ID Aug. 



[910. 



77/6' Stud Horse Industry. 



487 



by the Government by means of premiums to stallions, or some such 

 scheme. Incidentally, it may be speculated that if the premium system 

 were in vogue, the benefit would go largely to Xew Zealand breeders 

 through the enhanced prices that would be paid for premium horses. 

 The sum which has been expended on freight and insurance of these 1,343 

 horses, amounting to between ^10.000 and ^13,000. and which of course 

 the Victorian buyer has to pay, would in itself constitute a handsome 

 subsidy if expended annually on the industry within the State. The 

 impeachment implied by the payment, away outside the State, of this great 

 sum annually is against draught horse breeders solely, for, compared 

 with the 146 draught stallions, only 13 stallions of other breeds have been 

 imported from Xew Zealand during the year (7 thoroughbreds, 5 trotters, 

 and I pony). 



However this may be. I think you will agree that the position is 

 sufificiently serious and striking as to warrant some attention being given 

 to it by the thoughtful among you. Presuming on this, and without the 

 slightest intention of dictating to you or forcing my views upon you. I pur- 

 pose offering suggestions concerning what may be the cause and what the 

 remedy for this continuous dependence on a neighbouring country for the 

 maintenance of a sufficient supply of draught horse sires. I know the ex- 

 planation that so readily rises to the minds of those who would wish to 



Foaled i5 



SIR EVERARD. 



Winner of Glasgow Premium for Clvdesdale in 18S8, 1889 and 1890. 



excuse the situation, and who have not had experience of both countries — 

 the explanation that is fo.stered by the importer dealers, and others inter- 

 ested in the trade, and that is accepted somewhat blindly by the breeders 

 here whose failure to supply the requirements is a reflection on their 

 methods, viz., climate. 



It is said the milder climate of Victoria prevents horses growing to the 

 size they do in New Zealand ; that when bred here they lose their weight 



s 2 



