PATUMAHOE

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 5, Issue 185, 23 June 1916, Page 3

PATUMAHOE

FARMERS' UNION MEETING. The monthly meeting of tho Mauku Branch of the New Zealand Farmers' Union was hold in the Patumahoe Hall on the 17th inst., Mr R. W. Johns, president, being in the chair. New Zealand Dairy Association.— Mr J. Henry reported having attended the Dairy Association meeting held in Auckland recently, reference to which was made at the last meeting. After hearing the manager's explanation regarding the adjustment of shares Mr Henry said he and others had

changed their views and were now quite prepared to support the proposal. Russian Fund.—The secretary reported that the sum of £37 19a had now been collected towards this fund in the Mauku and Patumahoe vote of thanks was accorded Messrs A. W. Bell and F. Kavanagh and Corpl. Mitchell for their assistance in canvassing, practically the whole amount being raised through their agency.

Proposed New County.—A. letter was received from the secretary of the Waiuku branch stating that his branch considered that the Franklin County was too large and unweildy and would be more workable if divided into two smaller counties. An expression of opinion was asked for. After discussing the proposal the Mauku members expressed the opinion that it was quite useless to attempt any such scheme, as the trend of the Government was to increase the areas of local bodies rather than decrease it. It was also thought that the fact that portions of the adjoining County of Raglan had repeatedly tried for a similar proposal and had been quite unsuccessful showed that it would be only wasted energy to attempt to alter existing circumstances.

The secretary was instructed to reply accordingly. Attendance.—The president (Mr R. W. Johns) made an appeal to members to endeavour to be more regular iu attending the branch meetings, and instanced the benefits that would accrue if farmers would only take a more active interest iu their Union.

Social Gatherings.—lt was resolved to hold a series of euchre parties and dances during the winter months, the first dance to be held on the 30th inst. The committee are to meet on the 24 th and arrange details. Provincial Conference.—The delegates who attended the Conference. Messrs R. W. Johns and M. Crispe, gave a brief report of the proceedings, and were accorded a hearty vote of thanks for their attendance. New Member.—Mr M. Sinclair was unanimously elected a member.