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25. The obelisk has been fitted with Patent Balham
Burners, similar to those in use in the High Road, and the
top of the four lanterns glazed with opal, thus making a
great improvement in the light given around this obelisk.
Generally.
26. The Board have secured the wharf in Ravensbourne
Creek known as "Norman's Wharf," at a yearly rental of
£110 on a 7 years lease, this being found of the greatest
convenience fur the landing and storing of road metalling
and other materials, and reduces the heavy charges
previously paid for wharfage.
27. In consequence of the chaff cutting by hand being
found to be a most costly and slow process, the steam roller
has been brought into requisition, the old hand machine
being removed, and a new patent chaff cutter fitted with
proper levers, belt striking tackle, driving pulleys, shafting,
and belting complete, now enabling the work previously
taking twelve hours per week, to be done in two hours
weekly, the cutting also being more efficiently carried out
than hitherto, and the saving effected, and, amounting to
50 per cent. on the old system, or in other words a saving
of £10 per annum upon the chaff cutting for the 12 hours.
28. With regard to the horses I have to report that the
Board have had to dispose of five during the past year, and
fresh horses have been bought to take their places at a
total cost of about £230, but as these 5 horses were amongst