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An inspection of the Fitzroy section of the brigade was also held, when there were present the Captain, Lieutenant, and ten firemen ; these, with three on leave, accounting for the full strength of the section. In both cases various drills, both wet and dry, were carried out, and the plant and appliances are maintained in good order. The second inspection is covered by the following report forwarded to the Secretary of the Board : — Sir— 25th April, 1.917. An inspection of the New Plymouth Fire Brigade and its equipment was made on the 17th instant, when there were present at the inspection muster the Superintendent and fifteen firemen ; these, with two on duty and two on leave, representing the then full strength of the brigade. The new motor combination appliance was taken to the Egmont Street Bridge, where, with a suction lift of about 20 ft., water was shown through 100 ft. of hose in twenty-two seconds, with one delivery and 1 in. nozzle, a pressure of 1531b., equal to a discharge of 250 gallons per minute; and with two deliveries, both 1 in. nozzles, the pressure was 1201b., showing a combined discharge of 440 gallons per minute. The trial was satisfactory, but some larger nozzles are required for service with the motor pump, and I recommend that three new ones be obtained—viz., one \\ in., one 1-J in., and one 1 in. Various drills were carried out with the new 50 ft. telescopic ladder and the first-aid pump outfit, and, in view of their recent acquisition, in a satisfactory manner ; but more drill is required throughout. For the more efficient working of the combination apparatus I would make the following recommendations : Electric lamps with an independent set of accumulators to be substituted for the present acetylene head-lamps ; if the latter pair of lamps are sold the price obtained would probably cover the cost of substitution. Raised rim on footboards to be lowered flush as explained. Safety device to be fitted to catch starting handle, so as to avert injury to men in case of back-firing when starting engine. Lugs on the eight new male couplirgs to be cut down about Jin. Seven fathoms of 2 in. rope required for suction hose. Fillets to be fitted on upper sides of iron standards on main frame of ladder so to clear heel of sliding section when lowering ladder. As it has been decided to ring the central station bell by electricity, a 3 h.p. motor should be provided and a ringing-apparatus fitted similar to that used by the National Electric Company for their remote switch control system as installed in Whangarei, &c. A visit was paid to the Fitzroy Station and the appliances found to be in good order. I have, &c, Thos. T. Hugo, Inspector of Fire Brigades. OAMARU. An inspection of the Oamaru Brigade and its equipment was made on the 31st October, 1916, when there were present at the inspection muster the Superintendent, Deputy, and fifteen firemen ; these, with three on leave, accounting for the full strength of the brigade. The turnout was good, but various drills were carried out not in an altogether satisfactory manner. Certain suggestions were made., to the officer which if adopted will certainly improve matters. The station and appliances are maintained in good order and condition. PALMERSTON NORTH. An inspection of the Palmerston North Brigade was held on the 14th June. The following report forwarded to the Secretary of the Board covers the inspection : — Sir— 3rd July, 1917. An inspection of the Palmerston North Brigade and its equipment was made on the 14th ultimo, when there were present at the inspection muster the Superintendent and seventeen firemen ; these, with two on duty and one on leave, accounting for twenty-one out of a full strength of twentytwo then on the roll. Various drills were carried out in a very satisfactory manner, and the station and equipment is in good order and condition. I would suggest to your Board the advisability of providing the brigade with a second motor appliance, thus doing away with the horse vehicle and relieving the present heavy machine from the long runs. I would recommend the proposed machine should be one of 25-30 b.h.p. English rating, or 40 b.h.p. if of American rating ; chassis to be guaranteed to carry 30 cwt., and to be fitted with first-aid chemical-cylinder, 180 ft. hose, hydraulic reel, &c. I have, &c, Thos. T. Hugo, Inspector of Fire Brigades. PETONE. An inspection of the Petone Brigade was made on the 28th June last, and is covered by the following report forwarded to the Secretary of the Board : — Sir,— 29th June, 1917. An inspection of the Petone Brigade and its equipment was made on the 28th instant, and in that connection I beg to submit the following report for the consideration of your Board.