YOUNG FARMERS’ CLUBS

New Zealand Journal of Agriculture, Volume 71, Issue 3, 15 September 1945, Page 313

YOUNG FARMERS’ CLUBS

How to Run a Successful Young Farmers' Club

By

A. C. Buist,

Advisory President,

Feilding Y.F. Club.

Now that most clubs are getting well into their stride, or are in the process of being revived, or perhaps the formation of a new club is contemplated, a few hints on how to run a successful Y.F.C. may prove helpful.

IN any club or society success largely depends upon two important factors the enthusiasm of its members, and second, the skilful organisation of those activities for which the club is constituted.

Enthusiasm

The first of these' —enthusiasm—is the foundation of most successful organisations. As Emerson has truly said, “Every great and commanding movement in the annals of the world is the triumph of enthusiasm.” A few sensible enthusiasts, inspired with zeal for their particular cause, attract to themselves like-minded people and others, and in due time the movement is launched and expanded. Likewise, to start a successful Y.F.C. in any district, the first requirement is a few young farmers fired with enthusiasm for the movement, and there you have the nucleus of a good club, for this enthusiasm is infectious; in no time it will spreadkeen members must propagate the good news, you just can’t hold ' them back. And remember, after the due formation of the club all officers elected to responsible jobs must be animated by a similar enthusiasm, or they will be useless and the club will suffer. Let it be clearly understood, then, that the first requisite towards the formation and running of a successful Y.F.C. is enthusiasm for the movement and in the movement. ; \

Organisation

Then comes the second point organisation and this has a very comprehensive application. It covers the whole ramifications -of the club, including the responsibilities of individual members as well as of their officials, and embraces all the organised activities of the club. Let us look into these matters in more detail: but first let me again emphasise that Unless those responsible for the running of their club : are prompted by the enthusiasm and sense of responsibility previously referred to, they will fail to inspire their fellowmembers with the true Y.F.C. spirit.

Organisation falls into two natural divisions —first the formal or internal structure of the club, and then the activities arrangements. Dealing first with the formal side, at the outset see that the date, time, and place of meeting are arranged to suit the majority concerned: this is important to secure maximum attendances. Also endeavour to secure heating in the meeting hall— Y.F.C. or any other club will never thrive in a freezing chamber.

Officers

Then comes the question of the selection of officers, of whom the chairman is naturally the most important. But all officers must know and do their respective jobs if the success of the club and the enthusiasms of its members are to be sustained. The chairman must be one who can conduct the meetings in a business-like manner, and generally

guide the activities of the club. While weakness in the chair wastes valuable time and engenders general slackness, on the other hand, domination is to be soundly discouraged. The good chairman controls with tact and impartiality, but never dominates; he is generally expected to give a lead, but not to drive. Above all, he avoids monopolising the meetings by expounding his own views at great length before other members have the opportunity to express any opinion. How many gatherings are ruined by a loquacious chairman who perhaps all unconsciously creates a “one-horse show.” The secretary must be a live wire in every sense of the term, and one who never leaves any part of his duties undone or entrusts it to someone else. His notices of meetings should be dispatched promptly; the minutes correctly, recorded and always available for confirmation at the following meeting; correspondence punctually attended to and duly reported to each meeting, and all accounts presented and paid without delay. A capable secretary is as important for the success of a club as is an efficient chairman, so always exercise care in the selection of these officers. Then for the other appointments in your club: choose those who can be relied upon to do the job—nothing is more discouraging than to hear as a “report” the familiar—but I haven’t done anything yet!” As advisory members, suitable older men can be of considerable assistance to clubs, but they must understand the full import of the word "advisory”— does not involve licence to lecture. Many clubs owe their high standing to the quiet, unassuming assistance and advice extended to them by their advisory members, but it is possible for these good friends in some instances to commit the grave error of offering too much advice.

Activities Having dealt with the formal organisation of a club, we now come to its practical activitiesthe programmes for each meeting and for any outside function in between. A syllabus of meetings should be drawn up at the commencement of the year embracing varied and useful topics introduced by suitable members, leaving an occasional “open” night for emergency subjects. Farming topics will naturally predominate, supplemented by talks on rural law and perhaps accounting contributed by experienced helpers; then occasional debates on suitable subjects, also an odd social evening should be worked in during the session. It is wise to appoint a small syllabus committee to frame a schedule for the season. Then outside field days, demonstrations, competitions, and shows are also very important activities, for “school-room” talks and lectures must be supplemented by practical demonstrations in the field if the lessons are to be of real value. Basis of Success Other points will no doubt occur to you to meet your particular. local conditions, but if prominence is given to the following practical points, the success of your club is assured:— 1. Every member enthusiastic and pulling his weight. 2. Responsible officers to ensure that all gatherings are well conducted, and that they perform their own tasks efficiently. 3. The time, date, and place of meetings are suitable, and that every member receives due notice. 4. The programme well , prepared in advance, and all members given full opportunity to take part, especially the younger ones. Subjects to be useful and varied, and within the scope of the average membernever above his head. 5. Give special encouragement to younger members; they constitute the foundation of . the future of your club. 6. Fraternise, with neighbouring clubs; we are always learning. 7. A realisation that the Y.F.C. movement is a challenge to every young man interested in farming. AND FINALLY, remember, the success of your club depends on YOU.

Lincoln Old Students' Scholarship

THROUGH the generosity of the Old Students’ Association of Canterbury Agricultural College a full scholarship for one year, value £55, is available to active members of Young Farmers’ Clubs in both islands of N,ew Zealand. The scholarship is tenable in any one of the following courses: (a) The College Diploma course. (b) The Intensive Eight Months’ course, (c) The Rural Valuation and Farm Management course. These courses will commence with the 1946 year. Each club is entitled to send in one nomination to its District Committee, through the district Y.F.C. secretary. The District Committee will make the first selection, if more than one application is received in the district, and will send a district nomination direct to the federation. A final selection committee has been appointed by ■ the federation. Circulars and an application form have been sent to all club secretaries. Details and conditions are set out in the circular, and clubs are requested to send in their nominations to their District Committee no later than October 5 next, in order that the District Committee can forward its selection to the federation by November 1. Club secretaries are particularly asked to give this matter their earnest and early attention, as any delay may possibly penalise members who would be suitable applicants and keen to take advantage of the opportunity afforded by the scholarship. Should no meeting of the club be held in the meantime, the secretary should consult his chairman and advisory president, and if necessary call a meeting of the club committee. Where no District Committee is at present functioning nominations from clubs may be sent in direct. Both club secretaries and the applicants themselves are requested to read the instructions in the circular fully, and to see that the application forms are filled in correctly, in order to save time and confusion.

Cambridge Club's Field Day

By G. C. Herbert,

Chairman, Cambridge Y.F.C.

A MOST instructive field day conducted by the Cambridge Young Farmers’ Club at Mr. Walsh’s farm, Monavale, was well attended by club members and farmer friends. The programme took the form of a combined veterinary, horse, and Southdown demonstration, with lectures by Messrs. Gerring and Shannon. The points, faults, and common ailments resulting from unsoundness and ageing of a horse up to 25 years were demonstrated fully by Mr. R. S. Bowen, B.V.Sc., who answered questions and generally discussed common treatments for ailments. Mr. Gerring, B.V.Sc., Department of Agriculture, briefly outlined pasture management in relation to increased production. He brought forth many interesting points which conflicted with views widespread among farmers. He emphasised the necessity of more conservation of pasture in the form of hay and silage, and claimed that an area approximately 40 per cent, of the farm was desirable in contrast to the Dominion average of 17 per cent.; if more hay and silage were saved it would increase production. A true test of adequate nutrition was when a cow reached her lactation peak within a month of calving, against the three months taken in some cases. Mr. Bowen operated on two ruptured pigs. He explained that although there were many instruments he could use, he proposed to make it as simple as possible to show that any farmer would be able to perform it. Mr. A. T. Shannon, fields economist, Department of Agriculture, discussed the cooperative use of farm machinery, and held up the Kaikohe Dairy Company’s venture as an example, claiming that it would become more widespread as time went on, especially when farm labour became “40-hour week conscious.” The principle involved was the purchase of mechanical equipment by some co-operative

agency, in this case the dairy company, which could arrange for “easy terms” in repayment, thereby helping the small farmers who could not always afford to purchase and maintain tractors and get an economic- return for their outlay. There was a fair amount of doubt among those present as to the scheme’s practical application, and considerable discussion followed.

The high light of the day was a caesarean operation on a cow by Mr. Bowen, who again illustrated his movements most explicitly, explaining the activities of the various organs, and helped to enlighten his audience on retention of after-birth, etc. Discussion that followed covered many of the dairy farmers’ stock troubles, such as foot rot, sucking, etc. A demonstration of throwing a cow was also given.

Mr. Walsh provided a most interesting lecture and demonstration on Southdowns, which to the non-sheep farmers present proved as fascinating as it was instructive to sheep farmers. He penned a number of Southdown ewes which clearly illustrated the various types, on which the breed was founded. In explaining their development from a mountain sheep to a meat-producing sheep he illustrated the difficulties with which the breeder had to contend and the effect uncorrected faults would have on subsequent generations. The difference in climate between England and New Zealand also raised its own peculiar problems. He said that the Romney’s part in the fat lamb trade was not to be depreciatedboth breeds played important roles in producing the quality carcass. It is hoped that in the future Mr. Walsh is given an opportunity to elaborate on this demonstration, and that interested farmers will attend, as it would be of great value to all those engaged in fat lamb production.

In according the lecturers a vote of thanks the club chairman paid tribute to the able manner in which the day was arranged and the immense worth of the assistance given at all times to the club by both Mr. Walsh and Mr. Bowen.

Auckland Field Day

MOKE than 50 members of clubs from the Auckland district, together with many local farmers and some Air Force personnel from Ardmore, attended a field day at the Franklin A and P. Showgrounds, Pukekohe, to see demonstrations on sheep, horses, cattle, and pigs, followed by an inter-club judging competition. There were teams of two members from each club for the various classes. Each class was keenly contested and the judging was of a very high standard, especially in the cattle section. The Kempthorne Prosser cup for the most points went to Clevedon, with Franklin a close second, East Tamaki third, and Pukekawa fourth. The individual results' were: Horseso. Smith (Clevedon) 1; Cathcart (Pukekawa) and Dunn (Franklin) 2. Sheep Bratlie (Franklin) 1; Burgoyne (Clevedon) and Walters (Franklin) equal 2. Cattle ßoss-Smith (Clevedon) 1; G. Beil (Clevedon) 2; K. Ferguson (East Tamaki), Gaskell, and Upton (Franklin) 3. Pigs. Groves (Clevedon) 1. The demonstrators and judges were:—Horses, Messrs. F. Storey and S. Mcßobbie (Pukekohe). Sheep, Mr. A. D. Bell (Clevedon). Cattle, Mr. W. N. Oates (Matamata). Pigs, Mr. T. A. Dewhurst, demonstrator; Messrs. H. Clark, C. Hawke, judges (all members of Pig Breeders’ Association). Stock was kindly made available by the following:—Clydesdale horses, Mr. C. Wright, Pukekohe; Southdown sheep, Messrs. A. D. Bell and Son, Clevedon; Ayrshire cattle, Messrs. Thomson (cow and bull), R. Slacks (bull), and Massell (heifers). Trophies in each section are to be awarded to the winning clubs as follows:Sheep, Franklin Y.F.C.; horses, . Clevedon Y.F.C.; cattle, Clevedon Y.F.C.; pigs, Clevedon Y.F.C.

Puketutu Island Stud Farm

EAST TAMAKI CLUB'S FIELD DAY

By L. W. Gubb, Chairman, East Tamaki Y.F.C. AVERY instructive and enjoyable field day was held recently by the East Tamaki Club, when members were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Kelliher at their Puketutu Island stud farm, situated just off the mainland at Mangere, in the Manukau Harbour. The visitors spent a most interesting day looking over the island and inspecting the excellent lines of stud stock amid ideal surroundings. There were imported stock and local cows of outstanding breeding and quality among the fine Ayrshire herd kept on the island, most of them with excellent show and butterfat records. The members .were particularly impressed with the sound body type and the general hardiness of the animals. It is very apparent that the Ayrshire breed is destined to become more popular in the future because of its longer milking life, due to both its resistance ,to disease and its general hardiness. The visitors were next shown a line of pedigree Black Polls, which again consisted of outstanding animals, and indicated what sound buying and good breeding could do to improve carcass' quality. Luncheon provided by Mr. and Mrs. Kelliher was served in the grounds of their lovely home. The visitors were afterwards invited by Mrs. Kelliher to inspect the gardens and greenhouses, where' there was a fine display of orchids, of which Mrs. Kelliher was particularly proud. During the walk through the gardens Mr. Kelliher spoke on the preparation and uses of compost manure, of which he is a keen advocate. > . ■ An excellent stand of lucerne was then inspected although this did not look its best at the time of year, it appears to "do extremely well on this farm, which has a soil of a light and stony nature. Mr. Kelliher is a firm believer in lucerne, both as a green crop for the summer and as hay for winter use, and has had up to five cuts off this stand during the growing season. Members were then shown the two breeds of sheep kept on the property, Southdowns and Romneys. Demonstrations were given by Mr. Hannah, who has spent many years at Lincoln College, and who has recently taken over the management of Mr. Kelliher’s stud flocks. The sheep were of especially fine types, and combined the best blood obtainable from both English and New Zealand studs. As opportunity offered during the day Mr. Kelliher showed the visitors some of the old Maori workings on the island, and also demonstrated the construction of stone fences.

Mr. Kelliher expressed a keen interest in Y.F.C. activities, and invited the club to pay a further visit in the summer to obtain a better idea of the lucerne stand and other activities. Mr. Kelliher is to be congratulated on the excellent studs of cattle and sheep that he has established on the island, and on the fine combination of practical and scientific farming that is in evidence. The thanks of the club are due to him for a most interesting and instructive field day, and to Messrs. Watson and Hannah, who demonstrated on the cattle and sheep. Thanks are also extended to Mrs. Kelliher for her kindness and hospitality.

Lecture Brevities'

PAMPAS GRASS AND SHELTER TREES:

MR. A. C. BIRCH.

THE whole question of farm shelter was covered by Mr. Birch in an address to the ’ Marton Y.F.C. He thought that a great mistake was being made in not planting all the hundreds of acres of sand dune country on the coastal strip. That land was quite useless for farming, and the sand was gradually encroaching, inland. With- nothing to break the force of the sea winds, the farms bordering the dune land suffered much damage. Mr. Birch gave this as an , example of the value of “distant shelter,” the purpose of which is to cause the winds to be raised anything up to 80ft. above ground level. He suggested that if farmers planted their own distant shelter belts, where circumstances demanded, it would be to the benefit of all farmers. Much grassland was greatly exposed to heavy winds, and in the spring especially growth is checked considerably. A good distant shelter belt is . effective for a distance of 1 to I mile, depending on the nature of the country. Mr. Birch suggested that any rough corner on the windy side of a farm should be planted with shelter trees, as it only looked untidy and was not much use for anything else. “Near shelter” is primarily to keep the ground wind off, and must be thick and close to the ground, whereas “dis-

tant shelter” must consist of tall trees. Near shelter •is much more easily provided for, and there are many different ways of securing it.

The question of what are the best varieties to grow for the two different purposes is not an easy one to answer, for there are many considerations which must be taken into account. The chief thing to be borne in mind is that our supplies of available timber are fast dwindling, and it is obvious that we must grow trees which are going to be of use in the years to come. For distant shelter, Pinus insignis is quite effective, but at the best provides only a second-grade milling timber; macrocarpa is a much better proposition, for good mature heart makes very good posts, which will last a long time, but sappy timber from this tree will not last any time. The tree makes very good distant shelter, as it grows high and also fairly thickly. The Tasmanian gum, which was brought into New Zealand because of the similarity of climate, especially rainfall, has not proved as satisfactory as was expected, and the McArthurii has been found more suitable. In the speaker’s opinion, however, one could not go wrong with macrocarpa. For “near shelter” he had various recommendations to make, though he thought that the Lawson cypress was the best. It required plenty of protection in the sapling stage, and here again the macrocarpa was as good as any. Mr. Birch stressed the necessity of cutting these out before they were allowed to get too big. When they had reached the stage when they could be felled with two good blows with the axe, one on each side, it was time they came out. Good use could then be made of them as stakes. It is necessary to fence in all “near shelter,” otherwise its main effect will be lost.

Mr. Birch thought that much greater use would be made of pampas grass. Selection was being made of the more leafy strains, and he was of the opinion that it would prove a valuable addition to our fodder crops. Besides its use as fodder, it provided excellent “near shelter,” and so served a dual purpose. As it grows well up off the ground, it does not become contaminated with parasites as does a pasture, and a stand of pampas is an excellent thing to wean calves on to. Care must be taken to ensure that the succulent fodder is available at the right time; with proper management two grazings annually can be taken off pampas, and each grazing provides a great volume of feed.

Planting in rows, which allowed of cultivation with the tractor, was by far the best method. He had no doubts that with experiment and selection pampas grass would prove a very useful addition to our pastures, and its value as shelter had also to be taken into account.

—Malcolm F. Gray,

Hon. Secretary,

Marton Young Farmers’ Club.

Reports on Club Activities

WESTERN SOUTHLAND

Seaward Downs.— Newly-formed club. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. J. McKenzie; chairman, J. D. Wylie; secretary and treasurer, H. Howden. Eighteen members enrolled at the initial meeting. At a subsequent meeting an interesting talk was given by Mr. W. L. Harbord, Department of Agriculture, on “Turnip Seed.” The membership had increased to 29, of whom 28 were present at the meeting.

Dipton.— Team selected for the inter-club basketball competition. Discussion regarding the coming Y.F.C. agricultural education course conducted by Lincoln College lecturers. Nine members present out of 12.

Tokanui The educational - course to be held at Invercargill was discussed. Arrangements for future lectures. Ways and means of raising club funds discussed. As no speaker was available, the members held a general discussion on topical subjects. Attendance of eight members out of 21.

South Hillend.— newly-formed club. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. H. D. O’Neill; chairman, John Cunningham; secretary and treasurer, T. Hogg. Eighteen members were enrolled at the initial meeting.

Southland Technical College Club entries in the basketball tournament dealt with* Report on meeting of Western Southland District Committee. Lecture by Mr. McDonald on “Plough Setting.” Attendance of 80 out of a total membership of 85. At the previous meeting a film entitled “Save Our Soil” was exhibited, 81 members being present.

Woodlands.— Discussion on proposed basketball and football to be held in near future on an inter-club basis; decided that football was out of the question unless played as a seven-a-side. Details of the three-day agricultural course to be held in Invercargill were read out, and all members seemed keen to attend. At the conclusion of the business the meeting combined with the Farmers’ Union for a demonstration by Mr. J. Gibson Smith, a well-known sheep farmer of Dacre, on “The Points of a Sheep and how to Improve the Wool.” Mr. Smith brought with him two sheep on which to demonstrate. There was an attendance of 10 out of 16 members.

SOUTH OTAGO

Clinton Arrangements for a club concert. Visit to be made to the Warepa Club for a debate. Address by Mr. Wightman on goldmining in New Guinea. Fifteen members present.

Warepa Arrangements for club ball, and for a debate with the Clinton Club. Working bee to be held in the near future to tidy up the cemetery, look after trees, etc. Interesting talk by Mr. McD. Millar, Lower Clutha Trust engineer, Balclutha, on his experiences in the recent disastrous flood in the Stirling, Kaitangata, Puretai, and Inch Clutha districts. Seventeen present out of 32.

DUNEDIN

Mosgiel D.H.S. H. Browne appointed treasurer, in place of M. Pickering, retired. Members badges to be obtained. Suggestions put forward for use of club’s surplus funds to promote activities, and it was agreed to devote money towards a reference library, to put small sums aside for the purchase of apparatus, and to assist with travelling expenses. Report by the chairman on the recent meeting .of the Otago-Southland Council. He dealt with club reports, and expressed the hope that in the future a decided improvement would be shown in the meetings of the club, suggesting that more meetings should be held and that debates and talks by club members would be more prevalent. It was decided to hold a debate at the next meeting, the subject to be connected with the pooling of the use of heavy farm machinery, this matter having been very fully discussed at the council meeting. Forty-four members present out Of 49.

West Taieri.— Debate between a club team and the Taieri Aerodrome Y.F.C., the subject being “That the Co-operative Ownership of the Heavier Types of Farm Machinery by Two, Three, or Four Farmers (who could work together) Would Result in the Better Economic Development of a Great Deal of Agricultural Land in New Zealand.” Speakers were: Affirmative, LAC Clayton, LAC Scott, and LAC Mills (Aerodrome Y.F.C.); negative, K. W. Reid, A. L. Robertson, and R. W. Young (West Taieri). Mr. A. C. Cameron acted as judge, giving the award to the Air Force team with 196 points to West Taieri’s 176. In his report of the activity, the club secretary suggests that if any club is planning to hold a debate, this particular subject should be considered, as it is one tnat is vitally important at the present time, especially in view of the fact that the Y.F.C. Federation is endeavouring to do all that it can to assist the rehabilitation of ex-servicemen.

NORTH OTAGO

Enfield.— Replies received to letters of sympathy sent to two club members. Discussion on fancy dress ball to be held to raise funds for the club’s Roll of Honour board. Talk by Mr. T. A. Sellwood, Department of Agriculture, on “Pastures.” Seventeen members present out of 25.

Five Forks. lnvitation to the Enfield Y.F.C. ball to be acknowledged. Three new members enrolled. Discussion regarding Roll of Honour board. Committee appointed- to make arrangements for a field day; a dance to be held in the evening. Talk by Mr. J. Kingan, president of hlorth Otago Farmers’ Union, on “Farming in Britain.” Eleven present out of 20.

SOUTH CANTERBURY

Cannington Arrangements for annual ball. The chairman drew the members’ attention to the clothes drive for UNRRA. Debate to be held at next meeting to select a team for the district debating contest. Mr. D. W. M. Burnett gave a very interesting account of his recent trip to ■ Australia. In proposing a vote of thanks H. Squire mentioned that Mr. Burnett was showing a very enterprising spirit in setting up a valuable Merino stud. There was an attendance of 18 out of 21. Geraldine.— Discussion regarding tree-planting; decided to approach the Geraldine County Council for a suitable reserve for the purpose. Talk by Mr. F. J. E. Smallbone on “The Broken Hill Proprietary.” Fifteen members present out of 36. At the previous meeting Mr. W. S. Crotty gave a talk .on “Red Clover and the Bumble Bee.” Eighteen members attended. At other meetings a talk was given by the club chairman, P. Temple, on the Y.F.C. movement, and movie films dealing with “Erosion” were exhibited by Mr. E. N. J. Hannah, agricultural instructor, District High School.

Geraldine D.H.S. A club has been formed at the Geraldine District High School. Names of officers elected will be published at a later date.

Pleasant Point Three debates were held for the purpose of selecting a team for the district debating contest. The subjects and winning teams were as follows: “That Farming Today is More Difficult than it was 50 Years —won by affirmative team, E.. L. Esler, J. W. Crombie, J. B. Stewart; “That the Tractor is Superior to the Horse” by affirmative team, D. Squires, I. Davey, K. Davey; “That Modern Cultivation is More Beneficial to the Soil”—won by negative team, W. Skinner, F. Honeywell. J. Olliver. The Rev. Oakley kindly acted as judge. The members of the team finally selected were R. S. France, J. W. Crombie, and W. Skinner. There were 30 members present out of 44. . Waihaorunga.— by Mr. L. W. McCaskill, of Lincoln College, on “Rural Education.” Twenty members present out of. 35. The club held two debates recently: "That Hotels should Reopen in the Evenings”—won by negative (B. Armstrong* J. Bell, M. Gar-

diner), 343 points; affirmative (I. Hurst, •R. Rickman, A. McKenzie), 278 points; “That the Majority of Farmers could Profitably Employ More Permanent Labour”won by affirmative (C. W. Whatman, S. Harris, W. Burnie), 281 points; negative (G. Armstrong, A. Armstrong, I. Armstrong), 250 points. Mr. A. Hurst kindly acted as judge. Supper and a dance brought , the evening to a close. The club held a meeting at Waihao Downs with the idea of interesting young men in the district in the Y.F.C. movement, and if possible, of forming a club. Mr. D. Wraight exhibited a film on “Vegetable-growing in the U.S.A.”; he also . addressed the meeting on the “Financial Side of Agricultural Machinery,” and “The Rotation of Crops.” There was an attendance of 70.

MID-CANTERBURY

Ashburton D.H.S— Prepared speeches by members as follows: “Coal” (D. Prebble); “Borer” (D. H. Gill); “Timbers” (C. Gallagher) ; “Sheep Dogs” (P. Martin); “Dairy Farming” (J. Cleland). Attendance of 13 out of 17.

Business meeting. Decided to hold the impromptu speech contest at the next meeting, Mr. D. M. Bruce to be asked to act as judge. Eleven members present out of 19.

CHRISTCHURCH

Christ’s College Lecture on “Meteorology and the Weather, and how it Affects Farming,” by Mr. Baird, Director of the Christchurch Magnetic Observatory. There was a full attendance of 83 members.

Darfield.— Four new members enrolled. Final arrangements for football match with Eilersmere Y.F.C. Lecture by Mr. J. W. Calder, of Lincoln College, on “Pastures and Small Seeds.” Thirty-two members present out of 35.

Ellesmere— Suggestions regarding a special Y.F.C. class at the coming Christchurch Show for small seeds. Short talks by members on “Handy Hints and Ideas”; speakers, B. K. Wagner, L. Tod, A. J. Reid, E. Overton, 0. J. Osborne, A. D. Lambie, F. Cridge, P. Abbott, T. E. M. Brookes, G. Boon, B. Christey, H. G. Stephens, D. Hurford, G. W. R. Osborne, and S. S. Ford. There was an attendance of 21 members out of 56. At the

previous meeting one new member was enrolled; B. K. Wagner and T. E, M. Brookes elected captain and vice-captain respectively for the . football match with Barfield Y.F.C. Address by Mr. L. W. McCaskill, Lincoln College, on “Problems of Rural Education.” Some lantern slides were exhibited, showing recent floods in the Ellesmere district. There were 33 members present and a number of visitors. St. Andrew’s College.— Presentation to Mr. E. Taylor, the head gardener, who is leaving. Arrangements for a football match with Barfield Y.F.C.; dance to be held. Talk by Mr. Taylor on “Trees and Gardening in Different Countries.” Forty-one present out of 58.

NORTH CANTERBURY

Amur! This club resumed activities recently with an initial membership of 30, which has since been increased to 37 members. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. R. Bethell; chairman, W. P. Belton; secretary, G. H. Anderson; treasurer, N. Mclntosh. At a subsequent meeting arrangements were made for a field day and for a dance; an address on “Crops” was given by Mr. E. G. Smith, Department of Agriculture, 29 members being present.

Cheviot. Arrangement for club ball. Short talks by members to be given at next meeting. Address by Mr. W. S. Robinson, Lincoln College, on “Diseases of Sheep.” Twenty members present out of 28.

Hawarden-Waikari.— Final arrangements for club ploughing match. Stock-judging field day to be held. Report by the advisory president, Mr. J. W. Earl, on the annual general meeting of the federation at Hamilton. The speaker also gave a short talk on his visit to the Animal Research Station at Ruakura. Attendance of 27 out of 30.

Oxford. General business; dance accounts reviewed and passed. Address by Mr. Garret, Lincoln College, on “Farm Finance.” In subsequent general discussion the general opinion appeared to be that- present-day costs were rather high, and that it was difficult for a young man to start farming today without considerable financial’ backing. There was an attendance of 13 out of 30. At a previous meeting Dr. Robertson, of Lincoln College, gave a lecture on “Diseases of Livestock.”

Scargill-Omihi— to donate £2 2s. to the Canterbury Progress League. Arrangements for annual ball. Three new members enrolled. Address by Prof. E. R. Hudson, of Lincoln College, on “Agriculture and National Life.” Attendance of 27 members out of 28; 13 visitors also present. At the previous meeting there was a discussion on the Centennial Memorial tree plot laid down in 1940. Lantern lecture by Mr. L. W. McCaskill, Lincoln College, on “Soil Conservation.” Twentyseven members present. ,

BLENHEIM

Flaxbourne.— of delegates to attend district meeting. The date for the R.S.A. debate was fixed, and a practice debate held between two junior teams. Ten members present out of 28. At the previous meeting a motion of sympathy was passed for the family of the late Mr. W. H. Butt, who was a keen supporter of the Y.F.C. movement. Challenge to a debate with the Seddon Club accepted. Address by Mr. G. D. Shand, Inspector of Stock, on “Hogget Mortality and its Prevention.” Fifteen members attended.

NELSON

Moutere— This club has recently .resumed activities, eight old members and a new one being present at the initial meeting, which was attended by the district Y.F.C. secretary, Mr. D. E. Merry, Department of Agriculture. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. R. Teece; chairman, B. Benseman; secretary and treasurer, C. J. Teece.

Murchison. business. Arrangements for visits to farms in the district, in conjunction with the Farmers’ Union. Fourteen members present out of 36.

Nelson R.A.F.— Recent activities include visits to the following: Cobb hydro-electric power plant; Orchardists* chemical works at

Mapua; Onekaka iron works and Golden Bay cement works; Mr. A. Newman’s property at Brightwater; National Tobacco leaf store, Motueka; Government Tobacco - Research Station, Motueka; Buxton’s hop store, Nelson. In addition to field days, which are usually held once a fortnight, meetings are held every Wednesday evening, addresses being given by local speakers. The membership of this club is at present round about 30. The present secretary of the club is K. W. Cooper, who will be remembered as an old stalwart of the Gisborne Club, and a prominent member of the Wellington Y.F.C. Council.

HOROWHENUA

Levin— Arrangements for field day and for speaker at next meeting. Interesting talk by Mr. H. Bishop on “Calving Problems.” There were 12 members present out of 31. The field day was held, on Mr. Goulter’s stud farm, “Takapau,” at Manakau; demonstrations were given .on Southdowns and Romneys (Mr, A. D. Walker, Longburn), dairy cattle (Mr. R. W. Evands, Levin), parasites and footrot in sheep (Mr. Goulter), wool classing (Mr. Frame, Wellington), and Tamworth pigs (Mr. Goulter and a member of the farm staff). There was an attendance of 20 club members, two visiting members, and four older farmers. Judging competitions were held during the day, resulting as follows: Sheep, J. Campbell, 1, S. Lancaster,. 2, M. Staples and S. Gimblett, equal 3; dairy cattle, H. Gibbons, 1, B. Webb, 2.

MANAWATU

Halcombe -Recently revived. Names of officers elected available in next issue.

Kimbolton. Recently resumed activities. Full details for publication next month.

Orona Downs— General business. Decided to revive the Miniature Rifle Club under the direction of the Y.F.C. dance to be held. The evening was devoted to a question box, which proved very interesting and successful. Ten members present out of 29.

Arrangements for speaker at next" meeting. Field day held at Massey College ; the party was conducted round the buildings and farm by Mr. L. A. G. Barrett. Nineteen members attended out of 32.

Rangiotu. Recently revived. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. F. Bond; chairman, I. Te Rangi; secretary, A. J. Legg; treasurer, D. Robinson. Sixteen members were enrolled at the initial meeting.

Rangiwahia.— This- club has recently resumed activities. Names of officers for publication next month.

Rongotea— Three new members enrolled. Address by Mr. N. Inkpen on “Banking, Lending and the Cheque System.” Twenty-six members present out of 35. At the previous meeting a challenge from Kairanga Y.F.C. to a football match was accepted. Mr. E. P. Neilsen, advisory officer, Dairy Board, gave a talk on “Sire Survey Work” and its importance in the direction of increasing the output of our dairy herds. Seventeen members attended. Te Arakura. is a new club recently formed near Palmerston North. Details of officers elected will be available next month.

WANGANUI

Bulls— Further preparations for field. day to be held at Mr. Eglinton’s farm. First round in the Wanganui district debating contest (southern zone), Bulls v. Marton. Subject, “That it is Sounder Economy to Increase the Carrying Capacity of Existing Grassland than to Bring New and Derelict Land into Production.” Marton team (negative), Morrison, Vile, and Miller; Bulls (affirmative), Thorby, Avery, and Clark. Mr. R. Trott, of Marton, acted as judge and gave the decision to the Bulls team. Present at the meeting were Messrs. S. Freeman (Dominion Organising Secretary) and A. V. Lithgow (hon. secretary, Wellington Council), who both spoke on the Y.F.C. movement, and later exhibited some interesting sound films. Twenty members present. with six visiting members from Marton Y.F.C.

Preliminary arrangements for a visit to Massey College. Invitation from Feilding Club to assist them at their proposed

Spring Show. Discussion on Hunterville’s field day and dance. Final arrangements for club dog trial. Report on annual dance; profit of approximately £7 10s. District debating contest discussed; withdrawal of junior team accepted with regret. Donation received from club patron. Two new members enrolled. Discussion on club library; selection of books left to committee. Address by Mr. A. C. Birch, Marton, on “The Use of Pampas Grass and Shelter Trees.” There was an attendance of 22 members out of a total of 31.

CENTRAL TARANAKI

Pukengahu ßusiness meeting. Final arrangements for a combined visit with the Alton Club to Massey College. Preparations for a club dance, proceeds to go to fund for club servicemen. Letter of sympathy to the family of the late Mr. F. Rae. Letter of congratulation to Ft./Lt. R. L. Bremer on his promotion and decoration; Ft./Lt. Bremer was a keen member of the club prior to going overseas, and has held executive positions. General discussion on club affairs, followed by supper.

NORTH TARANAKI

Karawaka.- — club has decided to resume activities. Full details will be published next month.

Mangamahoe club has resumed activities. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. A. H. Jordan; chairman, B. Monk; secretary and treasurer, L. Mace. Ten members present at the initial meeting.

WAIRARAPA

Carterton H. McKenzie reported on the annual general meeting of the federation; five members of the club journeyed to Hamilton for the meeting. Two guineas donated to the Wairarapa and East Coast P. and A. Society. Mr. J. F. Pointon gave a very interesting talk on his experiences in the Normandy landings. Attendance of 14 members out of 25.

Masterton Suggestions for a club Y.F.C. banner. Arrangements for annual dance. After a series of short impromptu talks by members, teams were selected to debate against Carterton Y.F.C. Junior team: Evans, Heckler, Morrison, McCracken; senior team, A. James, E. Cameron, E. Bannister, •R. Wilton. Twenty-seven members present out of 61.

SOUTHERN HAWKE’S BAY

Ballance Arrangements for a dance. Lantern lecture by Mr. F. J. S. Holden, Department of Agriculture, on “Mole Draining.” Sixteen members present out of 22.

Mangatainoka ßeport by chairman on field day held at Woodville, and of debate against Ballance in which Mangatainoka was successful; also report on special meeting of district committee held at Woodville. The debating team for the final of the district contest against Dannevirke Y.F.C. was selected. Lantern lecture by Mr. F. J. S. Holden, Department of Agriculture, on “Liquid Manure.” Twelve- members present out of 15.

NORTHERN HAWKE’S BAY

Wairoa Mr. J. L. Sunderland, chairman of the Wellington Y.F.C. Council, addressed members on the need for the revival of clubs in recess and the formation of new ones, and mentioned the Roll of Honour plaques and the council’s weekly radio session from 2ZA. Talk by Mr. J. M. Mowatt, registered surveyor, on “Draining.” Talk by Mr. •J. N. Spooner, inspector of stock, on “Liver Fluke.” Eight new members enrolled. There was an attendance of 26. The club membership now stands at 57, with nine members still overseas.

POVERTY BAY

Gisborne D.H.S— New chairman, F. Jones, elected. Arrangements for visit to a dairy farm. Short talks by members as follows: “Farm Dog” (D. Allen); “Farm Accidents” (G. Cameron); "Bad Feet in Dairy Cows” (B. Doleman). Interesting talk on "Fencing” by Mr. Sewell, a local farmer. Attendance' of 58 out of total membership of 60. '■

KING COUNTRY

Taumarunui. This club has recently resumed activities. Full details of officers elected will be available next month. ■ ’

TE KUITI

Otofiohanga— Address by Mr. H. E. Walters on the Farmers’ Federation. Thirteen members present out of 27. At the previous meeting a member was selected to give a radio talk from IYA, Auckland. Mr. G. 11. Baucke, the local blacksmith, gave a most interesting and instructive talk on the bad habits of the horse and how to. correct them and on the care of farm implements. There was an attendance of 12 members.

Te Anga Central.— Address by Mr. Haycock on “Common Law.” At the previous meeting Mr. Montgomery spoke on “Insect Pests,’” basing his talk on recent work ' carried out by the Scientific and Industrial Research Department. Attendance of 12 and 13 members respectively out of a total of 18.

WAIKATO

Cambridge Discussion on the Y.F.C. Memorial Scheme; arrangements to be made for collecting funds. Copy of “Principles of Animal Production” to be obtained for club library. Report by G. Goodwin, club delegate to the local calf club committee. Interesting demonstration by Mr. G. A. Walsh on “Knots and Splicing.” Eighteen members present out of 34.

Okoroire.— Talk by Mr. Crabb, Livestock Division, Department of Agriculture. Attendance of 25 members out of 41.

Tahuna— Club pennant to be purchased, to assist with publicity. Club debate to be held, the subject being “The Pickup v. Stationary Baier”; teams were selected, and Mr. D. E. Waide, advisory president, agreed to act as judge. Two new members enrolled. At the previous meeting four new members were enrolled. Presentation to Mr. Elliot, of Hoe-O-Tainui, for his and his son’s services to the club. Arrangements for a further field day. Report by Mr. D. E. Waide on the annual general meeting of the federation held at Hamilton; members were particularly interested in the land settlement scheme. Fourteen present out of 26. A very successful field day was held on the farms of Messrs. Elliot and Laing. In the morning Mr. Hart, ■ of Morrinsville, demonstrated on Mr. Elliot’s Friesian herd, and in the afternoon Mr. Southee, of Kiwitahi, demonstrated on Mr. Laing’s Jersey herd. There was an attendance of 12.

Te Awamutu.— by 11. Donaldson on the new rules. for the calf competition. Report by R. Mandeno on memorial scheme. Two debates: Junior,. “That Dairy Farming Offers Greater Opportunities than Sheep Farming in the Waikato to Returned Servicemen.” Speakers, N. Verity, R. Johnson, W. Long (affirmative); N. Pethybridge, H. Donaldson, S. Cummins (negative). Won by negative. Senior, “That Community Amenities Should be Established in Rural Areas , in Preference to Towns.” Speakers, A. Smart, T. Ray, E. Fitzpatrick (affirmative); J. Finn, D. Ellis, R. Hodgson : (negative). Debate drawn. , There was an excellent attendance, 44 members being present out of 45. At the previous meeting the chairman, C. Eyre, gave a report on the annual general meeting of the federation. A new calf competition committee was appointed: C. Eyre (ex officio), H. Donaldson, D. Hodgson, D. Ellis, with Mr. J. S. Pattison acting in an advisory capacity. An address on “Farm Economics” was given by Mr. G. Waring. Attendance of 38 members.

WESTERN BAY OF PLENTY

Kati Kati.—A. W. Earl appointed secretary to fill position vacated on the resignation of W. Hume. A discussion took place concerning the poor attendance at meetings; decided to make every effort to arouse greater interest. Mr. H. B. Capamaigan to be asked to address the next meeting, giving . some of his experiences overseas.™ At the previous meeting it was decided to default in the second round of the-. debating contest owing to shortage of time for preparation of the subject. There was

an attendance of seven out of 25 at both meetings.

Paengaroa.— Four new members enrolled. Arrangements for annual dance in aid of hall society. Decided that birthday dance be run in aid of Y.F.C. Memorial Scheme. Mr. Hodgson, bacteriologist from the ' Rangitikei Dairy Co., assisted by Mr. Whitham, addressed the members and exhibited interesting films dealing with mastitis; he also demonstrated the detection of mastitis in milk which appeared pure. There was an attendance of 30 members out of a total of 69 (eight still overseas) with 27 local farmers present by invitation.

Tauranga.— Report on recent successful club ball held in aid of the Y.F.C. memorial funds. E. Kirk appointed to represent the club on the Tauranga Boys’ and Girls’ Agricultural Clubs Committee. Arrangements for a gift evening and ; social in honour of L. Ferguson, a past chairman of the club, who was recently married. Fourteen present out of 32.

Welcome Bay One new member enrolled. Arrangements for a dance. The chairman, J. R. Wright, outlined a scheme whereby funds could be raised by the rearing of heifer calves. Lecture by Mr. A. V. Allo, Department of Agriculture, on “Feed Flavours in Cream.” The speaker dealt principally with the flavours caused by cresses and clovers, and explained methods of pasture control by harrowing and proper grazing to prevent the ingress of weeds. Mr. Allo illustrated his lecture by lantern slides, and answered a number of questions at the conclusion. There was, an attendance of 20 out of 28.

EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY

Opotiki.— This club has recently resumed activities. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. B. Black; chairman, H. D. Bennett; secretary, J. R. Fisher. There was an attendance of 23 at the initial meeting. At a subsequent meeting delegates were appointed to act on each of the two local calf clubs. Mr. E. R. Marryatt, Department of Agriculture, gave a very interesting lantern lecture on “Pasture Management during Winter Months,” and Mr. Pat. Nichol, vice-chairman of the Auckland Y.F.C. Council, gave a comprehensive address on the “Aims and Objects of the Y.F.C.” Mr. Gordon Spratt, of Te Puke, was also present, and outlined the proposed Y.F.C. Memorial scheme, putting forward all the ideas that had been suggested in regard to the form that the memorial should take. The full membership was present.

Opotiki D.H.S.— club has been recently formed at the District High School, Opotiki. Officers elected: Advisory president, Mr. C. Gordon; chairman, L. Black; secretary, A. Peterson; treasurer, D. Scott. The initial membership of the club was 36.

Waimana ßusiness meeting. Discussion regarding the rules for a cup presented for competition in the local schools. Attendance of 12 out of 21.

AUCKLAND

Clevedon a social evening, to which young women were invited, carpet bowls, table-tennis, and cards were played. Ten members were present out of 23, as well as a number of visitors. '

East Tamaki ßeport from social committee on the annual dance; profit of £l4 Bs. lid. Three new members enrolled. The chairman reported on the annual general meeting of the federation held at Hamilton. Mr. E. D. Wilkinson addressed the members on “Farm Accountancy”; he stressed the necessity for strict accounting and a correct balance sheet, and also quoted figures from the 1944 Year Book showing the effect of the slump (1933) on the farming industry. There was an attendance of 28 members out of a total of 38. A visit was paid by members to Mr. D. A. Jones’s farm; the visitors inspected wellgrown Lawsoniana and cedar hedges, as well as small eucalyptus plantations. The owner stressed the value of shelter on a dairy farm. Mr. Jones also showed members his bee-hives and demonstrated the working of his powerdriven honey extractor. A visit was also paid to the Reid Rubber factory, where the

modern methods of tyre and other farm rubber manufacture were demonstrated, as

well as the different stages of the processing of reclaimed rubber. On a visit to the Hume Pipe Co.’s factory the method of welding the re-inforcing wire for concrete pipes, and the manufacture of terazzo benches, etc., created great interest. Sixteen members attended this field day, together with 12 boys from the Howick District High School.

Franklin.— Welcome to chairman and secretary of East Tamaki Y.F.C. (L. W. Gubb and G. W. Guy), and to guests from the Ardmore Air Force Station. Mr. J. Valder, manager of East Tamaki Co-op. Dairy Co., spoke on “The Growth of the Dairy Industry,” and mentioned the regulations governing the industry and the various tests in . practice to determine quality, grade, and the presence of added water. At the conclusion of his address he answered a number of questions. There was an attendance of 21 members out of a total of 33. This club has recently undertaken to send a member on one night each week to the Ardmore Aerodrome to lead discussions on topics of farming interest with personnel taking farm courses under the A.E.W.S. The members have already been struck by the enthusiasm of those who attend, and have expressed their willingness to continue to assist. The club held a barn dance recently in the Rama Rama Hall. The function was a great success, the gross takings exceeding £54 and the profit to the club was in the vicinity of £37. Visits were paid to the Reid Rubber Mills and the Australian Glass Manufacturers works at Penrose. At a recent meeting it was unanimously decided that club members become “blood donors.”

Harrisville Arrangements for a dance. Address by Dr. N. Seigel on “Veterinary Work.” Fourteen members present out of 17.

Pukekawa.— One new member enrolled. Decided to hold two meetings a month so that more debating can be undertaken. Debate arranged for next meeting. As it was the club’s birthday, a social evening was held, which proved a great success. There were 20 members present out of 22;. also 20 visitors, including 12 British sailors who were on leave in the district. At the previous meeting a farm-planning competition was inaugurated, each member to put his ideas into a plan of an up-to-date practical farm lay-out, to be judged later. A debate was held, “That Town Life is Better than Country Life.” Speakers, H. Geraghty, J. Duno, F. Lozell (affirmative); H. Cathcart, B. Orr, M. Cathcart (negative). Mr. Mclntyre acted as judge, and gave his decision in favour of the affirmative team. There was an attendance of 17 members.

Pukekohe East.— Arrangements for a field day. Dance to be held. An address was given by Senior-Sgt. Kelly, of Pukekohe, on “The Formation and Growth of the Police Force.” The speaker related some of his own experiences in his younger days in the Police Force. There was an attendance of 23 members out of ■ a total of 30. At the previous meeting an interesting lecture was given by Mr. H. E. Clark, supervisor, Auckland District Pig Council, on “Pampas Grass and Pig Housing.” There were 18 members . present.

HOW TO BECOME A SHEARER.

Although it is only by practical experience that one can ever become a shearer, the main essentials to be mastered are clearly given in Bulletin No. 246, “Shearing.” In addition to a detailed description, . the bulletin contains 27 large illustrations showing the correct cuts and method of holding the sheep from start to finish. The bulletin is available from the Department of Agriculture offices at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin. Price 6d.