The Linen Flax Industry in New Zealand.

July 26: Address by Mr. F. R. Callaghan, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research.

Although linen flax had been grown in New Zealand by early settlers, it had never grown into an industry. In 1935 it was re-introduced, and by 1939 a great deal of experimental work had been done, so that in 1940 when requested to do so by England New Zealand was able to undertake the sowing of 600 tons of seed. Sites for ten factories were selected and farmers given contracts to grow the seed. The first factory opened in May, 1940, in Blenheim, and at the present time 14 factories are in operation. By means of lantern slides the speaker explained the structure of the linen flax plant, its utilisation and methods of extraction. After the extraction of the fibre all waste matter is utilised and made into by-products—fluff from the tow is made into lin-wool, loose straw from the de-seeder is made into lin-pack for packing, while the seed is made into linseed oil and stock feed. Chive material is used to fire the boilers in the factories. At the conclusion of the address a 16 mm. film showing the linen flax industry and made by the manager of the Railway Workshops was screened.