A GREAT DISPLAY.

Waikato Times, Volume 100, Issue 16811, 1 June 1926, Page 4

A GREAT DISPLAY.

The Waikalo Winter Show for 1926, opened 10-day, promises lo eclipse any of its predecessors, both as regards its scope and the number of its entries. That, in view of past achievements, is a great claim, but it uceds no qualification. Visitors from afar, who came expecting much, have expressed astonishment at the comprehensiveness of the exhibition, and former patrons, who had thought that the zenith had been attained iu previous years, admit that on this occasion the attractions have been added to, that the' entries arc greater and cover a wider field, and that quality shows a distinct improvement. Nothing that, in the opinion of the committee, would add to the exhibition from either the utilitarian or spectacular aspects has been neglected, and as an educational factor its value has been considerably enhanced. Each day fresh' attractions will be staged and visitors arc assured of something lo interest, lo instruct and lo amuse.

It is unnecessary to dilate upon the value of the Show to the South Auckland district particularly, and to the northern province generally. From its inception it has gained in reputation aud importance each year. It is more than a coincidence that the Waikato commenced to forge ahead from the time of the Show's inauguration. For many years Waikato was not held in high regard. Its soil was considered poor class, and its farmers were believed to be objects for pity. The advent of the dairy factory, however, quickly wrought a change. It has demonstrated that for that industry Waikato soil is unrivalled and the magnificent display of the products staged each year at the winter fixture sufficed lo show that the previouslydespised Waikato land, if properly treated, was capable of great things. As a result an influx of dairymen set in, the large estates were cut up, and an era of progress and prosperity was inaugurated far exceeding the wildest dreams of the most sanguine optimists —for there were some optimists even then who confidently' predicted that the Waikalo would eventually become a veri'tablc Land of Promise, and they were laughed at for their views. Thai is ancient history, and while it is interesting to look back and take stock we are more concerned with the future. This wc consider assured in view of the excellence of the exhibits now staged in Ward Street. Any district which can produce such specimens need have no misgivings, and in view of the valuable research work now undertaken by the State experts, and the sustained efforts to instruct the man on the land in improved methods and treatment, it is reasonable to assume that though much has been accomplished, the future will witness even greater things and more rapid progress. II is gratifying, therefore, that the Department of Agriculture has seized the. opportunity afforded by the popular Waikato fixture lo dcsscmiiiale knowledge on maters tending to Increase production, for after all, the chief function of the Show is to impart knowledge, lo foster friendly rivalry, and to give an impetus to industry. This it is doing excellently. It is carrying out a great' public work in an admirable manner.

We heartily congratulate the executive of the Show upon the successful culmination of their year's labour, and bespeak for the Association the liberal patronage Of the public.