NEW FEATURE AT SHOW

Southland Times, Issue 23677, 28 November 1938, Page 8

NEW FEATURE AT SHOW

Export Fat Lambs On Display EXCELLENT SHEEP EXHIBITS The introduction of several new features of particular interest was in keeping with the progressive spirit of the directors of the association. Among the most important of these was a special class for fat lambs most suitable for the export trade and this competition attracted numerous entries with lambs of a very attractive standard. The pens housing these exhibits drew a great deal of interest during'the day and it was clear that lamb growers were following methods designed to raise lambs most popular with the Smithfield trade and the British consumer. In an entry of nearly 20 pens the quality was very even and the lambs well developed and in forward condition. The entries were so advanced that good promise was given of early fattening of drafts in Southland this season. The greatest advance in comparison with the previous year was in sheep and light horses. Draught horses and cattle showed reductions in numbers, but the standard of quality was not seriously impaired, very attractive exhibits being shown in most classes. The sheep, however, were an outstanding feature and a credit to any district show. The judges had a busy period in completing their tasks and it appeared in some sections that if further progress is made in the future more judges will be necessary to complete the work in the early afternoon. UNHOUSED SHEEP CLASSES For many years show associations in Southland have had some difficulty in maintaining a distinction between the housed and uncovered classes for sheep. The rules have not been sufficiently strict to prevent sheep which have received special treatment being ex-

hibited in the natural condition classes. Judges have frequently complained that sheep which had obviously been housed at one time or had been locked were exhibited in the natural condition classes. The Winton association, after consultation with other associations, drafted new rules to cover the position and these rules came into force at Saturday’s show with the result that several entries were rejected from the natural-condition classes. The directors were reluctant to take this step, but they felt that it was necessary if the classes were to retain their meaning and continue to be attractive to owners of sheep not specially housed or treated for show purposes. The sheep display was generally considered to be the best in the history of the show, with leading breeders in most parts of the province competing strongly. The housed sheep were particularly attractive and showed the efforts of breeders to maintain the special features of the different breeds of sheep. Romney Marsh, Border Leicester, Southdown, Shropshire, Ryeland and English Leicesters were well represented. In the cattle sections competition was not as keen as previously, but there Were fair entries of Friesians, Jerseys and Ayrshires from district studs, the cattle being in uncommonly good condition for a season which opened poorly with a shortage of feed. The Clydesdale horses were not numerous, but they were of a uniformly high standard, particularly in the classes for fillies and colts. It was in the light horses that real strength was seen. After a small but representative entry of thoroughbreds and trotting horses, the competition in roadsters and ponies was particularly strong. There was keen competition among hacks and harness horses with up to 10 entries in the ring in some classes. Ponies also were numerous and the competition keen. CAPABLE OFFICIALS The success of the show reflected much credit on the enthusiasm of the directors and officials. Mr Hugh Carswell was president for the second year in succession and the completeness of the arrangements was a tribute to his success in organization. In the secretary’s office, Mr L. G. de la Perrelle was in charge for the first time and he enjoyed a considerable measure of success by closely co-ordinating his department with the big number of officials on the grounds, and by careful preparation for the smooth running of the show. The Winton Pipe Band was on the grounds and led the parade as well as contributing a programme of music which was much appreciated. Numerous trades displays and side-shows attracted the keen interest of visitors. The gate receipts totalled £142 12/— compared with £137 9/- last year. This was considered very satisfactory because the membership had been greatly increased during the year and admission charges for motor-cars had been reduced compared with the previous show.