N.Z. Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs.

New Zealand Journal of Agriculture, Volume 56, Issue 6, 20 June 1938, Page 473

N.Z. Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs.

Edited by

S. Freeman,

Dominion Organizing Secretary.

Visit of United Kingdom Young Farmers.

AS mentioned in these pages last month, the four United Kingdom Y.F.C. members who joined the New Zealand touring team at Adelaide and travelled with them throughout South Australia and New South Wales accompanied the team on their return to New Zealand and arrived in Wellington by the " Awatea ” from Sydney on 19th April. Their visit was of particular interest, as it is the first visit of an . official party of Y.F.C. members from overseas. The visitors remained in the Dominion for nearly three weeks as guests of the New Zealand Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs. They came from different parts of the United Kingdom— E. Christopher coming from England, I. Gilmour from -Scotland, E. Williams from Wales, and R. Gamble from Northern Ireland. The visitors were met at Wellington by the Dominion Organizing Secretary, Mr. S. Freeman, who showed them round . Wellington during the day and accompanied them that night on the steamer to the South Island. Arrival at Christchurch. , At Christchurch they were met by Mr. L. W. Blackmore, District Secretary, and were taken by car over the Port Hills, where they were given a comprehensive view of the Canterbury District. In the afternoon they attended a stock-sale at Addington, and later were motored to Motukarara, where they were the guests of Messrs. H. A. Nutt and F. Coop. The following day they visited Lincoln College, and after inspecting the pastures, crops, and stock were entertained there to lunch. In the afternoon they travelled by service-car to Timaru, and from there three of them were conveyed to Southburn, where they were entertained by

Messrs. I. Caird, A. Bishop, and M. Toohey, the fourth member of the party, I. Gilmour, going to Pleasant Point as the guest of Mr. A. Talbot. The following day Mr. J. A. S. Miller, Department of Agriculture, took I. Gilmour to Fairlie, where he visited Mr. Andrew Grant’s Clydesdale stud, returning via Cave, Cannington, and the Pareora Gorge to Mr. Caird’s home. The remainder of the party were taken over the various farms were they were staying and shown the pastures, cropping methods, &c. Two of the members visited Mr. Johnstone’s property at St. Andrews, and inspected his stud sheep and Clydesdale horses. . . ' In the afternoon Mr. C. C. Leitch, District Secretary, motored all four to Waimate, where they were met by Mr. Alan Grant and some members of the Waihaorunga Club. At Waimate they were the guests of Messrs. H. M. Whatman, J. C. Hurst, A. Young, and J. Barclay.

They were taken on a wallaby hunt on the Saturday, and entertained at a social that evening. Shown over Power-house. On Sunday they were taken to Kurow and shown over the hydro-electric works. , On Monday they were brought back to Waimate and taken by Mr. Alan Grant to Oamaru, and then on to Palmerston South, where they went to Bushey Park to see some of New Zealand’s best Corriedales. That evening they were the guests of Mr. Alan Grant and Mr. Sinclair. On Tuesday morning Mr. Grant showed them round the Willowbridge and Morven districts, taking them to various farms, and in the afternoon Mr. Leitch brought them back to Timaru, where they caught the train for Christchurch, embarking on the ferry for Wellington that night. ' On Wednesday morning, 27th April, they were met at Wellington by Mr.’ Freeman, who motored them to Masterton,

arriving at Solway in time for them to take part in the Wairarapa district annual Stock-judging Competitions, where they acquitted themselves very well. The four winners of the Y.F.C. Stock-judging Competitions at the Royal Show, Palmerston North, who toured Australia with the British lads, were present, and a special contest was arranged between the United Kingdom team, the New Zealand team, and a selected Wairarapa team. The United Kingdom team were the winners, the scores being as follow : United Kingdom, 187 points ; Wairarapa, .166 points ; New Zealand, 147 points. One of the visitors, Robert Gamble, also won the open Ayrshire class. In the evening the visitors were entertained by the Masterton Club at a dance arranged in their honour. Inspection of Stud. The following morning an inspection was made of Mr. J. Donald’s Ayrshire stud. This was an extremely interesting visit for lan Gilmour in particular, who, coming from Ayrshire, was familiar withthe strains imported by Mr. Donald. In the afternoon a visit was made to Mr. J. M. James’s property, and his Hereford stud inspected. The next morning was spent in looking over Sir William Perry’s Penrose property, where the visitors had an opportunity of seeing Wairarapa sheep and farming methods at their best. The party spent the afternoon rabbit-shooting. During their stay at Masterton the visitors were billeted by members of the local —namely, D. McGregor, W. Perry, C. McKay, and A. Fisher, the last named and H. McKenzie, of Carterton, having been their fellow-tourists in Australia. \ On Saturday morning, 30th April, Mr. W. F. McLaren, Dominion President, motored the visitors to Palmerston North, where they were met by members of the Manawatu clubs and were later conveyed to Apiti by Alan Viles, a member of the New Zealand touring team. At Apiti the. visitors were the guests of Mesdames Viles, Cowan, and Spence. . The Sunday was spent in sightseeing round the Apiti and Kimbolton districts, and on Monday the visitors returned to Palmerston North with Alan Viles. During the morning a visit was paid to the Plant Research Station, the visitors being greatly impressed with the trial plots and pedigree-seed-production areas shown them by Mr. E. Bruce Levy. Although Massey College was included in their itinerary, time did not permit their paying a visit. After lunch the tourists . were motored to Hawera by Mr. C. J. Hamblyn, Fields Superintendent, Department of Agriculture.

In Taranaki. In Taranaki the clubs co-operated in the entertainment of the United Kingdom Young Farmers, and members of the various clubs travelled with them to the various places visited. The visitors arrived at Hawera in time for tea on the Monday. On Tuesday morning they were given a civic reception by the Mayor of Hawera, Mr. J. E. Campbell, at the Borough Chambers. They were also welcomed by Mr. P. O. Veale on behalf of the South Taranaki clubs, and by Mr. E. K. Cameron on behalf of the South Taranaki Farmers’ Union. During the morning they visited Mr. A. J. Corrigan’s farm and the Turuturu Mokai Redoubt, where a descriptive talk was given by Mr. J. Houston. ' In the afternoon visits were paid to the J oil Co.’s dairy factory at Okaiawa, Mr. E. J. Betts’ farm, the Waimate West Demonstration Farm, and Mr. H. E. Lloyd’s poultry-farm at Manaia. In the evening the visitors were entertained at Mr. E. K. Cameron’s residence, Hawera. . During their stay in Hawera they were the guests of Mrs. R. S. Scown. Entertained at Stratford. On Wednesday morning the party left Hawera, visiting T. H. Walker and Sons’

bacon-factory and the Federation of Factories’ laboratories and rennet-factory at Eltham. Lunch was provided at the Dawson Falls Hostel, and in the afternoon the party inspected Mr. L. Preece’s farm, where they were given afternoontea. Proceeding to Stratford, the visitors were entertained by the Toko and Cardiff Young Farmers’ Clubs to tea. Among those present were Mr. C. J. Hamblyn, Mr. J. E. . Davies (District Secretary, who accompanied the party throughout Taranaki), Mr. A. G. Elliott (Department of Agriculture, New Plymouth), Mr. T. T. Murray, and Mr. A. O’Sullivan, the two last named being Advisory Presidents of the Toko and Cardiff Clubs respectively. The Chairman and Secretaries of both clubs and various other members were also present. Opportunity was taken before the visitors’ train left for Hamilton to exchange views in regard to Young Farmers’’ Club organizations, both in New Zealand and in Great Britain, and also to discuss with the visitors their impressions of New Zealand farming. The visitors were given a hearty send-off on leaving Stratford.

Visit at Hamilton. On arrival at Hamilton on the morning of Thursday, sth May, they were met by Mr. T. E. Rodda, Department of Agriculture, and conveyed to Ruakura Experimental Farm, where they were shown the pastures, stock, &c. ; and the technique of the various experiments and ■ trials was explained to them. They were motored to Hamilton in time to catch the express for Rotorua, arriving there late in the afternoon. They attended a Maori concert that evening. * On Friday they were taken by Mr. C. S. Dalgleish, Department of Agriculture, to see the thermal sights at Whakarewarewa, and from there.to the Horohoro and Ngakura-Guthrie Settlements. In the afternoon they visited Tikitere thermal regions, the Blue and Green Lakes, the buried city at Te Waitoa, and Lake Tarawera. In the

evening a visit was paid to the Blue Baths. On Saturday morning the tourists visited Ohinemutu Native Village and Koutu Reserve. While in Rotorua they were welcomed by the Mayor, Mr. T. Jackson, and Mr. T. E. Johnson, President of the Rotorua A. and P. Association. The Mayor presented them each with a souvenir booklet of Rotorua. The visitors were the guests during their stay in Rotorua of Miss D. Jansen and Mrs. C. S. Dalgleish. Visitors’ Thanks. While in Rotorua the party was met by Mr. C. M. Whatman,, who, as leader of the New Zealand touring team, travelled with the United Kingdom team throughout Australia. Mr. Whatman motored the visitors to Auckland, leaving Rotorua about 11 a.m. and taking them to the Fairy Springs en route. Mr. W.

Alexander kindly made arrangements for hotel accommodation in Auckland for the party over the week-end. He showed the visitors round Auckland on Sunday, and on Monday took them over Messrs. Kempthorne, Prosser, and Co.’s fertilizerworks. Mr. Alexander, who is a member of the Y.F.C. North Island Council, also ' represented the New Zealand Federation by bidding the visitors farewell when they left for Sydney on the “ Awatea ” at 5 p.m. that afternoon. The Organizing Secretary was unable to be in Auckland to see them off, but sent them a telegram. 'He received from them a letter signed by all four members of the party expressing their thanks ’to all who had made their stay in New Zealand so pleasurable. They also . enclosed their impressions of New Zealand, and it is hoped to publish these in this section at a later date.

Tour of New South Wales. H. McKenzie, Carterton Club.

THE New Zealand Young Farmers’ £ Club touring team left Adelaide on the “ Strathmore ”, in company with the four United Kingdom Young FarmersE. Christopher (England), I. Gilmour (Scotland), E. Williams (Wales); and R. Gamble (Northern Ireland). On our way to Sydney we called in at Melbourne, where we visited the Museum and Botanical Gardens, and were also shown over the printing-plants of two newspapers. On arriving in Sydney the party divided, two United Kingdom members (E. Williams and R. Gamble) and two New-Zealanders (C. M. Whatman and Alan Viles) going south, and the rest of the party the other two United Kingdom members (E. Christopher and I. Gilmour), A. Cowan, A. Fisher, and myself, going north. :'■■■■ We travelled as far as Tenterfield in the Central Tablelands district, where we had the opportunity of inspecting a very good-quality stud Jersey herd. We were also shown over a farm on which maize is grown extensively, for commercial purposes, and visited Colonel Brunner’s station of 11,000 acres, with a carryingcapacity of 1 J sheep per acre besides cattle.'- There were a large number of wild kangaroos on this property.

Latest Butter-packing Methods. Four days were spent in and around Glen Innes. We paid a visit to Inverell and inspected a butter and bacon factory. Butter is made every other day, and we were very interested in the latest packingmethods which were in use. We also saw a wheat silo with a capacity of 168,000 bushels, and were shown over a flour-mill. We visited Inverell Station and inspected Merino and Hereford studs. Maize was being cut for silage with a special maize-binder.

We also visited the Government Experimental Farm,. and of particular interest was the Plant Breeding Section, which included wheat and tobacco. We inspected pastures and manurial trials, and were struck with the excellent growth of cow-grass, rye-grass, and Phalaris. The fertilizers experimented with were super, potash, and sodium nitrate. Extensive trials were being conducted with soya beans, and also with maize, some of the latter crops yielding 45 bushels per acre. We paid a visit to Red Range and inspected good maize and potato growing

areas, and also had the opportunity of visiting the dairy and wheatgrowing ■ farms throughout the district. We’ also visited a large Corriedale stud, one of the best known in New South Wales, the property of 3,000 acres carrying 5,000 sheep and, 600 head of cattle. There were extensive areas of subterranean clover on this property. The elevation at Glen- Innes is 3,518 ft., with a rainfall of 31 in. Gold-mines Visited. Five days were then spent at Armidale, K the elevation there being 3,333 ft. with a rainfall of 31 in. We visited Hill Grove goldfield, where both mining and cyaniding are carried out. Gold here, incidentally, is worth £8 per ounce. The mine is 3,000 ft. to the bottom of the gorge ; 2,000 ft. of the shaft is now closed. Visits were made to several large stations where improved pasture methods are being carried out.’ The swards are mainly clovers and Phalaris. The sheep on these stations are Merinos and Corriedales, and the cattle Devon, Aberdeen Angus, and Hereford, and also a cross of the last two mentioned. Crutching was in progress at the time, which naturally interested us. A particularly good strike of turnips had just broken into- main leaf. The ground had been worked twice with a tractor and ■ rotary hoe, and turnip-seed at the rate of 1 j lb. per acre had been broadcast. Following this we spent five days at] Tamworth, which has an elevation of 1,279 ft. and a rainfall. of 26 in. We visited various farms in the surrounding districts, and saw irrigation work being carried out. Lucerne is grown extensively, ■ and in some parts as many as eight cuts are taken off per annum. Lucerne is also sown in the pasture. We were able to see -pressing in operation. The haypress was worked by a horse, and 80 bales

was considered a good day’s work. The bales go twelve or fourteen to the ton. Three battens ’are placed on ' either side, ’ and the bale is banded with three wires. We were also able to see some of the Junior Farmers’ Club project work, such as poultry-rearing, and lucerne and wheat growing. ’ ' Annual Shows Attended. In each of the above-mentioned districts we attended the annual shows, which last for three days. We saw there some very good-quality horses, beef cattle, and Merino sheep ; very few other sheep were represented. As none of the districts are very suitable for dairying, the dairycow classes were, on the whole, poor. There were, however, some very fine district exhibits in the produce halls. We also visited the Manilla Show, which is a two-day show. The entries there were on a par generally with the other shows, the Merino classes being decidedly

better. There were also some very good entries of Southdown- and Corriedale sheep. An interesting visit was also paid to the Manilla Rural School. Two days were then spent at Newcastle, which has a ramfall of 45 m. where the following,visits were made : Broken Hill Proprietary, Ltd., steelworks (these works cover 486 acres and employ 7,000 men, with 85 miles of lines on which twenty-eight trains are running) , Rylands Bros., wire and nail works ; Stuart and Lloyds, pipeworks galvanized steel, and steam-pipes; the Electric Lamp Manufacturing Co. (Australia), Ltd. ; and the abattoirs and saleyards, During the whole of the itinerary we were exceptionally well looked after, and the social side was well catered for. Civic receptions were tendered us by day and we were entertained at pictures and dances in the evenings. At the end of this instructive- and enjoyable tour we returned to Sydney for the Royal Show.

Progress of Clubs in Marlborough. D. R. Wilkie, District Secretary, Blenheim. ■

A LTHOUGH the number of clubs in ALTHOUGH number is small the Marlborough district is small k as yet, the interest and enthusiasm of members is well displayed by the variety of their activity and the scope of their work. . The movement has grown considerably since its formation in Marlborough a little over two years ago, and there is every indication of further increases in the near future. At Blenheim the “ parent club ” has done excellent work and has helped to spread the movement’ through other

districts. There are new clubs at Seddon and Ward, while a further club is in the process of formation at Rai Valley. All clubs are strong in numbers, and meetings are held fortnightly. During the past year two very successful field-days were held —one at Blenheim and the other in the Seddon district. Both fixtures were well attended, there being seventy to eighty members and older farmers present on each occasion. Farmers to whom the clubs have already expressed their appreciation have been

only too willing to help on these occasions, and have arranged demonstrations on various classes of stock, including Merino, Southdown, Romney, and Suffolk sheep, pedigree Canadian Berkshire pigs, and Jersey cattle. The Department of Agriculture also assisted with pasture inspections, visits to experiments, linen-flax growing, and apple growing and grading. The interest taken in these field-days was gratifying, and it is intended to hold a greater number in the' future. Lectures and inter-club debates have

been a feature of the Y.F.C. activities, and impromptu speech evenings have brought out much latent talent. Last season members attended an Educational Week held in - Nelson, and as this was very successful it is hoped to arrange for a similar week this season. The clubs sent five delegates to the Royal Show at Palmerston North to take part in the stock-judging competitions, and . although none of the entrants appeared in the final team much valuable experience was gained. It is hoped to conduct a similar stock-judging competition for young farmers at the Blenheim Show next October. The social side of the club’s activities has not been overlooked, two very successful dances having been held. The support accorded these fixtures was most gratifying and placed the clubs in a sound financial position.

The movement in Marlborough has the support of the farming community, and by reason of this support and the energy ’ and enthusiasm of the members them-

selves the future growth and well-being of the movement in this district seems to be definitely assured.

Profitable Shelter on the Farm A. E. Webb, Mangatawhiri Club.

PLANTATIONS on the farm was a question very thoroughly discussed by many members when the Mangatawhiri Club held a field-day at Wesley College Farm, Paerata, recently. The subject of farm-shelter is, to my mind, so interesting that I would like to put forward my ideas on the .topic for the discussion and criticism of other members. ,To begin with, there is the possibility of using those odd, steep, and often dirty gullies and corners for the growing of valuable timber. So many of our farms have these useless (from a pasture point of view) pieces. Running through Wesley College Farm is a deep gully which, we were told, was once very dirty with blackberries, &c. This has been planted with blue-gums and macrocarpas and is now, besides being very attractive, not only clean, but also a big potential source of fencing timber. This plantation was the subject of a discussion I had the following day, and I realize that opinions would vary considerably over the type of tree planted and the using of a gully for plantation purposes, but for the moment I must leave my own opinions until a little later. I know, also, of another and quite distant farm of a small area (about three acres) that is planted, with Pinus insignis spaced according to Forestry Department ideas. These trees are fine, straight timber and add considerably to the value of the farm. The possibility of growing valuable timber on waste portions is well worth considering.

Effect on Health of Stock. Then, of course, there is the value of shelter-belts where the health of the stock is concerned. This has been stressed so much and is so apparent that it is hardly necessary for me to touch on it here, but I . have heard it said that plantations are draughty and for that reason dangerous to the health of stock. ; I cannot agree with this, although I realize that some plantations are indeed draughty. In my opinion this is a matter for planning.

For instance, the trees in a single row of Pinus insignis (untopped) soon outgrow their usefulness, but a double row of Pinus insignis (topped suitably) or a treble row of gums flanked on both sides by either Lawsonianas or Macrocarpa make a plantation which will cause very little draught. Such a plantation, at all events, should be treated and planned as a breakwind and for “ distant ” use. For hedges immediately surrounding paddocks there are several types of tree

that should make an almost windproof shelter. Foremost among these is the Cypress family. For instance, a hedge of Lawsonianas (suitable land which is not too wet is needed) if kept topped becomes after a few years nearly perfect wind shelter. We must not forget, of course, that shelter from the sun in summer is almost, if not quite, as important as winter shelter. This has been brought home to us recently during the outbreak of facial eczema among stock.

On the small farm one cannot afford to use too much land, and an odd corner plantation or two must suffice, but on the bigger farms the type of plantation mentioned previously (preferably planted on the summits or ridges of paddocks) is ideal. Ido not feel I can endorse the practice found in many places of planting trees in a gully except under certain conditions. After all, a gully bottom usually is good land and is in itself a sheltered position. In a very steep gully, however,

it may be quite an advantage, for such a gully is difficult to cultivate and may gradually “ go back ” and become weedinfested. In the majority of cases the gully bottoms are better left bare, although it is probably largely a matter of opinion. Increased Value of Farm. There is another aspectthe increased value of a farm with good shelter. The cost of fencing and planting is fairly high, and is, no doubt, the reason why shelterbelts are not a great deal more in evidence, but when the increased production and better health of the stock are taken into consideration, plus the enhanced value of the farm, then the initial outlay and trouble are really a very good investment. So far I have allowed only strictly utilitarian ideas to dominate my views, but I would like to enter a plea for the beautifying of the farm. Much could be done in this direction without extra strain on the pocket and without departing too far from practical methods. The best time to start is when planting trees initially—perhaps a few flowering gums or similar trees planted with the others. This is a matter, of course, that must be left to the individual, but when one considers that one does not live to work but works to live, surely a little thought given to pleasant surroundings is worth while. At all events, even only a few trees planted every year are better than nothing. They mature very rapidly and soon bring their own reward.

Among the Clubs Reports on Activities.

Western Southland. Lochiel. — Lecture on " Grasses,” by Mr. A. Stuart, Department of Agriculture. This is a new club, and is already showing great promise. Thornbury. Mr., J. Fisher, Otautau, gave a very interesting talk on his recent trip overseas. - ■ Woodlands.— Discussion on the educational week to take place at Waitaki. Lecture by Mr. A. Stuart, Department of Agriculture, on " Grasses and their Value in Southland.” The Thornbury and Woodlands clubs’ members : combined in a visit ,to the Makarewa Freezing-works, the latter club members being the guests of the former. There was an attendance of over, forty. After a thorough inspection of the works had. been made, Mr. W. Falconer gave a talk and demonstration on the dressing and care of mutton carcasses preparatory to shipping.

Eastern Southland. Crookston. — Lecture on " The Use of Artificial Fertilizers,” by Mr. S. D. Blomfield. Report. by delegate to the District Committee meeting held at Gore. Moa Flat. — Discussion on ways and means of increasing interest in the Y.F.C. movement. — Discussion ; club members to support the Waikaka Club in the Dog Trials at a field-day in May. Report by club delegates, J. McMeehan and P. Mackay, on the recent District Committee meeting held at Gore. South Otago. Clinton. Arrangements finalized for a concert and dance. Address by Mr. F. Nicholson, manager, South Otago Farmers’ Freezing Co., on his recent tour abroad. Mr. Nicholson’s talk was illustrated by films taken on his tour. At the previous meeting there was a debate between the club Farmers’ Union, the Subject

being Pastoral Agriculture.” Messrs. J. Murney, E. James, and W. Clarke were the speakers for the Farmers’ Union, while K. Whiteside, J. Roy, and J. Mitchell represented the Clinton Y.F.C. The Farmers’ Union were adjudged the winners. - Lawrence. — Arrangements for annua ball; election of delegates to the District Committee ; special committee set up to make arrangements in connection with the visit of the Bay of Plenty touring members. ' Milton. — Address by Mr. McDonald, M.R.C.V.S:, veterinarian, Balclutha. Central Otago. . A lexandra.— Discussion on entertaining the Bay of Plenty Y.F.C. touring members. This was followed by impromptu speeches. Arrowtown. Arrangements for dances, &c. Report by club delegates, H. Perri am and R. Scott, on the recent District Committee meeting at Alexandra . Messrs .

Scott, Perriam, and Beaton gave talks on their recent trip to Canterbury. Mr. G. G. Calder spoke on the recent meeting of the Provincial Council at Dunedin. Roxburgh.— Mr. R. Kinnaird gave an interesting talk on his tour of Europe. Arrangements for the visit of the Bay of Plenty Y.F.C. touring party. Upper Clutha. — Meeting at Mr. J. S. Hunt’s residence; full meeting, only one member being absent. Mr. Hunt gave a very interesting and instructive lecture on “ Paddock Sheep-farming and What I Have Learnt since I Started.”

Dunedin. Middlemarch.— Talk by Mr. J. M. Smith, Fields Superintendent, Department of Agriculture, on “ Some Aspects of the Y.F.C. Movement.” South Taieri.— Lecture by Mr. H. Doyle, Government Veterinarian, -on “ Some Ailments of Sheep.” West Taieri.- Arrangements for lecturers at future meetings,- &c. The members combined with the members of the W.D.F.U. and listened to an interesting lecture by the Rev. Hugh Graham, of Mosgiel, whose subject was " Scottish Literature and Vernacular.” North Otago. Enfield. — Five members gave papers on “ Is Irrigation Feasible in this District ? ” Following on this, each member present spoke for three minutes on “ The Kind of Farm I Would Like.” Five Forks. Talk by Mr. Widowson, of Messrs. Wright, Stephenson, and Co., on his trip to Australia with the returned soldiers. Papakai o. — lnteresting and helpful lecture by Mr. Simpson on “ Farm Finance.” Upper Waitaki.— Talk by Mr. J. Tripp on “ Modern Mechanics of Sheep-yards,” and “ Sheep-yard and Fence Construction.” Waitaki-Hilderthorpe. — Lecture by Mr. J. B. Chapman on “ Farm Shelter.” At the previous meeting the same speaker gave a talk on “ Eradication of Couch.” South Canterbury. Arno. Talk by Mr. J. Mcßae, jun., on “ Training the Sheep Dog.” At the previous meeting the speaker was Mr. A. Larnder, of the Power Board staff, who gave an address on “ The Electric Lamp.” Geraldine. Address by Mr. W. H. Staniland on “ The Dairying Industry.” Maun^ati. — Impromptu speeches. Each member 'participating spoke, for a set time, drawing his subject from pooled “ suggestions ” supplied by all. Arrangements were made for a debate with the Southburn-Lyalldale Club.

Pleasant Point. — Discussion regarding - programme of lectures, &c. Decided to hold two meetings monthly, lectures to be arranged alternately with discussions, debates, &c. Arrangements in connection with entertainment of the visiting Bay of Plenty touring members at a dance. This is a new club with a roll call of thirty-five members to date. Southburn-Lyalldale. Talks by Messrs. J. Stowell, Esk Valley, and C. Coxhead, Timaru, on The Wheat-growing Industry ” and " Mercantile and Trade Terms of Produce ” respectively. Club members : A. Bishop and R. Gray were appointed to represent the club at a meeting of interested bodies to, discuss the continuance of . the St. Andrews district bay at the Winter Show. At the previous meeting short speeches on various subjects were given by the following club members': A. Bishop, K. Caird, D. Gray, M. Tookey, and Robt. Gray. . Waihaorunga. —Election of concert committee ; arrangements for club debates, &c. Lecture by Mr. Millar, Department of Agriculture, on Grubs, Insects, Parasites.” Short account of the routine at Lincoln College by Mr. I. G. Hurst, a Y.F.C. scholarship holder' ’ At the previous meeting a lecture was given by Mr. G. M. Collins, U.F.S. Dispensary, on “ The Ailments of the Horse.” Christchurch. Da?field. —-Discussion on proposed North Island tour. Arrangements re finance for wool-classing. Discussion on entertainment of visiting Bay of Plenty Y.F.C. touring members ; broadcasts from 3YA ; debates. Dunsandel. — Discussion on proposed North Island tour. Arrangements for broadcast talk from 3YA. Dance arrangements finalized. ■ Ellesmere. — Address by Mr. G. W. R. Osborne, club advisory president, on “ The Do’s and Dont’s in Farming.” Little River.— Lecture by Mr. Siddall on Different Illnesses of Sheep, Cattle, and Horses.” . ■ , Springton. Talk on "Farm Accounting,” by Dr. G. W. Weston, Lincoln College. North Canterbury. Amberley. — Discussion re club tour. Lecture by Mr. A. Flay, Lincoln College, on "Feed Control in Relation to. Farm Management.” ■ Oust. Lecture by Mr. A. S. Nash, Department of Agriculture, on “ Linseed as a Payable Crop.” The lecture dealt with linseed both as a seed crop and as a fibre crop. Hawarden.— Lecture by Mr. G. K. L. Knott, M.R.C.V.S., on The Blow-fly Pest,” and “ Winter Feeding of Sheep.”

Marlborough. — lmpromptu speeches ; subjects selected by Mr. D. R. Wilkie, District Y.F.C. Secretary, Mr. Lockhart acting as judge. All members present took part, and the competition was won by J. Langridge. At the previous meeting a film was exhibited showing caterpillar . tractors working under all conditions. . Ward.— Address by Mr. J. E. Irving on “ The Conduct' of a Meeting.” This is a new club with a membership of twenty. Nelson. Dovedale. — Talk by Mr. J. Fowler on his recent visit to Australia, dealing particularly with the Sydney Royal Show. Moutere.— -Discussion on educational weeks. Programme of lectures arranged. Motupiko. Demonstration on ropesplicing by Mr. Scalfe. Talk on “ The Working of Petrol Engines,” by Mr. M. G. C. Newport. Manawatu. ■Apiti. Talks by A. Cowan and A. Viles (members of the New Zealand Y.F.C. touring team) on their recent tour of parts of Australia. Bunnythorpe.— Lecture by Mr. H. R. Denize, Department of Agriculture, on “ Animal Husbandry.” This is a new club with a membership of nineteen. Colyton. — Lecture by Mr. Gorman, Plant Research Bureau, on “ Grasses and Pastures.” This club has been recently formed and already has a membership of twenty-six. Halcombe. — Lecture by Mr. P. G. Stevens on " Animal Genetics.” At the previous meeting a lecture was given by Mr. G. Buchanan on “ Grasses and Clovers.” Johnsonville. — Arrangements for seven-a-side football tournament, and also for a dance. • —Arrangements for dance and -a-side football. Address by Mr. G. S. Robinson, Department of Agriculture, concerning the projected Y.F.C. activities at the forthcoming National Dairy Show, Palmerston North. A debate was conducted at the previous meeting. Otaki -Te Horo. — Lecture by Mr. A. J. Galpin, Department of Agriculture,’ on “ Draining.” . Pohangina Valiev. — Address by Mr. G. Crossley on " Public Speaking and Debating.” Rangiwahia. Talks by A. Cowan and A. Viles (members of the New Zealand touring team) on their recent Australian tour. Both are members of the Apiti '■ Club, and are visiting other clubs in order to give their experiences. '

Rongotea. Addresses by Messrs. Gorman and Hart, of the Plant Research Bureau, on The Strains and Breeding of Grasses.” Woodville. Debate, “ Super v. Slag ” ; speakers, K. Strand and S. -Worboys (for slag), K. Mitchell and A. Compton (for super). The slag supporters won by 37 points to 34 Mr. Lyons acted as judge,' and outlined the correct procedure in debate. . Wairarapa. Carterton. — A. Fisher and H. McKenzie (members of the N.Z. touring team) outlined their Australian tour. Greytown.- Inter-club debate with Car-, terton Y.F.C. ; subject, “ That the Young Farmer of To-day has Equal or Greater Opportunities than his Grandfather.” The visitors (Carterton) won by 257 points to 224. Mangatainoka.— Arrangements for ensilage competition. Debate held, the subject being “ That Spring Sowing of Pastures in this District is Better than Autumn Sowing.” Speakers were I. Algie, H. Bairstowe, and R. Bridge (spring sowing), and K. Pryde, G. Cotter, and S. Hughes (autumn sowing). The supporters of autumn sowing were the winners. Martinborough. -Lantern lecture by I. McLaren, a club member, on “ A Trip to Europe.” Masterton. - club debate with Tinui Y.F.C. ; subject, “ That Heredity is a Greater Influence than Environment.” The visitors (Tinui) won by five points. Pongaroa. — Joined with the Farmers’ Union to listen to an address by Mr. Neiderer, Farmers’ Union Organizer. At the previous club meeting a general discussion was held on various topics of farming interest. South Taranaki. Kaponga. — Talks by members on the recent South Island tour, as follows : J. Brassell, K. Rowe, M. Kissick, R. Edgecombe, G. Gordge, and L. Chamberlain. Report on dance, which was a great success. Waverley.— Debate, “ Horse v. Tractor.” Eight members took part, four on each side. Mr. Boyer acted as judge, awarding the prize for the best speaker to W. Matthews. , North Taranaki. Cardiff. Talks by Messrs. Mills and Smith on the recent Y.F.C. tour of the South Island. Mr. C. W. Whatman, member of the N.Z. touring team, gave a talk on the Australian tour. Arrangements were finalized for a field-day. At the previous meeting an address was given by Mr. Davies, of New Plymouth, on " Trees.” Toko.— Talk by Mr. L. Morfell, of Huinga, on “ Sheep.” The speaker dealt with the purchase of ewes, mating, cull lambs, and general.

Wanganui. Marton. — A club has recently been formed in this district, and shows promise of becoming very progressive. Taihape.— Field-day on Mr. J. F. Studholme’s estate, “Te Hora.” The demonstrations included draught horses (Mr. A. E. Samways) and hacks (Mr. F. R. Cotterill). There was an attendance of thirty. Southern Hawke’s Bay. Norseivood. — General discussion, led by Mr. R. Robinson, on Management of Pigs.” Arrangements for a social evening (table tennis and cards). Onga Onga. Address by Mr. J. W. Palmer, District Secretary, on club affairs. Northern Hawke’s Bay. Meeanee. — lnteresting discussion evening, based on talks by club members. J. Guthrie described a proven method of killing blackberry ; this was freely discussed by members. L. L. Griffiths, speaking of ragwort, advocated its immediate control in the district before it gained a hold. E. Fairey, whose property during the 1931 floods was totally covered with silt to a depth of 4 ft., gave his experiences in sowing grass-seed on the silt. He considered it to be a waste of good seed and money. Considerable discussion ensued, many other members agreeing with.his views. S. Parsons reported on post-mortems held by Mr. A. D. Laing, Government veterinarian, on lambs troubled with internal parasites. He described the symptoms, cure, and prevention of the trouble. There were twenty-two members present at the meeting. Poverty Bay. Te Karaka. —-Paper read by S. Linton, a club member, on “ Hogget Mortality and its Prevention.” Bay of Plenty. Katikati Discussion on proposed tour of South Island. . Impromptu speeches ; competition won by M. Wilson. Omokoroa. — General discussion. Arrangements for field-day. Opotiki. Arrangements re dance, and entertainment of Manawatu Y.F.C. touring party. Football match with Taneatua Y.F.C. Paengaroa. - General business. Decided to extend a welcome to and provide afternoon tea for the Manawatu touring party in the Paengaroa Hall.- Discussion on projected South Island tour. Te Lantern lecture by Mr. C. Walker, Department of 'Agriculture, on “Pumice Land Development in the Rotorua District.” Social committee to be formed at next meeting. Waihi. —Lantern lecture by Mr. C. Walker on “ Pumice Land Development.” Arrangements made for a debate.

Waimana. —Address by Mr. Beattie on the forming of pig clubs. Te Kuiti. Aria. —Field-day on Mr. .Purdie’s property, Mahoenui. Demonstrations included Polled Angus cattle (Mr. Tipping) and breeding and management (Mr. Purdie). There were twenty club members, eight visiting club members, and six older farmers present, making an attendance of thirty-four. The visiting members were from the Otorohanga Club. Otorohanga. — Arrangements made for club ball. Combined field-day with Aria Club. . Rotorua. Horohoro. -General business and discussion ; arrangements for field-days, &c. Ngakuru.— General business ; talks on grass trials in Ngakuru district. . Putarwu. Paper by S. G. Penwarden, club member, on " The Progress of Farms in the District.” Talk by Mr. R. Baldwin on the South Island. Waikato. Matangi. — Arrangements finalized ' for dance. ' Discussion on the formation of a local pig club. Interesting lantern lecture on “ Pig Husbandry ” by Mr. H. M. Pierson. - Te Kowhai. — Address by Mr. Wm. Allen, on “ How to Conduct a Meeting.” Auckland. Mangatawhiri. — Lecture by Mr. Shroff, Department of Agriculture, on “ Fertilizers and Their Values.” North Auckland. Broadwood. — by Mr. J. McKenzie, club president, on “ Wool-growing in the. Broadwood District.” At a previous meeting the club was addressed by Mr. W. M. Grounds on “ Chairmanship and Business Procedure.” Mr. E. Moss, Department of Agriculture, has addressed the club on “ Pastures and Pasture Management,” and assisted the members in discussions on such subjects as “ The Control of Paspalum,” &c. Marohemo-Maungaturoto. Lantern lecture by Mr. E. H. Arnold, Department of Agriculture, on “ Cultivation.” \ At the previous meeting Mr. L. W. Gorman, Plant Research Bureau, gave a lecture on “ Grass and Clover Strain Investigation at Palmerston North.” . ’ Matarau. —Lecture by Mr. E. B. Glanville, Department of Agriculture, on “ Fertilizers.” A local pig club was formed at this meeting. . Oruru. Lecture by Mr. E. Moss, Department of Agriculture, on “ Pastures and Pasture Management.” At' the previous meeting a practical demonstration and address was given by Mr. E. R. Bird on “ How to Conduct a Meeting.”