GAME.

Matamata Record, Volume II, Issue 69, 14 February 1918, Page 2

GAME.

RECENT actions on the part of the Auckland Acclimatization Society have justified the confidence placed in that body by Matamata sportsmen, and have added an impetus to tbe Matamata Fish and Game Conservation Society. During the past few days two consignments of young pheasants have been received in Matamata—one of twenty birds and another of ten —and these have been liberated on most excellent pastures. When one considers the value of a pheasant as a marketable or breeding bird, the fact is pressed home that the Auckland body is now working on lines that must ensure success. It is recognised that it is good country districts which require stocking-up to provide sport for those who set out with rod and gun, and this is one of the reasons why Matamata is receiving a share of the young stock available. But, there is another reason, and that is that there are men in Matamata who are true sportsmen, who will act true to their trust and conserve the birds and fish sent. Unfortunately, there are always to be found those who will shoot or catch anything, with or without license, and in or out of season, and Matamata is not immune from this class of person. However, as has been stated, the local society is now gaining sufficient strength to watch the district, and thus promise is given that good shooting and fishing will ultimately be available close to Matamata. When the stocking-up is completed outside sportsmen will be drawn to the district, and in their pursuits will notice the most excellent country they will travel over, and Matamata will receive further advertisement. To foster the existing bond of sympathy between the Auckland and country bodies sportsmen in country districts should be members of one of the branches, and thus add their . financial and moral support to the good work being done.