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The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 13, Issue 8 (November 1, 1938)

How the Railways Assist the Farmer

How the Railways Assist the Farmer.

In the past few years railways all over the world have interested themselves more than ever in the provision of better and more varied services for the farmer, who is to-day decidedly “rail-conscious.” Here in Britain, extended services and facilities have, in effect, brought the railways to the farmhouse door. In particular, a great boon has been the extension of the railway country lorry service, now operating from 2,750 railheads, and giving farmers twenty miles or so from the railway a direct link with the big centres. Specially-fitted motor lorries, employed for the regular cartage of milk, is another development; while hay ladders and similar appliances are now included in the equipment of the railhead cartage depots. Special motor lorries and railway trucks are provided for the movement of cattle. In a single year, the Home railways convey 2 ¾ million cattle and calves, 1 ½ million pigs, and 6 ¼ million sheep and lambs. Low-loading rail and road vehicles are a feature, and the feeding and watering of animals in transit is carefully watched. For a few pence, farmers may insure their livestock against transit risks. Complete farm removals are undertaken by the score. This service not only provides for the actual transport of furniture, stock and equipment, but also includes the loading and unloading of the animals and implements, the packing and unpacking of furniture, and—by arrangement—the laying of floor coverings, the hanging of pictures and other incidental services. In addition to this, a one-third reduction in railway fares is granted to every member of the household to their new destination.