WAOTU.

Matamata Record, Volume III, Issue 120, 20 February 1919, Page 3

WAOTU.

George Papara, of the pioneer battalion, has returned home after three years active service. The annual election of the hall committee was held on the sth inst., and the following were elected: —Messrs M. Henderson (chairman), J. Voyce, E. Barnett and Misses Jones (secretary), D. Barnett, E. Taylor. The annual meeting of parents and guardians of children attending the Waotu Native school was held on the 9th inst. to elect a new committee and to consider \ the erection of an additional ■ shelter-shed and alterations to the school. There was a large and enthusiastic gathering. The head - teacher presented his report which was received with applause, the meeting heartily and unanimously carrying a vote of appreciation of Mr and Mrs Proctor's services to the community. The following members were elected for the ensuing year: Messrs Ashford (chairman), Taylor (secretary), T. Jones, H. Barnett and Terei Paehua. The crops in the district are looking well, and present indications point to heavy crops of turnips this season. The hay-

making season is nearly over, but a few small paddocks are still to be harvested. At the school there is a fine display of lucern (1 acre) which is now waist high, this representing five weeks growth. It should be in full bloom about the 13th, when it will be cut for hay. It is expected that 5 or 6 tons of hay will be obtained from this plot for the season. It is strange -that so few farmers realise the value of this remarkable fodder plant. It is very easy to establish, and provided the land is properly prepared it requires no more attention than ordinary pasture. On the 12th inst a social was held in the local hall to enable residents and settlers to say farewell to Mr and Mrs Irwin and

family who are leaving this district to reside at Haapai. A large number attended and an enjoyable evening was spent. Musical items and recitations were rendered by the following ladies and gentlemen :—Mesdame's Stranbel, Proctor, Autheman, Messrs A.utheman, Bathe and Ashford, Mr Darby acted as grader has been at work on our roads which are now in good order. It is freely rumored that a local resident is likely to stand for Parliament at the next election on the labor ticket.