TOKAANU

Taupo Times, Volume II, Issue 52, 14 January 1953, Page 7

TOKAANU

Volunteer Fire Brigade At a meeting of the Tokaanu Volunteer Fire Brigade on Deeember 16 Mr Sutherland presided over Ihe foliowing members, Messrs I. A. Nisbit, D. R. Muliins, P. J. Dempsey, A. Withingbon, and B. F. Edkins, Seeretary. Apologies: Messrs H. B. Proc-i tctr, Rev. Father Arrts, H. Buxton, F. | Hill, and M. Ghhiba. New members, Messrs D. R. Muliins and J. Jorgenson were elected. The Superintendent reported that luachines were in good working order. It was decided that a trouble lamp be procured for the fire staiion. Aniiual Report Mr Sutherland pwsented his yearly report, as follows: During the past nine months the Brigade has been required to deal | with five fires, large and small. One of these was serious, the residence of Mr D. Kuru, Tokaanu. This blaze occurred in the early hours of October 16th. Although the alairm was given as early as possible and the trailer pump in action promptly, it was impossible to save the building as the fire had a good hold and the building being old and wooden, burnt very fiercely. Another outbreak at Turangi spread from a bonfire to a nearby hedge. This was brought under control befotre any damage could be done to the residence. Other fires were the usual scrub and raupo. Again my thanks are due to those *members of the brigade far turning out when required. In all a total of 14 praetices and fire attendances were called with an approximate 35 per cent. attendance of members turning out. During April a visit was made by the Chief Fire Officeir who commented on various aspect of the Brigade and buildings. One of these was the lining of walls, and making a more solid foundation of the lloor of the station, but neither of these can be proceeded with until finances are in such a position that the work may be undertaken. The building has also been insured against loss. As subscriptions in lieu of rates

from householders served by the brigade have not been collected for two years, members volunteered to canvas each European householder and | the result has been very gratifying. Special mention must be made of Mr G. Nicholas whose efforts in collecting from weekend and holiday cottage owners has been most excellent. To Mr Hill, our foreman, at present in hospdtal in Wellington, we wish a speedy recovery and retufh to Tokaanu. In future it is proposed that after fires or praetices,, the hoses that have. been used be taken to the wharf and washed in the lake. This action would wash off any particles of grit and dust adhering to the coverings and help to prolong the life of the hoses. Recently a very pleasant social hour was spent in farewelling the past secretary, Mr V. • J. Ford who has now left the district. All speakers eulogised Mr FordV services as secretary and wished him and his family their best wishes in his new venture. To the new secretary, Mr B. F. Edkins was extened the good wishes of members in his new capacity.