AGRICULTURAL CLUBS

Southland Times, Issue 22013, 12 May 1933, Page 5

AGRICULTURAL CLUBS

SOUTHLAND ASSOCIATION. MEETING OF EXECUTIVE. A special meeting of the executive of the Southland Agricultural Clubs Association was held on Wednesday afternoon, mainly to discuss show matters, there being present: Messrs D. Marshall (president), J. E. Davies (organizing’secretary), E. Hargest, McGillivray Watson, Haslam, A. A. Hume, J. Robertson, O. O. Mackley, L. Evans and J. Milne. A letter was received from the New Zealand Meat Board, enclosing a cheque for £lO 5/1, being credit balance to club members from London sales on the 18 pigs exported last August The secretary stated that this meant approximately a further cash return to club members of 10/- each. Apart from the publicity in London of Southland pork, the exporting of last season’s porkers had proved a decided financial gain. Members expressed appreciation of the excellent co-operation of various bodies in finalizing a unique pig scheme, which gave reliable, valuable information to the pig industry of New Zealand. Special mention was made of the Southland Frozen Meat Company’s assistance in the control of slaughtering and exporting. Reports revealed that the London display was specially commented upon by the High Commissioner. So striking was the feature that a talkie news reel was recorded. The display attracted crowds of spectators. The chairman stated that the previous ruling was not to export this season’s pigs, but to sell locally. However, the demand on the success of last year was so keen that many requests were received to again export this season’s lot. After some deliberation, it was unanimously decided to export. Messrs Marshall, Milne, Davies and Mackley were appointed to make the necessary arrangements. The show judges reported that seven pigs had exceeded the 1301 b weight limit set down by the clubs’ rules. It was decided to make two classes: (a) over 1301 b; (b) under 1301 b.

It was stated that the clubs’ display at the show was of such a high standard as to win public admiration; on it being known that no cash awards were being given, donations to the amount of £8 had been received, and it was likely, by reason of the young members’ achievements, that more support would be forthcoming. Appreciation of the public support was recorded, and it was decided to award cash prizes to placed exhibitors in the live stock sections.