19 



In 1003 there were six classes and the courses were extended to four 

 months. The average attendance of students at the several points 

 was 42, 25, 19, 47, 35, and 20. These averages do not include the 

 numerous visitors who were present at most of the meetings. 



In 1004 classes were held in seven centers, each class continuing four 

 weeks, with an average daily attendance at each center of 55, 38, 33, 

 2G, G5, 35, and 52. Eighteen lecturers were employed in giving 

 instruction, each representing some specialty in agriculture. The 

 meetings were held during the afternoon hours, with an occasional 

 lantern lecture in the evening. 



At the completion of each course there is an examination, any pupil 

 being at liberty, however, to take it or not, as he prefers. If he elects 

 to take it, and passes, a certificate of the fact that he has passed is 

 given to him, and he is then in position to contest for certain prizes 

 that are offered for the best examination papers presented. 



The following schedule of regulations prescribed for the short 

 courses of instruction for farmers and farmers' sons, held in 1003, in 

 the toAvns of Horsham, Boort. Kyneton, Ballarat, Geelong, Sheppar- 

 ton, Matfra, and Warrnambool, explains the conditions under which 

 these classes are conducted: 



Instruction will continue for a period of four weeks in each center. 



Three lectures will be delivered in the afternoon of each day for five days a 

 week. 



No charge will be made for instruction. 



Farmers and farmers' sons, or men who have worked at least one year on the 

 land, are eligible for admission. 



Those attending may be of any age over 10 years. 



No entrance examination will be held. 



A final examination in every subject will be held, but attendance at this 

 examination will be optional. 



Those who pass the final examination with credit will be awarded a certificate. 



The Australian Natives' Association will present a gold medal to the most 

 successful student of all those attending the short courses of instruction. 



A free library, consisting of approved text-books, will be available, under 

 regulations, during the month at each center. 



Classes will be formed at the above-mentioned towuis if the following condi- 

 tions are complied with : 



(1) At least 40 eligible students must be enrolled before May 15. 



(2) The agricultural society or some local body must bear all local expenses, 

 such as providing a suitable hall, advertising in local papers, etc. 



If the above conditions are not complied with no class will be held in that 

 particular center this year. 



These classes are not intended for local students only. Any farmer or 

 farmer's son in the State of Victoria may attend. 



Arrangements have been made with the railway department that return 

 tickets available for one month will be issued to those traveling to attend the 

 classes at holiday-excursion fares. 



