The previous month the New Zealand Herald had reported: The Northern Wairoa squadron of the Legion of Frontiersmen, which is now 94 strong, is attaining a high standard of efficiency under the instruction of Mr. Blanc, who was formerly attached to the Imperial service. Technical lectures are well attended, and the Sunday mounted parades appeal strongly to all members. Last Sunday week 40 men, under Captain Hemphill, spent six hours at Awakino undergoing squadron and skirmishing drill. A large force of the Dargaville Defence Rifle Club, at the same time, also went through numerous evolutions. With the two mentioned bodies and the large companies of territorials and senior cadets a distinct enthusiasm in matters military is apparent."

John B. Totich was a member of New Zealand's Dalmatian community, and at this time was the president of the district sub-branch of the London Slavonian Society. The following year when he gave evidence to the Aliens' Commission sitting at Dargaville Totich stated that hehad been a member of the Dargaville Rifle Club for seven years. Also that he had resided in the Dominion for 17 years, and was naturalised.