THE KAITARATAHI CRANE

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2554, 15 July 1909, Page 5

THE KAITARATAHI CRANE

ACCIDENT DISCUSSED IN THE COUNCIL. At tho mooting of the Borough Council last nig!it, the Overseer’s report) contained fTo following reference to the recent accident to the locomotive crane at Knitnrntahi: — “On Wednesday, 7th inst., an accident occurred by which tho crane ran off the lino into the pit from which the gravel had been dug. Being on the spot i at once got into communication with the Town Clerk, arid asked that the necessary block and tackle, etc., l>o sent out. I then got men on the spot and set, to work at once to make things ready to bring her back into position and to lay the necessary rails to Haul her out. This work was successfully accomplished on Friday, the 9th, when it was found that her machinery had received no injury but was perfectly sound. On Friday night it rained very heavy, also on Saturday, and as tho river rose very rapidly, tho grab and gib having been thrown into the pit, it was impossible to get the grab out. Tho gib was secured by being hauled out I>v getting steam on the crane. The crane was then steamed up the lino to a safe place near the railway line. This accident ha’ .netted in such a short time that it was impossible for me to explain how it really happened. I can only consider that the clutch got out of its proper place and could not be replaced in time. Ido not consider any blame could be attached to any one. 1 am of opinion that the driver did all that was possible to regain control of his engine, but the time was too short. Great credit is due to him for the presence of mind that he had." Or. Kirk moved that discussion of the matter should be held over up til the next meeting of the Council. The motion was not seconded. Or. Harris thought that an exhaustive inquiry should be made into the matter. Sonic, one should go on the spot and investigate. He moved that the matter he referred to the Public Works Committee to hold an inquiry. Cr. Clayton seconded the motion. He thought an inquiry should be made and the extent of the-damage ascertained. He thought that Cr. Harris should add to bis motion that the committee should report on The question of screening the gravel. He thought it--might be advisable for the Council, to go to a little more expense in the getting of extra plant so that the gravel could bo screened. Cr. Pettie supported the motion, but thought that no steps should be taken bv the committee until the .Mayor's return. He also thought they shouM express .their gratification that the men had escaped injury. The motion on Teeing put to the meeting was carried.