H.—2o.
thoroughly enjoyed the programmes. Thanks are extended to members of the Visiting Committee, who visit the institution from time to time to deal with charges of insubordination and to hear complaints, and to inquire generally into matters concerning the welfare of the inmates. Satisfactory progress was made at the night school, which was held three nights each week. Physical-drill classes were continued throughout the year on two nights per week. A team was again entered in the senior-grade competition under the control of the Waipa Rugby Union, but owing to a number of players being released during the playing season the team was somewhat disorganized at times and as a result was not so successful as in the previous season. However, some very fine and enthusiastic games were played, and the conduct of the inmates was above reproach. Several cricket matches were played during the summer months against teams from Hamilton and Te Awamutu. On the whole, the institution team was fairly successful, but, although the desire to win was naturally very keen, it was always subordinated to playing the game in the true sporting spirit. In this connection it is fitting to record our thanks to the visiting teams for the valuable aid they have afforded to the recreative side of our work, and it is gratifying to note that right throughout the whole series of matches there has never been one discordant note bounded, and the visitors are full of praise for the sportsmanship of our players. Inmates whose conduct and industry give general satisfaction are admitted to the special class. On fine evenings during summer months members of this class are allowed to indulge in tennis and cricket practice, and during winter months indoor games are provided in the recreation-hall. There are other minor privileges attaching to membership of the class, which is in the nature of a reward for good conduct and industry. During the period under review religious services were provided as usual by visiting chaplains from Te Awamutu and Kihikihi. In connection with the farming operations several improvements were effected during the year. The work of developing the farm was gradually proceeded with, a considerable area of swamp land was drained, and about 150 more acres sown in permanent pasture. The clearing of weeds, fern, and rough scrub also absorbed a large amount of labour. From the point of view of production the year was a fairly successful one, although from the financial aspect it was not so good, on account of the low prices ruling for farm-products. Dairying continues to be the principal farm industry, and utilizes a large portion of the available labour. During the season ended 31st July, 1930, an average of 307 cows were milked at the three dairies, resulting in a yield of 2,301,260 lb. of milk at an average test of 4-04 per cent. Close attention is paid to herd-testing, which is carried out on very accurate lines, and culling is practised extensively at appropriate times. The revenue from cream supplied to the factory for the season was approximately £5,586. In connection with the sheep industry, a clip of twenty-one bales of wool, weighing 8,906 lb. gross, was shorn from 940 sheep. Considerable progress was made in the pig industry. During the year ended 31st December, 1930, the sum of £730 was obtained from the sale of 246 pigs, mostly porkers. Useful work was found for all the farm horses, and fourteen foals were reared during the season. A continuous supply of vegetables for rations purposes was supplied by the garden, and a considerable quantity supplied to other institutions and sold locally. A fair quantity was also supplied to the auction markets, especially asparagus and tomatoes. From the orchard a yield of 1,953 cases of apples was obtained from 736 trees. A sum of £358 was obtained from the sale of apples. From the apiary, 1,9201b. of honey was received. Point Halswell Borstal Institution. (Acting-Superintendent, Miss A. Escott.) The health of the inmates has been good. Our industries have been carried on as in previous years —viz., laundry-work, and the making and mending of garments, &c., for other institutions and Departments. The girls all take their turn in housework and cooking, and I am pleased to say that quite a number have adapted themselves very well to this part of their training. The vegetable-garden and grounds surrounding the institution are kept in order by the girls. We always look upon this branch of the work as healthy outdoor exercise. To encourage an interest in poultry-keeping Her Excellency the Lady Bledisloe most kindly arranged for fifty white Leghorn pullets to be purchased for the institution. We are now hoping to extend this branch of the work and train the girls in poultry-rearing. The school-work has gone on steadily. At the end of the year four girls sat for their proficiency, three being successful in gaining their certificates. The games and physical exercises help to work wonders in the health of the girls. Basketball and tennis are played every Saturday afternoon, and the inter-house games shield is always keenly competed for. During the year Her Excellency the Lady Bledisloe paid a visit to the institution, when each girl had the privilege of a few words with Her Excellency. The religious services have been carried on regularly by the different denominations —Roman Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian, Wesleyan, and Salvation Army —to whom our thanks are due for their spiritual help. We must again record our gratitude to the ladies of the Borstal Association for the interest taken in the after-care of each Borstal girl, and to those kind people who, under the auspices of the Borstal Association, have done so much in providing entertainment every Thursday evening. The ladies of the association have also done a great deal in the way of teaching embroidery, raffia, and other fancy work. Mrs. Coventry has carried on her knitting class throughout the year. The girls show quite a keen interest in this work, and make many useful articles.
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