lang 1, and 2. A. N. Hislop 3, Geo. Simpson 4; four entries. „ . . _ Potatoes, field. White Elephant—R. Lang 1 and 2, Hy. Knowler 3 and 4; five | field. Up-to-date—John CaMU I 1 and 2, Geo. Simpson 3, R. Lang 4; eight entries. _ I potatoes, field, Sutton s Supreme -riyI Knowler 1 and' 2, R. Lang 3, Geo. Simpi son 4: six entries. 1 potatoes, field. Gamekeeper R. Lang 1 and 2 Hv. Knowler 3; seven entries. : Potatoes, field, any other variety, must Ihe named—O. E. F. Anderson 1 and ch, 1 R. Lang 2. Geo. Simpson 3 and 4; 1- en- ! * potatoes garden: Best collection, six I of each, not more than 12 named varie--1 tie-; First, special value 21s; second, 10s- third. ss; fourth, 2s 6d —H. Knowler ! 1 and 3. R. Lang 2, Geo. Simpson 4; fiva collection of three varieties, three potatoes of each variety, grown by any school in Southland. One entryper school. Entry free —Te Tua School 1. only entry. TURNIPS, ETC. Four Swede Turnips, purple top—R. Lang 1. J- Cahill 2, H. Knowler 3 and 4; 20 entries. . Four Swede Turnips, green top—K. Lang 1 and 4, Geo. Simpson 2, Henry Knowler 3; 10 entries. Four Swede Turnips, any other variety, except purple or green top, to be named ft. P Lang 1, Hy. Knowler 2 and 3; eight entries. , . Four Aberdeen Yellow, purple top— Geo. Young 1, R. Lang 2 and 3, R. Hitchcock 4; 14 entries. Four Aberdeen Yellow, green top—J ; McKendry 1 and 2, H. Ranee 3, Michael Murphy 4; IS entries. Four Yellow Flesh Hybrids purple top, to be named R. Lang 1, 2, and 3; Geo. Simpson 4: seven entries. Four Yellow Flesh Hybrids, green top, to be named —Geo. Simpson J, Jno. W. Stevens 2, R. Lang j and 4, eight entries. _ Four Early White Field Turnips, green top —M. Lavelll 1. Geo. Simpson X R. Lang 3 and 4; 17 entries. Four Early White Field Turnips, purple top—Geo. Simpson 1, R. Lang 2 and 4, Hv. Knowler 3; seven entries. Four Early White Field Turnips, red— K. Lang 1, 3. and 4, Geo. Simpson 2; eight entries. Four Turnips, any variety, except Swedes —Hy. Knowler 1, Geo. Simpson X Jno. W. Stevens 3, R. Lang 4; 10 entries. Six Swedes, any variety. First prize, special 21s: second, 10a; third, Ss; fourth.

s Sd—R. Lang 1 and 3. Hy. Knowler 2, '•eo. Simpson 4; 19 entries. Best Collection Field Turnips, limited ‘a 12 varieties, of which not more than tnree may be Swedes, not more than one turnip of each variety. First, special. 2)s; second 10s: third. ss: fourth. 2s fid —R. Lang 1 and 2, Hy. Knowler 3, Geo. bimpson 4. Best Collection Turnips and Swedes, grown from Messrs Sharpe ami Co. s bleaford seeds. First. Sharpes Warwick Vase, value £6O and special value £2; second special value £l. The Warwick Vase to be won three times, not necessarily in succession—Henry Knowler 1. Geo. Simpson 3: three entries. Collection Swedes, four varieties, one turnips of each variety, grown by any school in Southland. One entry per school. Entry free —Dipton School IW. S Lea, head teacher) 1; Pukerau 2. Drummond ", Te Tua 4; five entries. MANGOLDS. ETC. Four Mangolds. long red. —John Cahill 1. Henry Knowler 2 and 4. Jas. McKerehar 3; 11 entries. Four Mangolds, orange globe Hy. Knowler 1 and 4. Jas. McKerehar 2, Jno. Cahill 3: in entries. Four Mangolds, golden tankard —R. Lang 1 and 4. Hy. Knowler 2 and 3; seven entries. Six Carrots, red—Geo. Simpson 1. R. Hitchcock 2. J. McKendry 3, Jno. Cahill 4; 11 entries. _ ' Six Field Carrots, white—Geo. Simpson 1 and 2. R. Hitchcock 3. Chas. Knowler 4; 10 entries. Six Red Beet, long—Hy. Knowler 1 and 2. R. Hitchock 3. R. Lang 4; nine entries. Six Red Beet, turnip—R. Lang I and 2, Hy. Knowler 3 and 4: eight entries. Six Sugar Beet —Hy. Knowler 1, Geo. Simpson 2, 3. and 4: seven entries. Onions. 141b—Jno. Cahill 1. H. Ranee 2 and 3, Hy. Knowler 4: eight entries. Cabbage, two drumhead —R. Hitchcock 1, R. Lang 2 and 3. G. Simpson 4: four entries. GRAIN. Farmers’ Classes —Most suitable for seed purposes, grown by exhibitor from harvest of 1914. First prize, 20s; second, 10s: third, ss; fourth, certificate. —Wheat. — ▼elvet —T. A. Shaw 1, Syd. H. Day 2; three entries. Any other variety—Edie Bros 2nd; Sot worthy of Ist; only entry. —Oats. — Tartarian, long—J. R- Keown 1. SparrowbiU—J. A, Mclllwrick 1, Geo. Simpson 2 and 3; five entriesDun —Geo. Simpson 1 and 2, A. D. Flnlayson 3: five entries. Black—Geo. Simpson 1 and 2. W. Mackintosh 3, Mrs h.c.: eiffht entries. Gartnn—Geo. Simpson 1 and 3, Charles Johnston 2; 11 entries. Newmarket —Geo. Simpson 1 and 2; two entries. Waverley—Geo. Simpson 1 and 2; only entries. White. milliner, any variety—George Simpson 1 and 2: only entries. Any other variety (name to be stated! —Geo. Simpson 1 and 2, Jos. Cooper o. four entries. Ryecom—Thos. Evans 1 and 2; only entries. —Oats. — Tartarian, long—Southland Farmers Co.-op. Assn, Ltd.. —h.c. only exhibit. Sparrow-bill—Southland Farmers' Co.op. Assn.. Ltd 1 and 2. Dalgety and Co, Ltd. 3: four entries. Dun —Southland Farmers’ Co.-op. Assn Ltd, 1. J. G. Ward and Co, Ltd, 2. Black —Dalgety and Co, Ltd. (Gore) 1; three entries. Garton—Southland Farmers' Co.-op. Assn. Ltd., 1 and 2, J. G. Ward and Co 3, five entries. Any other variety—J. G. Ward and Co, Ltd, Invercargill, 1. SEEDS.—Farmers’ Classes must have t been grown by exhibitor from harvest of 1914 Exhibits in each Class must consist of one four-bushel sack except fescues, clover, rape, and turnip seed, which shall consist of 56!b bags. Classes 139 to 142 First prize £1: second. 10s; third. ss- - fourth, h.c. AH other classes—First 10s: second, ss; third certificate . Ryegrass, perennial—.Jno. Searle 1. H. Anderson 2. J. S. Shaw 3; eight entries. Ryegrass. Italian Alex. Robson 1, Devid Saunders 2; two entries.

Cocksfoot —Goo. Simpson I and 2; two entri os. Timothy—R. Anderson 1 and 2; two entries. Cho wings Rescue —P. Cody 1, F. .J. Savill 2: two entries. Crested Dogstai!— P. Campbell and Sou: 1 and 2: two entries. Truss Clover Hay. First prize. £1; second. 10s —T. \V. Findley 1. John Meagher 2; three entries. Farmers’ Table. First prize. £6 6s; secon. £4 4s: third. £2 2s —Henry Knowler, 12Rpts. 1 : Geo. Simpson, 126pts, 2. I’LKECE WOOI.. Three classes will be made as follow —36*s to 40’s. 44's to 48’s and 50's to sfi's. Ram fleece or fleeces or fleeces from pets not eligible. First. £1; second, tOs, in each class. 4 4 if >: —Alex. Mackay 1. D. Marshall : and ::: three entries. r,fi; —f). Marshall 1, J. D. Shepherd 2; two entries. SPECIAL PRIZES, 1914. The following special prizes have been awarded: — HAMS ANT) BACON'. Most points Farmers' Classes; trophy, value 2ts from G. W. Woods and Co G. Simpson and J. McCullough equal. CHEESE. Most points. 21s from Mr .1. Batger— Wright's Bush Dairy Factory. BUTTER. Class 26: First, trophy, valued 2 la. from Ironmongers' Association; second. Goods, value 21s. from Mr S. McDonald Miss Belcher 1. Miss Mcßride 2. Class 27: First, Hal. value 21s. from Thomson and Beattie; second. Trophy, value 2 Is. from Ironmongers' Association: thir. Fern Bowl, value 10s 6d. from M. X. Hyndman and Co—Miss Belcher 1, Mrs J. J. Cunningham 2, Mrs H. Macdonald 2. Class 2S: First, trophy. value 21s, from Ironmongers' Association; second, floods*, value 10s from vv'ilson, and Co—Mrs .1. J. Cunningham 1, Mrs W. SadlCr 2, Class 29: First, trophy, value 21s, from Ironmongers’ Association; second, paper for one year, from Southland Times Co.; third, goods, value 10s fid?* from K. and .J. Smith—Miss Mcßride 1. Mrs PI. McLeod 2, Mrs J. J. Cunningham 2. Class 30: First, goods, value 20s, from Mr N. J. M. Rein; second, box tea, value 10s Gd, from W. Todd and Co.; third, goods, value 1 0s Sd, from A. Russell and Co.—Mrs Jas. Sawers 1, Miss Mcßride 2, Mrs H. Macdonald 3. Class 31: First, goods, value 21s. from McGruer, Taylor and Co.: second. Southland News for one year, from Southland News Co., Ltd.; third, goods, value 10s fid. from Mr R. G. Spiers—Mrs W. R. Ronald 1. Mrs H. Macdonald 2, Mrs D. D. Macdonald 3. Class 32; P’irst. 335. from Nichol Bros.; second, trophy, value ,21a. from Ironmongers’ Association: third. picture, value 10s Sd. from Mr M. Chiaroui—Miss Belcher 1. Mrs Cooper 2, Miss Callander 3. Most points in Butter; First, trophy, value 21s, from W. Lewis and Co.; second, goods, value 10s fid. from Chas. Begg and Co. —Miss Belcher 1. Mrs J. J. Cunningham and Miss Mcßride, eqx»l, 2. BREAD. SCONES, Etc. Class 46: Trophy, value 21s, from ironmongers' Association: second. books, value 10s. from J. M. McNanghton and Co.—Miss Ross 1, Miss E. Firrqtiharson 2. Most points Bread, Scones, Cakes, etc.; First, goods, value 40s. from J. E. Watson and Co., Ltd.: second, one 2001b. bag flour, from Fleming and Co., Ltd.; third, trophy, value 10s Gd, from Mr G. Munro —Mrs Sawers and Miss Wilson, equal, 1; Mrs D. Wadsworth 3. DOMESTIC ARTS TABLE. Class 60: First £5 ss. second £3 3s, third £1 Is, contributed to by the following: Messrs Murrays, Ltd.. Rattray, Armstead and Murray, Watson and Haggit t. B. Brootee, Colin McDonald, Macalister Bros.. Nightcaps Coal Co., N.Z. Pine Co. —£1 Is each —Mrs Jas. Sawers 1, Miss K. Belcher 2, Mrs D. D. Macdonald 3. FRUIT. Most points: Trophy, value 21s, from IroiuooQXers’ Association; second, goods.

value 10s fid. from Mr P. H. Vickery— Flint, Fcnn and Co. I, Hammond Bros. 2. POTATOES. Class 7S: First, gentleman’s umbrella, value 21s, from Herbert. Haynes and Co. —H. Knowler. Champion hundredweight of Potatoes: Two guineas, from McKay Bros. —O. H. F. Anderson. Most Points: First. 1 ton guano, from Dalgety and Co.; second, goods, value 21s, from Bray Bros, —-H. Lang 1, IT. Knowler 2. TURNIPS. Class 91; First, 21s, from Frozen Meat Co. —R. Lang. Class 92: First, 21s, from Frozen Meat Co. —R. Lang. Class 03: First. Sharpe's Warwick vase, value £6O, to be won throe times, not necessarily in succession. from Messrs Chas. Sharpe and Co., Sleaford. Englapd, through their agents. J. E. Watson and Co.. Ltd.: also this year; First, goods, value £2; second, goods, value £l, both from .1. K. Watson and Co.. Ltd. (Won In 1912 and 1913 by H. Knowler.) —H. Knowler 1, G. Simpson 2. This win gives Mr Knowler possession of the vase. Most points in Turnips: First 1 ton guano, from Messrs J. G. "Ward and Co.. Ltd.; second, one 2001b. bag flour, from Fleming and Co.: third, 10s Gd. from Mr W. E. Tait —R. Lang 1. G. Simpson 2, H. Knowler 3. Most points in Mangolds, etc.; First. N’o. S Standard Post Hole Borer, value 20s. from A. Storrie. Ltd. 1. R. Lang and G. Simpson 2. Most points in Roots of every description (including Potatoes): First, 1 ton guano, from National Mortgage and Agency Co.. Lid.; second, half ton guano, from Henderson and (Jo., Ltd.: third, gentleman's umbrella- value 21s, from Price and Bn Hr id —R. Lang 1, H. Knowler 2. G. Simps.™ 3. G RA IN'. Most point? Farmers' Classes: First, one ton guano, from Wright, Stephenson and Co, Ltd.: second. Sutton's seeds, value 2 guineas, from National Mortgage and Agency Co, Ltd.—G. Simpson 1, T. Evans 2. SEEDS. Mo?t points Farmers' Classes: First, seeds, value 2 guineas, frorm .1. H. Kirk and Co. of N.Z, Ltd.—R. Anderson, G. Simpson and P. Campbell and Son, all equal. GENERAL Exhibitor with most points in Show: First, one ton guano, from N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Agency Co, Ltd, and gold medal from the Association; second, half-ton guano, from Henderson and Co, Ltd.; third, lawn mower, value 2ris, from Macalister, Ltd.- —G. Simpson 1, R. Lang 2, H. Knowler 3. THE MAXWELL CAR, L T nable to secure space at the Winter Show Mr G. V. Cross has done the next best thing, and is showing the noted 25 h.p. Maxwell touring car in the garage on the south side of the same building. This Is a car designed for buyers who have to consider the pocket book, but who most have along with chcapcss a car of good appearance, comfortable fast, and efficient. Tie Maxwell very admirably meets all these requirements. and those who inspect it to-day cannot fall to be Impressed with it as wonderful value for £260. The specifications are alone convincing. The four cylinder motor is cast enbloc, valves are ersclosed, thermo syphon cooling system, zephyr atomizer carburettor, plunger pump lubrication, cone type clutch, selective sliding gear transmission, right hand drive, largo wheel, 103 inch wheel base, seml-elllptic springs, floating rear axle, internal and external brakes, five passenger body, khaki hood, jiffy curtains five lamps, horn, speedometer, and presb-o-Ute tank. The carburettor embraces a most attractive feature enabling the petrol supply to be altered while the engine is running. The horizontal jet is in the form of a tube; with four different-sized holes in the circumference. By simply taming the tube round —and this can be done with finger and thumb while the engine is running—the mixture can be made richer or weaker as required. The engine is good at picking up speed under load and pulls well at a slow rate of revolution. The

Max-well is a lino hill climber and should be a splendid vehicle for country use. When Mr Cross was in Dunedin early this month ho climbed High street on the second gear with live passengers aboard. The ease with which the car ran up the hill caused one of the inmates to exclaim —“Why, she’s like a rabbit on the hills.” The Maxwell is not built for a day. It las a strong organisation behind it, and will give satisfaction over a long period under any conditions. A trial spin, and a chat with other Maxwell owners will convince visitors that this car will give as much satisfaction and as good service as most cars at twice the money. The. Maxwell two-seater is sold at £250 and is a particularly classy and speedy roadster. Mr Cross will be glad to give demonstrations and particulars to enquirers.

Factory Flav. b&t. Col. Pin. Wrights Bush 44 J 28 4 1 5 5 03 Brydonc 4.3 28 15 01 Mataura 42 28 1 5 5 00 Whiterig 41 i 28 144 5 SO Two cwt factory-made. medium colcured cheese. £3, £2 and £1 Brydone 45i 284 ] 5 5 04 Wright's Bush 4 5 28 4 1 5 5 03* Matsura 4 4 i 284 1 5 5 03 Brydone 44 28?. 1 5 5 02* Whiterig 44 28 144 5 01i Case factory-made, coloured, loaf cheese. £3, £2 and £1. Wright’s Bush 454 284 1 5 5 34 Biydone 45 284 15 r. 934 Brydone 4 4 J 284 15 5 93 Whiterig 44 28 144 5 914 Mataura 424 28 15 5 90? Comity 42 28 1 5 » 90 Pair factory-made cheese. large. coloured. cheddar-shape 3; s uitable for export. Open only to factories whose outputs do not exceed J 50 tons. First £3; second £2; third £1. Wright's Busli 4 54 28 1 5 5 9.3 ? Tuturau 444 28 1 5 5 924 Taieri & Benin 44 284 144 92 Rimu 4.3 28 1 5 91 Tuturau 44 - ‘ U 14? » 91 Whiterig 4 24 28 Hi 5 91 Bake County 4.3 27 i 1 5 5 90? Taieri & Benin 43 2 S Hi 5 004 Best single coloured cheese, factory -made First £2; second £1; third 10s. Wright's Bush 454 28 1 5 5 93? Brydone 4 5 28 1 5 a 9.3 Brydone 45 28 15 5 9.3 Mataura . . A 4 2S4 1 5 5 321 Tuturau 43J 28? 1 5 5 32 Bake County 4.34 284 1,5 fi 32 Wright’s Bush 4.3 28 15 ft 31 Mataura 4.3 28 15 5 31 Mataura 42 28 1 5 f. 30 Tuturau 4.3 274 Hi 5 30 Whiterig 42J 28 14? AX 834 Taieri & Benin 424 274 144 5 89? Taieri & Benin 424 28 H4 4i 89?