West Australian (Perth, WA : 1879 - 1954), Tuesday 13 March 1928, page 4


COUNTRY NEWS

Albany.—The S. John troop of Boy Scouts spent Saturday and Sunday, March 3 and 4, in camp at Dymesbury Park on King River. The Governor (Sir Wm.

Campion) visited the lads.—The A.G.A. an-nual camp of continuous training will be held at the Forts from March 24 to 31. Lieut. E. Knight, the officer commanding, has returned from a course of instruc-tion at Sydney.—Brigadier and Mrs. Hay-wood, the Divisional Commanders of the State Salvation Army, visited Albany on March 3 and 4, and conducted meetings. — Messrs. A. Burvill, M.L.C., A. Wans-brough, M.L.A., and W. Mather, general president of the Waterside Workers Fede-ration, addressed a meeting of lumpers on the railway scheme advocated to serve the eastern wheat areas from Southern Cross to Albany. A resolution was car-ried instructing the union delegates to give the scheme support, at the forthcom-ing combined conference at Katanning.— The annual picnic of the Great Southern railway employees (Wagin to Albany) was held at Middleton Beach on March 3.— The Minister for Lands (Mr. M. F. Troy) will visit Albany and the Denmark groups within the next fortnight.— A tree to the memory of the late Sister M. Birt, R. R.C., has been planted in the Avenue of Honour on Middleton-road.—The State motor ship Kybra will proceed to Ade-laide on April 10 for overhaul and will return about May 1.— Balingup.—About 10 p.m. on March 9 a fire affecting the bread supply of Bal-ingup, Mullalyup and Kirup districts broke out in the bakehouse of Mr. Walter Bailey, and completely destroyed the build-ing and contents, including a large quan-tity of flour and the full bread supply for Saturday's business. An attempt made to save some of the flour by breaking away the wall of the building was prevent-ed by the intense heat. The building and contents were insured. — Messrs. John -son, Fox and Palmer, directors of the Manjimup butter factory, addressed a well attended meeting of the local branch of the Primary Pro-ducers' Association on March 3 on the butter industry in the south-west.—In reply to inquiries, the Department of Pub-lic Health wrote pointing out that the cleanliness of trucks was a responsibility of the Railway Commissioner, which it was the duty of the Balingup health authorities to enforce. The matter of dirty trucks, it was stated, should be brought before the Chief Veterinary Officer of the Agricul-tural Department.—The Railway Depart-ment is considering the provision of facili-ties for the watering of stock.— Complaint has been made by fruit exporters that they are compelled to send fruit to Perth in open trucks, while louvred vans are being used for the carriage of wheat.—A motion was carried by the local branch of the P.P.A. at the last meeting protesting against the high land values fixed by the Commissioner of Taxation, values, it was stated, being fixed, unimproved, as high as £6 an acre for grazing land. Beverley.— The weather has been very very hot of late, and since the opening of the burning-off season conditions have been even more oppressive. On more than one occasion the fires have got out of hand, and much valuable feed has been destroyed. Mr. B. L. Edwards, of the Dale, lost all but about 30 acres of grass, and has been forced to sell off his flock. Messrs. Chris. Rogers and R. Strange were also hard hit by the same fire.—Many of the farmers, with their families, are away on holidays.—The annual meeting in connection with the Beverley Hospital was held on Sautrday, March 3, and was well attended. The secretary's report showed that the patients in the general hospital numbered 231, and in the ma-ternity ward 57, patient days totalling re-spectively 2,447 and 865, an increase for the whole hospital of 158 patient days. Amongst the visitors present were two from Perth (Mr Huelin, secretary of the Medical Department, and Mr. H. W. A. Tanner, one time chairman of the hos-pital committee, and now vice-president of the Hospitals' Association). An elec-tion of new members to the committee was held, and a vote of thanks to last year's committee was carried.—At the local Police Court, Ernest J. G. Stone was given one month's imprisonment, on a charge of disorderly conduct and obscene language. Accused had been before the Bench about a month previously. Bencubbin.—On March 1 a complimen-tary social was tendered to Mr. and Mrs. G. J. Pergande by the residents of the Mt. Marshall district. Several of the old settlers spoke of Mr. and Mrs. Pergande's kindness in the early days, and Mr. P N. McKenzie then presented the guests with a travelling trunk and rug, as a token of appreciation. Mr. Pergande re-sponded for himself and wife in an anec-dotal vein.—Mr. N. McKay recently dis-posed of his farming property to two South Australian buyers, who are taking it over immdeiately. Mr. R. Dillon has disposed of his North Bencubbin property.—The tennis club held a successful dance on March 3. Many novelty dances were introduced and, in spite of the heat, there was a good attendance.—The rifle club intends holding its opening shoot on April 1.— Bencubbin played Babbin in the cric-ket semi-finals on Sunday last and the home team were beaten. Bilbarin.— A large portion of the Fede-ral-State aid grant, 1928-29, will be used on the east and west Bilbarin roads.—A third shop is now being erected in Bil-barin. These premises, which will have a double frontage, will be used for cool drinks, fruit and dressmaking.—The annual meeting of the hall committee was held on March 4. The retiring chairman (Mr. C. A. Malcolm) outlined the work done during the past 12 months. The old com-mittee retired through effluxion of time and the election of a new one resulted: Messrs. C. Peterson, G. Anderson, J. Crombie and R. Clapp, Mrs. G. Anderson, and the Misses L. Jeffrey and M. Clapp.— All the public and sporting bodies of the district are financially sound. Boyanup.— The protracted dry spell ter-minated on March 8, when several thunder-storms passed over the district. Although only about a quarter of an inch of rain was registered, it was much appreciated. The bush fires have all been extinguished. Mr. A. J. Payne lost Brookdale on March 6 through bush fires. This property contained much valuable pastoral lands, including 30 acres of Subterranean clover fields. The fire swept fiercely through and trapped 30 head of cattle, which were released with diffi-culy.— Mr. G. B. Duce has started this season's vintage, and a record yield is as-sured. The time is not far distant when Mr. Duce will have 100 acres under vines at Bbidecud. Brookton.—On Wednesday, February 29, the residents of the town held a leap year ball, which was very well attended. The fancy costumes represented varied types. The electric lights were lent by Mr. A. E. Harvey, and the fittings by Messrs. Little and Co. The prize win-ners were: Miss D. Crawford, as a maid of the Early Victorian period; Miss Doreen Crawford, as a parson; Miss Dumble, as a bride; Mr. A. Glen, an Indian Chief.— The Brookton fire brigade entertained the Beverley brigade. at Brookton on Sunday, March 4. There were competitions and afternoon tea was provided. In the even-ing the members were entertained at the Club Hotel. Bruce Rock.—There is a good deal of interest in connection with the proposal of the Bruce Rock Road Board to borrow £4,000 for the purpose of erecting offices. It is proposed to build road board offices and board room; Government Savings Bank and Clerk of Courts office, and Court room; Government District Architect's office, and two offices to let. It is antici-pated that the rents from the leased of-fices will more than cover interest and sinking fund, while ratepayers will pay a rate of one-eighth of a penny in the £1 on unimproved values. Petition of pro-test against the proposal have been re-cived from ratepayers of Shackleton and Ardagh, and a referendum is to be taken on March 31.—The weather keeps hot and dry, and many of the farmers are looking for a good thunderstorm to replenish their dams. Water carting is going on continu-ously. The town supply has been better than in former years, and there still re-mains about 10ft. of water in the large dam. Rabbits do not appear to be nearly so numerous.— James Robson Pearson, blacksmith, was sentenced to three months' imprisonment for stealing from his workmate, Richard Marson. Bunbury.—As a result of a collision be-tween his motor cycle and a motor car driven by B. G. Duce, of Boyanup, Phillip Rooney was admitted to the Government Hospital suffering from a badly cut right ankle. The accident happened at the corner of Blackwood-road and Spencer-street, and Rooney was apparently cut by the running board of the car.—A civic farewell was tendered to Mr. J. E. H. Swain, of the National Bank on the eve of his departure to take over the Murray-street branch of the bank.—In August last Miss Annette Watts, a passenger from Sydney on the s.s.

Karoola, threw overboard a bottle con-taining a letter at a spot 800 miles from Fremantle. The letter requested the finder to communicate with the writer, giving in-formation as to where the bottle was washed up. Miss Watts this week received her letter back, the bottle having been found by Mr. P. McCann, of Denmark. Busselton. — The annual Firemen's ball, held in Barnard's Hall on March 5, was an outstanding success. It was the first social function to be held in the hall since the extensive additions.—The sale of the Busselton Hotel freehold has been effect-ed, the purchaser being Mr. A. J. Talbot, and the price paid £4,875.— In the local court on March 8, before the Acting R.M., (Mr. F. M. Reid), Herbert Smith, a settler on Group 59, claimed from Clarence Dono-van, contractor, damages to the extent of £11/13/6, alleged to have been caused to furniture which was carted by defendant from the Busselton railway station to plaintiff's holding.—The R.M. said he was satisfied that the furniture had been negli-gently handled, and he thought group settlers should have some redress. Judg-ment was given to plaintiff for the sum of £3/5/. Collie.—The output of coal from the various mines in the district during the month of February constituted a record for the period, being 45,980 tons.— At the last meeting of the Collie Road Board a communication was read from the Depart-ment of Works and Labour relative to a proposal to vest the Department of Works and Labour relative to a proposal to vest the park lands reserve in a trust with a view to improving Minninup Pool as a picnic resort. It was resolved to call a public meeting to further discuss the question.—During recent weeks a large number of electric light globes have been broken in various parts of the town. The names of the culprits were ascertained and the council communicated with the schools requesting the head teachers to issue a warning to the children.—The benefit entertainment recently organised by the Collie branch of the R.S.L. in aid of the widow and family of the late Mr. A. Osborne resulted in a profit of over £40.—Under the auspices of the Lyall's Mill Parents' and Citizens' Association, a plain and fancy dress ball was held in the local hall on March 3 with the object of raising funds to assist in the welfare of the children attending school at the mill centre.—A public meeting dealing with the question of improvements to the Roelands-road resolved that represen-tatives of the Collie Municipal Council and Collie Road Board should join with other local authorities in a deputation to the Main Rad Board.— The Collie Road Board has agreed to pay £3 per dingo scalp from the Board funds.—The Rev. Arthur Mason, who has had charge of the Methodist Church at Collie for the past three years, has received notice of his transfer to Albany. The vacancy will be filled by the Rev. E. B. Roger.—Prior to her departure from the town on a trip to England and Canada, Mrs. N. Vickers was made a presentation by the Collie Branch of the R.S.L. in appreciation of her services as a member of the Ladies' Auxiliary Committee. Coorow.—Burning off is practically com-pleted and cultivation is progressing on most farms. Owing to the long dry spell the wells in the district are getting very low.— New machinery for the seeding is ar-riving very rapidly and it is expected that there will be a much larger area cropped this season than previously.—On Feb-ruary 29 a demonstration of the Case tractor and Horwood-Bagshaw machinery was held on Mr. F. Kau's property at Coorow.— Several new buildings are being erected in Coorow, including a combined baker's and butcher's shop for Mr. R. Wells, and a garage. — Pictures were held in the Waddy Forest Hall on February 21. This is the first time that a picture com-pany has visited Waddy.—Recently while returning from Moora, Jim Kerr, of Waddy Forest, was thrown from the back of his father's truck and sustained slight concussion. He was taken back to the Moora hospital.— The Waddy cricketers played Marchagee on March 4, the match resulting in a draw.—The Coorow school has been opened, after being closed for over a year. The Waddy Forest school has not yet been opened, as there is no accommodation for the teacher. Dixvale.— A number of wells are being sunk on high ground, chiefly to water back paddocks. Good water is usually obtained between twenty and thirty feet. —The weather has been very dry for the last few weeks. The transferring of set-tlers from 95 groups is proving very satis-factory. The men leave their old homes on Monday mornings per motor lorry, conveyed to their new locations for their week's work, are returned on Saturdays. In their absence the cows are milked for them and consideration given in every possible manner.— The quality of the land in the new area is good, and a greater area per location is provided for. One settler remarked that the second class land here was as good as the first class land on the old group. Elleker.—Mr. J. M. Brighton has com-menced digging. This settler has the most improved farm in the Grasmere district. Out of 40 acres 30 are planted with pota-toes. Each acre has a ring drain, and the length of drainage on the whole 40 acres amounts to nine miles. A modern brick house of eight rooms, tastefully furnished, also a five-valve wireless set, bear evidence of the success that has attended Mr. Brigh-ton's methodical farming. Despite the long dry spell the whole of his crop will turn out well.—A fire, said to have been started by the Denmark train, at Wilgie Hill on March 2 spread with alarm-ing rapidity, and destroyed a good length of fencing on Mr. Angus's property. Had it not been for the efforts of Mr. Baldwin the fire would have burnt the apiary, the stables, and house of Mr. Angus. —At a meeting of the Progress Association, held on March 6, the presi-dent commented upon the secretary's delay in dealing with correspondence. The re-sult is that the secretaryship is now vacant.— Mrs. Mowforth, whilst engaged with her houshold duties, fell and broke her wrist.—Mr. Barron-Hay visited here on March 9 for a further inspection of the proposed site of the experimental pasture ground. His report will be made to the Department of Agriculture.— Mr.G. Bur-ville's 20 acres of potatoes are turning out well. SettIers on the swamp country are beginning to get' anxious at the; disturbed weather^ . Should a deluge occur within the next fortnight, more than half of their crops will be lost. Katanning.— At a large and represen-tative meeting in the Town Hall it was decided to establish at Katanning an in-fant welfare centre, to serve the road districts of Katanning, Kojonup, Gnowan-gerup, Tambellup and Kent. The meet-ing was presided over by Mr. Geo. Mc-Leod, chairman of the Katanning Road Board, and there were on the platform with him Mr. A. Thomson, Mr. M.L.A., and Mr. Stewart, secretary of the Infant Wel-fare Association. Mr. Thomson said that being greatly interested in the infant welfare movement, he had approached the various road boards in the district for assistance in financing the establishment of a centre at Katanning, and had re-ceived guarantees from those bodies of an aggregate yearly subsidy mounting to £120. Miss Grace Potter, secretary of the Marracoorda Silver Chain committee, had guaranteed, on behalf of her com-mittee, a further £20 yearly.The dis-trict was now entitled to apply to the Minister for Health for an annual sub-sidy of £100. A committee was ap-pointed, with Mrs. Butler as honorary secretary, and applications are to be sent to the Minister for the subsidy of £100 and to the council of management for the affiliation of the Katanning branch. Kondinin.—Wheat transport to most sidings has been completed, but there is still some coming into Kondinin, which is for the second year going to be at the top of the ladder for the dis-trict. Since a fortnight ago, when 125,000 bags had been received, an additional 10,000 bags have been accounted for, mak-ing the total so far for the season 135,000 bags, or about 10,000 bags more than that received for last season. At Notting, two miles distant, a separate siding, nearly 50,000 bags have been handled, and at Bendering, seven miles from Kondinin, nearly 60,000 bags have been received. These two, added to that of Kondinin, make a total of about 245,000 bags.—Very successful stock sales were conducted by Messrs. Elder, Smith and Co., Ltd., at Kondinin on February 27, and on the following day at Kulin. Prices for sheep and young draught horses were good. At Kondinin some very fine sheep, as well as horses, were disposed of on account of Mr. Joe Watson, a local breeder. His stock provided a good advertisement for the district as well as the owner.—Much interest still centres here in connection with the proposed railway for Kargerin, for which the Premier has promised to introduce a Bill during next session. No definite route has yet been determined,

but it is generally thought here that, with the new land being opened up at Lake King and east of Graham's Rock, which will soon be available for selection, some such scheme as that proposed by the Engineer-in-Chief should be adopted. Kununoppin.—The much needed rain has not yet fallen and the town dam is almost dry. If no rain falls within a week the shortage will be very acute.—On March 3 the Kununoppin orchestra held a dance in the local hall.—On Sunday, March 4 a harvest festival service was held in the Congregational Church. The Rev. Cole conducted it, and a large congregation at-tended. The church was tastefully de-corated, and there was a good show of fruit and produce. On Monday evening a harvest social was held, the proceeds of which amounted to £16. Leonora.—A complimentary farewell social was tendered to Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Rendell on the evening of March 7. The Masonic Hall, Leonora, was filled with friends of the departing couple. The dance hall was tastefully decorated and music was supplied by Mesdames Levitzke and Burrows, and Miss Beatty. Rev. W. R. Forbes made complimentary remarks about the guests, and handed them a wallet of notes. Mr. G. T. Moffit also spoke in the same strain. Mr. Rendell has been the local manager of the W.A. Bank for four years, and has been transferred to Carnarvon. Before taking over control there it is his intention to make a motor tour through the State. Mr. D. Holland, from Perth, has been appointed to fill the position rendered vacant by Mr. Rendell's departure.—The distress resulting from the recent storms in Boulder and Kalgoorlie has been receiving the attention of some of the charitable minded locally and a con-siderable amount of money has been raised for the distress fund. The first entertain-ment for this object was organised by Mrs. Sid Bowden, of Gwalia, and held in the Gwalia hall, a euchre party and dance yielding £16/10/. Prizes were won by Mrs. W. Robertson and Mr. Alfred Amalglio, and music was supplied by Miss Gladys Beatty and Mesdames Cyril Burrows and John, and Frank Taylor. Donations were made by the co-operative store, Mesdames Wimhurst, John, and Bowden, and Mr. Crampton. Assistance was given by a ladies' committee, comprising Mesdames Beatty, Irving, Pilkington, Patroni, and Wimhurst, and Miss Beatty. Mr. J. H. Bailey was secretary. A second entertain-ment for the same object was organised by Misses Simpson and Lambert, of the Leon-ora Hospital nursing staff. This was in the form of a streamer and confetti dance, and was a distinct success. Musical items were rendered by Miss Amy Skitch and Mr. Cuthbertson; dance music by Mrs. Levitzke and Miss Beatty, and Mr. Taylor was in charge of the floor. Prizes were awarded to Misses Mitchell, Irving, and Greyman, and Mr. W. Moore. A couple of raffles helped to swell the funds. Including a number of donations, the net profit will be about £30. Lomos-Bulyee.—At the last monthly meeting of the Corrigin Road Board, it was decided that 30 chains of gravelling should be done on the North Bulyee-road. — Mr. H. Gayfer has sold his Jubuk farm, of 2,000 acres, to Mr. J. K. Warner, of Fremantle, who will use it to grow oats on and fatten sheep. The application of Mr. Warner for permission to erect a wind-mill on the Jubuk well was granted at the last meeting of the road board.—Com-plaints have been received by the Corrigin board from the Brookton board, that the people on the Brookton boundary are not poisoning rabbits as much as they should do. Mukinbudin.— The season's harvesting operations are at an end. The total of wheat throughout the district amounted to 140,000 bags, 79,000 of which was sold by Industries Assistance Board settlers. From the Roseholme Estate, recently pur-chased for the soldier settlement scheme, 24,000 bags was marketed.—The water question is very serious, after a long dry summer. Rabbits are particularly bad this year. Within three months, on one pro-perty alone, 10,000 rabbits have been poi-soned with cyanide, and heap after heap of poisoned rabbits are decomposing along the roadside.—Large areas have been clear-ed and burnt for the coming season and big acreages will be sown. Dry ploughing is the principal work in progress.—Messrs. Reilly Bros, have opened up showrooms as agents for General Motors, H. J. Wig-more, etc., in the town. Dr. Sanders, at present relieving Dr. Finkelstein at Kununoppin, will commence professional work at Mukinbudin on March 31—A farewell social was recently held in the local hall to bid adieu to Inspector Kelsey, of the Agricultural Bank, who is return-ing to his people in England. Margaret.—On February 25, the Roman Catholic section of the community orga-nised a cap and apron ball in aid of church funds. The caps and aprons made a gay show. Sister Pierce, of Margaret River Hospital and Mr. Brian Terry, were the prize winners for the best get up. A popular girl competition created excite-ment, Sister Lowe and Miss Betty Bussell running each other very closely. Miss Bussell was victorious. The ball realised £33. Merredin.—The Merredin Flour Milling Company's buildings are nearing comple-tion and the company is finalising the purchase of a mill. The plant is expect-ed to be running within three months.— Mr. Hemley, manager of the British Im-perial Oil Co., killed a three foot tiger snake at his home on February 21.—The following are the results of the theory of music examination, held at St. Joseph's Convent:— Preparatory Division, first class pass, Rita Carrington, Sybil Hansen, Vera Carey, Olive Adams, Phyllis McCaf-frey, Fred Brown; pass, Edna Cubley. Junior division: Honours: Jessie Cherry, Audrey Veale, Bessie Veale; pass, Francis Carey, Daphne Watson. Intermediate pass: Margaret Speering and May Trea-sure.—The following lots were disposed of at the land sale conducted by the Clerk of Courts: Kunnunoppin, 198 Arthur, Rand, £40; Nungarin 61, Myrtle Norman, £20; Walgoolan 10, C. M. Taylor, £40.— Most of the farmers have finished har-vesting and in most cases carting to the station has been completed. The follow-ing figures show the bags of wheat handled in the Merredin Road Board and district: In stock, 375,349; railed, 109,394.— The total rainfall for the first two months of the year was 48 points. Last year only 10 points were recorded over the same period.— Mrs. Currie, wife of Mr. Currie, engineer, at No. 4 pumping station, who recently met with a serious burning accident, is still a patient in the hospital. Whilst chasing her dog, she walked on some hot ashes and the sole of her left foot was burnt off, and the other was also badly burned.—Whilst motoring from Kellerberrin, Mr. C. H. Forman, solicitor, noticed flames burst out beneath the driving wheel. In endeavour-ing to extinguish them he had his hand badly burnt.— The Blind Students' Con-certina Band gave an entertainment in Hobbs' Picture Gardens on March 4.—A day's sports will be held on Easter Mon-day in aid of the funds of the Merredin hospital, R.S.L. and sports ground. A good programme has been drawn- up.—At a meeting of the R.S.L. it was resolved to support the Road Board in its endeavour to raise £3,000 for additions to the hos-pital. Minnivale.— A number of properties re-cently changed hands. Mr. Arnold, a South Australian buyer, has purchased the adjacent properties of Messrs. Koch-ner, Windsor and Hickey and also that of Mr. H. T. Smith, a total area over 6,000 acres. Mr. Arnold's son and nep-hew, two ex-students of Prince Alfred College, Adelaide, have arrived to assist in managing these properties. Mr. E. O. Cosh has sold one of his properties, Neenan, to Mr. Vernon Smith. Mr. Borg-ward has purchased an area joining the town reserve from Mr. Fred Bull. Mr. Fred Bear, junior, has bought a block from Mr. Kingsley.— Much activity has been shown during the past year in clearing and rolling and the coming season will see a much greater area under crop. Burn-ing off has become general under very favourable conditions.— To help endow a bed in the Wyalkatchem Hospital, Mr. Eddy, assisted by a ladies' committee or-ganised a successful leap year ball, over £20 being raised. Mr. Eddy also ap-proached a number of farmers, obtaining donations of a bag of wheat from several. —While approaching Mlinnivale by motor car, Mr. Charles Munyard collided head on with two lads named Donovan and Ferguson who were riding a bicycle. Fer-guson was struck heavily and received a fractured leg and thigh. Donovan suffered minor injuries. The bicycle was smashed. Mt. Helena.—The local Wireless Club, which has been in existence for a year, hopes to celebrate its first anniversary within the next few weeks. A wireless set and loud speaker were acquired on the hire-purchase system. By dint of hard work on the part of a committee, instal-ments have been met up to date, and it is hoped that the remaining indebtedness will be wiped out by a leap year dance. A fuller use will be made of the set as soon as it becomes the property of the club. (Continued from Page 5.)

RURAL INTERESTS.

COUNTRY NEWS. (Continued.) Mt. Barker.—On February 21 his Ex- cellency the Governor (Sir William Cam-pion), together with the members of the Indeterminate Sentences Board, and Messrs. Burvill, M.L.C, and A. Wans-brough, M.L.A., visited the recently es-tablished prison farm at Pardalup. On his Excellency's return to Mt. Barker he was the guest of the local group of Toc H., who had assembled at the Anglican rec- tory to welcome him.— At the last meet-ing of the local branch of the Parents and Citizens' Association it was decided to es-tablish in Mt. Barker a centre for Univer-sity extension lectures. Messrs. J. H. Mor-gan, E. Thomas, and S. James were elect-ed as a committee to make selections from the lectures available and to arrange dates.— With the return of Mr. S. Ches-ter, the local stationmaster, who had been on two months' leave of absence from the department, the Choral Society, of which he is conductor, has resumed practice. It is the intention of the society to hold a concert on Easter Sunday night.— At the last meeting of the Mt. Barker Rifle Club a liberal programme of trophy shoots for the ensuing season was drawn up.— To as-sist the funds of the Show Ground Im-provement Committee a leap year ball has been arranged for February 29. Nannup.—Bush fires have been giving settlers on the Blackwood an anxious time. Strenuous efforts saved several pro-perties.—The favourable report on the work of the groups recently inspected by the Minister for Agriculture (Mr. Mil-lington) in the Denmark district points to success in the locaions surveyed by the Government for settlers at Ellis Creek. The new clearing system that is so effec-tive gives new settlers a decided pull over the initial groupers. Narembeen.— A very heavy storm passed over the district on Thursday night, March 8, but only a few points of rain fell. Further showers on Friday night brought the total to 16 points. The weather is now cooler and farmers have started cultivating their fallow. Rabbits are being very drastically dealt with, farmers using cyanide water, which ac-counts for thousands of the pests.—The railway yard is full of pipes for the Narem-been water supply, and the work of get-ting the pipe track ready is well in hand. Narrogin.—At a meeting of the Narro- gin Municipal Council on February 21 the Mayor (Mr. A. P. McCormick) reported that preparations for bitumenising the main streets were proceeding. All was in readiness to proceed with a section of the work in Federal-street from the Town Hall corner.—The weather conditions dur- ing the past week have been unpleasantly hot, and have been made more so by the smoke from fires burning in the surround-ing districts.

ing districts.— The Narrogin baths have been a great boon this summer. The tank measures 60 by 20 feet and holds about 100,000 gallons of spring water, for which the proprietor, Mr. G. Hewitt claims medicinal properties.—The boy scout troop has inaugurated week-end camps at Wolwolling Pool. Mr. J. Pur-chase has volunteered his services as am-bulance instructor. Miss W. Smith is leader of the cubs, who are 18 strong.— The cast of the children's Cinderella pan-tomime was entertained by their director to a social evening at the institute last Monday evening. Fifty children were present.—The local fire brigade turned out recently to scrub fires at the rifle range and on the farm of Mr. C. D. Mit-chell. There was no loss.—Arrange- ments are in progress for the holding of another re-union of goldfielders, the date having been fixed for Saturday, March 31. The movement was inaugurated in 1926. An effort will be made to have the gathering made a permanent annual fixture for the Great Southern districts. The number of ex-goldfielders now resident on the Great Southern is considerable.—The additions and renovations to the Narrogin branch of the National Bank have now been com-pleted, and the result is one of the most imposing buildings in the town. The foun-dations and walls have been built with allowance for a second storey if desired. This building has completed a lengthy sec-bion of modern business premises in For-tune-street, which, by comparison, draws attention to the unsightly building utilised as a courthouse on the opposite side of the .street and occupying one of the four best corners in the town. Northam.—For years the Northam Road Board has itself been carrying out rabbit poisoning on properties within its areas, levying a rate on occupiers. It has now been advised by the Chief Inspector of Rabbits that this method is illegal, so to meet the provisions of the Act, the Board has resolved to make a minimum charge for all poisoning.—The enrolment of stu- dents at the Northam High School for the present year constitutes a record, the numbers of boys and girls reaching 262. There are 130 scholars attending the school from distant places, entailing the spending of approximately £9,000 a year in accommodation, books and general in-cidentals. The captain of the school for the year 1928 is Eric Bailey, who came from Belka four years ago. He was the winner of a scholarship, given to the most distinguished boy in the correspondence classes.—At the Northam Police Court on March 9 W. H. Lawrence was charged with cutting a corner when driving a vehicle. The Municipal Traffic Inspector said the defendant collided with a motor cyclist named L. Reynolds, who was un-able to give warning of his approach on account of not having a horn fitted to his machine. Reynolds was in hospital as a result of the acident. A fine of 20/ with costs was imposed. L. Reynolds was charged with having driven a motor cycle without a horn attached and a simi-lar fine was inflicted. Richard Ludlow was fined 10/ with costs, for leaving the engine of a motor car running whilst the vehicle was stationary. George Plumb, an employee of N. Roberts, was charged with having on February 10 sold milk which was not of the nature and sub- stance demanded by the purchaser. A fine of £2 with £1/1/ costs was imposed.

Nungarin.—The dams are very low and water carting is taking up a lot of time. Since December over 40 points of rain have fallen.—Mr. Archie Dawe, who was drowned at Bassendean last week, was widely respected in this district. He was one of the first settlers to take up farming here, over 18 years ago.—The District Council of the Co-operative Federation held its annual meeting at Nungarin on March 7. Delegates from Merredin, Baandee, Doodlakine, Kellerberrin, Korbel, Bruce Rock, Babakin, Totadgin, were present. Mr. Taylor of Doodlakine, was again elect-ed chairman, Messrs. Lutey and Beresford, vice-presidents and Mr. Pollock, of Belka Council, a representative on the Federa-tion and Mr. Skewes honorary secretary. The directors of the Nungarin Co-operative Company entertained the visitors and local shareholders to luncheon. The chair- man (Mr. Hodges) welcomed the guests. —Friday night's train, since the wheat season started, has been continually, run-ning from one to two hours behind sche-dule time at this siding.—Wheat cart- ing having finished, the siding contains three large stacks, about 100,000 bags, exclusive of what has been despatched direct into trucks. Most farmers have returned from their holidays and the plough can be seen working on nearly every farm, while burning off is being carried on over a large acreage.—Mr. Adamson, late of Wulna. has taken over the duties of Roads Board secretary.—Parents complain that the Nungarin School is overcrowded. —A tractor and farm implement demon-stration was held at Mr. G. Herbert's farm on Thursday, February 23, by Wes-tralian Farmers, Ltd. Over 100 farmers attended.—The main south roads, under the control of the Main Roads Board, is still in a shocking condition.—Archdeacon Moore visited the district on Sunday, February 26, and conducted a harvest festival in St. Thomas's Church.—The Royal Auto- mobile Club's representative visited the district last week, congratulating the Road Boards on the large number of signboards erected. New members were en-rolled. The registration of motor cars and trucks now exceeds three hundred. Onslow.—No rain has been reported in the district during the past week, and sup-plies of water for drinking purposes are running low.—Some of the retiring road board members will have to fight to re-tain their seats at the forthcoming elec-tions. Local civic affairs are attracting more attention than has been the case for some years.— The summer rainfall, so far, has been very disappointing. A few stations, such as Kooline, Wyloo, Hardy Junction and Ashburton Downs have had good falls, but a good deal of the heavy rain has fallen in the open unstocked country. In the eastern division Red Hill station has had the highest number of points, 824 hav-ing been recorded since January 28. Peeda-mulla and Mardie had 2½ and 3½ in. respec-tively.—Much animated discussion is go- ing on over the proposed local septic sew-erage scheme. The "anti-septics" appear to be determined to frustrate the measure and have adopted as their slogan, "Septic

sewerage impossible without sure water supply."—The Government scheme for supplying rain water tanks to the towns-people on the deferred payment system is meeting with splendid support. Up to date 21 tanks of 2,000 gallons capacity have been ordered, and a number have already been erected. Osborne Park.—Rabbits have again made their appearance in the Njooken-booroo district, several fully grown speci-mens having been captured in a garden in King Edward-rd.—A successful dance was held in the Njookenbooroo Hall, Scar-borough Beach-rd. on March 2. The pro-ceeds go towards the hall fund. Music was supplied by Miss Madigan and Mr. P. O'Sullivan, of Perth.—Rapid progress has been made by the recently formed tennis club. So many are the applications for membership that the committee has decided to charge nomination fees from March 1, in addition to the annual sub-scription. The committee will hold a masked plain and fancy dress ball on March 16 in the Agricultural Hall. Ne-gotiations are proceeding for the installa-tion of electric lights for evening tennis. —The Market Gardeners' Association, at a meeting of the Association on March 5, decided to write to the Markets Trust, asking what rent would be charged for vehicular space at the central market. Pemberton.—One hundred Pemberton school children, under the headmaster, Mr. Glew, left on March 1 for Bunbury, where they will spend nine days. It will be both a holiday and an educational trip for the children. Daily reports from Mr. Glew announce that the children are well and happy.—The Leap Year ball held on Feb- ruary 25 was a great success. Pingrup.— On February 18 the commit- tee of the Pingrup-Magenta Railway Ex-tension League met at Nyabing, there be-ing present representatives from Katan-ning, Nyabing and Pingrup. The presi-dent (Mr. Geo. Welsh) explained that the chief item of business was the consi-deration of an invitation from the Al- bany Railway Development Committee to attend a conference of delegates from all local governing bodies and railway leagues in the Great Southern district, to discuss the development of the country east of the Great Southern railway by means of a comprehensive railway scheme. After discussion it was resolved that the league send delegates to the conference, directing them to support the comprehensive scheme outlined, but to emphasise that the league by doing so did not submerge its identity or forgo its right to agitate for the ex-tension of railway from Pingrup to Ma-genta. Voluminous correspondence was dealt with, the most important items being from Mr. A. Thomson, M.L.A., intimating that the Minister for Lands and Agricul-ture (Mr. M. F. Troy) had promised to visit the district at an early date with the Director of Agriculture (Mr. G. L. Sutton) and a trustee of the Agricultural Bank, that surveys would be made during March of water catchments promised at Lake Bryde and Magenta, for which areas had been reserved, and enclosing a copy of a letter from the Railway Advisory Board, stating that its members would make an inspection of the country to be served by the proposed railway extension at an early date. A motion of thanks was carried to Mr. Thomson in absentia, and the president and secretary (Mr. C. Lavater) were authorised to make neces-sary arrangements for the reception of the advisory board.

Quairading.—At a meeting of the Quair- ading Race Club on February 20, it was decided to postpone the March meeting.—A party of blind performers de- lighted a large audience with a concert in the Road Board Hall on February 22. After the concert the performers supplied music for a dance.—A record harvest has been obtained in the Quairading Road Board district, the following quantities of wheat having been carted:—Pantapin, 24.250 bags; Yoting, 41,100; Badjaling, 81,550; Quairading, 86,300; Dangin, 87,100; Dulbelling, 15.150; Jacob's Well, 5,230; Balkuling, 15,370; Mawson, 4,900; total 360,970.—A new motor truck, owned by S. Fisher, a farmer of South Quairading, was destroyed by fire on February 22.— The Quairading Rifle Club held a meeting on February 24. It was decided to hold the annual rifle club ball on Easter Monday.—On February 24 a large number of friends gathered at the Road Board hall to bid farewell to the Vigus family, who are leaving the district. Mr. T. H. Argus on behalf of the residents of the district, prsented the guests with a cheque and spoke of the high esteem in which they had been held during their 20 years' resi-dence in Quairading. Mr. V. G. Hinkley supported Mr. Argus's remarks and Mr. W. Vigus responded. Supper was pro-vided by the ladies and dancing was in-dulged in until midnight. Mrs. Parsons supplied the music and Mr. T. Heal was M.C.—A public meeting was held in the Quairading Road Board Hall on March 3. A resolution was carried that the shifting of the soldiers' memorial be left with the local branch of the R.S.L. Mr. R. Beale's plan and model of an im-proved memorial were accepted. A depu-tation was appointed, consisting of Messrs. McDonnell and Beale, to wait on the Quairading Road Board for permission to place the memorial in front of the hall.—A harvest festival service was held in the Anglican Church on Sunday evening, March 4. The little church was crowded, and the gifts of fruit, etc., were handed over to the local hospital.—Barr Bros. held a very successful clearing sale on their property on March 5. The sale was in the hands of Dalgety and Co. Buyers came from Bruce Rock, Beverley, and York. —Mr. Paulett, an engineer of the Main Roads Board, is in the Quairading district surveying roads under the Commonwealth grant scheme.—Tenders will be called shortly for the fencing of the local hospi-tal.

Ravensthorpe.—Owing to its clashing with country week, Ravensthorpe week passed off quietly, the chief item being a cricket match between Newdegate and Ravensthorpe. The visitors won. Mr. Geo. Hibbert, a young English settler met with a painful accident. He had been using a reaper thresher and had changed over to a harvester. Noticing a stick on the comb he tried to pull it out, the beaters striking the back of his hand, tearing the flesh badly. He was sent to the St. John of God Hospital, Perth.— There are a lot of land buyers visiting Ravensthorpe. Mr. W. V. Daniels, one of the earliest soldier settlers here, has sold his Glen Rowan estate, of 2,500 acres, to Mr. Raymond of Wagin and other sales have been reported.—The surveyors work- ing south-east from Lake King, have now linked up with the settled country north-west of Ravensthorpe. They keep one truck engaged carting water from Paul-son's dam to Mount Madden, a distance of 17 miles.—Last week-end the surveyors came down to play Ravensthorpe cricket, the home team winning a closely contest-ed game. Salmon Gums.—Last Sunday, February 12, Salmon Gums cricket team suffered their first defeat at Dowak. They could only score 68 and Dowak retaliated with 75.—In some cases here harvesting is not yet completed. Over 85,000 bags have being received by the buyers and nearly 10,000 are still to come in. Harvesting has been somewhat delayed by the very cool weather. Twelve points of rain fell here last Saturday, accompanied by hail-stones, but no damage was done to any of the crops. Scott's Brook.—Nearly every farm in the district has been affected by fires during the past three weeks. Although the weather has not been very hot, high winds have been responsible for keeping the fires going. The home of Mr. W. F. Williams, of Boyup Brook, narrowly escap-ed destruction on Sunday afternoon. A bush fire, driven by a strong wind reached within about 100 yards of the house before the owner, who was away at the time, was made aware of it. Helpers were soon on the scene, however, and managed, by hard work to save the property.—Mr. Jack Evans was seriously injured recently when his horse stumbled and became entangled with a cow wearing a large yoke. He was taken to the Bunbury Hospital, suffer-ing from broken ribs and collar bone and internal injuries.—Mr. G. P. Jones, of Perth, has taken Mr. T. Parker's place as manager of the Commercial Bank at Boyup Brook, Mr. Parker being trans- ferred to Kondinin. At a public farewell he was presented with a wallet of notes and a travelling rug.—Mr. G. Lovell rea- lised the highest price for wool grown in the Upper Blackwood district for the season just closed. He received 30d. for six bales. Southern Cross.—At a special meeting re- :ently the Yilgarn Road Board decided to initiate a 'Back to Southern Cross' move-ment and a public meeting has been called to elect an executive committee to devise ways and means to that end. The official opening of the Union Plaster Co's works, at Yellowdine and for which the machinery is now practically all assembled, will be part of the celebrations.—A contract has been let through the Agricultural Bank for the erection of a number of settlers' houses, at the miners' special settlement between

Southern Cross and Marvel Loch.—The Yil gam Road Board has ordered roadgradere and a road roller to enable it to tender for the Main Roads Board's road schemes between Southern Cross and Bullfinch, and at North Boddalin, for which £2,000 hat been listed.— Harvesting is practically completed, although a lot of wheat has yet tc be carted to the siding. The district's aver age is about 17 bushels per acre. — Burn ing off is in full swing and the area being cleared by fire is about 50.000 acres in this district. — Agricultural blocks have been surveyed Toetween Marvel Loch and Glenelg Hills, in the vicinity of which a large area of wheat classified as secondclass, is cut np into blocks up to 3,000 acres each. — At Moorine Rock, on Mr. J. Keightley's farm, Mr. H. McCallum, the sheep expert of the Agricultural Department, found that the merino flock had in creased from 30 to 59, since he had seen it last year; He said that his first impres sions as to the prospects for sheep breeding in this district were amply confirmed by the appearance of Mr. Keightley's little flock. On the following 'day Mr. McCallum was at Bullfinch, where he saw Mr. Laslett's 500 sheep which were in good condition. An interesting, address was given to a large number of farmers. — Much anxiety is expressed at Holleston over the failure of the Government bor-ing party to locate a water supply, after over six months' work.—The lighting station, Southern Cross, has been recon-ditioned by parts sent out by Crossley Bros., Manchester, and the engineer says the engine, which has been in constant service for over 22 years, is a remarkable example of the thoroughness which Brit-ish engineers put into their work. The power station is now able to cope with the full load caused by increased consump-tion in the business block of the town.—There was no rain in February and this month is also dry. In consequence the burning off operations are going on uninterruptedly throughout the district. Tambellup.—At the ordinary meeting of the Road Board this month, Mr. A. Thompson, M.L.A., attended and spoke on the objects of the infant welfare move-ment. It was resolved to fall in with the suggested establishment of a health centre at Tambellup and the Board agreed to contribute £25 towards it.—The marriage of Miss Olive Bowman to Mr. Murray Bradshaw was solemnised at St. Peter's Church, Pindillup, by Canon Freiver on February 21.—At a meeting of the Tam- bellup Wild Dog Club, Mr. Davis, of Tunney, announced that he had been in communication with Mr. Toovey, of Frank-land River, who was an expert dog trap-per. Mr. Toovey was willing to come here and make an endeavour to catch the dogs, his remuneration to be £1 a day. It was decided to engage Mr. Toovey at once, the cost to be equally paid by Tambellup and Tunney and to terminate the offer of the reward for the capture of these dogs. —At an Association cricket match, Bob-along (172) scored an easy win against Toolbannup (70). C. Bessen, in 8 overs, got 7 wickets for 33 runs.—In a tennis match between Bobalong and Tambellup, played in Tambellup, the latter were the winners by 9 sets. Three Springs.—The erection of a new hotel for Mr. and Mrs. R. Barnhart, is proceeding apace, as is also the building of a rectory for the Anglican Church. The Rev. Jaquet will be arriving from England shortly, to take control of the parish from Three Springs to Coorow.—Wheat carting is nearly finished, the total number of bags received to date being 95,000.—Indignation has been expressed in consequence of the fact that the Main Road Board has so far made no further attempt to construct the road across the lakes. This neglect would mean a complete cessation of traffic in the event of heavy rains.—A rifle club is in course of formation, a range having been selected a short distance from the town, and proposals are on foot to establish a tennis club.—Arrangements are well in hand for the building of a new hospital It has been estimated that an average of three beds per day will be needed. Toodyay.—The old Coondle school is being removed to Yericoin. The children of Coondle are now conveyed to Toodyay by motor bus.—Messrs. Scott McKie and Lloyd Bros. have taken possession of Boulder Dam and Seoak Farms, respectively, at Bolgart. The former property consists of 1,354 acres, and was sold for £5,500, and the latter of 1,544 acres, the price being £3,500. Key Farms of 1,000 acres, near Toodyay, has also changed hands for £2,800, the new owner being Mrs. M. G. Gadsdon.—A meeting of returned soldiers was held on March 3, when it was de-sided to reform the Toodyay branch of the R.S.L. Mr. T. L. Cambridge was elected president and Mr. A. L. Flavel secretary.—In the Police Court on March 5, Frank Arthur Lee was fined £2 and

1/6 costs for using a number-plate other than that prescribed by the Tarffic Act. For not complying with the Vermin Act, D. E. Lloyd was fined 10/ and 12/ costs. —Miss B. Scrymgour, of Northam, has been appointed school teacher at Bejoor-ling.—The Toodyay Road Board decided to draw the attention of the Main Roads Board to the non-completion of roads start-ed two years ago, and request their im-mediate completion. It was decided to install a fire hydrant on the show ground. The financial statement disclosed that there was a debit of £1,424/4/2 at the bank, and when last month's accounts had been paid there would be an over-draft of £2,000. There was still £1,597/9/10 outstanding for rates, and the secretary was instructed to place all out-standing rates in the solicitor's hands.— Mr. J. Lindsay, M.L.A., is visiting the Eastern states to study the bulk wheat handling installation at Dar-ling Island. During his absence his par-liamentary duties are being attended to by Mr. H. A. Griffiths.—At Calingiri, on February 25, a well-attended farewell social was tendered to Mr. H. Stone, who has purchased a farm at Meneding. Several presentations were made on behalf of the various public bodies with which he was associated. Waeel.—No rain fell during February. On March 8, during the afternoon, the countryside was enveloped in a duststorm which, with electrical disturbances, obliter-ated by a sharp shower later.—The Methodist harvest thanksgiving services were held at their local church on Sunday, March 11.—A few farmers are commenc- ing oat seeding operations this week.— The scholars attending the local school are reduced to 24 now, owing to one fam-ily having left the district and a few of last year's pupils having gone to colleges. Wagin.—There were about a hundred motor cars and about six hundred people present at the Wagin farmers' picnic at Lake Norring on Saturday afternoon, March 3. The lake is about five miles long by one and a half miles broad, and is covered with ducks and black swans. Bathing was general.—Wagin is experi- encing one of the driest summers it has had for years. Some of the tops of jam trees are turning yellow. House- holders are still carting water from the municipal dam, which is standing the strain and is expected to last another four or five weeks.—A farewell social evening was held at Mrs. F. H. Da ies in honour of Sister Murdoch, who is leaving for Perth.—The Methodist Ladies' Guild Con- tinental was a success; gross receipts be-ing about £12. Wongan Hills. —The continued dry wea- ther has greatly aided farmers in their war on rabbits, which at present takes the form of cyanide poisoning of available water. Apart from burning operations, farmers are now carting superphosphates in pre-paration for seeding which will commence in April.—Recently an inquest was held on the death of Edward N. Blackmore, farmer of Wongan Hills. Mr. Blackmore purchased cyanide allegedly for the poisoning of rab-bits on his farm. The Coroner found that death was due to cyanide poisoning, but there was no evidence to show how the poison was administered.—A fire broke out recently in the kitchen of O. Hubert's re-sidence at Wongan Hills. The fire spread to an adjoining room, but was checked be-fore it had a strong hold. Mr. Hubert's motor car, parked by the wall of the house, caught fire and was destroyed.—On Wed- nesday, February 29, Mr. McCallum, of Westonia, took over the postal duties at Wongan Hills from Mrs. J. Hackett, who commenced duty at Ballidu the following day. A movement is afoot to secure direct telegraphic communication from Ballidu to Perth, thereby obviating delays caused by telephoning telegrams through a sub office. —The Wongan-Ballidu Road Board took action against five residents for breaches of the Traffic Act on February 20, and fines ranging from 5/; with £1/4/ costs, to £2, with £1/6/6 costs, were inflicted.—A meeting was held at Wongan Hills on March 3 to make final arrangements for the sports to be held on St. Patrick's Day. The St. Patrick's ball will be held in the hall at night.—Several Wongan Hills farms have changed hands recently.—There ap- pears to be a greater number of snakes in the district this summer than usual.—A dance was held in aid of the hall funds at Wongan Hills on Saturday, February 25. A small profit resulted and was allotted to the piano fund.—The price of water, which is very scarce in the town, has been raised to 6/ per hundred gallons. Allowing for what is spilt and what is not removed from the bottom of the carrier's tank about 90 gallons is supplied for the 6/. — A leap year and fancy dress ball was held at Ballidu on Saturday, March 10, in aid of the appeal for Miss Greta Bulline. The opening of the new school at Kokardine was celebrated at a dance on Saturday night, March 3, the

function was well attended. A welcome was extended to Miss Findlay, the new teacher.—The Church of England conduct- ed its harvest festival and sale of gifts in the Wongan Hills hall on February 27.— srew premises are being erected for the Union Bank at Wongan Hills.—A new post office building and postmaster's quar-ers are to be erected by Mr. O. Ganzer, in contract. Mr. McCallum, late of Wes-tonia, is the new postmaster.—The annual inspection of the district by members of the Road Board commenced on March 7. With the exception of Lake Hinds-road, those in West Wongan are suffering from the harvest haulage. The East Wongan-road has some bad patches, and the road from Wongan Hills to Kondut is also in a state of disrepair.—The dry spell has entailed extra work and expense for the local board. Wells and tanks in a state of disrepair have been requisitioned to replenish settlers' supplies and for the watering of stock.—Burning off of scrub and stubble is still a general occupation, together with superphosphate carting.— At a Government land sale on March 8 Wongan Hills town lots of ¼ acre were offered at prices ranging from £20 to £45 and one Ballidu town lot at £15. All the valuable blocks have been acquired. —The highest score for this season in the Wongan-Ballidu Cricket Association was made on Saturday, March 3, when F. Vizard (West Wongan), retired at 111 against Ballidu. H. Hall (Kondut) com- piled 81 the same day against Wongan Hills. Wyalkatchem.—The weather for the past week has been very close and oppressive. Most of the residents in the town are very short of water and many farmers are carting water for their stock. The water scheme most favoured is an ex-tension of the goldfields pipe line. Some such assured water supply would enable farmers to run sheep. At present com- paratively few farmers run sheep.—The opening night of the R.S.L. pictures was a success. The takings were £18/10/.— The distribution of bulk oil from the Vacuum Oil Company's recently complet-ed depot commenced on February 25.— The prolonged dry spell has enabled far-mers to poison many thousands of rab-bits in the district.—Preparations are well in hand for the opening meeting of the recently formed trotting club on March 10. The honorary secretary reports excellent entries. The catering arrange- ments are in the hands of the Lady Novar Hostel committee.—At an early date Mr. Thurstun will be erecting a blacksmith's shop tyre vulcanising depot and a tractorworkshop.—Seventeen points of rain fell fell here on March 8. Even this small amount was very welcome to residents, many of whom were out of rainwater.— Ten local farmers were proceeded against by the Vermin Inspector for offences under the Vermin Act, at the local court, before Mr. H. D. Moseley, P.M. In nine cases fines varying from £3 and costs downward were inflicted, and the remaining case, against T. W. Smith, was dismissed.—Ar- rangements are well in hand for the fourth annual Easter tournament. Yandanooka.—Wheat carting is finished, the number of bags received at the siding totalled 71,000 against 69,000 last year. The greater portion of this total has been ac-cepted by Westralian Farmers Ltd. Yanmah, Groups 1, 19 and 23.—Very hot weather is being experienced and bush fires are an every day occurrence. Settlers are busy burning off, preparing for new pas-tures, and reconditioning old pastures with the plough.—The local Parents and Citizens' Association tendered a welcome social to Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Rourke and and Miss Mitchell, on February 18.—On February 20 the annual genral meeting of the association took place, when the fol-lowing officers were elected.—President, Mr. I. G. Cooper; vice-presidents, Messrs. Taylor and Jay; secretary and treasurer, Miss E. Mitchell, Messrs. Cooper, Sawyer, Taylor and McLaren, and Mrs. E .F. Ridge-well were elected to the school board.— Bush fires continue in this district, and very dry conditions prevail.—On Sunday, Feb- ruary 26, the Methodist dhurch harvest festival services were held in the school. The Rev. F. E. James conducted both services. There was an excellent dis-play of vegetables, fruit, etc. The choir rendered anthems, and solos were sung by Mesdames Hobbs and Ball. Community singing was enjoyed. On Monday, Feb-ruary 27, a musical programme was car-ried out and afterwards the whole of the gifts were auctioned at satisfactory prices. Dry conditions still prevail. Surveyors are at work in this district on the proposed drainage system for creek waters. This work, when completed, should give the settlers additional land for intense culture, which is very necessary for root crops

and summer feed, particularly in a dry season. Tobacco is now being carted to curing sheds. Some fine looking plants are to be seen being taken to be dried and turned into a marketable product. York.—The first semi-final of the York Avon Valley Cricket Association was play-ed on February 26 on Forrest Oval by teams from Quellington and Malebelling. The former team won on the first in-nings by 22 runs, the total scores being 125 and 104 respectively.—Football en- thusiasts are preparing for the coming season. The annual general meeting of the Medina Rovers Club was held on March 2, and office bearers for the en- suing year, were elected.—The membership of the York Bowling Club has greatly increased and each day and evening many devotees join in the game.—The grass courts put down for tennis players by the club have added to the beauty of this picturesque spot. A number of local bowlers will compete at the Busselton carnival.—The Royal Hotel has changed hands, the new proprietor, Mr. A. E. Elliott, taking control on February 27.— Burning operations are in full swing. Many farmers in the district are improving their properties by additional clearing.— Messrs. Murray and Vincent have said their Greenhills property to Mr. R G. Thomas, of Victoria.—At the annual meeting of the York Athletic Club, the following were elected officers:— Patron, Mr. A. J. Monger; president, Mr. Warren Marwick; treasurer, Mr. P. A. Stewart; auditor, Mr. J. E. Sparke; committee, Messrs. G. J. Dovey, P. A. Stewart, H. Wake, J. H. Prunster, J. W. Marwick, W. Phillips, E. Dovey, J. Hubble, R. Under-wood; secretary, Mr. C. J. Ashbolt. The annual sports meeting will be held on June 4. The prize money aggregates £215.—Two shops in Avon-terrace are being built for Mr. R. L. Williams. Two new residences for Messrs. Giles and Ashworth are also in course of erection.—The second semi- final of the York-Avon Valley Cricket As-sociation was played on Forrest Oval on Sunday, March 4, the teams being from Tipperary and Balladong. The former were successful on the first innings by 54 runs.— Mr. G. C. Latham, M.L.A., entertained a number of citizens at dinner at the Castle Hotel, on Friday evening, March 9, prior to his departure from Fremantle by the Largs Bay on March 22.—The introduction of concrete silos into the district marks an important step in farming progress and development. One, with an 85-ton capacity, was officially opened by the Mayor on Mr. S. F. Morrell's farm on March 3, in the presence of a large gathering of farmers. The construction was carried out by Messrs. Dudley and Dwyer, Limited, of Perth, whose representative gave a lucid explanation of its working. Yarloop.—Norman Anderson (11), was riding in a spring cart driven by William Hill on February 21, when the horse shied and threw both passengers out. Hill escaped with bruises but the boy's right arm was broken.—A. Depiazzi, a fettler employed by Millars' Timber and Trading Co. at Hoffman Bush, was returning to camp on February 21 with the navvy gang when the trolley they were riding on left the rails. Depiazzi was the only one seriously hurt, his right leg being broken. A special train with Dr. Jacobs aboard was immediately sent to Hoffman and the injured man was brought to the Yarloop Hospital. An addition has been made to the hospital staff by the appointment of a staff nurse with a double certificate.— The freak dance promoted by the Hospi-tal Comfort Aid Fund committee proved a success. The prize for the ladies went to Mrs. Hummerston. An early start is hoped for in using the funds to convert an unused isolation ward at the Yarloop Hospital into an operating theatre.—A site has been prepared for the Masonic Hall and as the timber is ready an early start with the construction is expected.