THE SHOW.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXI, Issue 90, 29 November 1911, Page 5

THE SHOW.

THE STRATFORD SOCIETY'S FIXTURE. BIG ENTRIES: SPLENDID WEATHER. EVERY PROSPECT OF A HUGE SUCCESS. OFFICIALS— President: R. Dingle, Esq. VicePresidents: Mr, Geo. Songster, Mr. J. B. Hine, M.P., Mr. G. Merchant, Mr. W. McCutchan. Executive Committee:. Messrs. R. Dingle (Chairman), J. D. Healy, Geo. Hobbs, W. P. Kirkwood, S. M. Porritt, R. Masters, R. McK. Monson, D. J. Malone, Geo. Sangster, F. Dobson. General Committee: Messrs. R. Dingle, J. D. Healy, V . P. Kirkwood, Geo. Sangster, R. McK. Morison, S. M. Porritt, Geo. Hobbs, J. T. Belcher, J. B. Hi no., W. McCutchan, E. A. Osmond, H. Stratford, AY. Swadling, J. Thomas, F. Dobson, T. Webb, C. Gifford, W. V. Harkncss, W. L. Kennedy, D. J. Malone, G. March ant. R. T. Mellow, W. Were, D. Watkm, C. Jackson, T. Coleman, W. Pettigrew, J. Shotter, R. Masters, A. Stewart. H. T. Twiss, J. P. Peterson, J. B. Richards, H. Good, D. Glasgow, G. Pugh, A. C. 8011, A. David, E. Brocklebank, J. Stewart, J. Thompson, S. H. James. Honorary Veterinary Surgeon; Mr. Broome. M.R.C.V.S. Secretary: Mr E. Jackson (Stratford). (By Our Special Reporter.) Even the least sanguine weather prophet was disposed to admit that the fine weather of Monday and Tnos-. day had come to stay. Of course, the usual pessimist did his best to damp their ardour, but it was not until the Rev. Mr. Bates confirmed his opinion that the people of Stratford really began to seriously. consider that the First Day of Stratford’s Second Annual A. and P. Show might open in i 'showery weather. Late last night the fresh nor’-wester that had been blow- , ing fitfully during the day began to bring with it showers of light driving rain. By early morningthc wind had strengthened and the showers at times fell heavily. Luckily the work of the Association in the draining of the ground has been faithfully carried out , and with the exception of a few soft places and a rather muddy main , entrance there did not seem to have been much damage done. As the morning advanced, .however, the sun gradually conquered, and by ten o’clock it was < evident that after all the weather was going to assist the committee in producing a show worthy of remembrance ns a real gala day. HIDES AMD SKIMS.

A review of the history of.the hide and skin industry in New Zealand will show that Taranaki has been for years the most important centre, producing hides, that for general quality, are hardly, surpassed by any of the world’s best cattle districts. Last year Mr A. Christensen, Chairman of the Hide and Skin Buyers’ Association, stated that “the conversion ol the calf-skin into a profitable commodity to the farm and the general advancement in the preparation of Taranaki hides and skins is entirely due to the educative work of Mr Newton King; of New Plymouth, who has gone to great expense and trouble to bring about among the farmers a right appreciation of the importance of proper flaying and preservation of their hides and skins.” This is a warm tribute, indeed, to Mr King’s efforts, and we are pleased to see that in this section Mr. King still continues his campaign. In both classes he is the donor of Special prizes. For the best flayed and salted cow or ox hide (open) there are eleven entries, those competing being Messrs F. Copestake, Michael Belli, W. Cannon and Co., Ferguson Bros., W. McHenry, J. Cloke, T. Harry and Joll, T. D. Colson. For the best flayed and salted calfskin, to be owned, flayed, and salted by a farmer or farmer’s son, there were eight entries representing the products of Messrs 11. J. Botham, Sam Thompson. Thos. Webb, J. Burgham, B. Orr, W. Croot, M. Sterner, and H. S. Wright. From the quality of the goods shown, the hand of the Taranaki farmer has not lost its skill, and the section as a whole is well worthy of maintaining the honourable reputation of the province. RANDOM NOTES. On all sides universal aclmhaFon has been expressed at the arrangement made for the af cimmod ition of the pedigree hulls. These were housed in the Association's c t;dli, and were well supplied w.th plenty ol clean bedding m l an abundance of fresh fodder. Too much cannot lie done in tin's direction, and it is only by showing owners of prize animals that every care will be taken of their stock that they will venture to exhibit their fancy prize-winners. Certainly in this respect the efforts of the Committee left nothing to he desired. Though not by any means a gale, the wind this morning was strong enough to blow down many of the larger tents. First a luncheon bocth was razed to the ground; then followed the licensed booth. Many disposed to he superstitious, or else houmorous, regarded the latter a< a sure indication of the triumph of Nolicense at the forthcoming local option and national prohibition polls. AMONG THE EXHSBiTS. Mr. Newton King’s Display. Standing out prominently on the gentle rise.aTmost directly behind the grandstand, and staged in so decidedly an attractive manner that it cannot fail to “catch the eyes” is exhibit displayed by Mr Newton King, ' whose aggressive business ability m so well known and who lias done so much towards the advancement of the interests of the farming community generally, and the betterment of the welfare of Taranaki at large. Apparently no expense has been spared in making this stand markedly interesting to the farmer, and in commenting on this extensive exhibit to a representative of the firm, our reporter was informed that it was to lie regretted that pome of the manufacturers had signed an agreement not to show for i I'J months, otherwise lie would also

have had an exhibit of heavy agricnlnral machinery, and milking machines ; but Mr King has obviated this inconvenience by having various agricultural implements put in tho mart., and interested clients will lie run down in ins car to inspect these latest linos. Most conspicuous among.this fine exhibit is tho Lister shearing machine, Lister engine and Lister separators, in charge of Mr Hugh McKay, representing Levin and Co., Wellington, and for which Mr Newton King is the local agent. On both days, sheep arc being shorn, demonstrating how quickly and cleanly the machines do the work as compared with blade shearing. T his is a splendid innovation, and one which it is to be hoped will bo continued every year, for not only is it a decided attraction at tho Show, but also it gives the sheep man an unequalled opportunity of acquiring full information sn this very important subject. In conjunction with this part of the exhibit, Zealandia and Cockatoo woolpresses, sheep netting, gates, Cooper’s and Little’s dips, in fact a full range of requirements necessary on the up-to-date sheep-station, are well displayed. It is impossible not to notice the varied assortment of useful implements very necessary in the proper cultivation of tho soil—light ploughs, chain harrows, Howard tripods. tho Noxon discs, the big Noxon mowing machines, bay tedders, a fine lot of Planet Jr. seed sowers and horse lines, the special usefulness of which is coming more into favour every year, and also lawn mowers.

A large marquee occupies the north end of the stand, and on entering this, one is immediately struck by the effective arrangement of clean looking seeds of every description for the farm, together with the well known Sterling fertilisers, and Leeds Co.’s basic slag, for which Mr King is the Dominion ■igent; and judging by the termendous list of orders in band for delivery next May by a specially chartered steamer, it is quite evident the farmers of Taranaki are wide awake and realise the vast importance of topdressing their pastures. Tho way the whole thing is set tip is iffdeed very lino and is sure to attract considerable attention from our interested farmer friends. N.Z. Loand and Mercantile Agency Co., Ltd., Stafford. This firm have an excellent exhihibition of machinery, etc., and it is well worth the inspection of agriculturists and others. The “Farmers’ Favourite” grain, seed, and manure drill, for which this firm are sole agents in New Zealand, stands out prominently. The “Favourite” has beyond doubt proved true to its name, mcl it is gratifying to hear of the increasing demand for these implements. The drills are now equipped with stout axles and are supplied with patent spiral steel ribbon tubes. Those two features . alone commend tho drill to intending purchasers, and, further, I the great sowing capacity is a con■a'doration in its.favour. It will sow from 25 to' 1100 lbs manure per acre, ind handle such fertilisers as “Lawns” with the greatest of case. In grain the “Favourite” can sow from I. to 3 bushels per acre, and in turnips up to 18 and 20 ounces. Grass seed may be sown to any quantity through the grain box. The drill also sows peas, beans, maize, etc. On the samples shown, which are of the latest pattern, are attached Bristow’s patent turnip rape seeder. This is so nicely made as to sow with accuracy any desired number of seeds per acre, arid at the same time it is in nowise complicated. The machines are also fitted with. Cranwell’s patent broadcasters for sowing' seed broadcast or fpr : topdressing with manure, lime, etc. The Walter A. Wood “Admiral” mower is also shown. The cutting apparatus of this machine has been considerably improved with serrated lingers or guards which assist the knife in its operation. The driving rod, which has given troiible to the users of mowers, is now made of hickory, is loriger, and drives straight, the pitman ends being secured to the knife-head and balance-wheel by a ball and socket joint; with patent lubricators for grease instead of oil. The mower is also fitted with patent springs which are so adjusted to the boles that they take the weight off the horses’ necks when the machine is working. A foot lever is also fitted to tho machine to clear the swathe board of all obstructions. The “Walter A. Wood” all steel horse rake shown is of the latest pattern, and is a nice strongly-built article, having practically no wearing parts and working automatically. It trips its own load. Steel disc harrows are shown. They are fitted with a. front carriage instead of a pole, and therefore it is much easier on the horses. They are ilso fitted with transport carriage, and are very much in favour, as shown ■by the fact that many farmers have lisposed of their pole discs and gone in for this make. A very handy set of spike and link harrows (British make) comes next, and is a useful implement for all farmers, for by reversing it, it is converted into a chain harrow. Chain harrows are also show 4 'i. A splendid assortment of grass seeds, clover, etc., is also shown, and as the duality of the company’s seeds is well known to he the best, it is superfluous commenting on same. The “Sandow” wool-press and “Page’s” wire strainers are also included in their exhibit. Department of Agriculture. The attention of farmers is drawn to the marquee arranged by the Department of Agriculture on the Show Ground, where Messrs. W. M. Singleton and W. Dibble (Assistant Director of Dairy Produce and Ensilage Expert, respectively), may he consulted, and where agricultural literature is displayed. The monthly Journal of the Department is specially commended to tiio notice of all interested in agricultural and pastoral pursuits. It contains abundance of instructional matter of a scientific and practical nature, contributed by the experts of the Department, consisting of herdtesting, ensilage-making, the production of fodder crops, records of experimental farm' work, and a variety of other topics. At the low rate of subscription, 2s 6d per annum, it is the aim of the Department to place the Agricultural Journal in every dairyfarmer! s borne in Taranaki. An officer of the Department will be in attendance to receive orders for the publication. Young, Hobbs and Co. One of the finest and most comprehensive exhibits of the Show is tho display of seeds, manures, sheep dips, and special calf feed of Messrs Young, Hobbs and Co. This firm makes a speciality of Messrs. Gartons’ seeds, and. in particular of the superlative, a really champion variety of swede, a fact which the farmers have not been slow to recognise, since over two tons of the seed have already been, sold in Stratford this year. Next to good seed, a suitable manure ensures record crops. In the exhibit there is a varied assortment of Messrs. Kcmpthornc and Prosser’s justly-famed fertilisers, pride of place being given to the famous Mount Lyall superphosphate. Another interesting item is tho splendid testimony to the nourishing properties of Bibby’s calf-meal, in tho

shape of two calves which have been roared entirely on this excellent food and water. When properly used, Bibby’s food has never been known to scour, which is in itself a very important factor. Lawe’s liquid and powder dips arc so well known that it is superfluous to give tjicm special mention. Sheep-owners who have not yet made their acquaintance Avill find it. to their advantage to do, so. Quite a novelty is presented in the sign, the letters of which are made entirely of seeds of varied colours. Altogether, it is a ■splendid compact little exhibit, and Messrs Young, Hobbs and Co. are to be congratulated. Bellringer Bros. A special exhibit worthy of the attention of housewives is shown by Messrs. Bellringer Bros., Ltd. This local firm has lately been appointed agent for the Orb range, an Auckland manufacture, and one which is now being extensively used in that province. Its chief points of value lie in its heavy construction and general durability, together with several novel features. A specially designed fire-box is so constructed to allow a free distribution of the heat, while Exercising due economy in the matter of firing. Tho ranges shown are of very handsome design and excellent nickel Planet Jr. dwrills, and general farm finish. For the farmer there a 1 ’ 1 , implements, while a special feature is made of Wunderlich metal ceilings and Malthoid roofing. McMillan end Fredric. Messrs McMillan and Fredric are showing a large range of dairy farmers’ requisites, and beekeepers’ supplies; also, Cyclone wire fencing and gates. Noticeable items are thq wellknown “Domo” cream separators, tho firm’s own patent water circulating milk-ccolor, the McLeod patent water heater, which will give a continuous supply of boiled water in four minutes. Tho heater is made of heavy wrought iron pipe, and is practically everlasting, while the lamp will burn, dripping, tar, Taranaki oil, or any other cheap nil fuel. Good business is being done with anti-mammitis, claimed to be the only known cure for contagions mammitis. It is proving successful wherever used. Every farther should make a point of taking home with him. at least one packet of this valuable cure. Other exhibits are:— Dove-tailed Langstroth hives, honey extractor, bee smokers, etc. Worthy of mention are tho cast-iron boiler frames, which give results equal to bricked-in coppers, and are practically everlasting; hydraulic rams, Dumps of all sorts, and sizes, galvanised iron, cast-iron and enamelled baths, machinery belting, water and steam hose, and a variety of other articles. PRSZS LIST. The awards so far available up to our go in" to press are as under: — PEDIGREE CATTLE. JERSEYS. Cow, calved prior to July Ist, 1907. —W. V. Harkness, Tanki, “May Bloom,” by Pride of Egrnont—May Blossom (bred by owner), -; AY. A'. Harkess, Tariki, “May Bloom,” by Pride of Egrnont—May-fair (bred by owner), 2; J. T. Belcher, Cardiff, Pride of Eltham, 3; A. J. O’Donnell’s “Genoa Daisy,” v.h.c. Heifer, from July Ist, 1908.—John D. Healy, Grannie’s Frolic, 1; AA r . A'. Harkness, Fisschia, 2; A. Uhlenberg, Burbery, 3; Mr. H. Richmond, Orange Rose HI., v.h.c. , Heifer, from July Ist, 1909.—P. J. Peterson, 1; D. AVatkins, 2; J. D. Healy, 3; A. H. Halcombc, v.h.c. SHORTHORN. Bull, from Ist July, 1909.—G. A. Turner, Duke of Eltham, 1; only competitor. Bull, from Ist July, 1910.—G. A. Turner’s Duke of Eltham XXI. (bred by exhibitor), 1; G. A. Turner, Lord of Ormond 11., 2; G. A. Turner, Lord of Ormond 111., 3. Pen of two heifers, 18 months and under 2A years.—G. A. Turner, .Eltham Baronncss (bred by exhibitor), 1. Only entry. Bull, calved prior to July Ist, 1908. —G. A. Turner, Lord Lummerton AH. 1. Only entry. Cow, calved prior to July Ist, 1907. G. A. Turner, Baroness 111., 1. Only competitor. Pen of two heifers, under 18 months.—G. A. Turner, Florodora, 1. Only competitor.

Heifer, from Ist July, 1909.—G. A. Turner, Eltham Mayflower, 1. Only exhibitor.

Heifer, from Ist July, 1908.—0. A. Turner, 1. Only competitor. Heifer, from July Ist,' 1910.—G. A. Turner, 1 and 2. Only competitors. Pen cf two heifers, over 18 months and under 21 years.—Thomas AVebb, 1. Only competitor. Heifer, from July Ist, 1910.—E. Jackson, Robie Bell IV., 1; F. Mills, 2 ; W. Hall, “AYoe Nancy,” 3. Pen of two heifers.—Fred Mills, 1; AY. Hale, 2. Cow, calved prior to July Ist, 1907. —Fred Mills, Addio 11., 1 and champion; AY. M. Bayly, Rosina, 2. Heifer, from July Ist, 1909.—Fred Mills, 1 and champion runner-up; W. Hall, “Nora Lass AN, 2; AAN Hale, “Theba,” 3.