HELENSVILLE A. AND P. ASSOCIATION.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 4 February 1914, Page 3

HELENSVILLE A. AND P. ASSOCIATION.

FIFTEENTH ANNUAL SHOW

Glorious weather prevailed for the great day of days, Wednesday, 29th ult., when Ilelensville turned out strong in holiday attire, to witness something out of the ordinary. Crowds came down from Kaiwaka by train, as well as a large number from Auckland. Fully 2,500 were present, equal to the previous year's attendance. Brakes and 'busses were taxed to the utmost, conveying visitors out to the Springs, where they could enjoy the delights of a bath and drink the mineral wateis. This resort is far too little known to the general public. The entries in the stock section were, quite up to that of last year, and the entries in the horse division were also remarkably good.

The natural grandstand (sloping ground) situated near the entrance gates, accommodated a large number of spectators, sheltered as they were tinder the pine trees and away from the glare of the sun's rays. The side shows were a great attraction, and great was the pathetic appeal by a crowd of show men standing up in a vehicle. *' Why you have never seen a circus, till you . came and see this one ! Look at my face. Once.you see me you will never forgec aie," and so on. TLen^there was the Fortune Teller; but business in her line was pretty slack.

Messrs Holland and GilU>tt, the manufacturers of the famous Zealandia Engine, had on exhibition a stationery Gardener beizirie engine, which rail noisiessly and smoothly. This exhibit drew a big crowd of interested spectators during the day.

Messrs J. F. Lambert o£ Helensviile, also Cousins and Atkin of Auckland, had a good display of vehicles of all descriptions, from the farm waggon to the light sulky.

The Helensville Tow.nßand, rendered excellent music at intervals during the day under the conductorship of Bandmaster Hunter', late of the Auckland Garrison Band.

In the big marquee ' the benches "were loaded with farm and garden produce, etc.

But the Dairy Producemade a poor show, the butter was in a rWte* state and covered with saw dust. There is no end of room for impiovements.

Fiold and Garden Produce fared butter, the potatoes and onions especially, were a credit.

There was a poor show of fruit. This was disappointing, as we are in the midst of a fruit growing district. The peaches though made a fine display.

Preserves and Piokles, and the Cookery classes showed up well, there being a fine show of Needlework, the entries being very numerous, made a fine exhibit. N This sectiou was the strongest shown inside. The full list of prizes,will be found on our special Supplement sheet.