FIRE BRIGADE SOCIAL

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 455, 10 September 1928, Page 14

FIRE BRIGADE SOCIAL

DEVONPORT HOSTS Devonport Municipal Volunteer Fire Brigade entertained about 200 guests at at “smoke concert” on Saturday evening in the social hall of the brigade station. Among the visitors were tbje chiefs of most of the city and suburban brigades and Messrs. Gilbert, Watts and Osborne, president, secretary and treasurer of the United Fire Brigades’ Association. Mr. E. Aldridge, Mayor of Devonport, presided. Superintendent Follas, of Devonport, toasted the Mayor and councillors of Devonport; the chairman responded, making reference to the efficiency of the brigade which had turned out for 40 alarms during the year. Mr. Alex. Harris, M.P., in toasting the United Fire Brigades’ Association, said that it had accomplished much for firemen and for the local bodies which maintained brigades. Captain Watts, in acknowledging the toast, said that this year the association celebrated its jubilee, having been formed in Canterbury in 1878. He made a plea for Dominion support for the association in its efforts to pull down fire losses which were terrific for a country of this size and age. Superintendent Wilson, of the City Brigade, responded to the toast of “The Visitors,” and dealt with the question of fire prevention. Mr. W. K. Howitt, North Shore representative, replied to the toast of the honorary members. Items of entertainment were supplied by Messrs. W. Marks, Taylor, C. Massee, Reg Rushton, O’Carrol, Wren, Len Kevin, Jones, Langridge and Elder. Mr. J. Armstrong played the accompaniments.

Medals were presented as follows: Di. Bennett, a two-year bar, he having 21 years’ connection with the brigade. Similar bars to Captain Follas (19 years’ service), Fireman Whitley (13 years), Deputy-Superintendent Stevens (19 years). Secretary Geo. Crabbe (11 years). Three years* certificate to Dr. Eade.

Prizes won at the annual sports competitions were distributed. Championship cup and handicap shield, Foreman Colley; gold medal for two-man event, Foreman Colley and Fireman Whitley; gold medal for three-man event, Foreman Colley, Firemen Page and Whitley; gold watch for 100yds race: Fireman Whitley; North Shore Brigades’ Cup. Foreman Colley and Fireman Whitley.