Farmers' Excursions.
Departments Efforts Appreciated.

The inauguration of farmers' excursions between the different provinces during the winter months has, in addition to stimulating passenger traffic, given farmers a much needed opportunity of meeting and comparing notes regarding the various problems of their calling.

The excursions have been freely patronised, and the following letter, received by the Minister of Railways, expresses the appreciation of a comprehensive section of the farming community:—

On behalf of the Provincial Executive, and the eleven branches of the Farmers' Union of the West Coast, I have been requested to ask you to convey to Mr. H. Chapman, District Traffic Manager, Christchurch, and Mr. Pawson, Business Agent, their thans for many kindnesses shown to the West Coast Farmer Excursionists during their trip to Canterbury and that the Railway Board be congratulated on their skilful inauguration of this very fine scheme, providing as it does both pleasure and education for those availing themselves of it. I feel sure that next year larger crowds will avail themselves of this fine opportunity of visiting Canterbury.

From the Secretary, Westland Rugby Sub-Union, Hokitika, to Mr. W. Craw, Stationmaster, Hokitika:— At the last meeting of the Westland Rugby Union I was directed by the Executive to write and convey to you their sincere thanks and appreciation for your efforts in securing suitable train arrangements for the supporters of the code on the occasion of the representative fixture, Ashburton versus Westland, held on August 17th.

From the Secretary, Methven Trotting Club, Methven, to the Railway Board:— I am instructed by the Committee of the above Club to express our keen appreciation of the Railway facilities arranged for our recent Race meeting on the 8th October by Mr. McAloon (Stationmaster, Methven), Mr. S. F. Pawson and the Traffic Manager's Office, Christchurch. The Officers concerned are entitled to the highest commendation.

From J. E. Watson and Company Ltd., Invercargill, to the District Traffic Manager, Invercargill:— We cannot permit the opportunity to pass without congratulating yourself and Transport Officers on the excellent work done at Bluff in the discharge of our cargo of Saychel Guano ex the s.s. “Epsom,” and this despite the fact that there were several other vessels in port discharging and receiving cargo. The discharging of a bulk cargo of 3,100 tons in sacks in something under 6½ eight-hour days, under the special circumstances is, we believe, a record for the port. We would also like to make special reference to the work of the Bluff staff, and especially the clerk in charge of the weighing. He was most obliging, and put himself to a good deal of inconvenience to give us weights certificates at the completion of each day's work, thus enabling us to get out the necessary invoices to our customers.