Federation of young Farmers' Clubs

New Zealand Journal of Agriculture, Volume 69, Issue 4, 16 October 1944, Page 379

Federation of young Farmers' Clubs

Another Club Formed in Middle East

The following interesting letter has been received from Pte. C. B. Anderson, formerly secretary of the Bulls Young Parmer Club:— i IT gives me very much pleasure to notify you of the formation of a Young Farmers’ Club in the 22nd N.Z. (Motor) Btn. Through Padre Sullivan a meeting of those interested was held at the Y.M. C.A. tent and the inaugural meeting was held on Saturday, June 24, with about 65 present. It was resolved that a club be formed and the following officers were elected: —-Col. H. V. Donald; chairman, Sgt. A. A. Franklin; secretary, Pte. C. B. Anderson; advisory members, Padre Sullivan and Lt. N. McG. Cooper; committee, 1 Coy, A. Viles, H. W. Mohr; 2 Coy, S. Christopher, N. Bird; 3 Coy, P. Mason, R. R. Herbert; 4 Coy, C. Ancrum, T. Western; Admin., I. S. Kay, C. Budd. Affiliation with the federation was decided upon and application is herewith made for same. Policy To hold meetings every Thursday night at 7 o’clock, any extra attractions to be advertised in the “Argosy” (the' battalion news sheet), with lectures, quiz evenings, debates; and to hold field days and take advantage of any educational facilities offering. To express confidence in the movement in New Zealand and to offer every support to clubs on our return to New Zealand. Ex -members to contact their clubs. Membership to be open to all men in the battalion. , This was adopted by the meeting. We are intending to take advantage of E.R.S. courses and for this purpose Thursday night of each week is being set aside and an accompanying talk will be given by Lieut. Cooper on the subject under review. The first will be on stock production, a subject Mr. Cooper has particular interest in. The following ex-club members were present: I. S. Kay, Banks Peninsula Y.F.C.; T. L. McDonald, Hunterville Y.F.C.; I. F. Thompson, Pukengahu Y.F.C.; -G. I. Johnson, South Taieri Y.F.C.; A R. Viles, Apiti Y.F.C.; R. R. Foieman, Carterton Y.F.C.; P. A. Mason, Halcombe Y.F.C.; C. B. Anderson, Bulls, Y.F.C.; S. Last-Harris, Bulls Y.F.C.

Good Meeting On Thursday, June 29, a very good meeting was held. The speaker was 2nd Lieut. Forbes McHardy, who dealt with the problem of rehabilitation as far as it would affect men returning and taking up land. As it was a matter that will concern a large number of the members, the subject was a good one for an early meeting, and it created a great deal of interest. Particulars of courses at Massey College for returned men were read out and copies will be distributed among companies. There were over 100 present, and all points to a very successful future. Several speakers are “jacked up,” and we will also have quiz evenings with the audience as a “brains trust.” A field day is well under way, and I will send further details afterwards.' Padre Sullivan has been a great help to us, as he is with all matters of this kind in the battalion. He took quite an interest in the club at Te Awamutu before coming overseas, and will no doubt be remembered by the Te Awamutu members. We are very fortunate in having Mr. Cooper in our midst and he will be a tower of strength to us also.

We would be grateful for a few copies of the Journal and any other literature of interest you can send along. I will close down for now and write another time. I had a very interesting letter from Steve Avery a few days ago and am pleased to know the young farmers at home are doing well and keeping on their feet. Accept my kind regards, and I wish to be remembered to all my young farmer friends. Yours sincerely, C. B. ANDERSON, Secretary, 22nd N.Z. Motor Btn. Y.F.C. Mr. Anderson’s address . No. 378261 Pte. C. B. Anderson, No. 1 Coy., 22nd N.Z. (Motor) Btn., 2nd N.Z.E.F., Middle East Forces. ROPES GOOD sound rope is at a premium. Under to-day’s conditions it cannot be easily replaced. Timely advice on the proper care of rope .is available in the Department’s FREE bulletin No. 193, “Ropes, Useful Knots and Splices.” This bulletin also contains illustrated instructions on the knottying and splicing. Available from the Department of Agriculture, Wellington.

Mid-Canterbury District Committee

AT a recent meeting of the Mid- ** Canterbury Y.F.C. District Committee the chairman, Mr. R. Wightman, jun., presided. The secretary reported the formation of a club at the Ashburton District High School. Delegates from the new club were welcomed to the meeting, and it was decided to make the club a grant of £1 Is. to assist it with its initial expenses. A report on the meeting of the Canterbury council was given by Messrs. Bennett and Chisnail. Messrs. A. McKay and J. R. Cocks were appointed delegates to the Canterbury council in place of Messrs. H. L. Chisnall and R. Wightman, both of whom are now acting on the council in other capacities. , It was decided to request the council to forward copies of the conditions governing Y.F.C. scholarships to all clubs in Mid-Canterbury.

Debates A recommendation was made to the Canterbury council to hold interdistrict debates this year. An invitation from the Rotary Club to hold a short debate at a forthcoming Rotary Luncheon was accepted, and arrangements made for teams of two members each from the Hinds and Meth ven Clubs to take part. A debate between the Ashburton Club and the High School Debating Club was also arranged, the date to be fixed later. The district stock-judging competition was fully discussed, and the final arrangements left to the Methven Club, the competition to take place at a convenient date in October. The chairman extended the congratulations and best wishes of the meeting to Mr. J. Fleming on his recent marriage.

Waihaorungo Sponsors Address Mr. A. H. Geddes Interests Large Audience

ON the occasion of an address by Mr. A. H. Geddes, a former Waimate boy who now occupies an important post at the Sydney University, the Waihaorunga Club called a general meeting of the district. The fact that the Waihaorunga School was packed to the doors by an appreciative audience showed that their confidence was amply justified. Mr. Geddes, who is a son of Mr. Robert Geddes, of Ikawai, was educated at Ikawai and at Timaru Boys’ High School. After taking his degree at Lincoln College he went to Tasmania, taking up a position there with the Department of Agriculture. After some years there and a further period as agricultural editor "of the Melbourne “Weekly News” Mr. Geddes was appointed four years ago to his present position as Lecturer in Animal Husbandry 'at Sydney University. This appointment is of particular interest to young New Zealanders, as Sydney University is one of the places at which those who wish to become veterinary surgeons must study. 1 \ .* • z ' Subterranean Clover Mr. Gordon Armstrong, chairman of the Waihaorunga Club, introduced Mr. Geddes to the meeting. Mr. Geddes referred first to the remarkable improvements which had been

effected at Lincoln College since his last visit, more than 11 years ago. He mentioned particularly the Ashley Dene farm, the carrying capacity of which had been more than doubled. This was due to the use of subterranean clover, which provided the key to the exploitation of light land in the Canterbury district. Subterranean clover was used in a very large way in certain districts of low rainfall in Victoria and Tasmania, and its use was being rapidly extended; an annual dressing of superphosphate was necessary to ensure that it thrived. The speaker touched upon the small seeds trade, and stated that New Zealand’s certified strains of ryegrass, cocksfoot, and white and red clovers performed very well in the higher rainfall areas. It was his opinion that there should be a permanent market at profitable prices for these seeds in Australia. Contrasts in Australia He described aspects of Australian farming which contrasted with practice in New Zealand. Wheat growing in Australia was a very specialised industry, highly mechanised, and over very large areas of perfectly flat land a crop of wheat was alternated with a year under fallow. Thirty bushels of wheat per acre was considered a

very good yield, and 56 was the highest, he had known in Australia. A good proportion of the fat lamb trade was also associated with wheat growing, the sheep being used to graze the fallow: for the purpose of keeping down weeds. Thus the number of fat lambs derived from this type of farming was necessarily limited. He warned his audience, however, that the fat lamb trade in Australia is, in general, capable of considerable expansion. The present export of 4,000,000 carcases could with little difficulty be increased to 10,000,000. Mr. Geddes considered that dairying in Australia is a depressed industry compared with its counterpart in New Zealand. There are two distinct types of dairying; in the Gippsland district of southern New South Wales conditions are very similar to those prevailing in New Zealand. The bulk of the rainfall is in the winter months, and English grasses are grown. North of Sydney the main rainfall is in the summer, and is associated with a “monsoon” type of climate; here, in the coastal districts, paspalum grows luxuriantly, and is grazed in dairying. Dependence on Wool The speaker emphasised the dependence of the Australian economy on the wool cheque. The increasing use of wool substitutes is a matter of very grave concern to Australia and New Zealand. He referred to the possibility of the establishment of a comprehensive scheme of research and publicity, involving an expenditure of round about £250,000 per annum. He spoke of the irrigated land .in Australia being used for stock raising, rice growing, and fruit farming. He said that beef cattle were extensively reared in Queensland, but that the tendency is for sheep to replace cattle. He stressed that the greater bulk of the country is desert, and, as far as could be seen, practically useless. The scope for increased population is not as great as many would imagine. Mr. Geddes answered many questions concerning farming and related matters in Australia, and raised some hearty laughs by his dry and pointed remarks. At the conclusion of his address he was accorded a very hearty vote of thanks. During and after supper a number of those present took the opportunity to renew old acquaintanceship. Excessive Wastage in the pig industry represents a 'serious loss to farmers and .to the country.. Bulletin 15, available free from offices of the Department of Agriculture, reviews factors leading to such wastage, and contains valuable information regarding its prevention.

r T-’HE field day held at Mr. A. C. THE field day held Mr. A. C. Vile’s property, Upper Tutaenui, Marton, and arranged by the district committee and organised by Mr. Vile and officials of the Marton Club, was highly satisfactory. Though there was a rather keen wind, the day remained fine and a good attendance of upwards of 60 young farmers, farmers, and friends did much towards making the occasion a success. The committee is most grateful to Mr. Vile for the use of his farm and also wishes to thank all those who lent stock for the various demonstrations. Mr. Vile stated that he was only too pleased to be able to assist and was very glad to see so many present, particularly members of the Ohakea Club, who, despite their service duties, find the time and inclination to keep a club functioning. The morning was taken up with a demonstration of mole draining by Messrs. G. J. Wood and C. W. Stafford, assisted by Mr. A. L. Vile with the tractor. . Approximately 20, were present at this demonstration, which was most instructive, particularly in view of the increasing popularity of mole draining. Mr. Wood said he hoped the demonstration had been of practical value to those who had witnessed it, and also pointed out that in draining there are no short cuts-it is all hard work. Demonstrations on Stock The main part of the programme began soon after one o’clock with a demonstration on Southdown sheep by Mr. A. C. Vile. As he was able to use only crutched lambs, Mr. Vile regretted that it was not possible to show some of the main points as clearly as he had wished. Still, such important items as skin colour, face colour, and type of wool were adequately covered. Mr. R. T. N. Fergusson, Turakina Valley, then demonstrated . the main points on Romney sheep; this was probably of the greatest interest to the majority of those present. Mr. Fergusson’s contention is that as meat will most probably be New Zealand’s main standby in the future, we must concentrate on breeding a type which will produce most meat per pound of bone. He also mentioned such important points as the connection between the hair on the face, the wool, and the position of the front leg in relation to the shoulder. His advice to any young farmers starting breeding was not to be too particular on the

Field Days Wanganui District Committee By Malcolm F. Gray, Hon. Secretary, Marton Y.F.C.

minor points at first; get constitution and conformation and then deal with the less important details. A notable feature of both these demonstrations was that comparatively few questions were asked. Whether this was due to a general reluctance or hesitancy to ask questions or not, it remains to be said that both speakers stated that more questions would have been a great help in making the demonstrations more interesting. It is hoped that in future young farmers, and farmers, ’ too, for that

matter, will bring a greater supply of questions for the various demonstrators. ■ Mr. J. M. Murray, Woodville, gave a very thorough talk on the dairy cow. It was evident that Mr. Murray had been to no small amount of trouble in preparing his talk so as to present the facts in their logical sequence. He grouped his matter under five main headings, beginning with the heart and lungs and .carrying right through to the ultimate source of the milk supply. Many farmers, he said, were disappointed with the results obtained from expensive bulls. This was most likely due to the animals having weak heads, a fault far too commonly overlooked. Hydatids and Bad Teeth After an interval for tea Mr. Geo. McDonald, veterinary surgeon, Rata,

gave a most instructive and, in his inimitable way, humorous post-mor-tem examination of a sheep. He mentioned several theories which have been proved wrong, and also described how copper sulphate (bluestone) causes a reflex action, opening a groove and allowing drenches to pass straight to the fourth stomach, where they are able to work undiluted. He also gave the alarming information that New Zealand heads the world; along with Paraguay, Uruguay, and other such “uncivilised” countries, in hydatids, and is also “famous” for goitre and rotten teeth. A New Zealand football team is as fine a looking body of men as one would see anywhere, and yet most of them have scarcely a tooth in their heads! Questions came far more spontaneously at this demonstration. The committee desires to thank the demonstrators for sparing their valuable time to give the talks, and assures them that their services were very much appreciated by all present. Thanks are also due to officials of the Marton Club for arranging for the stock for the various demonstrations. Luncheon and afternoon tea were provided by the Marton Club and were much appreciated by all. The thanks of the Marton Club go to Mrs. Vile and her band of willing helpers, for without their valuable assistance the project, which showed a credit balance of 27/9d. would have been well-nigh impossible. Marlborough District Debate By N. J. Hammond, secretary, Seddon Y.F.C. A DEBATING contest was held recently at Ward between teams from the Flaxbourne and Seddon Clubs. The subject of the first debate was “That Wool Production is more profitable than Fat Lamb Raising on Medium to Good Class Land.” Speakers: Seddon (affirmative), R. Denton, N. Gee, and K. Hammond; Flaxbourne (negative), A. Wooding, J. Thomson, and F. Rudd. The subject of the second debate was “Synthetic Wool versus the Raw Material.” Speakers: Flaxbourne (affirmative), T. Loe, M. Johnstone, and E. Butt; Seddon (negative), M. McKee, K. Dysart, and H. Gluyas. Flaxbourne gained the award in the first debate, and Seddon won the second. Mr. Ching acted as judge, and Messrs. Morrin and W. Kennington as chairman and timekeeper respectively. The debate was keenly enjoyed by all present, and the proceedings closed with supper, which was supplied by the Flaxbourne Club.

Bunnythorpe Club: Mole Draining By R. E. Cleverly, Bunnythorpe Y.F.C.

A MOST successful field day was held under the auspices of the Bunnythorpe Young Farmers’ Club, demonstrations of various methods of mole drainage being given by Mr. A. W. Hudson, of Massey College. Mr. Hudson, who is acknowledged as an expert on the. subject, was keenly followed throughout by the 100 farmers who attended the demonstrations. Firstly, he showed the working of a simple home-made apparatus for the taking of levels. Levels were most deceptive, especially on rolling country, but by the use of the particular apparatus the judgment of the human eye could be checked. This apparatus consisted of two glass tubes (one at either end) containing coloured water (for clearer sighting) mounted on an up-edged 3in x lin beam, 4ft. in length, standing some 3ft. or 4ft. above ground level. Mr. Hudson proceeded to demonstrate the three proven methods of effecting junctions between minor and major drains. Firstly, by joining at the same level at an angle of between 30 and 45 degrees. Secondly, by clearing, by the McLeod method, drains pulled at a greater angle. Thirdly by “spearing” the minor into the major at different depths. Mr. Hudson referred to another method under trial, which he considered very promising as an easy way of joining minors to majors; this was the “cut-top” method, practised by pulling the major first, at a depth, greater than the minors, equal to the

diameter of the plug. When the minors are pulled above, at angles from 45 to 90 degrees, the bottom of the minor being about the same level as the top of the major, either a hole is left between two, or the layer of clay is so thin that it breaks down easily when the water flows in the minor. Due to the danger of the outlets being trampled in, , the points of final discharge should be reduced to a minimum without endangering the efficiency of the whole system. These outlets should also be protected by either a tile or a block of wood across the top held securely; or both. At the conclusion of the demonstrations thanks were accorded Mr. Hudson by the chairman of the Bunnythorpe Club, Mr. S. Anderson, who also thanked the contractor who performed the draining, Mr. E. Hodgson, and Mr. W. Andrew for the use of the land for the demonstrations. The club was also accorded thanks for staging the field day and providing light luncheon. To keep fowls in health and reasonable production a knowledge of certain fundamental principles of poul-try-keeping is essential. Bulletin No. 211, “Backyard Poultry-keeping,” available free from offices of the Department of Agriculture, provides the minimum knowledge that the backyarder should possess, and includes plans for houses for 6 and 12 birds.

Reports on Club Activities

WESTERN SOUTHLAND. Southland Technical College. Exhibition of film-strips (1) “The Nerve System,” (2) “The Animals of the World,” (3) “The Life' of Louis Pasteur.” At the previous meeting two debates were held on the following subjects: “That Life on a Sheep Farm is to be Preferred to Life on a Dairy Farm,” and “That every Dairy Farmer should maintain a Stud Herd.” The attendances at these meetings were 60 and 57 respectively, out of a total membership of 78. Woodlands. Debating team selected . for annual contest at Invercargill, consisting of the following: A. S. Trotter, K. Maxwell, and K. Kerr. Mr. A. S. Trotter, who is chairman of the Otago-Southland council, reported on the recent council meeting held in Dunedin, and also on the annual general meeting of the Y.F.C. Federation, held in Timaru. The chairman, K. Maxwell, read a paper entitled “Pregnancy Toxaemia in Ewes,” which had been prepared by Lincoln Agricultural College. Fourteen members in attendance out of 18. SOUTH OTAGO. Clinton. Next meeting to take the form of a social evening with impromptu speeches. E. Roseveare and C. Turnbull selected as delegates to the South Otago district committee. Mr. F. Carson, manager of the Kaitangata Coal Mine, gave an interesting l address on “Coal Mines and Mining.” A trip through the Kaitangata Coal Mine is to be arranged. At previously unreported meetings addresses were given as follows: Mrs. A. T. Harris, of Clinton (“A Trip through England and the Continent early in 1939”); Mr. R. 0. Pannett, of Wairuna (“Southdown Sheep”). The attendances were 10 in each case, out of a total membership of 15. Warepa»— Final arrangements for the club ball. A Dutch auction was held, the club funds benefiting to the extent of £2 13s. Address by Mr. Carr, of Dunedin, on “Finance.” One new member enrolled. Attendance of 21 members out of 28. DUNEDIN. West Taieri.— Address by Mr.. A. Miller on “The Care of Ewes at Lambing Time.” Nine members present out of 18. NORTH OTAGO. Enfield.— Correspondence re shearing school; several members keen to ■ take part in course. Annual report of Otago-Southland council read and discussed. Report on club’s annual dance; raffles for club funds showed a balance of £3 4s. Id.; profit for Patriotic purposes £2 14s. sd. Football match v. Ardgown resulted in a win for the club by 5 points to nil; the dance held at night showed a profit for Patriotic purposes of £7 Ils. 6d. Mr. H. Meek, a local contractor, addressed the meeting on “Farm Machinery”; he dealt very fully with his experience with tractors, and gave some very useful hints. In a competition for the drawing up of a plan of a 200-acre farm L. Forrest was the winner. Twelve members attended out of a total of 16. SOUTH CANTERBURY. Cannington. Debate to be arranged with Pleasant Point Y.F.C. Address by Mr. E. W. Hall, who spoke on his experiences in the Middle East. Ten members present out of 17. ; —Christmas parcels to be sent to members in the ‘Middle East and Canada. Talk by Mr. S. R. Muff on “Herd Testing, Cheesemaking, and Butterfat Prices.” Sixteen members present out of 34. At the previous meeting a talk on “Weather Recording” was given by Mr. Darby Robertson. Members stood in silence as a mark of respect to Corporal Mervyn Brenton, a former chairman of the club, who has been killed in action. An attendance of 18 members.

W aihaorunga.—Officers elected at the annual meeting: Advisory president, Mr. G. Barclay; chairman, G. Armstrong; vice-chairman, M. Gardner; secretary, I. Hurst; treasurer, B. Armstrong; press reporter, A. Hurst; trustee, J. Barclay. The following talks, debates, etc., took place at recent fortnightly meetings, previously unreported: Mr. Pickering (W.E.A.), address on “The Food Problem after the War”; Mr. E. J. Lukey, Government veterinarian, address on “Livestock: its place in Peace and War”; Mr. A. H. Geddes (Sydney University), address on “Farming in Australia”; two debates between club teams and teams from the Women’s Institute, “That , a Community Centre is essential in Waihaorunga," and “That a Woman should Receive Equal Pay to a Man for Equal Work”—the former was won by the Women’s Institute, and the latter by the club team; supper and a dance followed the debates. Impromptu speeches were given at one meeting, and at another a paper on “Farm Mechanisation” was read and discussed. The attendances varied from 17 to 21. MID-CANTERBURY. Ashburton D.H.S.— A debate was held, the subject being “That Small Farms are Better than Larger Farms.” Speakers, .D. Gill and W. Crouchley (affirmative), G. McArthur and M. Gill (negative). The award was gained by the affirmative team, by 204 points to 191. At the conclusion the judge, Mr. Dallison, gave the speakers some very helpful criticism. Letter of sympathy in his illness sent to Mr. R. M. McGregor (advisory president), with hopes for his speedy recovery. Methven. Five new members enrolled. The following reports were given: . Annual meeting of the . federation (Mr. R. Wightman, chairman of the Canterbury council); meeting of the Methven A. and P. Association (W. Hart); meeting of the Mid-Canterbury District Committee (A. McKay); inter-club debate at Ashburton, won by Methven (G. Limbrick); debate at the Rotary Club Luncheon, AshburtonMethven debated against Hinds, the subject being “Which is Better, Optimism or Pessimism?” (A. McKay). Arrangements for the inter-district stock-judging competition, to be held on Mr. R. J. Low’s property; sheep to be judged, English Leicester and Southdown. The results of the club’s dog trials were announced. Social to be held in the near future. Address by Mr. Robinson, veterinarian, Lincoln College, on “Marking of Lambs and Diabases Arising from Same.” There was an attendance of 35 members out of a total of 68. NORTH CANTERBURY. Oxford. This club has recently resumed activities after a long period of recess. At its second meeting 10 new . members were enrolled, and 25 members were present out of 25—a hundred per cent, attendance! An interesting and instructive lecture was given by Dr. Burns, of Lincoln College, on “Soil Fertility.” MARLBOROUGH. Flaxbourne.— Reports of two recent meetings: At the first one new member enrolled. Talk by Mr. Irving, entitled “Here and There from a Business Career.” Ten members present. At the second one new member enrolled. Arrangements for a practice debate, in view of coming debate with Seddon Y.F.C. Younger members present took part in an impromptu debate, each member speaking for 10 minutes. Thirteen members present. Seddon. Two meetings, as follows: Address by Mr. Lockhart on “The Running of a Meeting,” followed by impromptu speeches of two minutes’ duration. The subjects for the speeches were chosen by the chairman, and all members filled in their time easily. At the second meeting a debate was held, the subject being “Should Stud Stock be Exported?”; speakers, M. McKee and R. Denton

(negative), H. Gluyas and K. Langridge (affirmative). Challenge issued to Flaxbourne Y.F.C. for a debate. Sixteen members present out of 24. - - NELSON. .. R.N.Z.A.F. Station. At recent meetings, the' usual discussions on such subjects as “Farm Improvement,” “Grass Management,” etc.,, took place, and the following lectures were given: “Wool Spinning and Dyeing,” by Mrs. Moncrieff, noted naturalist; “Identifying of Grasses,” by Messrs. Madden and Harris (Grasslands Division, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research); and “Wool Classing,” by Mr. . Geo. Hobbs. Eight new members enrolled, but this, unfortunately, was offset by departures. MANAWATU. Bunnythorpe— Discussion on the club’s proposed radio talk (Station 2ZA, Palmerston N.) on “Mole. Draining”; decided that the talk be prepared and delivered. An address on “Feeds and Animal Nutrition” was given by Mr. Barnicoat, of Massey College. Twelve members present. Oroua — Discussion re supper fee. Arrangements for a dance. An effort to be made to recruit members from among secondary school pupils. Lecture by Mr. H. A. Bayley, inspector of stock, Department of Agriculture, on “Seasonal Stock Ailments and Diseases.” Eighteen members present out of 31. Pohangina Valley. club has been successfully revived after having been in recess for two years. Messrs. S. G. Avery (chairman, Wellington council) and S. Freeman (Dominion organising secretary) were present at the meeting, and addressed those present on Y.F.C. affairs and activities generally. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year: Advisory president, Mr. H. M. Linklater; chairman, J. Howell; vice-chairman, R. J. Moar; secretary, R. G. Passey; treasurer, H. McDonald. At the following meeting a, lecture on “Seasonal Ailments of Stock” was. given by Mr. H. A. Bayley, inspector of stock. There ws an excellent attendance, 19 members—the total number enrolled to date being present. There is every prospect of this club being a success, and it is anticipated that steady progress will be made during the next few months. _ Rongotea.— Lectures given at last two meetings: “The Supply of Electricity in New Zealand,” by Mr. C. Taylor, Palmerston North; the speaker gave an outline of the present, hydro-electric scheme, and its proposed extension; “Animal Husbandry,” by Mr. H. A. Bayley, inspector of stock, who dealt with the diseases and seasonal ailments of dairy stock, and their prevention and cure. There were attendances of 12 and 10 members respectively, out of a total membership of 28. Whakarongo.— This club has been recently revived after a period of two years in recess. Messrs. S. G. Avery (chairman, Wellington council) and S. Freeman (Dominion organisingsecretary) were present and addressed the meeting. Members of the Bunnythorpe Club were also at the meeting. The following officers were elected: Advisory president, Mr. J. McCool; chairman, I. Tabor; vice-chairman, J. Spall; secretary, D. .Clark; treasurer, B. McCool. Nineteen members were enrolled at the meeting. The club has every prospect ofmaking a successful recovery; it is fortunate in having a keen and enthusiastic club Bunnythorpe— a few miles. Doubtless, these two clubs will, work together to their mutual advantage. WAIRARAPA. Alf red ton— Exhibition of sound films by Mr. N. Lamont, Department of Agriculture. The films, which were particularly instructive, dealt with “Soil Erosion,” “The Esk Valley Floods,” and “The Life of a Farm Labourerin England.” Ten members present out of 23. WANGANUI. — Further parcels to be sent to members serving overseas, in order that they maybe . received by Christmas. Report on the first . round of the inter-club debate arranged by the Wanganui district committee. Discussion

on the subject for the second round, namely, “That Straightout Grassland Farming is More Economic than Grassland Farming Supplemented with Cropping.” The Bulls senior (B) team is contesting this round, and taking the affirmative. There was an attendance of 12 members. Marton.— Report on first round of the southern zone of the inter-club debate. Report on campaign to enrol new members; circular prepared by secretary read and discussed. Arrangements for annual dance. Distribution of copies of Bulletin No. 1, issued by the Soil Conservation and Rivers Control Council, entitled “The Menace of Soil Erosion in New Zealand.” Five new members enrolled. Talks by club members, as follows: “Using Motorcar Generators as Battery-chargers” (M. F. Gray) ; “Hill Country Farming” (H. G. Stewart); “Hill Country Ploughing, etc.”. (G. R. Gower). There were 19 members in attendance out of 29. Ohakea R.N.Z.A.F.— at the Criterion Hotel, Bulls, to. which members of the Bulls Club were invited.

SOUTHERN HAWKE’S BAY. Ballance.— announced last month, this club resumed activities after having been in recess for over two years. The officers elected (not published in the last report) were as follows: Advisory president, Mr. J. Eising; chairman, Q. Holdaway; secretary, L. A. Sinclair ; treasurer, H. Ebbett. , This club has good prospects, and shows every sign of a successful revival. Dannevirke. — new member enrolled. Hearty welcome given to Keith Bateman, former club secretary, at present on furlough from the Pacific. K. Lamnert'appointed as delegate to the A. and P. Society. Wording for 1 brass plate for centennial trees decided upon as follows: “N.Z. Centennial 1940. Trees planted by Dannevirke Young Farmers’ Club.” Short talks competition continued by the following: J. Loughlin (“Grafting Trees”); H. Allardice (“Footrot”); A. Severensin (“Bee Keeping”); M. Simmonds (“Bacteria”). The secretary, Mr. J. L. Sunderland, gave an account of his trip to Timaru to attend the annual general meeting of the federation; he reported on the meeting, and described the visit to a linen flax factory and other matters of interest noted on the trip. There were 36 members present. 1 NORTHERN HAWKE’S BAY. Meeanee. — Routine matters of business attended to: insurance on hall, etc. Financial position investigated; competition to be arranged to raise funds. Discussion on future programme of activities. Further officers elected: Vice-chairman, S. Parsons; treasurer, W. J. Puddle; auditor, . Mr. C. M. Oliver. A working committee was also appointed. Nine members present out of 19. Wairoa.— This club has been in partial recess for some time past, holding the annual meetings only and electing officers; no, activities have been undertaken since May, 1942. A meeting has recently been held, at which it was decided to resume activities. Those present included Messrs. A. C. Delatour (advisory president), Humphrey Bayley (president, A. and P. Society), R. G. Watson (club chairman) and 15 club members. Mr. Bayley assured the meeting of the support of the A. and P. Society, and placed his property at Taehanui, together with his Romney sheep and Aberdeen Angus cattle studs, at the club’s disposal for a field day. Mr. Paul Jessep, a member returned from overseas, thanked the club for keeping up the supply of “Journals of Agriculture,” which were looked forward to keenly by the lads overseas. Three other members returned from overseas were present, and two new members were enrolled. Arrangments were made for a further meeting in the near future. We wish this club every success in its undertaking; those associated with the Y.F.C. movement will doubtless recall that the Wairoa Club held pride of place before the war, with a membership roll of 125. TE KUITI. Paewhenua. — Club debate, the subject being “That Horses are a Better Proposition on a Farm than . Tractors.” Speakers, L. Mclvor, R. Miller, R. Disher (negative), F. Thomas, C. E. Heena, G. Morris (affirmative). There were 20 members present out of a total of 21. WAIKATO. Cambridge Arrangements . made for a “Welcome Home” dance to members recently returned from the Pacific. Dr. McMeekan to give a lecture on “Artificial Insemination and Herd Improvement”; proposed to make the occasion an open meeting and invite members of . the Farmers’ Union and the Veterinary Club. Pte. J. D. Wallace welcomed back to the club from overseas. Mr. C. Wallace, of the' National Pig Council, gave an interesting and instructive lecture on “Pig Husbandry.” Twenty-five members present out of 60 (the latter figure includes 10 members still overseas). At a recent field day Mr. Bowan, veterinarian, gave a post-mortem on some cows; this took place at J. D. Wallace, Ltd.’s works; 20 members were present. At a previous meeting a report on a recent dance revealed a profit of £8 10s. lOd.; it was proposed to send further parcels to members serving overseas. Talk by Mr. G. Walsh on “The Economic Standing as Regards the Rural

Status.” Twenty-five members attended out of 60. Okonoire— One new member enrolled. Decided to appoint ’an auditor. Lecture on “Fencing” by Mr. G. Coates, an advisory member. Twenty members present out of 31. — Officers elected at annual meeting: Advisory president, Mr. G. R. White; chairman, A. Stewart; secretary, A. L. Hopper; advisory members, E. B. Elliott, H. L. Taylor, and D. Wade. Three new members enrolled. Decided to form a boxing club, necessary items purchased. Twelve members present at the meeting. We are looking for further news from this club. Te Awamutu.— Members stood for a few moments in silence as a mark of respect to Sgt. G. Terry, a former member who has lost his life overseas. Decided to hold a field day at Ruakura. Arrangements for club dance. Mr. R. J. Sheaf,'of the Auckland Herd Improvement Association, gave an interesting address on. “Sire Survey Procedure; Artificial Insemination; and Lifetime Records of Dairy Cows.” Twenty-nine present out of a total membership of 50. BAY OF PLENTY. Whakatane D.H.S.— Recent activities include a lecture given by Mr. N. Carter on “Stockjudging” ; a stock-judging competition with the Waimana Y.F.C.won by Whakatane; and a visit to the local slaughterhouse, where a demonstration was given by Mr. Moeke. There were good attendances at all of these activities. AUCKLAND. Franklin. reported last month, this club has recently resumed activities after being in recess for nearly three years. The following officers were elected at the meeting: Advisory president, Mr. R. Franke; chairman, R. W. Legg; secretary, C. C. Upton. It is hoped to be able to report further in next month’s notes. Pukekawa. General discussion on the future activities of the club. Decided to hold a field day in conjunction , with the school calf club. The social committee to be made responsible for the club’s finance. Team selected to take part in a basketball tournament to be held in the near future. Mr. F. S. Atcheson, chairman of the Auckland Y.F.C. council, was present, and addressed the meeting on “The Y.F.C. Organisation.” The speaker dealt with all phases of club work and offered some sound advice on activities, etc.; he spoke for over 50 minutes, and his talk was fully appreciated by all present. ■ Attendance of 15 out of 17. Methven Y.F.C. Dog Trials Mr. A. A. Grigg, secretary, Methven Y.F.C. THE Methven dog . trials were held this year on Mr. R. J. Low’s farm, Mr. G. J. Foreman acting as judge. The results were as follows: Class 1, Long Pull and Hold: A. Molloy’s “Tip,” 38 points, 1; J. Watson’s “Darkey,” 36 points, 2; T. Grigg’s ‘■Roy,” 34 points, 3. Class 2, Driving: A. Molloy’s “Tip,” 49 points, 1; lan Wilson’s “Scott,” 47 points, 2; D. McLaughlin’s “Glen,” 41 points, 3. The club’s silver cup for the most points in the two events was won by A. Molloy; the trophy for the-best command of a dog was awarded to A. McKay; and the trophy for the youngest competitor was presented to T. Grigg.