FITZROY FIRE BRIGADE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 293, 3 May 1913, Page 8

FITZROY FIRE BRIGADE.

FITZROY ANNUAL RE-UNION. About TO (iremiin and their gurats gathered in the Fitzroy llall on Tlnirsdiiy evening, when the Fitzroy Fire Brigade held its annual re-union. Everything conducive to a pleasant evening was provided. Superintendent F. C. ,). Bdiringcr presided, and opened with the toast "The King." Mi. I. Aroa gave "The llnital Fire Brigades' Association," I coupled with the name of Superintendent Bellringer. Sir. JMlringer, in 1 espouse, thanked them for the reception given to the toast. The Association was the main governing body of the Brigades in New Zealand. He paid a tribute to the efficiency of the Fitzroy Fire Brigade, a state of affairs which, he said, was largely due to the Association. The Brigade had acquitted itself well ill the New Plymouth competitions, which served a useful purpose. Legislation now aided Fire Brigades, and the Fire Board gave help in maintaining them in a sound financial state, facilitating rigid inspection. Injured firemen were now, as was only right, amply provided for by accident insurance. He hoped to see Fitzroy represented at the next year's Akaroa Conference. The Association honored five-year men with a medal, and a man got some diploma from the time he com- ' pleted three years' service. The govern- i ing body comprised some of the best men in New Zealand, who were always' alive to the interests of the men. He had always received the greatest support from the Association. Mr. Percy White proposed "The Borough Council of Greater New Plymouth," coupled with the names of the Fitzroy representatives. He referred to the possibility of a future Fitzroy Mayor of New Plymouth. Mr. J. Kibby and Mr. F. H. Jackson suitably responded. Superintendent Bellringer .next proposed "Our Hosts." He congratulated the residents on their Brigade, and hoped to see equally good Brigades in Vogeltown, Westown and Moturoa some day. He paid a tribute to Captain F. C. Grif-' fiths and his staff, arid anticipated the building of a new station this year. Other speakers complimented the Brigade on its efficiency, and Captain F. C. Griffiths suitably responded to the toast. Before dispersing- the Chairman said he had to propose the health of Mr. McIndoe, a well and favourably known resident of the town, whose services they would all hope to see retained on the coming electric tramways. The toast was received with musical honors, and the recipient responded in a few well chosen words. Other toasts were "The Performers," and the Pres3. During the evening songs and recitations were given by Messrs. J. Somerville, A. Courtney, W. Preece, H. Moon, G .Mclndoe, J .Lovell, F. Meikle, J. T. Leitch, P. Frederick, H. Brooks. H. Joll and Keys. Mr. P. Frederick furnished the music. ANNUAL REPORT. Captain F. C. Griffiths, in presenting the ninth annual report of the Fitzroy Volunteer Fire Brigade, stated that it gave him much pleasure to report the entire absence of fires during the period There had been several changes in membership owing to sickness and members leaving the district, but he was pleased to be able to state the full strength was maintained. During the year the Brigade completed in the Taranaki District Fire Brigades' Association competitions held at New Plymouth, and acquitted themselves in a manner reflecting great credit to all concerned by tying with Hawera and Stratford Brigades for first honors in the champion shield. Inspector Hugo inspected the Brigade twice during the year, and on both occasions full musters were accounted for and a considerable amount of useful work done. After the practical work tha inspector addressed the officers and members of the brigade and imparted some excesdingly useful information. He expressed his gratitude to the Fire Board and superintendent for the prompt manner in which they had supplied the Brigade with the necessary gear, new uniforms, etc. Several members received their long-service medals, bars, etc., during the year.