ROYAL A. AND P. SOCIETY

Southland Times, Issue 19292, 10 July 1924, Page 8

ROYAL A. AND P. SOCIETY

SUPPORT BY BREEDERS. AGE LIMIT FOR CHAMPIONS. “The society is now a live being, after having been more or less dormant and quiescent for 17 years, due in main to the great war and to the inevitable slump which has followed the cessation of hostilities in 1918,” states the first annual report of the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand. The membership of the society at June 30 was 816, of whom 506 are financial. It is stated that the various breeders’ associations have responded well to the solicitations of the society and at present have promised to donate £321 worth of challenge cups and £258 in cash. Some have promised other cups and medals in addition, and the New Zealand Sheepowners’ Federation has promised a valuable challenge shield. The schedule of prizes has been over hauled on two or three occasions during the past three months, and it will be “finalised” at the first annual meeting on July 17. “Some of the breeders’ associations are taking exception to the council making the Royal classes for younger stock only,” states the report. “In framing its policy, the council adopted the policy of the parent Royal Agricultural Society in England, but many breeders in the Dominion aver that there should be no age limit for the Royal championships.” The report also states that one of the most important questions to be considered in the near future is that of the carriage of exhibits by rail and steamer, and a committee has been appointed to make arrangements. If suitable arrangements are made by this committee the success of the show as far as exhibits are concerned, is assured, as stud masters will not fear the now much dreaded trips.