May 18 2023

Nine WCMS shedders visited the Fire Brigade Museum in Manaka last Thursday, after a delicious pizza lunch organised by Lino. Thanks Lino.

Ron Hourigan from the museum, and a retired ACT fireman, hosted the visit.  

The fire brigade in the ACT was established in 1912 with the Percy Douglas as the first fire chief.  Percy remained with the brigade for 40 years, a real achievement.  Ron spoke about the history of the brigade in the ACT and when it was merged with the NSW Fire Brigade and when it undertook ambulance services for the ACT.  ACT Fire Brigade now operates as a standalone entity.

The museum has a fantastic collection of fire trucks, the oldest being a 1913 Hottchkiss with wooden wheels!  This was not the original that operated in the ACT, but one on loan from a museum. Other vehicles included an Albion which went into service in 1923, and the famous Dennis pumpers (made in the UK) which were in service from 1935 to 1970.  A real problem with the old pumpers was that the crew were exposed to the elements and had to hang on for dear life. Other pumpers on display included the International KB6, Dennis F12 (with a RR engine) and the Dennis Jaguar.

More modern engines incorporated crew cabs but early versions were more than converted commercial trucks with a ‘box’ added for the crew travel in.  Not good for communication between the SO and the crew.

Another interesting feature was a display of old ladder trucks, including one with a wooden ladder (120 feet) mounted on large wheels. The wheels combo were detached from the truck for use.

The display included a collection of uniforms and communication Ron had a lot of interesting stories to tell about ‘false alarms’.

In all, an excellent afternoon and well worth the visit.  Thanks to our host, Ron Hourigan, and to members Alan Castle and Tony Burns for the visit.

Report: Warren Jones