TE AWAMUTU.

Waikato Times, Volume XXIII, Issue 1903, 16 September 1884, Page 2

TE AWAMUTU.

PKKSENTATION TO Mil BMJCK. Ir is with deep regret the residents of this and the surrounding districts learned of the appioaching depaituie for Moirinbvillc of Mr Bluck, wiu) has> been stationmaster here for a considerable time. Mr Bluck has gained the esteem and good-will of everyone with whom he came in contact by his unfailing com tesy and willingness to oblige, and they have taken this opportunity of testifying their appreciation of him by presenting him with the following testimonial :—: —

" To Mr Alfred Bluck, statiomnaster, Te Awanmtu. Deaii Sin, — We, the undersigned, residents in the Te Awamutu and Kihikihi districts, are desirous to assure you that your departure from Te Awamutu is a matter of sincere regret to us. Before you leave we take this opportunity to record our thorough appreciation of the care, courtesy, attention and zeal which you have ever evinced towaids us in connection with the performance of the various duties of htationmasster here. We trust that your aemoval to Morrinsville will prove advantageous to your family and to yourself." Here follows a large number of signatures. The address, which was beautifully illuminated by Mr J. L. Maudeno, was presented to Mr Bluck, who replied in suitable terms.

MISCELLANEOUS. I have not "heard as yet whether the general sowing of poisoned wheat has had much effect on the small birds. During the last two years the little pests have have turned their attention to the destruction of young pea* and other vegetables. I may, perhaps, in giving wh t has proved a sure preventative in some cases, be stating what is already known by many, but it is good enough to bear repetition. " Carbolic wheat protector" (which can be obtained at the North N.Z. Co-operative stores), mixed 'according to directions on the packets, and sprinkled with a watering - can on the growing plants has proved in some cases an effectual remedy, one application being sufficient to keep the birds away until the plants get into full leaf, when they are seldom touched. I know of one case however in which this failed, but only one, and in this case if the mixture had been a, little stronger, it might have had the desired effect, I procured a packet of the " protector " which I intend using, as the sparrows and larks have been ■ holding high festival in my garden. I have had to reaow pew this year, and as' for radishes, I have found it impossible to grow them | they are taken, as soon aq they

show above ground. I saw in one garden a frame made of 9 inch boards, and covered with wire netting, under this radishes and turnips were growing, secure from the birds. I have tried it myself this year, and find it an excellent place. If the " Wheat Pi otoctor" cannot be easily obtained a very weak mixture of kerosene and water, kept well btirred while being applied answers very well. We have had a very sudden change from the wai in spring weather of the last week or two to very cold. On Sunday morning snow lay on Phongia and M.iungatautaii. The committee of the Waipa Kacmg Club have decided to lay the course down and have it in order by the 29th January, on which date the annual meeting will again be held. At the annual meetflig which was held on the 30th of last month, the committee, and stewards for the ensuing year were appointed. Messrs W. Taylor and F. A. WhiUker who were president and vice-president, respectively, for last year, were unanimously re-elected. The biggest bullock that has been sent away from here for a long time was sent to Auckland by Mr Westney last week. It weighed 2080 lbs. The co-operative store is_ doing a good business under Mr Wrights management. His appointment as manager has given satisfaction to everyone, and the association has decidedly been a gainer by having his services. —^Own Correspondent.)