PORT CHALMERS FIRE BRIGADE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21243, 26 January 1931, Page 10

PORT CHALMERS FIRE BRIGADE.

Established nearly 56 years ago, the Port Chalmers Fire Brigade can claim to be the second oldest body of fire-fighters in the Dunedin district. Like many other New Zealand fire brigades, the Port Chalmers unit has many men in its ranks who have seen long and faithful service. De-puty-superintendent W. M'Cormack joined the ranks in July, 1902, and h.is thus almost completed 29 years of continuous service. Fireman J. Percy comes next in order of service merit. He joined ,up in August, 1903, and has nearly 28 years’ costinuous service to his credit. The present chief officer (Superintendent C. McDonald) joined in September, 1908, and has thus completed over 22 years’ service. Other members of the brigade who have served for a long term include Fireman W. Johnson, with 20 years’ service: Senior Foreman J. M'Elwee, with 17 years’ service,; and Fireman C. Thetford, with 15 years’ service. ■ „ The brigade was formed in July, 1876, and was then in charge of Captain Dale, who piloted the unit until 1882, when he was superseded by Captain H. Mitchell. The latter held the position of chief officer until 1892, when Captain D. Leach Was appointed. He was superseded by Captain A. J. Smith in 1901. The latter held office until 1909. Captain J. Osborn followed, and he was followed by Captain' W. Dougherty in 1911. Five years later Captain S. S. Moir was appointed, but lus term as chief officer was the shortest oi them all. as he was superseded by Supertendent C. M'Donald in 1918. The brigade, which comprises 10 men, came under the control of a Fire Board during the period Captain Moir was in charge. The brigade is fairly well equipped, the fire-fighting apparatus consisting of a light motor machine and two hand reels. A very comfortable and suit-ably-located station is provided in the Borough Council buildings. Port Chalmers has a good record so far as fires are concerned, and the members of the brigade have not had a great deal of actual practice in that direction, but the men have always coped with any outbreak with efficiency and without any serious loss being suffered. Only four outbreaks claimed the attention of the brigade last year. The most serious outbreak in recent years was the fire that occurred in the premises of Mr Long, in George street. That was on August 23, 1029. The building, in spite of the splendid efforts of the brigade, was gutted. The most serious fire last year was the one that broke out in the seven-room dwelling owned by Mr J. Tunnage at Carey Bay. The brigade made a brave fight, but its efforts were fruitless as the house was destroyed.