Volunteer Camp.

Northland Age, Volume 3, Issue 38, 7 May 1907, Page 4

Volunteer Camp.

For the first time during the existence of volunteering in New Zealand, a regimental camp was held in the extreme North, when the Mangonui and Bay of Islands Mounted Bifies went under canvas on the 24th ult. in Mr. George Seiver’s paddock, Kaeo. Their total strength was 68. Those of the regimental staff in attendance were : —Major Eccles, 0.C.; Capt. Mackesy, Adjutant; and Capt. Webster, Quartermaster; Head Quarters staff: Colonel Wolf; Capt. Browne, and Sergt.-Major Walker. The ordinary routine of camp life was carried out for the first three days, and after that skirmishing, defence and attack practices were duly performed. On Saturday a field day was held between F. squadron (Bay of Islands) under Captain Mackesy (attack), and Mangonui squadron under Major Eccles (defence). The attacking party proceeded towards Takou Bay with the instructions to be opened at 1 o’clock. Their orders were to advance on the camp, and the defence party had to push out to defend it; the forces came into conflict, and met on the top of Kokupurare hill. About three hours’ hard firiug took place in the afternoon, and after the exciting conflict was over the troops were finally mustered on Irving’s bridge, and marched back to camp. On Sunday the men fell in for church parade, but on account of the wet weather the parade was dismissed. In the afternoon a number of visitors attended the camp. On Monday the men were occupied about the grounds in judging distances (by day and by night); and outpost work; and several officers were put through their practical examination. On Tuesday a rifle match between the Kaeo club and the regiment took place, and the latter won by 16 points. In the eveuing camp was struck and the ladies of Kaeo gave a dance to the volunteers. On Wednesday morning both squadrons were marched back to their respective headquarters. The training throughout proved extremely instructive both to officers and men, the work being much more useful than at previous squadron camps. We understand that there will be a regimental camp held some time next year, at Pakaraka, when it is expected six squadrons will put their heads under canvas. It may be mentioned that throughout the whole training the spirit of the rneh was excellent, discipline go6d, and the condition of the horses vastly improved to those attending previons camps. The officers aocompanying squadrons