NEW ZEALAND FEDERATION PF YOUNG FARMERS CLUBS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

New Zealand Journal of Agriculture, Volume 59, Issue 6, 15 December 1939, Page 533

NEW ZEALAND FEDERATION PF YOUNG FARMERS CLUBS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

Christmas Supplement Competitions

THE entries in the competitions for the Christmas number in this section were, on the whole, disappointing. The poor response can no doubt mg. liie pool response can no doubt be accounted for. by the uncertain conditions prevailing at the present time. In the essay competitions there were only 11 entries in all “A Scheme for the Settlement of Young Farmers’ on

Their Own Properties,” eight entries; “The Influence of Young Farmers’ Chibs on ,? ural Life,” ' two entries; O HOW to Save \ LabUr n the arm trv • ... There were a few entries m the photographic competition and also in the competition for the best design of a Y.F.C. blazer badge, but the stand-

ard in both of these was not consid: ered by the judges to justify any awards being made. Only one poem was submitted, but as Only one poem was submitted, but as it was not original it was impossible to award a prize . d P • The winning essays are published in these pages.

11 A Scheme for the Settlement of Young Farmers on Their Own Properties."

EIGHT entries were received for this competition. The winning essay was contributed by W. G. Brownlie, Wairoa Club. The second prize and the two other prizes have not yet been decided, and they will be published in the January issue.

The judge’s comment was as follows: ■ “The subject for the essay was rather difficult —a subject which has provided pitfalls for men of considerable maturity and experience. This fact is well demonstrated by the land-use in many countries.

‘'Each of the essays was indicative of reasoning based on farm knowledge, and, in general, the essays contained views of value. In my opinion the winning essay gives the best conception of the position as a whole.”

First Prize

- By - W. G. BROWNLIE, Wairoa Club. r T -S HERE can be no question but that THERE can be no question but that JL farming in our Dominion has reached a precarious state in the stage of its development. Before we seek remedies we must ascertain the cause of the evil. In New Zealand the wealth of the country is produced and derived from our primary industries. The production of butter, meat, and wool, as well as other smaller revenue-producing commodities, mean the very existence of the people; not only rural dwellers, but every. man, woman, and child in the urban areas depend upon the exportation of our primary produce for a living. Therefore, it may be logically reasoned that the living standards' of the people, which really means the rate of taxation per head of population, must be set by the amount of wealth that the farming industry can produce. Assuming that we accept that statement, then it must be admitted that our farming industry is incapable of maintaining the living standards which we enjoy in this Dominion at the present time. It is not the living standards

which are too high, but the wealth produced from the primary industries is too low. The time has come when every acre capable of producing must be in production so that the ultimate objective, of living standards for rural workers which may be comparable with the standards in other avenues of employment, may be achieved. It is obvious that the only remedy lies in the true principle of democracy. Every small section of land must be under production and worked by the farmer who owns the land. The only way by which the farming industry can hope to guarantee better conditions of living to the workers employed on the land is to give those workers an .opportunity eventually to farm their own properties. This is the ambition of every right-thinking young man. The results could easily be imagined. More country would be under production, more workers would seriously consider farming as their occupation, more jobs would be vacated in the towns and more jobs created, and the production, the national wealth of the country could easily be doubled. It must be pointed out that there is much country in New Zealand which could never be farmed, and much land is being farmed which would never be suitable for more intensive methods of cultivation, but the vast proportion of farming land is suitable for such a scheme as suggested.

The success of such a venture would ensure immediate benefits in three directions in which relief is much needed. Firstly, the national income would be approximately doubled; secondly, the increase in the country population would see all workers in the towns engaged in permanent jobs created by the shift of labour to the country and by the greater industrial demand from the country dwellers; and thirdly, the solving of the unemployment problem would not only assist the country as a whole, but would help the Government in its efforts to develop the country further.. The inauguration of the scheme would not present as many difficulties as might appear from a cursory survey of the problems which have to be faced. This scheme, which would be applicable to and instrumental in encouraging any number of young men on to the land, is confined to the problems of training and financing Young Farmers for the farms of their own. (By Young Farmers it is meant active members of the New Zealand Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs.) Before the inauguration of the scheme, four major decisions would require consideration (l) the number of Young Farmers to assist on to their own farms, in yearly batches; (2) the method of selecting the Young Farmers concerned; (3) the selection

of suitable properties; and (4) the financing of the scheme. The numbers accepted each year would depend entirely upon the success of the operation of the scheme when in progress. For the first year it is suggested that 60 Young Farmers representing 1 per cent, of the membership, could be handled. The method of selection would necessarily entail a great deal of organisation, work, and expense. Committees would need to be set up in each District Committee to work in absolute co-operation with a Special Controlling Committee appointed by the Federation. The whole success of the plan depends entirely upon the harmony existing between the individual committees and the controlling executive. This is why it would be vitally necessary to have sufficient funds, estimated at £2OOO, with which to organise the scheme. Applications for consideration as candidates would be called by the committees in each district committee. Clubs would submit only those names' suitable. These applications would be sifted by the Special District Committee according to qualifications, experience, industry, and character. References and personal recommendations would be essential. After the applications had been sifted the remaining Young Farmers would be examined, the course and papers having been finally prepared by the Controlling Committee, and held under the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture. The selection of suitable properties would be handled by small sub-com-mittees appointed in each District Committee area, final approval of all properties to be sanctioned by two officers from the Controlling Committee. The problem of finance can be solved in only one way. The scheme must be worked with the close co-operation of the Government, and without Government assistance to finance the scheme there would be no possibility of floating any workable land settlement scheme. It is suggested that the Government would arrange the purchase of all properties, and, as well, provide the money for the stocking of the farms. This scheme would entail much expenditure, but so would any land settlement scheme. Money for such a project can only be found in the one placethe Government, the representatives of the people. No objection can be submitted on the grounds that the Government has no business assisting any one section of the community. It has already been pointed out that the development of our farming industry is essential to increase our production, which, in itself, is absolutely vital to the future progress and prosperity of our Dominion.

There is little reason to believe that the Government would reject any scheme requesting its assistance for land settlement, providing that that scheme was outlined in full detail, that it had sufficient support from such an organisation as our own Young Farmers’ Club Movement, and that the necessary stimulus and sincerity was behind the scheme. If the Young Farmers can set the organisation wheels in motion it is certain that the Government would receive any deputation from the Federation, and. any reply must be based upon the achievements of the Young Farmers in the few years of their existence as a movement. It cannot be assumed that any Government should consider advancing money for any such scheme without repayment being made. It would be wrong to contemplate such a move. The settlers under the scheme would be required to repay money invested in property and stock at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum, such payment to include interest on the initial outlay and capital repayment. As the capital was reduced the annual repayment percentage rate could be increased proportionately, so that the money saved by the payments already made could be utilised to lessen the time necessary to repay the whole investment and to ensure that the farmer would retain a larger income each year. Before any actual attempt could be made to operate the suggested scheme it would be necessary to inaugurate a Labour Placement Service to ensure that all Young Farmers would be able to secure positions in the sphere of activity to which they are inclined and suited. Apart from any assistance towards establishing a Land Settlement Scheme, a Placement Service would be of valuable service to the farmers, while it would be a great advantage in the Land Settlement Scheme, for it would allow all the machinery to be used and to be tried thoroughly under working conditions. The main points in the plan could be summarised under three sections— Selecting, Purchasing, and Financing. SELECTING. — All nominations to be received through the clubs, which would exercise discretion when forwarding applications. District Committees would weed the applications in preparation for the final examination in co-operation with the Department of Agriculture. Candidates would require to pass a certain standard examination, as well as possessing excellent character and qualifications and references. PURCHASING PROPERTlES.—Subcommittees in each area would choose suitable land which, when approved by the District Committee, would be submitted to the Controlling Executive for definite approval.

FINANCING. — The purchase of all properties and stock would be financed by the Government, the farmers to repay interest and capital at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum for the first years, with higher rates as the principal is reduced. The introduction of a Land Settlement Scheme is becoming more and more urgent as time passes. Sooner or later the problem will have to be faced. A scheme launched and controlled by the Young Farmers’ Club Movement would boost the movement to a surprising extent in a year or two, which alone would repay any efforts expended in the establishment of the organisation. However, the major result would be expected from the revitalising of the farming industry, from the anticipated fillip to trade and other industries, from the alleviating of the unemployment problem, and from the retention of the living standard which makes little New Zealand the much-admired country in the eyes of the envious world.

Combined Meeting at Nelson MEMBERS of the Nelson Y.F.C. were afforded the opportunity on September 28 of welcoming to the Nelson district both the Dominion President, Mr. E. W. Barnett, and the Organising Secretary, Mr. S. Freeman. At the combined club’s meeting held at Brightwater that evening, Mr. R. C. T. Raine, chairman of the Nelson District Committee, extended a cordial welcome to the visitors. In reply, Mr. Barnett briefly touched on Y.F.C. activities, and outlined the useful duties which members might undertake in the present period of national emergency. These remarks were further supported, and other phases of Y.F.C. activity amplified, by the organising secretary. The gathering of Young Farmers, farmers, and members of the Nelson District Committee was then entertained with several interesting and instructive sound films, after which both the chairman of the district committee and Dr. Miller, Assistant-Director, Cawthron Institute, and Director of the Entymological Division, spoke eulogistically of the programme. A very hearty vote of thanks was accorded the visitors. —D. MERRY, District Secretary, Nelson.

"The Influence of Young Formers' Clubs on Rural Life."

First ■ Prig'S - ByT. A. TURNBULL, Pohangina Valley Club. DURING the past 25 or 30 years a great change has taken place in the general conditions governing the lives of those comprising the rural population of this country. Gone are the days when the farmer and his family were tied by the chains of almost mediaeval transport to the comparative vicinity of their own farm. The horse and —while comparing most favourably in respect of fatal accidents due to excessive speed with the transport of todaydid not allow, or even invite, any considerable intercourse with other districts.

That popular butt of modern wit, the “party line,” was just beginning to provide Mr. and Mrs. Brown with an excellent opportunity of learning Mr. and Mrs. Smith’s business without having to ask questions, besides bringing the outside world much nearer the farmhouse, and Mr. Ford was providing cheaply, and at the same time with a fair measure of certainty, transport which abolished for ever much of the farmers’ isolation.

As for radio. Well, it had been heard of, but except for a few “ultramoderns,” who struggled manfully with the vagaries of battery sets, the thought of our skies lanced with an ever-growing array of masts for receiving purposes was hardly even a beautiful dream.

So, in a comparatively short space of time, the lot of the ever-grumbling, much maligned, but, on the whole, I think, the average person will agree, rather likeable “cocky,” has been raised from a mere existence to a plane which at least places him within shouting distance of the city-dweller.

Though I dislike to dispel a popular fallacy, every farmer is not the possessor of a costly motor-car, but on most farms there is some sort of mechanical contraption . which generally goes—even if it does not always come back.

Cars, radios, telephones; they make an important addition to the everyday life of' the farmer, and count as a great debt which we owe to science. And now to add to them has come something which, though it was not conceived in the brain of a scientist, has done much for the young farmers of today.

I make no apology for coupling our Y.F.C. movement with those achievements I have mentioned, and I know that thousands of I my fellow-members will agree with me when I claim that, with the assistance of the three modern aids to social advancement I have acknowledged, the Y.F. clubs are rapidly bringing together with mutual advantage young farmers, not only locally, but all over the country. A common charge laid at the doors of the farmers of this country is their apparent lack of a proper appreciation of the advantages of co-operation within their own ranks. That charge cannot be made at the expense of the younger generation, however, at least as far as our Y.F.C. movement is concerned. The growth and rapid expansion of clubs all over the country is evidence of the desire of the Young Farmers to get together and learn something of the methods of successful farmers in their own districts as well as those of men who have made their mark . in farming in other parts of the country. The generosity of these men in placing their farms and methods at the disposal of their natural successors is one of the most pleasing features of the Y.F. movement, and is a significant commentary upon the general attitude to the effort we are making to widen our scope of general farm methods. The desire for knowledge of how the other fellow lives, works, and spends his leisure, has hitherto, for at least very many of us, remained unfulfilled for a variety of reasons; but today, with cheaper travel facilities and a surer knowledge gained through our own organisation of where to go and what to see, an almost constant interchange of visits between representatives of all the provinces in the country is taking place, with mutual advantage to all. It seems almost incredible that, prior to the formation of a Y.F. Club in many districts, scores of fellows living just a few miles apart had the merest acquaintance with one another. But now the chap we knew just well enough to nod to is one of the lads, and is probably one of the leading lights in the club. If it has done nothing more, our organisation has handsomely justified its existence by the bringing together of chaps within a radius of anything up to 10 miles and in some cases even more, and giving them something which has. made life very much more worth while.

Our monthly meetings are just an opening door to a variety of educational and recreational experiences to every Young Farmer, and there are very few within reach. of a club who do not avail themselves of these opportunities. Let us glance at some of the facilities of which we may avail ourselves with regard to an improvement in our farming knowledge. At each monthly meeting there is a speaker, who may be a Government servant in the Department of Agriculture, a private farmer passing on his own hard-earned knowledge, or a highly-qualified professor at one or other of the agricultural colleges, such as Massey College or Lincoln College. Quite often his talk will be illustrated by means of a movie camera, or perhaps a talkie camera is used, and in the course of the evening we are shown a number of films covering a diversity of subjects ranging from the propagation of species to heredity as applied to lunacy, with, of course, no personal application intended. In every district there are farmers who have, through sheer hard work and intense application, become expert in some particular phase of farm work, and a talk by one of these gentlemen is always productive of a fount of farm lore, because it has been garnered in the harvest of hard and oft-times disappointing personal experience. Then we have the visits to such institutions as Massey College or Lincoln College, plant research stations, and others of a similar nature, while no less instructive are the visits to the farms of men who have made a success of their profession. Sheep farms, dairy farms, pig farms, and, indeed, every type of farming, is available to us through the generosity of these men, who are only too glad to tell us just why and how the results they have gained have been achieved. Dairy and cheese factories are open to us to let us see just what happens to our milk and cream after we have finished with them. Newspaper offices, too, show us how the day’s news we all so much appreciate is gathered from all parts of the earth and built up into that white cylinder that is tossed nonchalantly at our gates by speeding paper-runners. There is hardly a factory or institution in any of our cities which is not open to us, and it -is merely a direct illustration of the old adage: “United we stand, divided we fall,”'as, shorn of our organisation, we, as individuals,

would have little or no chance of gaining these many and varied experiences. We also learn to conduct meetings and to get up on our feet and deliver ourselves of various weighty (?) observations, and that, I think, is one of the more important lessons to be learned at our meetings— faculty of being able to speak to a meeting without feeling that one’s world is coming to an end.

It is manifestly impossible to give more than a rough outline of the opportunities available to us, and I have not space enough to enlarge on the possibilities for cheap and yet instructive and first-class holidays, sports meetings, football tourneys, and many other chances we have for healthy sport and social recreation. Debates, dances, and, in the club of which I am a member, a gymnasium club offer many opportunities for the young fellows of the country to get together and enjoy themselves in ways hitherto unpossessed by them.

Truly, the Y.F.C. movement has done much to educate and entertain us, and to the mind in which the idea first came to life thousands of Young Farmers owe a great debt of gratitude.

Though we are faced with what is almost a tragic certainty that our ranks will suffer severe depletion due to the struggle in Europe, I have no doubt that those left behind will carry on the good work so capably begun, for surely this organisation of ours is. if I may plagiarise,, “of the Young Farmers for the Young Farmers, and by the Young Farmers.” Second Prise By ROBERT SINCLAIR Pohangina Valley Club. IN every community, whether town or country, there exist bodies and organisations, which cater for the needs of those who live therein, but to the youthful farmer no such organisation contacts so definitely or provides such a diversity of interests as does that virile movement—the affiliated YoungFarmers’ Clubs.

While our Young Farmers most probably give a certain amount of their time to activities in their district, the Y.F. Clubs present an almost unlimited scope of interests for our farm lads.

These clubs, whose foundations are soundly based on those things which concern the man on the land, in no way confine themselves to such things, so that within this single movement a Young "Farmer may find opportunity to direct his activities in which ever direction he chooses.

In the past one of the drawbacks to country life has been the lack of op-

portunity our boys have had of giving voice to their views on matters concerning their occupation. Today, as a member of a Y.F. Club, a young man can get on his feet at a meeting and express his attitude to things concerning his club, or on the debating platform thrash out a subject with his own chaps or those of another club. Thus, if perhaps in only a small way, a chance is given for self-expression and the cultivation of confidence, both of which must be valuable assets in the days to come.

With executive positions in every club to be filled (and it takes conscientiousness, together with enthusiasm, plus efficiency, to fill these positions), excellent scope is again offered for the methodical handling of club business.

In most Y.F. Club meetings regular features are lectures and talks generally, given by anyone who has anything interesting to say. ■ These lectures are usually very informative, and enjoy a fair share of popularity.

Essentially a movement of. progress, practically every day brings forth news of really ambitious undertakings by Y.F. Clubs and district committees.

The writer’s district alone can boast, over a comparatively short period, of several quite creditable achievements, notably a seven-a-side football tournament in conjunction with a Cavalcade of Agriculture at the Palmerston North Winter Show. This cavalcade received high praise from those who witnessed it, and reflected great credit on the work of the committee. The following spring show at Palmerston North was the venue of the New Zealand Y.F.C. shearing championships held in Palmdrawing excellent entries. This year also saw the Wellington provincial shearing championships held in Palmerston North, with equal success.

To give an example of enterprise by an individual club there comes to mind the effort of a neighbouring club. These boys organised a very successful one-day stock show, well attended, efficiently run, and financially well on the right side. In all these enterprises the Young Farmers themselves took a large part, which goes to show that, given the chance, our country lads can do the job.

A phase of Y.F.C. activity which also cultivates the competitive spirit and must leave its influence on farming in the future is the holding of stock judging competitions. These contests are generally held in conjunction with A. and P. Association shows, giving opportunity for Young Farmers to display their knowledge of all branches of farm animals.

. Perhaps one of the most popular of Y.F.C. activities are the educational tours that are conducted by most of the district committees. Having been fortunate enough to have taken part in

two of these tours, the writer can vouch for their popularity. With all arrangements made carefully beforehand, these tours provide a cheap holiday plus the advantage of a prepared itinerary. As a method for bringing chaps from one district in contact with those of another these tours are unsurpassed, and it would be safe to say that many permanent friendships have resulted from these trips.

This subject would not be complete without mention of the practical demonstrations given by those of experience at field days held from time to time. Ranging from demonstrations on farm animals, stock diseases, mole draining, and plough setting, these field days give an excellent opportunity for obtaining first-hand knowledge.

As stated previously, Y.F. Clubs in no way confine themselves to farming matters. Today our Young Farmers are to be seen vieing with each other in all kinds of sports, either organised in a large way, such as seven-a-side football tournaments, ' or as friendly inter-club games. Mention of friendly matches recalls to the writer two pleasant days of cricket with a neighbouring Y.F. Club.

Thus it is seen that this comparatively young .movement, rapidly taking into its sweep most of New Zealand, and already showing its influence on our rural life, must surely in the future leave a very definite mark.

Mid-Canterbury Stock Judging

THE Mid-Canterbury Young Farmers’ Clubs held a very successful stock-judging competition at the Ashburton A. and P. Annual Show on November 2. Twenty-one entries were received, and competition was very keen.

The Hinds Club was again successful in winning the Farmers’ Union Shield. Individual placings were: D. G. Tait (Hinds), 1. C. A. Watson (Methven), 2. A. Bennett (Ashburton) and J. M. Johnston (Hinds), tied for third place. The thanks of the clubs were expressed to the judges and to the A. and P. Association for their generous assistance. As a preliminary to the competition a demonstration of judging was given to the Mid-Canterbury Y.F.C. members at the showgrounds on October 24. Border Leicesters were demonstrated by Colonel J. Findlay, and Southdowns by Mr. R. J. Low. After the demonstration a competition in judging four Southdown ewe hoggets was held, J. Denley winning first place and J. Brophy second. —R. INCH, District Secretary, Ashburton.

Wellington Council Shearing Competition Attracts Many Entries

ORGANISED for the Wellington Council by the Manawatu District Committee, the 1939 shearing competition was held at the Manawatu and West Coast A. and P. Association’s Spring Show on Saturday, .November 4, in perfect weather. In spite of the counter-attractions outside the Shearing Hall was crowded to capacity from 10 a.m. to 3.30 p.m., which was another outstanding example of the attraction exercised by Young Farmers’ Club events at A. and P. Shows. The committee • was gratified with the manner in which the Young Farmers supported the various classes, and also with the willing co-operation of the various officials

The winner of the championship class was Mr. V. Freeman. (KimboltonKiwitea Club), with 78 1-3 points, who shore consistently well throughout. R. Hutt (Onga Onga), last year’s winner, placed second, was only two points behind Freeman. These two men created much excitement in the final, as their speeds were very close, and they were shearing at the rate of more than 260 sheep per day. The third man, D. McGibbon (Dannevirke), 76 points, was only one-third of a point behind the second man. McGibbon gave a good exhibition of clean shearing, and was most consistent throughout the day. The prizes were £ls, £7, and £3, and the entries totalled 20. The intermediate class for shearers capable of shearing between 100 and 150 sheep in a nine-hour day was won by G. Blenkhorne (Levin Club), who gained 85 1-3 points. The second man was G. F. Toms (Mangaweka), who

gained 85 points. M. Dickie (Waverley) was third with 80 2-3 points. There were 30 entrants in this class, and the general standard was good, the prizes being £lO, £5, and £2. The junior class for those whose capabilities were limited to 100 per day or less proved very interesting. On their times, all the competitors were very near their . 100 per day. due probably to the practice which they have had since entering their names for the shearing contest. Some of the competitors seemed .to place too much reliance in speed and so. lost points in style and neatness, but all showed that they understood the general principle of the business, even if the execution of these principles was somewhat unpolished in a few

cases. In this class the first prize was £2, and eight £1 prizes were awarded, which meant that each final competitor received a prize. Of the 27 Young Farmers competing in this class, S. T. Carter (Onga Onga) won with 82 points. The winners of the £1 prizes were: A. Stewart (Bunnythorpe), 80 2-3 points; B. Rowland (Kairanga), 78 2-3 points; D. T. Waugh (Kimbolton), 76 points; F. C. Sowerby (Waituna West), 76 points; A. Brightwell (Bulls), 74 1-3 points; D. McMurtrie (Apiti), 73 2-3 points; W. Lodge (Kimbolton), 73 points; G. Pritchard (Bulls), 64 2-3 points. During the afternoon Mr. L. B. Green, well known as an expert shearer, gave a demonstration of blade shearing. The fleece competition was won by Ivan Old (Waituna). R. Hutt was second, and V. Freeman, the winner of the championship shearing, was third. The committee wishes to record its appreciation of the services rendered by the judges, Messrs. Basil Mitchell (Longburn), Donald Scott (Forest Hill), Dick McDonald (Raumai), A. W. Hudson (Massey College), and Les Little, who judged the fleeco class and supervised the classing and shed work. At the conclusion of the contest the New Zealand Farmers’ Distributing Company’s Cup was presented to Mr. V. Freeman by the manager of the firm, who drew attention to the value of the competition as a means of fostering the art of shearing, which was so important to the success of our pastoral industry.

Bulls District Y.F.C. .Field Day

THE Bulls Club held a successful 1 field day on the property of Mr. C. E. Vile (club advisory president), “Pukenui,” Bulls, on July 13. The weather was anything but favourable, and no doubt kept many people away from an otherwise well-attended event. All events went off smoothly and were well contested, which spoke well for the efficiency of the stewards, who all worked well. Cold weather made the sawing contest a popular event, and the performance of the winners (Messrs. Smith Bros., of Marton) was very good. An “old-timers” competition resulted in a win for Messrs. Torrey Bros!., who later gave an exhibition, cutting through their log in 16 seconds (racer saw). The main events of the day were the dog trials, for which the response was very good. During the afternoon, Mr. C. B. Anderson, in the unavoidable absence of the club chairman, Mr. S. G. Avery, welcomed the visitors, among whom were Mr. C. J. Hamblyn, Fields Superintendent, Department of Agriculture, and Mr. A. R. Dingwall, Wanganui District Secretary. Mr. Anderson thanked Mr. Vile for placing his farm and stock at their disposal, and he also thanked other judges and demonstrators for their services, and Messrs. H. Bowen, J. G. Wilson, and R. O. Dalrymple for the loan of stock, Mr. J. Simpson for carriage of stock, and Mr. Bob Cole for generally assisting. The local branch of the Farmers’ Union was thanked for assistance. Mr. C. E. Vile, in reply, said it gave him the greatest pleasure to do anything possible for the Young Farmers, and wished them well in future activities. The other judges and demonstrators offered to give their assistance on future occasions.

Captain B. Barrington, ’ Recruiting Officer of the Defence Department, spoke briefly on the recruiting campaign, and afterwards interviewed a number of young men who were interested. The stewards for the day were Messrs. A. and G. Torrey, F. J. Thorby and C. Harris, C. B. Anderson, J. G. Wilson, and S. Last-Harris (hon. secretarv).

Results Results were as follows: — Y.F.C. Dog Trial (Judge, Mr. F. W. Norris). — Brightwell, 1; F. J. Thorby, 2. Also placed: B. Coleman, A. Torrey, G. Torrey, D. Grace. Southdown Judging (judge and demonstrator, Mr. C. E. Vile; maximum points, 120). —-C. B. Anderson (120), 1; B. Palmer (111), 2; S. Last-Harris (85), 3. Also placed: C. L. Grace, K. Field, J. Gibbons, G. Pritchard, W. Bowen. Romney Judging (judge and demonstrator, Mr. W. Morton, Hunterville) . Last-Harris, 1; C. B. Anderson, 2; J. Gibbons, 3. Also placed: W. Bowen, N. H. Amon, C. L. Grace, G. Pritchard, J. G. Wilson. Local Dog Trial (judge, Mr. F. W. Norris). Torrey, 1: J. McLean, 2; D. Grace and G. Torrey, equal, 3. Also placed: K. Scott, G. Woods, D. Stent,

J. Preston, A. Torrey, B. Coleman, A. Brightwell, and R. Homes. Log Sawing (for M. tooth saws). — First heat: Smith Bros., 1. Also placed: J. Palmer and S. Last-Harris, W. Lamberg and J. Young, B. and T. Palmer. Second heat: C. B. Anderson and E. J. Kilgour-Carter, 1. Also placed: G. Pritchard and J. G. Wilson, H. Webber and G. Ellery, N. H. Amon and A. Young, R. Simpson and W. Bowen Smith Bros, won the final in 19 seconds, Anderson and Carter taking 27 seconds. Trophies were awarded to the winners of each competition. The final item was a demonstration on a . hack and a Clydesdale by Mr. Hocken, Feilding. Additional Activities In addition to the field day, the club recently formed a junior branch of the W.D.F.U. A meeting, at which the young women were invited to attend, was held on June 26, when Mrs. Fields, organiser, Manawatu W.D.F.U., outlined the aims and objects of the junior section. Also present by invitation were Miss Matheison and Mrs. Jennings, and seven members of the Halcombe Junior W.D.F.U. Sixteen of the local girls joined, with Miss G. Guy as chairman and Miss N. Avery as hon. secretary. After the business had concluded supper was served by the boys, and the evening concluded with a dance, music being supplied by the club’s own orchestra. The club is also to participate in the Centennial tree planting scheme. The Bulls Town Board has offered a suitable site, and has also offered to supply the necessary fencing materials, and with this co-operation it is expected that the day will be highly successful.

Mid-Canterbury Young Farmers’ Day

SOME fifty Young Farmers participated on October 3 in the first Young Farmers’ Day to be held in Ashburton, which was held with the object of showing the club members a little of what happens to the farmers’ produce after it has left the farm. Meeting at the Technical College Assembly Hall at 10 a.m., the party was entertained at morning tea by the Ashburton Club. • Mr. W. Crawford, principal of the Technical College, gave an address on “Food Production in War Time,” pointing out that it was the duty of New Zealand to place the whole of her resources at the disposal of Britain in her hour of need. So far as this country was concerned the feeding of the people was an easy matter, he said, but with Britain, from half to two-thirds of her foodstuffs, amounting to £1,200,000,000 in value annually, came from overseas. She had to import more than 80 per cent, of her flour, 50 per cent, of her meat, and more than 90 per cent, of her fats, including lard, butter, and oil for making margarine. It required 7,047,000 tons of wheat to supply her people, but she produced only 1,965,000 tons. Much of her imports came from sources that were now shut off from her, and she would have to turn to other countries for supplies. Mr. W. H. Amos, president of the Rotary Club, welcomed the Young Farmers, and mentioned . that the Rotary Club was glad to assist in any way possible.

Increased Production

Mr. Jas. Lowery, on behalf of the A. and P. Association, spoke of the need for increased production on all sides. He mentioned that many farms had deteriorated in recent years, and appealed to .all those connected with

farms to maintain and increase the fertility of the soil. Any help that the older farmers and the Department of Agriculture could give would be given willingly. Mr. T. V. Wilkinson, vice-president of the Farmers’ Union . executive, also welcomed the visitors. After apologising for the absence of the president, Mr. C. A. Campion, Mr. Wilkinson emphasised the need for young men with brains and vision in the farming community. He added that the Farmers’ Union was whole-heartedly behind the Y.F.C. movement. Mr. R. Penney, Methven, and Mr. E. Rhodes, Hinds, thanked the speakers for their addresses, the Ashburton Club for the refreshments, and the Technical College for the use of their hall for the meeting. First Visit The first visit was made to the factory of the Midland Dairy Company, where Mr. J. Keig showed the party how the cream was received, weighed, graded, and pasteurised, how the cans were sterilised, and how butter was made. Great interest was taken in the mechanical patting machine, which does the work of seven men. Mr. Keig stressed the fact that really good butter could be made only with the co-opera-tion of the supplier in sending fresh, clean cream. Mr. K. Moore, Mayfield, thanked the company for the visit. The party next visited the Domain, where they were met by the curator, Mr. D. H. Leigh, who conducted them through the propagating houses, ex-, plaining in detail just how the young plants were grown from the seed onwards. Mr. Leigh drew attention to some of the more interesting features of the. Domain, and answered many questions. At the end of the walk, just before arriving at the pavilion,

Mr. Leigh left the party, and was warmly thanked by Mr. A. Bennett, Ashburton.. Welcome by Mayor At the pavilion the Mayor, Dr. G. I. Miller, officially welcomed the party to Ashburton. He pointed out that it was the farmers who made the town, and that without them the town simply would not exist. He hoped that when they travelled they would take every opportunity of seeing and learning as much as possible. By this means they would learn to take a broader view of life, and would find the world a much more pleasant place to live in. After a light luncheon provided by the W.D.F.U. the party gathered outside the Canterbury Roller Flour Mills, where Mr. D. Moore explained the process of making flour. A tour of the mill followed, and the machinery ' was seen at work. After L. Watson (Hinds) had expressed their thanks, the party made for the last visiting place, the seed-cleaning plant of Messrs. Wright. Stephenson, and Company. Here they were met by the head storeman, Mr. A. Hayston, and the manager, Mr. A. A. McDonald, who welcomed them to the store. Mr. Hayston then showed the party around the machines, explaining the reason for the great care that had to be exercised if a good sample of seed was to be produced. Many questions were asked, and great interest was shown in the work. The large amount of foreign matter contained in what was apparently a fair line of seed was a great surprise to all. Mr. R. Penney expressed the party’s thanks, and a very pleasant and instructive day was brought to a close. —R. INCH, District Secretary, Ashburton.

Among the Clubs: Reports on Activities

Western Southland Dipton.—A debate was held with the Farmers’ Union on the subject “Should Country Boys Marry Town Girls?” The Farmers’ Union, which took the negative side, consisted of W. Mcßae, T. Nevin, W. Nevin, and J. Milligan. The club was represented by D. Milligan, A. Muclie, B. Wilson, and C. Helm. The negative team was the winner by a 20-point margin. At a previous meeting two talks were given, “Life in a Military Camp” (I. Miller) and “Agricultural Course at Lincoln College” (G. Helm). Wyndham. General discussion on national stock-judging contest to be held at the Royal Centennial Show at Invercargill and on the Centennial Tree Planting Scheme. A talk was given by W. L. Stewart, a club member, on the weather and weather forecasting. . Eastern Southland Balfour. Discussion on stock-judging at Royal Show and Centennial Tree Planting Scheme. An Interesting address was given by Dr. W. Boraman entitled “The Soil and its Properties.” lOtama.— chairman reported that the club debating team, by defeating Thorbury representatives in the final of an elimination debating contest, now holds the W.D.F.U. Trophy. Details of stock-judging contest at the Royal Show brought to the notice of members. The club’s representatives at the Dunedin Educational Week, Messrs. C. White. B. Wilson, H. White, and K. White, gave a report of the week’s activities. South Otago Clinton. interesting lecture on engineering was .delivered by Mr. F. Grant, Public Works Department, Balclutha. He also gave the meeting some helpful . suggestions on the making of concrete and the use of explosives. Milton.—General business. Mr. H. Fagg, Milton, gave an interesting talk on the work of the St. John’s Ambulance Association. Stirling. Arrangements made for the club to broadcast from Station 4YA. A lecture on first-aid was given by Mr. Ogilvy. Warepa. Made application to the district committee for trees to be used in the Centennial Tree Planting Scheme. An address was given by Mr. Lock, South Otago High School, his subject being “Artificial Fertilisers.” At the conclusion of his talk Mr. Lock answered numbers of questions bn the subject. Dunedin Middlemarch.— meeting. Palmerston.— meeting. At a previous meeting Mr. B. A. Taylor, Department of Agriculture, addressed the meeting on pulpy kidney in lambs. South Taieri.— R. Henderson elected deputy chairman in place of the former club chairman who is now in Burnham Camp. A committee of three appointed to select a paddock for next year’s ploughing match. ' Discussion- on national stockjudging championship at the Royal Show.. West — General business, followed by a social evening. At . previous unreported meetings Dr. Dinesse spoke on farm husbandry in general and pig husbandry in particular, and each member present gave a short talk on farming. North Otago Duntroon. Business meeting. Arrangements to hold club dance. : Jk. Enfield. Discussion -; on Centennial Tree Planting Scheme. Mr. G. A. Elliott, Department of Agriculture, Wellington, spoke on

his impressions of the Y.F.C. movement as a whole. Hampden. Business meeting. Seven club members attended a lecture at Oamaru on engineering, the speaker being Mr. Johnstone, Waitaki Boys’ High School. Tokarahi.— Business meeting. A short lecture . was given on engineering. South Canterbury — Arrangements for field day and club dance. A talk entitled “The Control of Farm Pests” was given by Mr. E. N. J. Hannah. Hunter.— by Mr. J. D. Wraight on lime deficiencies of Canterbury soils. The lecture was. well illustrated by soil tests. Arrangements and selection of teams for forthcoming debates with the Temuka Farmers’ Union. An interesting talk was given by Mr. Booth, Department of Agriculture, on the dairy industry, in which he dealt particularly with the precautions to be taken in the care of milk. At previous unreported meetings impromptu speeches were held, all members taking part in the talks. Mr. Grant, Department of Agriculture, spoke on. the sugar beet industry. Waihaorunga.— on proposal to send representatives to the stockjudging championships at the Royal Show. As a Centennial Memorial it was decided to plant five acres of trees on the Hall site and in the Waihaorunga School grounds. Field day and club debate to be held. Decided to carry on during war and to lend all possible assistance in increasing'production, etc. General discussion on land settlement and labour distribution. Mid-Canterbury Ashburton.— Proposal to plant trees in the Show Grounds as a Centennial Memorial. Talks were given as follows:—“Worm Infestation in Sheep” (B. Clement) ; “Manufacture of Wool" (A. Bennett). Miss Chamberlain, Technical

High School, gave a spinning demonstration to illustrate Mr. Bennett's lecture. Hinds. General business. A talk on blue lupins was given by Mr. G. K. McPherson, Department of Agriculture. Methven. Five-minute talks were held, each member speaking on one of the following subjects —“The Farm . of the Future,” or “The Value of Heredity in Farm Practice.” R. Perry was , the . winner, and ' received Mr. Dunkley’s cup. C. Wightman and H. Poff were placed second equal and hold Mr. Gerard's trophy jointly. Mr. J. W. Dart acted as judge. •. ' Christchurch Arrangements to hold barn dance in conjunction with W.D.F.U. Mr. R. Stewart gave a talk on his recent visit to Australia. Ellesmere.— address entitled “First-aid on the Farm” was given by Mr. W. G. Volkman. A successful field day was held at the MidCanterbury irrigation works, there being . an attendance of 25. Lectures and demonstrations were as follows: —“Construction of Races and Gates, etc.” (Mr. J. 0. Riddel), “Benefits of Irrigation on Stony Land” (Mr. W. Stafford), and “Working of Machinery” (Mr. Smith). West Melton. Business meeting. Report of annual dance. North Canterbury Cheviot.— Decided to hold a field day. The club president spoke on the Lincoln College short course of agricultural instruction, which he attended during the winter months. Nelson Dovedale. — General business. Talks were given by club members as follows: “Hedges and Shelter Belts on a Farm” (K. Burnett) and “Machinery v. Manpower” (W. Kenyon).

Marlborough Blenheim. An interesting address was given by Mr. Wilfred Gane on his recent travels in America. At previous unreported meetings Mr. Gordon Cuddon showed a series of films de- ' monstrating the progress of modern farm machinery, and a debate was held between the Blenheim Students’ Accountants’ Society and a team from the club. The subject debated was “Should the Marlborough Sounds be made a National Park?” The visitors took the affirmative and were placed first by two points. Wairarapa Ballance. Lecture on seed certification by Mr. F. J. S. Holden, Department of Agriculture. . Carterton. N. Lamont, Department of Agriculture, Masterton, showed several films on genetics. Masterton.— D. McGregor and W. James donated £1 each as a prize to the member who collects the most . fleeces for the district committee’s competition. Mr. N. * Lamont, Department of Agriculture, Masterton, exhibited a series of films on heredity. Manawatu Colyton. lmpromptu speeches by L. Thurston, H. Rook, R. Shortall, and A. D. Simpson reviewing the club’s past activities and putting forward suggestions for the future. — General discussions on Centennial Tree Planting and National stockjudging. Mr. L.. Earl, Department of Agriculture, gave an interesting address on Canterbury. Opiki. General business, including discussions on the Centennial Tree Planting and - national stock judging at the Royal Show. A talk entitled “Farm Accountancy” was given by Mr. J. A. Edwards, accountant, Palmerston North. Oroua . Downs. Decided to apply for trees suitable for planting around the dairy factory 1 and school. - A donation of 10s 6d was made to the Wellington Council. Propose to hold a club dance. An interesting address was given by Mr. P. Cope on farm accountancy. 'Otaki-Te Horo. — Report on club dance. Mr. C. J. Hamblyn, Department of Agriculture, spoke on stock judging competitions. Pohangina Valley.H. M. Linklater and D. Bockett nominated for the national stock judging championships. Mr. J. Linklater gave an interesting talk on his recent Pacific cruise. 'Rongotea< Open! meeting at which there was an attendance of over 60 parents and friends. Three members nominated for district' team for the national stock judging championship. Seventeen members signified their intention of attending the Centennial Camp at Wellington. Debate with the Farmers’ Union entitled “That the Young Farmer of Today has Better Opportunities of Success than his Grandfather.” The teams were;Farmers’ Union (negative) : * Messrs. J. Scott, M. Frecklington and G. R. McKenzie. Club (affirmative) : J. Gloyn, R. Brown and R. Gloyn. The affirmative won by a small margin. Shannon— General business. Discussion on Centennial Tree Planting, it being the intention to plant suitable trees around the dairy factory. — Business meeting. Report on club dance. Waituna. address was given by Mr. Sydney Freeman, Dominion Organising Secretary, on the activities of the Y.F.C. movement generally and he also exhibited several films on agricultural topics, At a previous meeting all members present were requested to give short impromptu talks on some farming subject. ■ Whakarongo.— Talk on manure and lime was given by Mr. A. Galpin. Woodville. business. Entries received for shearing competition. Several members delivered five-minute talks as follows: “Sheep Ticks" (A. Arrow) ; “Care of Imple-

ments” (K. Mitchell), “Wool-classing” (W. T. Toogood) ; “Learning to Fly” (A. Fountaine), and “Value of Plough” (A. Compton). Wanganui Bulls. — Mr. H. J. Rees delivered an address on farm accountancy. Mangaweka. An interesting demonstration of plumbing was given by Mr. Moyle, and Mr. T. Dickinson illustrated the method of sharpening saws. Taihape.—Field day held on Mr. J. Webb’s properties at Papaki Road, Taihape. Mr. Webb, a well-known stock breeder, showed the club over his flocks of Cheviot, Suffolks, and Southdowns. His Aberdeen Angus cattle were also inspected. South Taranaki — Two club members, S. Garnett and W. K. Saggors, were elected to represent the club on the local Red Cross Society’s committee. A social evening followed. Hawera.Mr. C. Dickie gave an address on farm finance. Pukengahu.— Decided to hold a pasture judging contest and a cricket match, Y.F.C. v. The Rest. A short talk by G. L. Burgham on potato spraying. At a previous meeting Mr. J. E. Davies, Department of Agriculture, gave a lecture on the Y.F.C. tour of Australia. North Taranaki Cardiff.-Talk by Mr. J. E. Davies, Department of Agriculture, on the tour of Australia by members of the Y.F.C. Karawaka. — business. Arrangements finalised for a debate with the Hillsborough Club. Midhurst. — Field day held on Mr. Running’s property at Midhurst. There was an attendance of 24, five of whom were visitors. Mr. V. Bunning gave a demonstration on bacon pigs. Okau-Tongaporutu. Members of the club and of the Farmers’ Union were addressed by Messrs. Sorrenson and Peirson, the topics being “Pig Club Affairs” and “Pig Management.” Rahotu.— debate, the subject being “That Home Separation is Superior to Milk Supply.” The judge, Mr. W. J. Wright, gave his. decision in favour of the affirmative side. Southern Hawke’s Bay Onga Onga. general discussion relative to the preparation of ground for crops. Waipukurau.— General business. Talks were given by club members as follows-" Electric Fencing” (I. E. Elliott) ; "Using Waste” (J G. Mackie); “Tractor v. Horses” (C. Cork). Northern Hawke’s Bay —Announced that F.U. accept the club’s challenge to a wool competition at the Wairoa Show. Report on annual ball, which showed a profit of £SB Os lOd. Arrangements for anniversary dance to mark the third year since the foundation of the club. Debating contests held, the subject being “That Topdressing is the only practicable method of improving second-class hill-country.” Mr. B. E. Parkinson acted as judge, and placed the teams as follows: —Clydebank (negative), E. Pattison, W. Taylor, O. McKenzie, . 274 points, defeated Frasertown, W. Brownlie, R. Brownlie, E. Brownlie, 268 points. Tawhara (negative), R. Powdrell, R. Mullins, J. Hervey, 284 points, defeated Opoiti, H. M. B. de Latour, S. Gloyn, T. Byrne, 270 points. At a previous meeting a discussion took place relative to military service, and it was pointed out that at the present time most good could be done by remaining on the land and helping to keep up production. Poverty Bay Gisborne.-—Arrangements for field day. Mr. D. E. Chrisp addressed the meeting on law and laws relative to farming. Much interest was shown, and a number of questions were asked at the conclusion of the talk. At a previous meeting it was decided to institute

an annual weight judging competition at the A. and P. Show in aid of the Red Cross Society. Entries taken for sheep shearing competitions and the dried sheepskin competition at the show. An interesting lecture entitled “Soil Erosion” was delivered by Mr. K. F. Jones. Tolaga Bay.— by Mr. Matherson, bank manager, on banking and its effects on Y.F.C. members'. At previously unreported meetings a discussion took place on lambing troubles, and Mr. N. Sadler spoke on the sowing of subterranean clover on the hillside. Mr. S. Freeman, Dominion Organising Secretary, gave an address on . the Y.F.C. movement, and a talk on explosives was given by Mr. 0. G. James. Taumarunui — Arrangements for stock judging at A. and P. Show. At a previous meeting a general discussion took place on Y.F.C. affairs. Western Bay of Plenty Kati — General business. A lecture was given by Mr. A. W. T. Hyde, his subject being “The Manufacture of Tyres and the Rubber Industry Generally.” The speaker illustrated his talk with lantern slides. Paengaroa.— Discussion on stock judging championships at Royal Show and Centennial Tree Planting Scheme. Talks were given by club members as follows:“Farming in the South Island” (L, Ashe) ; “Choosing a Breeding Sow” (J. Gulliver) ; “Breaking in Horses” (K. Ball), “Farming in Canterbury” (G. Williams), “Breaking in Wild Horses” (G. Mor-’ tersen), “Making a Cowyard Scraper out of a Motor Tyre” (E. Blackmore). Tauranga. Report on successful club birthday celebrations. Two members selected to act as junior judges at the Tauranga- Calf Club. At a previous unreported meeting it was decided to apply for suitable trees to plant under the Centennial Tree Planting Scheme. ,Te — General business. An address on cropping by Mr. A. V. Allo, Department of Agriculture, in which he gave useful information relative to the most suitable crops to plant in the district. Waikato Huntly West. Business meeting. Te Kowhai. — Business meeting. Auckland Clevedon. — Decided to give support to the Centennial Tree Planting Scheme. Messrs. Rayburn, Sutherland, Driver, and White each gave a short address on breaking-up and lay-ing-down pastures. These talks were then criticised by Messrs. Munro, Bell, and Wilson, all club members. Franklin. Arrangements for club dance and field day. Harrisville. business. A film entitled “The Manufacture of Superphosphate” was exhibited by Mr. Woodyear-Smith. Mauku. lecture on'general stock troubles by Mr. Carberry. Warkworth Warkworth. Port Albert. — General business. Mr. Syme, Department of Agriculture, spoke on manures. Dargaville Arapohue.— illustrated address on better feeding of livestock was given by Mr. E. H. Arnold, Department of Agriculture. Marohemo. lmpromptu speeches by all members present. ’Tangiteroria.— on club dance. Lantern lecture by Mr. E. H. Arnold, Department of Agriculture, entitled “Better Feeding of Livestock.” Kaitaia — Business meeting.

Y.F.C. Centennial Camp Abandoned

Because of the relatively small number of applications for attendance at the proposed Y.F.C. Centennial Camp in Wellington, it has been decided to abandon the idea of holding the camp. Those members who have sent in applications will be communicated with shortly.