EKETAHUNA

Wairarapa Times-Age, 7 October 1938, Page 7

EKETAHUNA

WOOL AND WOOL CLASSING (“Times-Age” Special) A lecture on wool-and wool-classing, illustrated by lantern slides, was given under the auspices of the Eketahuna, Alfredton, Mangatainoka and Ballance Young Farmers’ Clubs by Mr J. E. Duncan, wool instructor, Department of Agriculture, Wellington, at Pahiatua. There was a large attendance to hear Mr Duncan, and his lecture proved of great interest. Mr I. Algie acted as chairman. Mr Duncan began with a definition of what wool is, and illustrated its structure, composition and changes under treatment by means of slides of microscope photographs. He went on illustrate the difference between good and bad wool, and dealt with some faults of wool, especially hairiness. He dwelt at some length on hariness and fleece-testing with a view to its elimination. Mr Duncan outlined recent research into the problems of the wool-grower, and the application of its results to wool-production. He also dealt with the commercial side of wool-growing and with wool-classing. He enlarged upon the menace of artificial wool, which could no longer be ignored. The wool-grower, he said, must combat the threat of artificial wool by improving his wool and preparing it better for the market. At the conclusion of the lecture, questions asked by the audience were answered by Mr Duncan, and there was some general discussion on the subject. A. hearty vote of thanks to Mr Duncan for his interesting lecture was carried by acclamation. Good Demand for Pigs. At the Eketahuna stock sale yesterday there was a keen demand for heifers which brought late market rates. Pigs continue to be sought after and weaners realised good prices. The importance of the pig industry is being steadily recognised, and local farmers are “stocking up” more with pigs than probably ever before. A better type of pig is coming on to the market as the result of farmers paying more attention than formerly to breeding. A WORTHY SETTLER. APPROACHING 92nd BIRTHDAY. A well-known and highly respected resident of Kaiparoro, Mr C. Burton, Senior, will reach his 92nd birthday on Monday. Mr Burton enjoys splendid health and takes a keen interest in the affairs of the day. Particularly interested in gardening he devotes considerable time to it. He came to New Zealand about 50 years ago and resided in Wellington for some 25 years where he was in business. In 1892 he took up a bush section at Kaiparoro and came to reside on it in 1913. Mr Burton will be warmly congratulated by the whole community on the great age he has attained, and the active interest he takes in the progress of the district. Mrs Burton died on September 15, 1937. NATIONAL PARTY. SUCCESSFUL CARD PARTY. The local branch of the National Party brought to a successful conclusion last night the series of card parties and socials which have been held during the past few weeks. It was the most enjoyable of all the functions and drew the largest attendance, there being over 75 persons present. The hall was beautifully decorated with carnelias, bulbs and spring flowers and made a most attractive scene. The artistic decorations at each function were the work of Mrs C. P. Murray-Aynsley, the flowers having been kindly supplied by Mrs F. C. Turnor. The prizes last night were presented as follows by Mr W. Simpson (Mayor of Eketahuna):— Aggregate, Mrs Braddick and Mr A. Chambers; last night’s prizes, Miss A. Anderson, Mr A. Chambers, Mrs Ives, and Mr J. Sigvertsen. The music for the dancing was provided by Mesdames Nelson, Richardson, A. J. Perry and Wilkie Anderson. The gathering was brought to a conclusion with the singing of the National Anthem. EKETAHUNA SALE. The N.Z. Loan and Mercantile Agency Co., Ltd., report: —A small yarding of dairy cattle and pigs were submitted to the usual attendance at Eketahuna yesterday. Heifers on drop met with a ready sale at late rates, whilst the market for weaners was strong, resulting in good prices. They quote as follows: Cattle: Heifers on drop med. quality £8 7s 6d to £8 15s; pigs, weaners best 28s, 26s to* 25s 6d; horses, unbroken hack filly, £8; aged farm horse £2.