The Fire Brigade Picnic.

Thames Star, Volume VIII, Issue 2801, 5 February 1878, Page 2

The Fire Brigade Picnic.

This affair, which came off yesterday, notwithstanding the threatening aspect of the weather was, on the whole, a success. In the morning some delay took place, as the whole of the excursionists did not roll up to time, some of them eridently being afraid of the weather. At last the Ruby started, the Piako with another party of excursionists having left the wharf half-an-boar previous. The Euby, however, made good progress, and the band on board discoursed sweet music at intervals, causing the residents on the river banks to come from their houses as the vessel passed. When within five miles of the Puke, H was seen that the Piako was being fast overhauled, and some excitement wai caused as to which would be first at the Puke—the Piako or the Buby. The Buby continued to gain, but the Piako reached Austin's several yards ahead. The party landed, and in response to a request from the committee, Mr Austin kindly allowed them to enter his orchard, which was done. The excursionists then enjoyed themselves in the orthodox picnic fashion with cricket, kiss-in-the-ring, etc., while a few went up to Paeroa and Mackaytown on horse back. On their returning dancing was engaged in to the music of the band. By this timeit was time to commence the homeward journey, and after three cheers had been given for Mr Austin and family the party embarked, and after a quick trip down, reached Grahamstown at about 10 o'clock, all having enjoyed themselves greatly notwithstanding the, disadvantage of the ground being damp with the recent rain falls. The excursionists express their thanks to the members of the A.U. Force at Paeroa who lent them their cricketing appliances, and with a number of residents of Paeroa came down and Stayed a friendly game at football with the remen. ,■