Manawatu Jersey Cattle Breeders' Club

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 7280, 6 October 1933, Page 12

Manawatu Jersey Cattle Breeders' Club

PAST YEAR IN REVIEW The annual report of the Manawatu Jersey Cattle Breeders’ Club states: — “In our report of a year ago the hope was expressed that the trying economic conditions then prevailing would soon pass, but unfortunately this has not materialised. In fact, as we all know, conditions in the meantime have been more severe. However, at the present time prospects aro more encouraging than for at least two years, and as prices for all primary products have materially improved, we can reasonably hope that the tide has turned at last and that ere long prices will return to a payable basis. "Despite the quota discussion we think that still increased production should be our aim, and in regard to production of dairy produce it is gratifying to note that the farmer now realises more than ever that increase in. production eau be brought about more surely and economically through the use of Jersey cattle than any other means,” the report continues. ‘‘ln regard to the club’s fmauces,members will note that a sound position is being maintained. The accounts for the year Teveal a surplus—£7 9s—bringing the club’s net funds up to £24' 2s lid. It is pleasing to note that there has been an appreciable increase in the amount received as members’ subscriptions, but we feel that there is still much room for improvement. This is the source upon which we are mainly dependent for revenue with which to carry on the club’s work and we again appeal to members to assist as much as possible jn this respeot. “The fifth Jersey Oaks competition was finalised at the last Feilding Show, five heifers facing the judges. The standard of the animals was very creditable, both as regards type and production, and the owners are to be congratulated in this respect. We regret that, owing to the withdrawal of the association subsidy, these competitions must be abandoned for the present. The annual winter sale of Jersey cattle, under the auspices of combined clubs, was held in June last. The quality of the animals brought forward was on the whole satisfactory; but it is regretted that prices forthcoming were not commensurate with the quality offered. This position must be ascribed mainly to prevailing conditions, but with tho return, of better prices for our products we can look for an appreciation in the returns for our cattle. The committee responsible for the arranging of these sales has done much to improve conditions for both vendor and purchaser, but wc feel that there is still much to be done in this respect, and it is the aim of the clubs to further improve conditions in regard to the sale. During the year the club decided to inaugurate Derby Stakes competitions which it is hoped will compensate for the loss of the Oaks. The first Derby will be finalised at the Manawatu A. and P. Show in 1934, when the animals will be judged on typo and conformation as two-year-olds. Wc arc pleased to be able to say that this competition is being very freely supported, well over 100 entries being in hand. It lias been suggested that this competition be extended by further judging of the animals as three-year-olds in milk, and the advisability of adopting this course will receive the early consideration of the club. The club has continued the policy of doing all possible in the direction of providing special prize money for Jersey classes at A. and P. shows, and in this connection we desire to acknowledge the valuable assistance received from individual members. It is again our duty to express thanks for tile honorary services rendered by our auditor (Mr N. I. Nielsen).”