23 December 1929
Beekeepers' Worries
MEETING AT RYLSTONE HONEY PRODUCERS' ASSOCIATION
Mr. S. P. Paddison, hon. secretary of the Association, writes, under date 11/12/29.
The usual monthly meeting of The Western District Honey Producers' Association of N.S.W. was held in the Temperance Hall, Rylstone, on Saturday, December 7. The secretary reported the visit of the Board's inspector, who, so far as could be gathered, visited the president, treasurer, and secretary. The reason of his visit, they presumed, was to get the strength of the Association. Asked what benefits beekeepers were to get from conscription, he stated that we would be benefited by the small beekeeper getting a higher price for his goods. This was all, so it looks as if these alleged benefits are going to cost the beekeeper considerably more than they may be worth. The most pleasant note struck was when the secretary read a letter from Goulburn beekeepers stating that as a branch of the Apiarists Association they had disbanded, and formed the Southern District Honey Producers' Association. This news was received with acclamation, and a letter from Windeyer announcing a branch of the Western District H.P.A. was also warmly received. A letter from a Mudgee beekeeper asking for assistance in forming a branch was also received and it was unanimously decided to support the Mudgee men in forming a branch. A letter was read from Condobolin and the writer enclosed his subscription fee and promised further support in any action the association might take in ridding the Industry of the Honey Board. Correspondence from Wagga stated that while N.S.W. Beekeepers were bound down to sell at certain prices, Victorian honey was being supplied from there to Albury at lower rates, and the unfortunate conscripts of this State have to stand aside and see their local market taken from them. One beekeeper at the meeting gave it as his opinion that whereas was observed opossums, an open season should be declared for politicians, and that if the country was rid of these meddlers peace and prosperity might again reign. Judging by the tone of letters received from beekeepers from practically all over the State the Marketing Act is regarded as a curse, and politicians at next election will have a lively time from apiarists. Honey, it was pointed out, was no cheaper now to the consumer and prices no better to the producer, so wherefore the necessity of supporting the Board and the agents, who between them take an extra 'rake off' of 11½ per cent., amounting to 3/5½d per tin of honey. The president again urged all beekeepers to unite and help the Association to rid the industry of this incubus.
S. PADDISON, Hon. Sec1
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