THE FUTURE OF THE NATIONAL SWEET PEA SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLV, Issue 17, 26 April 1911, Page 39

THE FUTURE OF THE NATIONAL SWEET PEA SOCIETY OF NEW ZEALAND.

Dear Veronica, —The article under the above heading by Mr. E. A. Osmond, published in the Sweet Pea Special of April sth, was quite entertaining to myself, and probably other members of the com mittee. Owing to pressure of work I have been unable to reply sooner. 1 would lake to ask Mr. Osmond, what is the use of having an Executive Committee if he does not intend to consult them, especially on such important matters as are contained in the above article. If the executive members had been consulted, Mr. Osmond’s manifesto would not have got into print, as his committee would never have agreed to it. Mr. Osmond’s skill at somersaulting is marvellous. At a meeting of the general committee, that gentleman fought hard to keep the show at Palmerston North; now. after an interval of four months, he says it seems certain that the locale must be Christchurch or Timaru. Let me remind the secretary that there is plenty of “Constructional” work to accomplish in the North Island, before tackling the South. The Society should first have a solid financial standing, before courting disaster bv going further afield.

A very difficult problem, which will take a lot of solving. Is the difference of climatic conditions in the centres. Auckland season starts the middle of November, and as we gradually go South, each large city is from two to four weeks later, until we come to Timaru", which is three months later. What would be the use of a show in Timaru, even to Wellington! Apparently Mr. Osmond lias come to the conclusion that Palmerston North is not an ideal place for a show. Why not take it to Wellington, where a good gate, and plenty of enthusiasm will be assured, and being central, will also give further South a chance to compete? The National cannot afford many financial, and exhibiting fiascos, as were witnessed at Palmerston, where Sweet Pea growing is in its infancy. It is not safe to depend on outside exhibitors for numerous exhibits, the bulk of the flowers must be grown locally, if an attractive

display is required. Just a word about subscribers. Naturally the secretary is very anxious to gain a good membership roll. This iis going to be a hard tussle, I mean from far away districts; the age we lave in, is decidedly a mercenery one, and the first question we are asked by

prospective members is—what are the benefits? Certainly the 5/ ticket admits to the show, and gives the holder a vote at the annual meeting, but very little more, and it is very few people who can leave business, ami pay heavy expenses simply to see the National, and perhaps

exhibit. Almost all large* cities have their own exhibition, which they will probably support first, and get something tor their outlay, consequently new members must conn* annually from the show province.— I am, etc..

G. W. PLUMMER.