RECORD OF ACHIEVEMENT

Taranaki Daily News, 11 July 1929, Page 16

RECORD OF ACHIEVEMENT

DEVELOPMENT IN THE PAST PHENOMENAL GROWTH. Representing as it does the manifold labours of the farmer and in lesser degree the things for which he may exchange his produce, the Stratford Winter Show is symbolic of many phases of the vast dairying industry upon which the ultimate prosperity of the town of Stratford, through the medium of its district, depends.

Conceived six years ago by four or five poultry fanciers the first show was purely a method whereby fanciers might further the interests of their chosen hobby and it came into existence as the Stratford Poultry Show, held in the Town Hall just five years ago. Successful from the viewpoint* of fanciers interested in the rearing of poultry and the production of eggs the show failed to arouse more than passing interest from the public, which was sparing with its support. Bent on capturing public attention the committee launched on more ambitious lines by introducing roots and side shows into the 1926 show. The policy was evidence of its soundness.

Realising that the further expansion of the show would depend upon the securing of more commodious accommodation, the committee saw that the two big garages in Broadway north offered the only solution to the problem of suitable housing. By the courtesy of Messrs. Kleeman and Bishop and E. H. Eason the 1927 show was housed in their premises, where the large floor area was adapted to the purpose.

Last year, anticipating an even larger demand for space than in 1927, the committee built on to the rear of the garages and was permitted by the Borough Council to rail off a portion of Miranda Street where the merry-go-round, the big wheel and other amusements were accommodated.

This year the committee has again been faced with the space problem and only by judicious arrangement' and forethought has it been possible to house the numerous entries and exhibits.

From a small poultry show that attracted a few hundred people to a comprehensive winter show comparing favourably with any of its kind, which drew a total attendance of 9416 and occupied 53,000 square feet last year—such has been the phenomenal growth of the show in a space of only five years.