Dairy Factory Prospects.

Kaikoura Star, Volume XIV, Issue 680, 6 February 1894, Page 4

Dairy Factory Prospects.

Having had the pros and cons of the Dairy Industry put lucidly and thoroughly before them by Mr Sawers, the Kaikoura farmers now understand the position better. Indeed it may truly be said that one and all are now agreed that the ‘ Dairy Factory Gospel according to the Kaikouha Star ’ is, after all, one to be relied upon. The whole question is being discussed locally in all its bearings. While there is now a general agreement that it is the right and proper thing to establish a Dairy Factory here, the advantages of such an institution being, it is admitted by all, undeniable, opinions differ as to tbe present financial resources of the district, and the state of preparedness or want of preparedness. On one side it is agreed that there are now enough cows, or that there will be so by next November, to make a start this year, but the necessary capital cannot be raised locally to erect the Factory. On the other hand it is contended that the money will be forthcoming, right enough, but that settlers have not yet a sufficient number of cows, and, that having sold so many head during the past twelve months, or so, that they have not heifers coming in in time for this year; that, however, they will be ready for next. Be that as it tnay, the general remark now is, ‘ I won’t sell another heifer; I shall keep them all, so as to be ready when the Factory does start.’

As the Canvassing Committee is to meet iu the Suburban School next Monday evening the ‘State of Denmark ’ should then be disclosed, and some idea be forthcoming as to the prospects of opening a Factory ia our midst next November. With nine months in which to prepare surely settlers who have any enterprise and energy left in them can be ready for a November opening, even should it be late in the month. Some argue that it would not pay to buy stock. They should qualify their contention by saying, ‘ unless at a price.’ Would it not be better to purchase half a dozen cows if procurable at a reasonable figure, rather than to allow another season to pass without making an effort to establish the Factory ? What are farmers getting off their land now ? And are they likely to do any better next season by continuing ou past lines ? While we strongly hold to our never ceasing contention that a Dairy Factory worked on Cooperative lines is the true basis of success, better would it be were farmers to make arrangements with Mr Hanna to establish the Factory this year, and to obtain from him the necessary funds to purchase a few cows—if needs be—rather than to cut to waste another year’s valuable time. We hope that every farmer will not consider his own interests in their true light, but, also, the words of Mr Sawers :

The Factory would help settlers greatly, and would relieve farmer's wives of much drudgery. In the face of such valuable expert opinion, based on practical experience, there should not be a moment’s hesitation. Farmers should be up and doing, resolved that no effort shall be wanting on their part to attain a state of full preparedness.