the fertility of
the soil and the congenial climate has greatly lead to easy-going
methods of farming, which are not altogether in the interests of the
country. Few countries could carry on their rural industries with
similar easy methods; none would leave the people as prosperous as the
people of Australia.

The information already given shows that the wheatfarmer, except in the
most isolated districts, has the facilities for educating his children
at little or no cost. Living is cheap on the farm. In most parts of the
wheat belt fruit grows luxuriantly, and within three or four years a few
trees will provide the settler with sufficient fresh fruit for home
consumption, and to make jam and preserves for the family use.
Vegetables can be grown during the greater part of the year, and
throughout the twelve months if there is an ample water supply. Ideal
settlers' homes are to be met with in all districts--a weatherboard or
brick cottage, comfortable and roomy, with wide verandahs, covered with
creeping grape or passion fruit vines, a few beds of brilliant flowers,
a vegetable patch, and an acre or so of fruit trees. Many wheatgrowers
combine fruitraising or poultry-keeping with wheatgrowing; some, in
suitable districts, find great profit in cultivating a vineyard. These
developments depend upon the man and his capability and tendencies, and
upon the co-operation and talents of his wife.

For his meat supply the farmer usually depends upon his own flock of
killing sheep, varied with beef or bacon procured from the township. If
he is within 10 miles of the township he will obtain his bread supply
from the local baker, although, of course, many housewives do their own
baking. In the country districts, however, bread and stores are
delivered long distances, 20 miles and more.

The smallest country town has its church, school, post and telegraph
office, bank, savings bank, stores, blacksmith's shop, hotel, and so on.
There is usually a School of Arts, with a circulating library.

The country districts enjoy a system of local government, and the farmer
elects the councillors who manage local affairs.

He has his annual show, usually an annual race meeting. There are
football and cricket clubs for his boys. Open-air sports are popular in
the country districts of Australia, and are a splendid means of bringing
the young fellows together.

The Agricultural Bureau or Farmers' Associations' meetings provide
intercourse with