OUR VOLUNTEERS.

Globe, Volume XX, Issue 1538, 22 January 1879, Page 3

OUR VOLUNTEERS.

[By Marksman.]

Though volunteering is not at present up to the standard of efficiency which it enjoyed some few years ago, wc may look forward to an augmentation of numbers and an increased interest in the subject, as we are promised that the cloud which has overcast the movement for some time past is to bo removed, and matters made more interesting. There will be several causes to create this effect. First, there will bo the arrival of the “ big guns” for the defence of the port, which will have to be mounted and afterwards manned by our artillerymen. The practice with these is sure to cause an increased interest amongst the men, and the question of a paid permanent battery cannot long remain in abeyance. That, however, is matter for the future. Another cause of interest is an endeavour on the part of the officer in command of the district to establish a head-quarters band, of such strength and efficiency as to bo worthy of the position. All volunteers will bo glad to hear of (his—and citizens generally—as the presence of a good band at each parade does much to infuse a cheerful spirit into the men and cause a more constant attendance thereat, than, under the present quiet state of affairs, takes place. A march out, headed by a good band, has a very inspiriting effect upon the men, and it may safely be predicted that, should the movement bo successfully accomplished, our volunteers will once more assume the prominent position they once held in the colony. Our volunteers have rarely enjoyed a good march out, owing to the short time allowed for monthly inspection, hut we believe it is intended that this shall form a special part of a fortnightly parade of the head-quarters corps. Arrangements are pending with the members of Messrs Toomer’s hand to become the head-quarters band, and from the fact that they are all equipped with a good military uniform, and instruments, and are under the able direction of Mr Dorn—an ex-military bandsman —we may look forward to the establishment of a band worthy of the title it will bear, and an honour to the movement.