IV. J. M. SMAIL. 



committee who did not appear to attach much importance to the 

 preliminary survey work which was being carried out, but were 

 more concerned in getting the work of construction started, 

 wanted to know if the main sewer could not be carried out with- 

 out waiting for the survey. Needless to say that the witness was 

 of opinion that some persons might venture to do so, but no 

 engineer would attempt it. The Commissioners eventually 

 obtained the necessary legislative authority for expenditure, and 

 proceeded to carry the scheme into execution. During their 

 tenure of office several engineering works of a municipal character 

 were proposed, such as public baths, and an improved system of 

 removal of house refuse, but, whether the commissioners lacked 

 the ability to meet the public demands or the necessary funds, it 

 was quite evident that the ratepayers knew what they wanted, 

 for after a fitful existence, the Commissioners had to make way 

 for a new City Council which assumed control in 1858. 



From this year onward it might be said the municipal engineer- 

 ing in its true sense was carried on with vigour. An improved 

 water supply with an efficient pumping plant at this time was 

 installed at Botany. Reservoirs were constructed at Crown 

 Street and Paddington, and the old Busby Bore gradually became 

 a thing of the past, and the perambulatory water cart becamo 

 extinct. Reticulation mains were laid all over the city and a 

 constant service became ensured. Main sewers with numerous 

 branches were constructed so that within twenty years of the 

 inception of the new Council, the cesspit with its attendant 

 abominations almost became a thing of the past. The proper 

 formation and macadamizing of streets and roads became an 

 important part of municipal work, as well as street scavenging. 

 The construction of wharves and buildings was also entered upon 

 as well as improved street lighting. The abattoirs were removed 

 from the City, and more attention was paid to the slaughtering of 

 stock for the wants of the community, and also regulation of street 

 traffic. The City was not only able to supply water for the rate- 

 payers but also to the immediate suburbs, until the requirements 



