378 



Journal of Agriculture. 



[to June, 1909. 



SYSTEMATIC DAIRYING ON THE MOE SWAMP. 



W. A. l/crkcs. Senior Dairy /'rod nee Grader. 



To show what can be attained by the exercise of perseverance and 

 systematic effort, attention is drawn to the farm of Mr. J. J. Swingler on 

 the Moe Swamp. The property, known as '' Glen Iris Farm," is situ- 

 ated on the banks of the main drain. The illustration opposite (No. 2) 

 gives a general view of the swamp and sho'vvs the extent to which 

 settlement in this part of Gippsland has l^een brought in a comparatively 

 short time. 



Previous to settlement, the land in question was covered with a mass 

 of trees, tussocks, and reeds. Some idea of its condition will be formed 

 from our first illustration. Readers can imagine the hardships en- 

 countered by the pioneers. Many of them, like Mr. Swingler, had large 



r. CONDITION 01 



families of growing boys and girls and practically no c pital when the\ 

 commenced operations in this now famous district. The intelligence and 

 energy which this particular family must have expended to bring their 

 .small holding of 37 acres freehold and 35 acres leasehold to the present 

 state of excellence in the comparatiwiy short period of 9 vears commai' ' 

 admiration. 



A less suitable time could not ha\e been chosen for securing photo- 

 graphs than the time of my visit (27th .'\pril) ; my object, however, is to 

 I>lace on record the splendid j)rartic:il nsuhs achieved and the methods 

 employed to secure the same. 



The farm buildings are not by anv means elaborate, but there is a 

 comfortable home. Improvements in the form of an up-to-date milking 

 shed and a modern piggery will short 1\ he erected, the opinion being held 

 by the owner tiiat the more comfortablt- the stock are made, the better wilf 

 be the commercial return. 



