MATAURA

Southland Times, Issue 23953, 20 October 1939, Page 12

MATAURA

VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE The annual meeting of the Mataura Volunteer Fire Brigade was presided over by the Mayor (Mr C. D. McConnell). The annual report stated: “The year just concluded has been notable in several ways. The brigade sent its first team to a New Zealand demonstration, a six-man team travelled to Wanganui. Although it did not gain prize-money it was always well up, and its performance was favourably commented upon at the Southern District conference. Superintendent McLeod was elected a vice-president at the Southern District conference, this giving the brigade its first direct representation. The bell tower was erected at the station and a quantity of new hose was purchased, enabling the brigade to carry a small reserve.

“During the year 12 calls were received. They were: Seven chimey fires, one rubbish fire, one private dwelling and three fires in buildings.

“The equipment is in reasonable condition, but it is expected that replacements will have to be made this year. “Thanks are due to the council for the extra equipment supplied during the year, and to all who helped to make improvements both in facilities and recreation at the station.”

The election of officers resulted: Captain, Mr N. McLeod; first lieutenant, Mr A. McKay; second lieutenant, Mr J. Richardson; station foreman, Mr R. McCaughan; secretary, Mr E. Ramage; auditor, Mr A. W. Reid; social fund auditor, Mr C. A. Thorn. The Mayor said the council had no money, but he would like to see the brigade get smoke masks. Fireman W. Walker pointed out that the old type of helmet was unsuitable and the Fire Brigade Association would not approve of them. Under the present existing conditions it was possible that die brigade might be called on to deal with gas, and he suggested that the Defence Department be approached for a subsidy for the purchase of smoke and gas helmets. The suggestion was adopted. After the meeting, a social hour was spent, members of the Gore Fire Brigade, borough councillors and former members of the brigade being present. i~ GOOD CATCHES OF TROUT

Further good catches of trout from the Mataura river are reported. A young angler who caught 11 trout weighing 401 b last week bettered his catch on Monday and Tuesday by taking the limit (15) on each day. A companion also caught 15 on Monday. Few of these fish were under 31b and the heaviest weighed about 81b.

The fisherman who was reported to have landed 10 trout last week weighing 321 b, caught nine trout on Tuesday, three of which turned the scale at 191 b. These fish were caught near the Mataura Freezing Works. All of these catches were made during a fairly strong easterly wind. •