Country News

Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 32, 3 November 1894, Page 5

Country News

(From our own Correspondents.)

OREPUKI

I don’t think that the oldest resident can call to mind such a long 1 -unbroken spell of dry, hot weather as we have had lately. Mining is a thing of the past with all but one or two lucky water squatters, while water for household purposes has heen very scarce. There are signs, of a change tonight, and a good downpour would be ra universal blessing. However, grass is plentiful, and stock are beginning to look well. Our dairy factory is in full swing, :and is getting a very good supply of -milk, with a large increase in the near future, as many of the cows in the ■district have yet to calve. lam told that in a few weeks from now the -capacity of the factory will be fully taxed. For some time back subscription lists have been going round to get money to send a prospecting party out west of the I hear that the amount raised will be over £25, and the Government subsidy wall be applied for at once, so that the party may be sent off as soon as possible. A concert and dance is to be held "here on 2nd Nov., and one feature will he the first appearance of the Orepuki rstring band, composed of our best local players, and assisted by several well-known Riverton musician!.

One can see by the canppy o£ smok* that is hanging oven the country for miles around, that the settlers are making the most of this dry weather to get their burning done. I have .-seen several of the State farmers -.from beyond the Waiau, and they express themselves as highly satisfied -with their prospects, and they are ■pushing on manfully with their work. Oct. 31, 1894.